Surfer: Michael Darling

When I lived in Canada, like many young Australians who not grow up near the snow go onto do, I was immediately shocked at how nice everyone was.

I am not even kidding you, the day I landed I had this huge board bag and backpack and some random guy on his way to work stopped and asked if I needed help, picked up my board bag and proceeded to walk with me all the way to my hostel in the opposite direction to the way he was originally walking. For every stereotype each nationality has, the outlandish niceness and overuse of the word aye is 100% true when it comes to the Canadians. It is by far one of my favourite countries in the whole world, if not for its beautiful people but also its incredible landscapes. It truly feels like you’re walking around in a movie all the time. 10/10 would recommend. For most of us, Canada is known for its snow and mountains. Surfing certainly doesn’t come top of mind. And yet, out of the city of Vancouver in British Columbia, is a little island called Vancouver Island where you’d be pleasantly surprised to find surf spots that make you want to add surfing in Canada something worthwhile ticking off your list. The best part is that poutine and ceasers await you at the pub when you come in, which I’d argue are on par with a cold beer on a summer’s day. If that hasn’t convinced you enough, we asked our friend Marcus Paladino who is a renowned surf photographer to fill us in on some of the best spots in Vancouver island to get feed and hydrated plus his pick of photos he has captured of the incredible place he calls home.

Where exactly on the West Coast is this?
This is on Vancouver Island, around Tofino, British Columbia, known for its sandy beach breaks and rugged coastline.

Best watering hole?
Tough choice, but Tofino Brewing Co. is a popular spot to grab a cold one.

Best place for a coffee?
Tofitian is a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

Local lunch pick?
Adrianas is a locally run spot for delicious sandwiches and a quick slice of pizza.

Reed Platenius.

Have you ever done the surf, skate, snowboard trio in one day?
I have! There's an annual contest called the West Coast Triple Plank on Vancouver Island. It involves racing a slalom course at Mount Washington, surfing at Cox Bay, and then hitting Tuff City Skate Park.

Have you spotted a bear while surfing?
Not personally, but it’s definitely something that can happen here.

What do you do if you spot a bear while surfing?
Stay calm and give the bear plenty of space. Don’t run. If it starts to approach, make yourself big and start yelling loudly. Usually, that will scare it off.

Who would win in a fight— you or the bear?
The bear wins 100% of the time, no contest!

What mm wetsuit do you wear?
Typically, a 5/4mm wetsuit is ideal for surfing in cold Canadian waters, especially in winter. When swimming with my camera housing, I usually opt for a 6mm for extra warmth.

What’s the best thing about Canada?
The diversity of its natural landscapes—from coastlines to mountains to forests—it’s truly incredible.

What’s the best thing about surfing in Canada?
The wild, remote scenery all around and the close-knit community.

What’s the worst thing about surfing in Canada?
The conditions can be fickle! It’s challenging to score unless you live here and stay on top of it.

Left To Right: Hanna Scott, Pete Devries, Pete Devries, Michael Darling.

What is your poutine order?
Classic poutine with gravy and cheese curds, but I might add pulled pork if I’m feeling adventurous.

Are you a spicy Caesar person?
Not really. Maybe if it’s not too spicy and everyone else is ordering one, I might join in.

What’s Canada’s best-kept secret?
It’s definitely cold on the west coast in winter, but not that cold. The east coast of Canada is where the water temperatures really start to chill you to the bone.