Cox Beach - Unprotected by reefs or islands, this beach is exposed to the open Pacific, and sees the biggest waves.

Wild Pacific Trail - This trail is perhaps the most dramatic in the region, as it follows the Pacific coast over rocky outcroppings and through the old-growth forest. Benches are strategically placed for optimal storm-watching.

Florencia Bay - Also known as Wreck Bay (due to the abundance of shipwrecks), this 7 km long beach is great for tidepool exploring and surfing.

Chesterman Beach - A great place for surfing and sunbathing. Explore the tidepools of Frank Island, accessible only around low-tide.

Long Beach- World-famous for its vast expanse of pristine and endless white-sand beaches. 16km from one end to the other!

South Beach - From the Interpretive Centre, head down the boardwalk and stairs to this steep pebble beach. Be careful of large waves.

Storm Watching
An increasingly popular activity in the winter is witnessing the awesome power of the Pacific ocean as its waves lash the area's coastline.

Attention and caution should always be exercised when strom-watching. Sudden surges can easily cover an entire beach and surprise unsuspecting beachgoers and large waves can move even the heaviest logs. Do not stand on driftwood to escape the waves - wet feet are better than being pinned by a massive log. Do not venture close to the water when climbing over rocky outcroppings. Crashing waves can send large volumes of water across the rocks, possibly sweeping the less wary out to sea.

The following beaches are best-known for their storm-watching potential: