Tofino - pt 2
The Magic…
One of the best experiences I've ever had was there and it was learning to surf. In the winter. In the cold, north Pacific Ocean. In a wetsuit. Not something I ever expected to do but I love experiencing new things and I mean, how can I create experiences for my clients if I don't do them myself, right! And, I needed to do this for me. Get out of my comfort zone!
Typically this one would've just been an automatic no, but not this time. I was determined to do something new. I even tried to find an excuse to get out of it that I'd be too cold, but another woman told me how warm she was out there in her wetsuit so, I was now in.
I booked a private lesson with Surf Sister who have a location right at the Pacific Sands Resort where I stayed. My instructor Liz was awesome. She taught me the fundamentals of surfing, ahead of going into the water, but also about ocean safety and rip currents, my biggest ocean fear.
Once we got in the water, it was a whole different game but she was right next to me reminding me of everything she just taught me. One by one when I needed it. Definitely not easy to remember when you have waves crashing on you, remembering how to hold your board, am I paddling right, is my body in the right spot, my arms, my legs lol.
But then it got easier. And I got up, a bunch of times!!! Even started to be able to turn. It was unreal! I was warm. It was sunny. The waves were amazing that day. It was perfect. Even when done and walking back to the cars, I took a moment to take it all in. I couldn't believe I just did that. In this most beautiful environment, in February, and it felt like a tropical beach. I'm still smiling! Something i'll never forget. And likely will do again.
Needless to say, Tofino should be on your list if it isn't already. And honestly, almost any time of the year would be worth it. The summer months are when it gets busiest and obviously it's a bit warmer but for me, this was the perfect time to be there. I wasn't looking for busy. I was looking to find a peaceful, relaxing place, and that's exactly what I found. And I think I found a bit more of me along the way too!
Cox Bay
