© Natalya Zaritskaya
Water Activities > Coastal Recreation
Canada’s epic coastlines make them a magnet for coastal recreation seekers locally and globally. Whether with guided tour packages, courses or instructors there’s several safe ways to enjoy sports like high flying kite surfing or relaxing SUP boarding.
If you possess a passion for coastal recreation be sure you’re prepared to check off all requirements for safety equipment before you head out.
Taking The Essentials
- Flashlight
- Fire making kit
- Whistle or mirror
- Extra food and water
- Extra clothing
- Navigational / communication aids
- First aid kit
- Emergency shelter
- Pocket knife
- Sun protection
Specific to Coastal Recreation
- Layered clothing
- Bug spray
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Hydration system
- Appropriate footwear
- Gloves
- Day pack
- Binoculars
- Camera
Be CoastSmart
CoastSmart is a public safety pilot project in the Pacific Rim region of British Columbia designed to enhance coastal safety along the shoreline and in the surfzone. The pilot is led by Parks Canada, and was made possible by funding from the Government of Canada.
CoastSmart is a communication and education campaign which highlights the hazards at beaches along the coastline, helps people avoid those hazards and provides advice to keep people safe as they enjoy coastal recreation..
Know before you go near the water.
- Take time and observe the conditions closely before you step out onto the shoreline
- Keep an eye on the incoming waves and stay alert
- Check the daily tidal information
- Stay in arm’s reach of your children when near the water
- Stay off drift logs if the tide or swell is high
Know before you go in the water.
- The Ocean is cold! Stay warmer with a wetsuit
- Learn surf etiquette and how to navigate the surf zone
- Stay in shallow water, unless you are trained and suited
- Be alert to the effects of cold water
- Know how to avoid a rip current, and how to escape one if caught.
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