The Cedar Surf: An Informal History of Surfing in British Columbia

by Grant Shilling

Surf’s up! But don’t bother to put on your bikini. This is British Columbia’s WET coast, where the water temperature never goes above eleven degrees Celsius. Grant Shilling’s The Cedar Surf explores the history and practice of surfing in British Columbia, a sport which is fast becoming an important economic contributor to local coastal economies. It’s about surf shacks, back roads, bushwackers, hitchhikers, and squatters in the rainforest isolation in and around places such as Tofino, Ucluelet, Jordan River and Sombrio Beach.

88 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Moona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grant Shilling’s "The Cedar Surf: An Informal History of Surfing in British Columbia" offers a fascinating look at the unique surfing culture on Canada's West Coast. Despite the chilly waters, where temperatures rarely exceed eleven degrees Celsius, the book delves into the rich history and growing popularity of surfing in areas like Tofino, Ucluelet, and Jordan River. Shilling’s engaging narrative captures the spirit of surf shacks, back roads, and the eclectic community of surfers, bushwhackers, and squatters. This concise yet comprehensive 88-page book is a must-read for surfing enthusiasts and those interested in the vibrant coastal culture of British Columbia

[Selby Wilkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, couldn’t put it down! Such a great telling of the history of surfing on Vancouver island. It really captured the vibe of early surfing. Going to tell my van isl surf pals to have a read! Brings more context to surfing there when you know the history. 🤙

[Richard Buckley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whimsical escapism to the daydream ideas of my youth that brought me to Canada on a one way ticket.