surfs up 2026
We are excited to announce that we are now accepting applications for Surf’s Up 2026! 🏄🏽♀️ until February 15th.
Surf’s Up is a welcoming and inclusive surfing event hosted in Tofino BC by SUPA Society, and in partnership with the Hirst Family and Rip Curl Canada. The event invites kids on the autism spectrum and their siblings (ages 7-17 at the time of the event) to participate in a supported surf lesson, and a fun day for the whole family!
This year, we are stoked to celebrate 15 years of fun and inclusivity in surf, sun and sand. The event will take place on Saturday, September 12th. If you would like to participate, please fill out this form by February 15th.
*Please note: Families are responsible for their own transportation and accommodation costs, however the event itself is free. All participants must provide and wear a life jacket. Registration is NOT first come, first served. Applying for this event does not guarantee you a spot. Families who we are able to accommodate will be contacted.
*please note, no late applications will be considered.
Please keep an eye out for volunteer opportunities and how to get involved later this month on our social media
REGISTRATION NOW CLOSED
top faqs about surfs up
WHAT IS SURF’S UP? +
It’s a FREE one-day surf camp for children and families living with Autism. It is a day of surfing, beach games and family fun in an enriching and inclusive environment. Registered families will be assigned to a surf session, be prepared to stay for the entire day to enjoy all the beach activities and award ceremony for the children at the end of the day.
IS THERE AN AGE REQUIREMENT? +
Your children must be between the ages of 7 to 17 at time of event, be comfortable in the water and are required to wear a wetsuit and lifejacket. If they are uncomfortable with any of these aspects, Surf’s Up may not be conducive for your children.
CAN SIBLINGS ATTEND? +
Yes, siblings ages 7 to 17 years at time of event will be included in the surf day as well.
WHAT DOES IT COST? +
The event itself is free, however families are responsible for their own travel expenses and accommodations in Tofino.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A FAMILY IS ACCEPTED? +
We will contact you with the details if accepted.
CAN WE BRING PETS? +
Service dogs are always welcome, please be aware there are local Tofino By Laws.
where is tofino +
Tofino is on the West Coast of Vancouver Island and the weather can be at times unpredictable. Please be prepared for all weather conditions and we ask you to be flexible with the location of the event and any last minute changes to the day’s schedule due to weather and wave conditions. Safety is our number one priority.
Please note that advance ferry reservations are highly recommended on all routes during weekends. Click here for more information on BC Ferries.
We encourage you to check current road conditions and travel delay information before setting out on the drive to Tofino as there may be construction. Current information can be found on these two British Columbia Ministry of Transportation websites: Drive BC and WWW2.gov
Additional information to help plan your trip can be found on the Tofino Tourism website: https://tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/
what type of support and autism specialists will be there? +
During your child’s surf session, one Behavior Interventionist and one surf instructor will be provided.
WHAT DO WE DO ABOUT THE SURF GEAR? +
Wetsuits and surfboards will be provided by SUPA sponsors at no cost.
DO WE NEED A LIFE JACKET? +
Yes, all families must provide their own Canadian Standards Approved PFD (personal flotation device – life jacket). Your child will not be allowed to participate if a PFD is not provided.
ARE PARENTS REQUIRED TO BE ON THE BEACH? +
Yes, your child must be within arm’s reach when they are not in their surf heat. The open ocean has strong rip currents and can be very dangerous if you are unaware of your surroundings. Please note there is no lifeguard on duty.