Sunshine Coast
Gibsons marina on the Sunshine Coast, Tourism BC/Dannielle Hayes photo
The Sunshine Coast is British Columbia's best kept secret, stretching along 180km of land from Gibsons to Lund with many quaint, tiny coastal communities in between. It's a pacific paradise of quirky waterfront shops, friendly people and an easygoing lifestyle. From strolling the endless kilometers of windswept seashore to sailing up Princess Louisa Inlet, visitors find it hard to shake the inescapable feeling that they're in on a secret the rest of the travelling world has yet to discover.
This popular area within the Vancouver, Coast & Mountain region is accessible by a scenic 40-minute BC Ferries ride from Horseshoe Bay to Gibsons.
Book accommodations on the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver, Coast & Mountains!
Communities
The region's dozen or so ocean-side villages exude a charming atmosphere, with their artisan shops, inviting restaurants, farmers' markets and everywhere – breathtaking views.
Gibsons
Explore the harbourside landing in Gibsons, with its eclectic mix of local wares.
Roberts Creek
Revisit the 60s in the funky shops and laid back air of Roberts Creek.
Davis Bay
Revel in a glowing sunset from the flowing beach at Davis Bay.
Sechelt
The region's largest community, your central gateway to everything outdoors and artsy.
Halfmoon Bay
Retreat to the small but delightful haven of Halfmoon Bay.
Secret Cove
Discover the secrets of Secret Cove, a popular summer spot.
Egmont
Head to Egmont to view the awesome Skookumchuck Rapids.
Powell River
Ferry to Powell River for the historic townsite, great diving spots, the Powell Forest Canoe Route and the Sunshine Coast Trail.
Lund
A small, peaceful coastal village that’s a haven for boaters. From here, water taxi to the white sand beaches of Savary Island.
Outdoor Activities
In an area dedicated to the pursuit of sports, two stand out: kayaking and mountain biking.
Kayaking
Welcome to paddling nirvana. Natural wonders abound here in Howe Sound:
There are miles of protected waterways – bordered by mountains rising dramatically from the ocean, as well as clusters of small islands, which provide ideal picnicking areas.
The Coast also offers many channels, inlets and sounds - each teeming with wildlife and nooks to explore. Highlight trips include kayaking around Keats Island and the Pasley Group.
Mountain Biking
The lower Sunshine Coast offers hundreds of kilometres of trails for riders of all abilities. Experience everything from cross-country and intense downhills, to freeride routes with ladder bridges and skinnies.
Arts
Be astonished by the swell of creativity on the Sunshine Coast.
The region boasts more artists, crafters and artisans per capita than almost any other area in Canada.
Take guided tours of galleries and studios: watch painters, potters, sculptors, woodworkers, fibre artists and Aboriginal artists at work.