50 Awesome Things to do on the Sunshine Coast



Trust us, we had a tough time limiting this list to just 50 activities.

No one goes bored on the Sunshine Coast. And if they do… they’re doing it wrong.

Between Desolation Sound in the north, and Gambier at the south, there are endless things to do in this region of B.C. With limitless outdoor recreation (hiking, diving, paddling, biking, fishing to name a few), a strong artisan community and West Coast gastronomy, it’s hard to find a reason to leave. But just in case you needed some inspiration, here are 50 unique reasons to explore the Sunshine Coast. Tell us, how many activities have you done? 

Northern Sunshine Coast

Kayak to Mitlenatch Island

Location: The island is nestled east of Black Creek in the Strait of Georgia and is only accessible by boat. Inbound kayakers will need to land at Northwest Bay or Camp Bay – no boats are allowed to access the island on protected shorelines. 

Website: gov.bc.ca/bcparks/mitlenatch_is

Description: Mitlenatch Island Nature Provincial Park is a small, rocky island and it receives less than 30 inches of rain each year, due to its location. The island has a very sensitive ecosystem and foraging of any kind is not permitted – even shellfish.

Why You Should Do It: Although visitors must be very careful when visiting this location, Mitlenatch Island is home to the largest seabird colony in the strait. The nature reserve is a nesting colony for glaucous-winged gulls, pelagic cormorants, pigeon guillemots and black oystercatchers, just to name a few. You’ll also find a variety of marine life, including abalone, scallops and sea cucumbers, and river otters, harbour seals and sea lions. It’s a photographer’s and nature lover’s paradise.

 

Kayak Desolation Sound Marine Park

Location: Anchorages at Prideaux Haven, Grace Harbour and Tenedo’s Bay.

Description: Although there are many paddling options on the Sunshine Coast, paddling in this marine park (the largest in the province) is the most popular choice.

Why You Should Do It: The park stretches 14,000 acres, offers 60 kilometres of shoreline and the warm water – which averages 22°C– gives you a chance to see porpoises, dolphins, seals and so much more.

 

Scuba dive Saltery Bay to find the Emerald Princess

Location: Mermaid Cove, Saltery Bay Provincial Park

Description: Submerged 50 feet under the water, you’ll find the Emerald Princess – a nine-foot bronze mermaid statue situated near a wrecked rowboat.

Why You Should Do It: Jacques Cousteau rated Powell River’s diving second only to the Red Sea when it comes to colourful and abundant sea life. There are over 100 diving sites on the Sunshine Coast, but this is one of the area’s signature shore dives that keeps people coming back for more. Advanced divers can take advantage of depths up to 200 feet, as well as sheer walls and cliffs. While diving, watch for Pacific octopi, lingcod, sponges and an abundance of other sea life.

 

Salmon fishing near Texada Island

Location: Texada Island is located in the Strait of Georgia, a 10 to 15-minute boat ride from Powell River.

Description: Get out your saltwater fishing gear and head to Coho Point and Blubber Bay, located on the north end of Texada Island. These locations are the most popular with salmon fishermen.

Why You Should Do It: The Sunshine Coast, and Powell River area in particular, is an angler’s paradise. You don’t have to go too far to get into good fishing. Take out a charter or try it on your own.

 

Trout fishing at Inland Lake

Location: Inland Lake is a tributary located on the southeast side of Powell Lake, northeast of the city of Powell River.

Description: In addition to excellent saltwater fishing, this area on the upper Sunshine Coast also provides stellar freshwater fishing. There are many lakes to choose from. Inland Lake, a tributary on Powell Lake, provides an opportunity to camp and fish.

Why You Should Do It: If you’re interested in setting up a tent and throwing out some line, Inland Lake could be the place for you. There are a lot of fish in this lake and you have a good chance at reeling in a trophy-sized trout. The angling is best between April to June and August to October. You’ll need single, barbless hooks and any fish over 40 centimetres has to go back in the water.

 

Take an Aboriginal Cultural Tour with I’Hos

Location: departs Orford Bay, Bute Inlet

Description: Paddle through the traditional territory of the Tla’amin people aboard the Cheech Lem Chi Chia, a 35 foot Salish style canoe. Your destination is Kwoo Kwahk Thys, also known as the Copeland Islands. During your the passage you’ll hear stories and listen to songs of the Salish people.

Why You Should Do It:  If you’re looking for an incredibly unique experience, this five hour canoe trip marries local culture and scenic adventure. The tour accommodates just nine people, making it a very hands-on experience. Fully prepared traditionally inspired lunches available upon request. We definitely suggest you request! 

Websiteihostours.com

 

Swimming on Savary Island

Location: Located on the northern end of the Strait of Georgia.

Description: The island is almost completely surrounded by beaches. At five miles long and about half a mile wide, Savary Island offers an unusually high beaches-to-land ratio.

Why You Should Do It: Nicknamed the Hawaii of the North, Savary Island offers white, sandy beaches, beautiful scenery and the warmest waters north of Mexico.

 

Climb Valentine Mountain

Location: Situated near Cranberry Lake and Powell Lake.

Description: Valentine Mountain offers a relatively easy climb, as well as a place to set up your picnic once you reach the top.

Why You Should Do It: This short climb will yield spectacular results – panoramic views of Powell River, Texada Island and Savary Island.

Read more about Valentine MountainClick here

 

Hike the Sunshine Coast Trail

Location: Although there are various places you can get on and off the trail, the entire length runs from Sarah Point in Desolation Sound to Saltery Bay – 180 kilometres.

Description: A chance to stretch your legs and work your lungs amongst the coastal shoreline, old growth forests and mountain views. Construction on the trail started in 1992. 

Why You Should Do It: The Sunshine Coast Trail features a wide variety of landscapes and different options for beginners to more experienced hikers, those looking for long treks or those wanting a day hike. The trail also boasts 13 huts and the entire experience is free.

 Read all about the trail here: sunshinecoasttrail.com

Myrtle Point Golf Club

Location: 2865 McCausland Rd, Powell River, BC V8A 0S2
Website: myrtlepointgolf.com

Description: This 19-hole golf course is the pride of the Sunshine Coast, offering beautiful scenery to golf, a driving range, a pro shop and a bistro to dine in after your round is complete.

Why You Should Do It: Designed by famous golf course architect Les Furber, this golf course can be described as breathtaking, cut out of the foothills of the coastal mountains, and offering tree-lined fairways. You’ll need to be accurate, and have the ability to hit the ball a long way.

 

Visit the Knuckleheads Recreation Area in the winter

Location: Just off Highway 101 outside Powell River

Description: Created in the late 1990s, this trail system offers an adventure for anyone looking to get out this winter. The trail is about four kilometres long and moderate in terms of difficulty.

Why You Should Do It: Snowmobile, snowshoe or Nordic ski your way through this beautiful mountain scenery. There is a winterized cabin, which can hold up to eight guests overnight. This experience is unlike anything else you’ll find in the area.

 Read more about the KnuckleheadsClick here

 

Visit Townsite

Location: Powell River

Description: The Townsite was originally planned as a community for the Powell River Company employees.

Why You Should Do It: The Townsite was designated as a National Historic District in 1995, and it is the only district with this honour in western Canada. You’ll see houses built in Tudor revival, craftsman and modern styles. During summer the Townsite Heritage Society of Powell River offers guided walking tours.

Read more about TownsiteClick here

 

Cheer on the Powell River Kings

Location: Hap Parker Arena, 5001 Joyce Ave, Powell River, BC V8A 3B6
Websitepowellriverkings.com

Description: The Kings are the Junior A hockey team in Powell River, competing in the BC Hockey League Island Division.

Why You Should Do It: If you’re looking for fast-paced hockey at a reasonable price, you’ll find it in the Junior A hockey division.

 

Enjoy a beer at Townsite Brewing

Location: 5824 Ash Avenue Powell River, BC V8A 4R4
Websitetownsitebrewing.com

Description: A microbrewery creating craft beer for locals and tourists alike.

Why You Should Do It: Townsite Brewing promotes beer culture, sustainable business practices, a friendly environment and world-class beer. You’ll find several staple beers, as well as seasonal and special offers to enjoy.

Read more about craft beer breweries on the Sunshine Coast

 

Blackberry Festival

Location: Powell River

Description: This weeklong celebration takes place in August to mark the peak of blackberry season – the luscious fruit that seems to grow in every nook and cranny across Powell River.

Why You Should Do It: Live music and visual artists at Arts Alive at Willingdon Park; the Fesitval of Lights fireworks display; puppet shows; pie-eating contests; a community barbeque – what’s not to love! Not to mention the festival’s signature dessert, blackberry shortcake with whipped cream.

 

Sea Fair

Location: Willingdon Beach, Powell River
When: Each July
Websitepowellriverseafair.ca

Description: This July weekend event is set along the ocean and offers a wonderful experience for the entire community.

Why You Should Do It: Highlights of the Sea Fair include carnival rides, boat races, Highland dancers, belly dancing shows, karaoke for kids, juggling and so much more!

 

Book a tour with Terracentric Coastal Adventures

Location: 1451B Highway 101 Lund, BC Canada V0N 2G0
Websiteterracentricadventures.com

Description: You can book a single or multi-day tour by boat, sea kayak or on foot.

Why You Should Do It: If you’re uncomfortable with a self-guided tour, booking with a tour company could be the answer! Terracentric Coastal Adventures offers boat or sea kayak tours of the Sunshine Coast’s stunning marine parks: Desolation Sound, Copeland Islands and Mitlenatch Island Nature Reserve. You can go out for three-and-a-half hours to eight hours, and the full-day tours come complete with the chance to go ashore and enjoy a homemade lunch. Multi-day tours can last from two to five days. You could also book a hiking tour, which will take you down the Sunshine Coast Trail.

 

Visit the Artique Gallery

Location: 4722 Marine Ave, Powell River, BC V8A 2L4
Websiteartiquebc.ca

Description: This venue is a co-operative gallery, showcasing the works of more than 20 local artists.

Why You Should Do It: This is your chance to explore, and purchase, beautiful works from local artisans. View abstract landscapes, hand-carved decorations and much more.

 

 Tour the Malaspina Arts Centre

Location: 100-7085 Nootka Street Powell River, BC V8A 3C6
Websiteartpowellriver.ca

Description: This is the public art gallery in Powell River.

Why You Should Do It: Exhibits rotate through the Malaspina Arts Centre, from quilts to oil paintings to blown glass, all done by local artists.

 

Take in a movie at the Patricia Theatre

Location: Powell River

Description: Canada’s oldest continuously operating movie theatre offers cheap tickets, Hollywood blockbusters and art-house films. It also serves as a wonderful location for weddings and live concerts.

Why You Should Do It: Not only can you see well-known and artistic films, you can also take in the 1928 theatre’s peacock-adorned landscape murals and listen to the wonderful acoustics.

See the listings herepatriciatheatre.com

 

Go on an Multi-Day Epic Canoe Paddle

Locationsee the complete route map here

Description: The Powell Forest Canoe Route is a 57 km, 8 lake, 5 portage journey that takes roughly 5 days. Portages range from 0.7 km – 2.8 km, and paddling stretches from 1 km – 28.5 km. The best time to travel the route is from June – October. 

Why You Should Do It: Imagine soaring coastal mountains laden with cedar, fir, and spruce trees overlook fjord-like waters. You’re sure to see some wildlife too; anything from bald eagles to black bears is possible.

 

Powell River Historical Museum & Powell River Forestry Museum

Location: Powell River

Description: These museums offer a unique look into the history of Powell River and the surrounding area.

Why You Should Do It: At the Powell River Historical Museum, you can see collections from the Sliammon First Nations, read about choreographer Onna White, who was trained in Powell River and won an Oscar for 1969’s Oliver!, as well as other unique pieces. The Powell River Forestry Museum features a chainsaw display, logging diorama, a blacksmith shop and much more.

 

Bike the Bunster Hills Loop

Location: Near Lund, starting along Wilde Road on the north side of Highway 101.

Description: The Bunster Hill Loop will take between four to six hours to complete, overlooking the stunning waters of the Okeover Inlet.

Why You Should Do It: If you want to get your heart pounding, this trail is for you! The trail features a 2,460-foot climb through an open 12 kilometres, but it does finish off with a 22-kilometre descent.

 

Family biking along around Inland Lake Provincial Park

Location: North of Powell River.

Description: This is a 13-kilometre loop, and you can also stop at any of the numerous fishing or picnicking spots.

Why You Should Do It: The trail is a wide, limestone path, and it’s so flat that the circuit is considered wheelchair accessible. This also makes it great for family biking sessions.

 

Take a yacht cruise

Location: Book with Beyond The Road Adventures, in Lund

Description: Climb aboard the Agate Pass yacht and take one of several excursions offered – through Desolation Sound, Mitlenatch Island or Copeland Islands. The company also offers extended cruises for bear and whale watching in the Johnstone Straits and the Broughton Archipelago area.

Why You Should Do It: Not only do you get to enjoy a beautiful cruise, with stunning scenery, you also don’t have to do any of the hard labour to get there! Sit back, take in the view and enjoy a delectable meal.

 

Go hunting

Location: The Powell River & Sechelt area

Description: The Roosevelt elk that have been transplanted to the Powell River and Sechelt area have done very well. Healthy populations mean prosperous hunts and an LEH Hunt every year. And elk aren’t the only opportunity to hunt. Track blacktail deer in high season from November 1 -20 or black bears. The Sunshine Coast has a high number of black bears per square mile. With a mild climate, little hunting pressure and an abundance of food, the black bears here grow big.

Why You Should Do It: If you’re lucky enough to get drawn for a tag, you’re more than likely to land a nice bull. 

 

 

 

Southern Sunshine Coast

Visit the Sunshine Coast Winery

Location: 5245 Selma Park Rd., Sechelt

Description: Opened in July 2014 by Iris Fan and her vintner partner Keith Lau, the winery offers red, white and fruit wines. According to Fan, the Sechelt area offers hot summers that are similar to the Okanagan, but with a longer cooling period for ideal growing conditions.

Why You Should Do It: Situated outside of the traditional wine country that is BC’s interior, the Sunshine Coast Winery offers lovely wines made from local ingredients.

 

Mountain biking the Lyon Lake Loop

Location: Take Highway 101 northwest of Sechelt and turn right at the Trout Lake Road. This will become the Halfmoon Bay Forest Service Road and you’ll follow that for about 16 kilometres.

Description: The loop is 17 kilometres long and meant for advanced mountain bikers.

Why You Should Do It: If you’re brave enough to take on the Lyon Lake Loop, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Pender Harbour and Sakinaw Lake, the Strait of Georgia, Vancouver Island, Texada Island, Jervis Inlet, Narrows Inlet, Salmon Inlet, Sechelt Inlet and the Coast Mountains. This trail is in some of the oldest forest in Canada.

 

Take an Aboriginal Cultural Tour with Talaysay

Location: Smuggler Cove (hiking) or Sechelt Inlet (kayaking/boating)

Description: 

Paddling/boating -take a narrated and interpretive trip up Sechelt Inlet on a 5 hour kayak trip or 1.5 hour boat excursion. Observe the diversity of wildlife here, from eagles to osprey and sea lions to porpoises. Through your journey you’ll hear the history and ancient stories of the shíshálh First Nations people. Kayak tours run June-September while boat tours operate April-September.

Talking Trees Hike – explore local and diverse eco-systems with the insight of a Talaysay guide. Smuggler Cove was once a well established shíshálh village and the area is considered sacred. Along the trail you’ll learn about flora and fauna, and how the shíshálh extensively used plants. Listen to fascinating local history, legends and stories. Talking Trees Hike runs March-October and is considered a moderate hike at 3 hours in duration. 

Why You Should Do It: A wealth of fascinating aboriginal and local history is shared while exploring a spectacular natural environment.

Websitetalaysay.com

 

Cruise the skies with Sunshine Coast Air

Location: 5987 Sechelt Inlet Rd., Sechelt
Websitesunshinecoastair.com

Description: This locally owned and operated floatplane company will take you up, up and away on a flightseeing adventure. You’ll fly in a de Havilland Beaver plane, which can accommodate excellent photos from the large windows.

Why You Should Do It: Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Sunshine Coast from a completely new point of view. Coastline, islands and inlets, and if your budget allows you can even expand your flight to include glacier lakes, waterfalls and mountains.

 

Take a tour with Secret Cove Sail Tours

Location: 5471 Secret Cove Rd., Halfmoon Bay

Description: Climb aboard an elegant, 38-foot sailboat, the Reverie, and feel your cares float away as you sail among the many islands that sit just off the Sunshine Coast.

Why You Should Do It: Crewed charters are available for day trips and multi-day trips. The Reverie will take you amongst Hornby Island, Jedidiah Island, Thormanby, Pender Harbour, Smuggler Cove and Nanaimo. Secret Cove Sail Tours also offers custom cruises to the Gulf Islands, Princess Louisa Inlet and Desolation Sound. The boat is even equipped with kayaks if you want to venture out on your own and explore.

 

Kayak, canoe or stand up paddleboard Sechelt Inlet

Location: Directly north of Sechelt

Description: If you’re looking for a great new place to launch your kayak or canoe, consider the waters of the Sechelt Inlet, not too far outside of town.

Why You Should Do It: Once you’re on the tranquil waters of the Sechelt Inlet, you’ll find plenty of places to explore, such as Salmon Inlet and Narrows Inlet. You’ll also find several places to stop for a picnic or to swim, including Halfway Beach, Piper Point and Tzoonie Narrows.

Recommended operator Peddles & Paddlespedalspaddles.com

 

Kayak Smuggler Cove

Location: Located on the south side of Sechelt Peninsula, near Secret Cove

Description: This small, all-weather marine provincial park is perfect for camping, hiking, swimming, picnicking and kayaking. The island is accessible by boat from the north end of Welcome Pass.

Why You Should Do It: Smuggler Cove Marine Provincial Park provides an ideal place to paddle and explore. You can pitch a tent a stay awhile, or you can spend your time exploring the island and the wildlife that calls the area home.

 

Salmon fishing in Davis Bay

Location: South of Sechelt

Description: Get out your saltwater fishing gear and drop a line for coho salmon. Prime fishing time is between June and September. There are charters available for booking, or you can even fish from the beach.

Why You Should Do It: Davis Bay offers some of the best fishing in the area. The Chapman Creek Hatchery, located between Sechelt and Roberts Creek, has played an integral role in keeping these local fish stocks high.

 

Fishing at Trout Lake

Location: Off Highway 101, 10 kilometres north of Sechelt

Description: One of the best freshwater fishing opportunities is only a few kilometres outside Sechelt, at Trout Lake.

Why You Should Do It: Trout Lake is touted as the prime fly-fishing location near Sechelt, offering anglers the opportunity to catch surface-feeding trout.

 

Dive and explore the wreck of the HMCS Chaudiere

Location: Sechelt Inlet

Description: The HMCS Chaudiere is a former Canadian Navy ship, sunken at Kunechin Point.

Why You Should Do It: This Second World War submarine hunter measures 336 feet and was sunk in 1992 by the Artificial Reef Society of British Columbia. The wreck now serves as a home to a wide variety of marine life. It’s a challenging dive, but worth the effort.

 

Watch the tide change at Skookumchuck Narrows

Location: Off Highway 101 at Egmont

Description: Twice daily 200 billion gallons of sea water rushes through the narrow straight between Sechelt and Jervis Inlets. It’s an incredible natural spectacle that results in swells that sometimes exceeds 9 feet. 

Why You Should Do It: The Skookumchuck Narrows offer the fastest-moving saltwater rapids in North America, reaching up to 16 knots. If you’re an expert whitewater kayaker or stand up paddle board surfer, you can ride the Sechelt Rapids for about half an hour. Alternatively, one can watch the action from the comfort of dry land. You’ll need to plan for a 45-60 minute hike on a gentle, well maintained trail to reach the lookout point. Check this schedule to see the most opportune time of day for viewing. 

 

Kayak Gambier Island

Location: An island in the Howe Sound, launching from Gibsons Landing Harbour

Description: Gambier Island has it all – beaches for swimming, hiking trails and camping locations, all just a few hours away by kayak.

Why You Should Do It: Paddling from Gibsons Landing Harbour, around Gambier Island and back again is about 41.5 kilometres, and you can take as long as you want to complete the journey. Stop on the island to camp, picnic, swim or explore. There are five major campsites on the island – West Bay, Halkett Bay, Brigade Bay, Douglas Bay and Ekins Point.

 

Tour the Sunshine Coast Arts Centre

Location: 5714 Medusa St. Sechelt BC V0N 3A3
Websitesunshinecoastartscouncil.com

Description: The Sunshine Coast Arts Centre features exhibits from local artists.

Why You Should Do It: If you want to see the exceptional talent the lower Sunshine Coast has to offer, visit the Sunshine Coast Arts Centre. You’ll find work from ceramics to photography to mixed media and much more.

 

Spend time at the Dakota Ridge

Location: Between Sechelt and Gibsons

Description: Dakota Ridge is a 1,532-acre plateau that offers incredible backcountry hiking and groomed cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails in the winter.

Why You Should Do It: Dakota Ridge is considered a challenge, but you’ll be able to explore acres and acres of rolling, forested terrain. You’ll also be rewarded with views of Vancouver Island and Mount Baker in Washington.

Read more about Dakota RidgeClick here

 

Take a Guided Beachcomber Kayak Tour with Sunshine Kayaking

Location: Gibsons Harbour (launch point)

Description: A 3 hour paddle from Gibsons into Howe Sound. You’ll quickly be immersed in the throes of some of the Sunshine Coast’s most dramatic scenery. To one side you will see mountains while the other affords views of Georiga Straight and Vancouver Island. No experience is necessary.

Why You Should Do It: Spot a variety of wildlife including seals, bald eagles, great blue herons, and river otters from a unique and tranquil perspective. 

Websitesunshinekayaking.com/BeachcomberCoastal 

 

Get Festive in Gibsons

Location: various centrally located parks and venues
Websitegibsonsvisitorinfo.com/festivals

Description: Jazz Festival (June), Sea Cavalcade (July), and Synchronicity Festival (August) are popularly attended in the warmer months. Additionally, Music in the Landing runs each weekend through summer. 

Why You Should Do It: This area is a hotbed for creativity and the performing arts. Among main stage talent you’ll find a plethora of artisan markets, local performers, workshops, local food vendors and brewers. All this on the backdrop of seaside and charming Gibsons. We can hear the beats floating along the coastal breeze now already! 

Hike Soames Hill

Location: Near Gibsons, in the Soames Hill Park

Description: There’s over five kilometres of trails up Soames Hill, ranging between moderate and strenuous. You should allow 30 to 40 minutes each way.

Why You Should Do It: Although the hike can be demanding, it’s worth the view you’ll find at the top – you’ll see to Keats Island and even beyond to Vancouver Island.

 Trail informationscrd.ca/Soames-Hill

 

Hike the Suncoaster Trail Route

Location: The trail head is situated at the corner of Highway 101 and Egmont Road, just past the Earls Cove ferry terminal.

Description: The Suncoaster Trail Route runs for 33 kilometres between Homesite Creek and Klein Lake, and hikers will cross a 68-foot bridge over Sakinaw Creek.

Why You Should Do It: The natural trail offers a route through old crown land forest roadways, running by a series of lakes along the way. There is entry and exit points near several rural communities, such as Pender Harbour and Secret Cove

Trail informationscrd.ca/Suncoaster-Trail

 

Visit the House of Hewhiwus (House of Chiefs)

Location: Sechelt

Description: The House of Hewhiwus, also known as the House of Chiefs, is a museum in Sechelt that documents the Sechelt Nation and their culture. The Sechelt Nation have inhabited the Sunshine Coast for thousands of years and the exhibits at the museum showcase items from traditional weaving and salmon-smoking methods the tribe members used, to masks, paddles, stone carvings and more.

Why You Should Do It: The House of Hewhiwus will give you a first-hand look at the individuals that settled the Sunshine Coast generations ago. You can also ask the museum staff about Talaysay Tours, which is a customized kayak tour in Porpoise Bay Provincial Park and includes viewing First Nations pictographs and dining on traditional meals.

 

Go Gallery Hopping 

Location: Gibsons
Websitegibsonsvisitorinfo.com/tag/art-galleries

Description: Gibsons Public Art Gallery has the largest collection original pieces produced by local Sunshine Coast artists. Swing by the Landing Gallery which also showcases local pieces, from prints to pottery. This waterfront co-op gallery supports around 30 artists and craftspeople.

Why You Should Do It: The Sunshine Coast has a strong artisan community. Its incredible beauty inspires creation. You’ll find many painters, potters, woodworkers, Aboriginal artists, sculptors and crafters among the residents of the coast. Come admire some of the best original artwork produced by the region. 

 

 Visit the Sunshine Coast Museum

Location: Gibsons Landing
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Websitesunshinecoastmuseum.ca

Description: The Sunshine Coast Museum is located in the historic Gibsons Landing section of the town, and overlooks the harbour. Founded in 2002, visitors will be able to find a history of the area spread out over two floors.

Why You Should Do It: The museum is full of memorabilia and local maritime history, from explorer Captain George Vancouver to the 19th century Union Steamships. There are even Squamish nation stone tools dating up to 10,000 years old, antique logging equipment and exhibits of the TV show The Beachcombers, which was filmed in the area.

 

Eat at Molly’s Reach

Location: 647 School Rd, Gibsons, BC V0N 1V0
Websitemollysreach.ca

Description: Molly’s Reach is a famous stop in Gibsons, having been the prominent café/home for many characters in the TV show The Beachcombers. The shop also made an appearance in the movie Charlie St. Cloud, starring Zac Effron.

Why You Should Do It: Not only is Molly’s Reach is famous landmark, you’ll also be treated to excellent food – locally sourced ingredients, in-house made sauces, BC wines or Beachcombers draft beer, as wel as vegan and gluten-free options.

 

Unite with readers and writers at the Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts

Location: 5509 Shorncliffe Ave, Sechelt, BC V0N 3A3
Website
writersfestival.ca
When: Each August

Description: The Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts is Canada’s longest running summer festival for Canadian readers and writers. The event features established literary icons and new voices to the industry.

Why You Should Do It: If you’re an avid reader or aspiring writer, this is the place for you! Gather with other likeminded individuals for four days of interesting talks, shopping and chatting with published authors.

 

Visit the Persephone Brewing Company
Location: 1053 Stewart Rd, Gibsons, BC V0N 1V7

Websitepersephonebrewing.com

Description: The Persephone Brewing Company is based on an 11-acre farm in Gibsons, which, in turn, provides you with the freshest beer possible. They grow their own hops and use BC grain for every glass.

Why You Should Do It: Locally grown, produced and consumed – what more could you want from a beer!

 

Go market-hopping in Gibsons

Location: Gibsons

Description: 

Friday Farmers’ Market at Gibsons Public Market – runs May – October 1:30 p.m. -6 pm. 

Gibsons Night Market – runs July – September, 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Read more here.

Gibsons Landing Sunday Market – 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. during summer

Why You Should Do It: Known for its local produce, art, craftwork and garden supplies, the markets of Gibson are a fantastic way to experience the artisan vibe of this community. 

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