By far one of western Canada’s best-kept secrets, the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia, is a paradise of spectacular scenery, quaint seaside towns, hidden beaches, ancient rainforests, rugged mountains and incredible wildlife. It’s a place to both relax and find adventure. From whale watching and kayaking to forest hikes and charming cafes, this region is perfect for a relaxed road trip, coastal stay or long weekend escape from Vancouver.
In this guide, we’ve put together our favourite places on the Sunshine Coast.
For more inspiration, check out our other local British Columbia guides:
Where is the Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast lies west of Vancouver, across Howe Sound. Although it is part of mainland British Columbia, there is no road access, making it feel more like an island. This isolation helps preserve its small-town charm, pristine nature and uncrowded beaches. The coast stretches from Langdale in the south to Desolation Sound in the north and is split into two sections:
- Lower Sunshine Coast – stretches from Langdale to Earls Cove. (This guide focuses on the Lower Sunshine Coast).
- Upper Sunshine Coast – stretches from Saltery Bay to the end of the main road at Lund. Further north, Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park, is reached by boat or kayak.
A ferry is needed to get between Earls Cove and Saltery Bay.
Getting to the Sunshine Coast
Despite being technically part of the mainland, the Sunshine Coast is completely cut off from the road network, accessible only by ferry or seaplane. And that sense of separation is exactly what makes it feel so special. However, even with that separation, it is less than 2 hours away from downtown Vancouver, making it very accessible to reach.
The easiest and most common way to reach the Sunshine Coast is by BC Ferries.
- Route: Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) → Langdale
- Crossing time: Approximately 40 minutes
Alternatively, you can reach the Sunshine Coast by seaplane.
- With Sunshine Air fromVancouver Airport, Victoria Airport and Nanaimo Harbour to Sechelt.
- With Harbour Air from Vancouver Harbour and Nanimo Harbour to Sechelt (summer only).
To get around the Sunshine Coast you’ll need a car to explore the region properly, as public transport options are limited.
Must see places on the Sunshine Coast
Gibsons
How to get here: 10 minute drive from Langdale Ferry Terminal.
Gibsons is the first town most visitors arrive at when taking the ferry from Horseshoe Bay. This charming, colourful coastal town is centred around a lively waterfront, offering beautiful ocean views, excellent dining and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Gibsons is also famous as the filming location for The Beachcombers, one of Canada’s longest-running TV shows.
What to do in Gibsons:
- Molly’s Reach Café is a Sunshine Coast icon and filming location from The Beachcombers. Stop by for coffee or breakfast.
- Explore boutique shops and dine at local restaurants. The food at Sushi Bar Nagomi is very good but it does get extremely busy and service can be slow.
- Walk around the harbour through Winegarden Waterfront Park.
- Stroll along the harbour boardwalk to the Gazebo, where you may spot seals, sea lions, or even orcas and humpback whales.
- Visit the Gibsons Public Market for local goods. The market is small but you can pick up local farm products and fresh seafood.
- Relax at Bonniebrook Beach or Secret Beach Park.
- Spot marine wildlife from Gospel Rock.
Roberts Creek
How to get here: 15 minute drive from Langdale Ferry Terminal.
Roberts Creek is a small, artistic and bohemian community known for its creative spirit and strong sense of community. With vegan cafes, eclectic shops, a relaxed coastal feel and impromptu community gatherings, it’s a unique stop on the Sunshine Coast.
What to do in Roberts Creek:
- Have breakfast, lunch or coffee and tea at The Gumboot Cafe.
- Browse local art galleries and gift shops.
- Walk out onto the Roberts Creek Pier. This is a great place to see marine wildlife in the Strait of Georgia. Humpbacks are often spotted between here and Vancouver Island in the summer months. Bring binoculars if you have them. Closer to shore orcas, seals, sea lions, porpoises, dolphins, bald eagles and ospreys are frequently spotted.
Cliff Gilker Park
How to get here: 15 minute drive from Langdale Ferry Terminal.
Cliff Gilker is a beautiful forested park offering easy hiking trails through lush rainforest, creeks and small waterfalls. It’s a great place for a walk or picnic and to experience western Canada’s old growth forests.
What to do at Cliff Gilker Park:
- Walk the well-maintained forest trails.
- Enjoy the creek crossings and waterfalls.
- Spot local birds and forest wildlife.
Davis Bay
How to get here: 20-minute drive from Langdale Ferry Terminal
Davis Bay is a laid-back seaside neighbourhood with one of the best beaches on the lower Sunshine Coast. It’s an excellent place for relaxing, dining by the water and watching marine wildlife.
What to do in Davis Bay:
- Watch sunset at Davis Bay Beach.
- Visit Davis Bay Pier, another excellent whale-watching location.
- Enjoy oceanfront restaurants and cafes.
- Go paddleboarding or kayaking in calm conditions.
Halfmoon Bay
How to get here: 35-minute drive from Langdale Ferry Terminal
Halfmoon Bay is a small, residential community set in a picturesque bay. While quiet, the real reason to visit is to stop by the General Store, one of the Sunshine Coast’s most beloved landmarks. The store has been operating since 1937 selling local goods. The cherry on top though is the cafe with fantastic coffee, freshly baked goods and a gorgeous outdoor deck overlooking the bay. It’s the perfect place to sit and relax.
What to do in Halfmoon Bay:
- Visit Halfmoon Bay General Store and Cafe to pick up local goods or enjoy a coffee on the deck with a beautiful view.
Smuggler Cove Marine Provincial Park
How to get here: 50 minutes from Langdale Ferry Terminal
Accessible via a short hike, Smuggler Cove Marine Provincial Park protects a pristine inlet with emerald-green waters, dramatic coastal scenery.
What to do at Smuggler Cove:
- Hike the 4.3km trail that leads through forest and wetlands before reaching the secluded cove.
- Spot wildlife. The wetlands are home to deer, bald eagles, kingfishers and even beavers, whilst along the shores seals are often seen.
- Kayak or paddle in the sheltered cove. Note that it’s approx. 1.1km walk from the trailhead to the coast.
- Relax and enjoy a picnic.
Madeira Park and Pender Harbour
How to get here: 1 hour from Langdale Ferry Terminal
Madeira Park is the main hub of Pender Harbour, a stunning network of sheltered inlets and islands. This area is a boating hotspot and one of the best places on the Sunshine Coast for paddling. A small village area is home to a couple of shops and large hotel resorts are scattered around the harbour.
What to do in Madeira Park & Pender Harbour:
- Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
- Explore the calm waters and hidden coves.
- Visit the marina, cafes and shops.
- Use Pender Harbour as a base for boating trips.
Francis Point Provincial Park
How to get here: Approx 1 hr from Langdale Ferry Terminal or 10 minutes from Madeira Park
Francis Point Provincial Park is known for its quiet trails, ocean views and rich marine life. For a short walk, make your way to Beaver Point Lookout for beautiful views across the Strait of Georgia. Alternatively, a longer hike will take you to a small lighthouse.
What to do at Francis Point:
- Walk the coastal forest trails.
- Watch for marine wildlife.
Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park
How to get here: 1.5 hours from Langdale Ferry Terminal + approx. 4km walk along the Skookumchuck Narrows Trail (one way)
Skookumchuck Narrows is an impressive natural phenomena on the Sunshine Coast. Here, massive volumes of water are forced through a narrow channel, creating powerful tidal rapids and whirlpools as the water changes direction. During these tidal changes, surfers and kayakers can be seen riding the waves.
What to do at Skookumchuck Narrows:
- Hike the forest trail to the viewpoints.
- Watch the Skookumchuck tidal rapids during peak tide changes. The best viewing times during 2026 can be found here.
- On your way to or from the narrows stop by Skookumchuck Bakery & Cafe or Sunshine Coast Shellfish – a casual eatery offering fresh seafood including smoked fish and seafood chowder near the trailhead.
Let us know if you have any questions about visiting the Sunshine Coast in the comments section below.
