We in eastern Canada hear a good deal about Vancouver and Victoria and the rest of Vancouver Island. Likely anyone who reads travel stories is familiar with Whistler and probably the Okanagan, home to lovely deserts, wineries and more.
I’ve had a good deal of experience with those locations, so when the folks at British Columbia tourism last year suggested The Sunshine Coast, I jumped at the idea. Over the space of three or four days it became one of my favourite spots in Canada; kind of a cross between B.C. and California; with great hotels, lovely scenery, nice spas and fun, relaxed people. Not to mention cool towns like Gibsons Landing and Madeira Park.
The Sunshine Coast, so named due to it being a good deal more sunny than Vancouver, is on the mainland of B.C., southwest of Squamish. But there are no roads leading there because of the rugged terrain, so you have to take the ferry. Most folks arrive in Gibsons Landing on the ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver.
Here’s a photo essay showing some of my favourite spots.
Gibsons Landing is still known in many circles as the setting for the TV show The Beachcombers. Pull up a chair and enjoy the fish and chips at Molly’s Reach and then check out the memorabilia. It’s a fun restaurant with a nice patio.
The harbour at Gibsons Landing is a beauty, with gleaming white boats against a backdrop of deep green, scented pines and a lovely bay.
Check out the pier at Gibsons Landing for an atmospheric photo or two.
There’s excellent shopping in Gibsons Landing and several fine boutiques and home decor shops.
A kayaking trip with Pedals and Paddles in the town of Sechelt is a great way to explore the Sunshine Coast and the beautifil Sechelt Inlet.
Laurie and Dave, the folks behind Pedals and Paddles, are simply outstanding people. Dave is a patient and excellent kayaking instructor.
Absolute Heaven is a pretty B & B near Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast, with great views and lovely owners.
Absolute Heaven sits on a small but pretty beach, with awesome sunsets.
You’ll find amazing sunsets and sensational food at Rockwater Secret Cove Resort on the Sunshine Coast. Many units are so-called “glamping” style, with canvas tents surrounding luxurious interiors.
The harbour views at Painted Boat Resort near Madeira Park are especially nice at sunrise and sunset.
Painted Boat Resort has great condo units as well as marvellous food and a lovely spa with an outdoor pool and waterfall.
Take a ride on the “slo-cat” in Pender Harbour for a wonderful treat and superb views of oceanside homes. The commentary is engaging and amusing, as well.
fter your Pender Harbour tour, try a hike in the nearby hills for fantastic views of the ocean and Vancouver Island.
Next up: Muskoka
Follow me on Twitter @jimbyerstravel and on Instagram @jimbyerstravel1. You can reach me by email, as well: jim@jimbyerstravel.com
