Canada's Sunshine Coast
A place where green forests meet the sparkling Pacific, charming coastal towns invite you in, and every bend in the road reveals another natural wonder.
Discover Canada's Sunshine Coast
Nestled in British Columbia, Canada’s Sunshine Coast is much more than a beautiful shoreline. This peaceful region invites you to experience a more authentic side of Canada, where coastal towns, ancient forests and wild Pacific scenery come together at an easy-going pace.
The Sunshine Coast is split into two distinct areas. To the south, you’ll find a relaxed coastal atmosphere, welcoming communities and scenic beaches. Further north, the landscape feels wilder and more remote, with untouched wilderness, rainforest trails and memorable encounters with West Coast wildlife.
It pairs beautifully with Vancouver Island, offering a peaceful addition to a tailor-made Canada holiday and a chance to explore British Columbia beyond the busier tourist trails.
Things to do on the Southern Sunshine Coast
The Southern Sunshine Coast is a wonderful place for travellers who enjoy both nature and culture. Its gentle coastal pace makes it easy to explore rainforest trails, quiet beaches and wild landscapes while still having time to discover welcoming seaside towns, local art and Indigenous history.
Hike, Paddle, and Unwind
The Southern Sunshine Coast is perfect for immersing yourself in British Columbia’s breathtaking landscapes. From rainforest hikes and guided eco-tours to leisurely kayaking along rugged coastlines, there are plenty of ways to experience the region’s natural beauty.
A standout experience is hiking Mount Elphinstone. Depending on your chosen route, you can wander through dense, verdant forest or reach sweeping viewpoints where the Pacific stretches out before you — the perfect place to pause and take it all in.
Prefer to be on the water? Glide through tranquil bays and around scattered islands by kayak or paddleboard. With a little luck, you may spot seals or even whales along the way.
For a gentler pace, the area’s peaceful beaches, including Roberts Creek and Davis Bay, are ideal for a picnic, a sunny stroll or simply soaking up the coastal calm.
Discover indigenous heritage – a journey through history
The Southern Sunshine Coast is not only beautiful; it is also rich in Indigenous history. For thousands of years, the shíshálh and Skwxwúmesh peoples have called this region home, and their cultural legacy continues to thrive today.
Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of First Nations traditions through guided tours, cultural centres and meaningful experiences with Indigenous hosts.
A highlight is the Tems Swiya Museum in Sechelt, which offers insight into the history of the shíshálh Nation through historical artefacts and stories of the community’s enduring connection with the land and nature.
Indigenous guides also lead thoughtful tours through the surrounding landscapes, sharing the significance of sacred sites and traditional habitats. These experiences offer a much richer understanding of the Sunshine Coast than scenery alone.
Explore the Enchanting Seaside Towns
After time spent in nature, make room for the Southern Sunshine Coast’s charming seaside towns of Gibsons and Sechelt.
Gibsons is known for its lively arts scene, local boutiques and cosy cafés, as well as Molly’s Reach, made famous by the television series The Beachcombers.
A short drive away, Sechelt offers bustling markets, fresh regional produce and locally crafted goods. It is also home to artists’ studios, where you can browse work inspired by the surrounding coast, forest and wildlife.
Time your visit well and you may catch one of the region’s festivals, celebrating the area’s creative spirit, community feel and relaxed coastal way of life.
Embrace nature at a slower pace
The Southern Sunshine Coast is ideal for those who want to relax without missing out on memorable experiences. Take a leisurely stroll through the Sunshine Coast Botanical Garden, where native and exotic plants flourish in a peaceful setting.
For a deeper connection with the landscape, head to Pender Harbour, often called the “Jewel of the Sunshine Coast”. This scenic coastal spot is perfect for kayaking, hiking and fishing, with a slower pace that invites you to linger a little longer.
Enjoy local art, food and coastal culture
Creative energy runs through the Southern Sunshine Coast, with galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists. It is a lovely place to browse for a unique piece to take home, or simply enjoy the region’s artistic character.
When hunger strikes, boutique eateries serve fresh seafood and regional specialities, offering a true taste of coastal living.
Things to do on the Northern Sunshine Coast
The Northern Sunshine Coast offers a quieter, more remote side of British Columbia, where wild landscapes and peaceful coastal communities set the pace. Less visited than the south, it’s a place where many Canadians come to unwind, surrounded by ancient forests, sheltered bays and rugged West Coast scenery.
Whether you’re hiking through unspoilt wilderness, kayaking across calm waters or exploring characterful coastal towns, this part of the Sunshine Coast is ideal for those seeking space, stillness and a deeper connection with nature.
Explore Powell River
Powell River is the heart of the Northern Sunshine Coast and a must-visit for curious travellers. Blending local history with a lively coastal atmosphere, it makes a lovely base for exploring the surrounding area.
Start at the Powell River Museum and Archives to learn more about the region’s history and culture, then enjoy a gentle stroll along Willingdon Beach, with its sea views, picnic spots and easy beach access.
In the town’s newer area, you’ll find independent boutiques, welcoming cafés and restaurants serving fresh, locally sourced dishes. Powell River is also known for its arts scene and year-round festivals, bringing creative energy to this peaceful coastal town.
Embrace outdoor adventure
The Northern Sunshine Coast offers nature in its purest form. The Sunshine Coast Trail, one of Canada’s longest continuous hiking paths, rewards walkers with beautiful coastal and forest views — and even a short section reveals the region’s wild beauty.
For time on the water, kayak through Okeover Inlet, where calm waters and nearby islands create a wonderful setting for paddlers. If you prefer to stay on land, Smuggler’s Cove Provincial Park is well worth visiting, with trails leading to peaceful coves, sandy beaches and fascinating tide pools.
Visit Lund and Savary Island
At the northern tip of the Sunshine Coast, the picturesque harbour town of Lund offers charming streets, small shops, local flavours and beautiful views across the water.
From here, take a short ferry ride to nearby Savary Island, known for its pristine sandy beaches and laid-back feel — a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy the slower rhythm of coastal life.
For a memorable experience, join a whale-watching boat tour for the chance to see orcas, humpback whales and playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
Discover Indigenous culture
In and around Lund, home to Coast Salish peoples, you can gain a deeper understanding of the region’s Indigenous heritage.
Guided kayak tours along the coast reveal not only the beauty of the landscape, but also the Indigenous community’s deep connection to the sea. Regional artists also offer the chance to discover traditional Coast Salish art, from delicate jewellery to intricate carvings.
These experiences bring the culture and history of the area to life, offering a more meaningful perspective on the Northern Sunshine Coast.
Take a scenic coastal drive
For those who love the freedom of the open road, a drive along the Northern Sunshine Coast’s scenic coastal routes is a must. As the road winds between forest, ocean and mountain views, every turn reveals another reason to slow down.
Pause at one of the many viewpoints to fully take in the landscape, from the sparkling Pacific Ocean to lush forests and distant peaks. Here, the journey really does become part of the experience.
Experience Canada’s untouched wilderness
Whether you travel north or south, Canada’s Sunshine Coast offers experiences far from the usual tourist trail. You’ll find pristine wilderness, characterful coastal towns and the warm welcome of local communities.
While the Southern Sunshine Coast brings together nature, culture and cuisine, the north reveals a quieter side of British Columbia, with untouched landscapes and a peaceful sense of solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere.
