A photo taken form a kayak of a woman paddling along the coastline.
@glamouraspirit_ Halfmoon Sea Kayaks

Explore

The Sunshine Coast is a 180 km (110 mile) stretch of paradise lining the southwest corner of mainland British Columbia. A string of quaint, coastal communities offers a slower pace of life, allowing locals and visitors alike to truly connect to nature. Here, towering coastal rainforests meet the wild, craggy shorelines of the Salish Sea. The Sunshine Coast is a destination for adventure lovers of all types. Experience a wide range of exceptional outdoor activities, immerse yourself in Indigenous culture, and enjoy our rural, laidback lifestyle driven by a large community of artists, crafters, and creatives.

Split into two halves, the Sunshine Coast is divided into a North and South Coast by a large ocean inlet. The ferry from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay connects the two sides, and both have much in common yet offer their own unique feel. No matter where you find yourself on the Sunshine Coast, there is much to explore.

First Nations

The Sunshine Coast region is home to the traditional, unceded, and ancestral territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, shíshálh, Tla’amin, Klahoose, and Homalco Nations.

About the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is located on the southern coast of British Columbia, Canada, extending 180km between Howe Sound and Desolation Sound.

South Coast

The Southern Sunshine Coast is perfect for quick getaways and extended vacations alike. Even though the Sunshine Coast is part of the BC mainland, you can only get here by ferry, boat, or air.

North Coast

The northern section of the Sunshine Coast is typically less busy than the southern section, and it offers just as much to see and do. Get here by ferry, boat, or air.

Lakes

Although lakes might not be the first thing you think about when you think of the Sunshine Coast, there is more to explore than just our extensive ocean coastline.

Beaches

Some beaches are rocky and better for finding tidepools or skipping rocks, while others have stretches of soft sand.

Trails

Trails are plentiful and varied throughout the Sunshine Coast. No matter what type of trail you’re looking for, you're likely to find it here.

Parks

Explore marine access-only parks, provincial campgrounds, established trail networks, picnic areas, and recreation sites.

Sunshine Coast Communities

Ferry . . . . . . . Ferry Route Airport
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Get to Know the Sunshine Coast

Discover a string of quaint, coastal communities that offer a slower pace of life, allowing you to truly connect to nature.

Gibsons

Ch’ḵw’elhp

Gibsons sits at the southwest corner of Howe Sound, perched on a hillside overlooking several small islands. It was featured in a classic CBC TV show called The Beachcombers.

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Gambier Island

Chá7elkwnech

Gambier Island is home to approximately 100 permanent residents. BC Ferries and local water taxis offer convenient foot passenger service.

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Keats Island

Lheḵ’tínes

Keats Island is located just offshore from the community of Gibsons. BC Ferries and local water taxis offer convenient foot passenger service.

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Roberts Creek

xwesam / Stelḵáya

Roberts Creek is a funky artist community. Discover cultural and natural attractions in the area such as the Roberts Creek Mandala and the waterfalls in Cliff Gilker Park.

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Sechelt

ch’atlich

Sechelt sits on a narrow isthmus that separates the Sechelt Inlet from the Salish Sea. It serves as a fantastic adventure hub and is also home to a bustling arts scene.

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Halfmoon Bay & Secret Cove

xwilkway

Discover some of the most stunning coastline and beach access points on the Sunshine Coast in Halfmoon Bay & Secret Cove. These areas are full of outdoor recreation opportunities.

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Thormanby Island

sxwélap

Thormanby Island is known for its beaches, a large bay that provides safe anchorage for boats, and provincial parks that offer backcountry camping opportunities.

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Pender Harbour

Kalpilin

Pender Harbour is the name of a harbour and also the larger area around the harbour, which is surrounded by small communities such as Madeira Park (salalus), Kleindale, and Garden Bay.

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Egmont

sḵwelawt

Egmont is home to Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park. You'll also find a range of waterfront accommodations and restaurants, along with unforgettable kayaking and boat tours.

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Nelson Island

Nelson Island is accessible by private boat or floatplane. It sits along the BC Ferries route between Earls Cove and Saltery Bay, so you can easily view the island during your ferry trip.

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Powell River

tiskʷat

Powell River is a city surrounded by natural beauty and adventure. It's home to the Sunshine Coast Trail, the Powell Forest Canoe Route, and more.

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Lund

Kla Ah Men

Lund is known as the “End of the Road” due to its location at Mile 0 of Highway 101, which is part of one of the longest highway networks in the world, running from Canada to Chile.

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Texada Island

Sah yeh yeen

Texada Island is affectionately called “The Rock” by locals. BC ferries offers car & foot passenger service from Powell River.

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Savary Island

Kayeqwan

Savary Island is one of the most beautiful islands in the Salish Sea, featuring white sand beaches & stunning ocean and mountain views. Water taxi service is available from Lund.

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Copeland Islands

The Copeland Islands (also known locally as the Ragged Islands) offer excellent opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing.

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