ULTIMATE THINGS YOU SHOULD DO ON A SUNSHINE CENTRAL ROAD TRIP
One of Canada’s most popular road trips is the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia. The drive up the remote and rugged BC coast is one of Canada’s most treasured secrets. I doubt that road-trippers will soon stop by this spot.
It is located on the BC mainland, so it would seem easy to drive there. However, the only way you can access the Sunshine Coast from the mainland is by ferry, helicopter or plane. We saw Lund, the gateway of Desolation Sound, while we were on the sunshine coast. However, taking the scenic route north was more convenient by taking the Sunshine Coast Ferry starting at Horseshoe Bay. Horseshoe Bay, a major ferry terminal located north of Vancouver, is the starting point for the journey to the Sunshine Coast. The ride takes approximately 50 minutes via the scenic Georgia Straight.
Things to Do on the Sunshine Coast BC
Where is the Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast can be found north of Vancouver, along the Straight of Georgia. You will drive the Sunshine Coast Highway 101 from Lund to Horseshoe Bay after taking the ferry to Langdale Ferry Terminal. Another great BC trip is the British Columbia Road Trip: Vancouver to Revelstoke.
Sunshine Coast Itinerary Day 1 – Vancouver
Spend at least one night in Vancouver before you head to the Sunshine Coast. The beautiful West Coast City is one of the most desirable cities in Canada. It is a gateway to Alaska, with cruise ships departing every summer. Also, it serves as a starting point for those driving the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler. Vancouver offers many things that will keep you busy for several days. However, if you have only a few hours to spare, we recommend visiting Stanely park, False Creek, Granville Island and Gas Town.
Vancouver: Where to Stay
The Opus Vancouver, a boutique hotel in Yaletown, is just a short walk from everything. Forbes ranked this hotel as the best in BC and voted it the best luxury property in BC. It is highly recommended. It is also close to great restaurants and nightlife and is only a short stroll from the waterfront.
Day 2 – Ferry to Gibsons, BC
It’s time for the ferry to the Sunshine Coast. After spending a night in Vancouver, we journeyed to Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal, where we took the ferry to Langdale Ferry Terminal. It’s a beautiful trip, so get out on the deck and enjoy the stunning views of the coast, mountains and rolling Fjords. It takes approximately 50 minutes to get on the ferry, which is a lovely trip. After reaching Langdale, you can hop on the Sunshine Coast Highway to begin your road trip through one of the most beautiful parts of British Columbia.
Gibsons, BC
We made our way to Gibsons Landing, a bustling community set against the stunning backdrop of Howe Sound. Before our arrival, we didn’t know much about Gibsons Landing but were delighted to discover that it was the location for the popular Canadian television series The Beachcombers.
Beachcombers – Canadian History in Gibsons
Gibsons Landing is proud to be Canadian, and you will find a corner in the middle of town dedicated to this long-running series. Just across the street, Molly’s Reach restaurant is home to The Persephone, their boat.
Gibsons Landing has so many activities you will want to spend at most a day exploring. You’ll find many shops and restaurants along the waterfront. The boardwalk offers stunning views of the marina, where we could see sea lions playing in the bay. It is worth a stroll along. Gibson’s Public Market has located 5 km from Langdale Ferry Terminal. Here you can pick up artisan chocolates, fresh fruits and baked goods to fuel your drive.