Sunshine Coast
Ale Trail
This is the West Coast beyond compare. Explore the coastal communities of Gibsons, Sechelt and Powell River but be sure to take your time along the way. "Not an island"
Deep sea inlets and coastal bays to explore by kayak or sailboat; interconnected lakes and rivers ideal for canoeing; rugged cliffs to climb and trails to bike; beaches and swimming holes for family relaxation. Wash all that down with beer from some of British Columbia’s most distinctive craft breweries.
On BC’s southwest coast lies a hidden paradise of coastal geography awaiting discovery. The Sunshine Coast is less than 30 km (18 miles) from downtown Vancouver, but getting there requires a ferry, making it seem like an island unto itself.
Some of British Columbia’s most distinctive breweries make their homes in the Sunshine Coast communities of Gibsons, Sechelt and Powell River.
Batch 44 Brewing in Sechelt, BC
Day 1
Gibsons
Travel Info
Ferry from Vancouver to Sunshine Coast to (Horseshoe-Langdale)
Ferry from Vancouver Island to Sunshine Coast (Little River-Westview)
A destination for Sunshine Coast visitors and residents of all ages—everyone is welcome to convene and learn, enjoy local food, fresh produce, art and entertainment. The public market hosts local merchants and offers activities, workshops, a marine education centre, a community kitchen, and a bistro.
Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the waters off Gibsons Harbour, venturing over to local islands like Keats Island and Gambier Island. Alternatively, kayak up Sechelt Inlet, watching out for dolphins and deer.
A community hub where locals and visitors can gather to enjoy beer and a meal from the in-house Burger Shack in a comfortable, welcoming setting or up on their roof-top patio with scenic views of the coast.
Located just above Gibsons, “The Knob” can be summited in a short 40 minutes–but don’t forget to leave some time for a water/snack break at the top. Take in stunning views of Gibsons Harbour, the coastal mountain range, Keats, Gambier, Bowen and Vancouver Island.
Explore the Beer Farm. Enjoy a beer in the tasting room or outside at a picnic table, perhaps with some pizza prepared in the outdoor wood-fire oven. It doesn’t get much better than this.
Banditry Cider reflects all the endearing aspects of the Sunshine Coast community. Surrounded by 40 varietals of heritage fruit trees producing delicious, clean, and simple cider. Assemble your own charcuterie board with their rich and delicious cheeses, cured meats, olives, artisanal jams, and biscuits, and head over to the picnic area!
Founded by locals with a passion for the Coast, the 101 epitomizes the Gibsons lifestyle — it is a community hub where people gather together to enjoy well made craft beer, small batch spirits, and locally inspired food.
Fine and far-out, award-winning craft cider made with 100% fresh pressed BC apples. Enjoy a glass on the grass in their friendly picnic area, surrounded by a West Coast forest and heritage apple trees.
Choose from a range of options in Gibsons, Roberts, or Sechelt for your first night on the Coast. Options range from cottages, hotels and inns, bed and breakfasts, and resorts so there is something to suit every travel style.
Explore More
Be sure to stop in at the Gibsons Visitor Information Centre for a full list of activities and attractions to explore.
For your cultural fix, head to Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives or one of the numerous art galleries around Gibsons Landing. Better yet, time your trip to attend one of the annual festivals, including the Gibsons Landing Jazz Festival, the annual Sunshine Coast Art Crawl, or the Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Festival.
Getting around the Coast – There are plenty of options to help you navigate the Coast during your stay. Coastal Rides is a modern ride-hailing service, with options for private rides, large groups, and accessible transportation. Book on demand, or up to seven days in advance. If you refer a traditional taxi service, give Sechelt Taxi a call. And of course, there is BC Transit’s public transit system to get you safely from point A to point B.
Day 2
Sechelt
Day 3
Northern Sunshine Coast
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Paddle to an offshore islet, browse for locally made treasures or relax on a white sand beach: BC’s Sunshine Coast, with its sheltered coves and artsy seaside villages, has all the scenic charm and laidback vibe of an island getaway. The difference is that this sunny shoreline is actually part of the mainland and just 40 minutes by ferry from West Vancouver, or 1.5 hours from Comox on Vancouver Island.
Plan Your Trip:
Explore British Columbia's best kept secret, stretching along 180km of land from Langdale to Lund.
sunshinecoastcanada.comBook Accommodations:
Find a wide range of options – from the budget traveler to luxury accommodations.
tripadvisor.caHow To Get Here:
Although it is part of BC's mainland, access to the region is by air or by water due to the mountainous terrain.
sunshinecoastcanada.com