Popular Routes: Sunshine Coast

Endearing, enchanting and a true escape the Sunshine Coast is a little slice of heaven nestled against the majestic beauty of the Salish Sea, and Sechelt Inlet. It’s proximity to Vancouver is just a short ferry ride, but the journey is no less spectacular and once you dock at Langdale terminal there is a dramatic and welcomed ease into total relaxation.

The Sunshine Coast Hwy is the main road that takes you along this 180 km stretch of paradise, snaking its way through the communities of Gibsons, Robert’s Creek and Halfmoon Bay to name a few. Where exactly you choose to end up… Well, in the spirit of a true wanderer, we suggest you let nature do its work and beckon you to the many hikes, secret beaches and woodland hideaways tucked along the way.

This is also home of the inspiration behind Honest Camper. It’s here that our “young-ish” Dad William Jarvis took his then 5-year-old son Jack on a memory making trip. When you get here it won’t be hard to see why this experience left such an indelible impression on them and got the creative juices flowing. And thank goodness for that!

The other thing that makes the Sunshine Coast so special is the people. So don’t be shy about striking up a conversation while you’re out picking up groceries or grabbing a bite to eat. A friendly wave as your cruise along will warm you right up. Here are a few suggestions to help you get closer to the pulse of this unique and beautiful part of BC.

Get Local

Photo: Robyn Hanson

Every town, community or village has its central meeting point. The intersection of all ages, all walks of life. The Gumboot Cafe in Robert’s Creek has been that kind of place for over 20 years. While this is a great spot to people watch, grab breakfast and just be lazy over a cup of coffee, we suggest if the timing is right, checking out one of their art events or concerts, Ukulele Groove - Jamming the Classics! anyone? They have a great lineup of live music during the summer and plenty of opportunities to gab with regulars.

Get Mystical

Photo: Unknown

Firstly, your jaw will drop at the beautiful community along Francis Peninsula Rd. The question you’ll be asking yourself is can I live here too? Secondly, the hike along the ridge at Francis Point. There are plenty of places to hike in the area, but we’ve got a particular fondness for its windswept trees, magnificent views and mossy outcroppings is like nature's symphony is playing an adagio for you. It’s just truly so beautiful and picturesque. Not a rigorous hike by any means, just a perfect spot to sit and commune with nature.

Get Salty

Photo: Credit Unknown

Part of the joy of being a wanderer is stumbling upon places that feel like they were meant for you. While there are plenty of beaches in the area, one of our favourite things is to find those hidden walkways that lead you to secret beaches. Redroofs Rd in Halfmoon Bay is a great place to find such a gem. Just meander along the road until you spot a path that leads you down to the water. After that, let the smooth stones, sea and sun do the rest.

Get Hungry

Photo: Mark Bunzel

While there is a certain expectation that even a glamper will be “roughing-it” to a degree, there is no harm done in treating yourself to a feast of the seas. Enter Smitty’s Oyster House in Gibsons Landing. What can we say? Beautiful view, beautiful food and an intimate, but energetic vibe will make it a great spot for a date-night, or a great solo-date-night, or a just a fun (and delicious) night out. Seriously though, fresh oysters, a glass of BC wine, the smell of the salty seas. Heaven.