The Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is a very popular vacation destination in British Colombia, Canada. Located 40 minutes from the Lower Mainland (Vancouver), the Sunshine Coast can be reached only by ferry boat or by floatplane. Although very close to the fast pace of Vancouver, on the Sunshine Coast you will experience a much slower, laid back life style. The southern coastal highway stretches about 80km (50 miles) from the Langale Ferry terminal to Earls Cove Ferry terminal, and in between there is the string of quaint, coastal communities like Gibsons, Sechelt, Maderia Park, Pender Harbour and Egmont.
Gibsons, known for the long running television series, Beachcombers, has a very quaint downtown full of shops, pubs, and cafes. You are sure to be amazed by the stunning backdrop of snow peaked mountains as you take a stroll along the sea walk, and don't be surprises if you catch a glimpse of Orcas.
Sechelt, meaning "land between two waters" is just what the name implies. On one side of town is the Strait of Georgia, with rocky beaches and views of Vancouver Island. On the other side is the Sechelt Inlet with views of the dramatic fjord-like mountains rising from the water. It is definitely worth a stop to watch bald eagles fish and floatplanes come and go.
Further up the coast is Maderia Park which has a grocery store and shops, then Pender Harbour, home to a 9 hole golf course. The surrounding areas are packed with some amazing hikes, like Francis Point Provincial Park and Mount Daniel, to name a few.
Egmont sits on the Sechelt Inlet about 1.5 hours from Langdale Ferry terminal. It is the gateway to the Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park. If you are up the 2 hour round-trip hike, it is highly recommended. A massive tidal exchange through the narrows between Sechelt and Jervis inlets puts on an impressive daily show, creating the famous Sechelt Rapids and attracting both nature-lovers as well as extreme sports enthusiasts.
With its warm summers and mild winter, the many outdoor activities offered on the Sunshine coast can be done year-round, including golf. The coast is home to two full length courses and one 9 hole course.
