As we get ready to welcome cooler Autumn days, we’ve put together a list of favourite places to visit, including plenty of indoor attractions and outdoor activities to enjoy. Here are five family-friendly activities:
Soames Hill Park
With its incredible breathtaking views, Soames Hill is on the must-see list when visiting Gibsons. It is located just above Gibsons (only 3 kilometres from the Langdale ferry terminal) near Shirley Macey Park, which looks across towards Keats Island and the Strait of Georgia. There are two staircase options and three different viewpoints to take in the changing Autumn leaves, so that can make a difference in how much time you can spend on this rewarding hike. Two locations where you can start the trail are Bridgeman Road and Esperanza Road.
Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives
History buffs will enjoy the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives. It presents the rich history of the Sunshine Coast and its inhabitants. The museum has two floors of exhibits to explore, including a resource room, reference library, and extensive archives with over 9,000 photographs & documents.
Gibsons Visitor Centre
If you’re looking for local experts on all things Gibson, look no further than the Gibsons Visitor Centre. The perfect place to start getting to know the community, the Gibsons Visitor Centre is located in the heart of Gibsons Landing. Here I will get advice and recommendations on how to get the best experience possible when you visit Gibsons. You’ll find maps, visitor guides, brochures, and friendly personal tips about community events, shops, restaurants, recreation, and sights you need to see while visiting Gibsons and Sunshine Coast.
Gibsons Public Art Gallery
If you want to immerse yourself in the artistic side, Gibsons Public Art Gallery is on the list of recommendations for you. It is located in the heart of historic Gibsons and was founded in 2003 to provide free public venues for art exhibitions and education. This Art Gallery has become a local cultural centre promoting artistic creativity and learning. Being a part of the arts and heritage community, this Gallery unites it.
Gibsons Public Market
The Public Market will quickly become your go-to place for stocking up on fresh food, including vegetables, artisanal cheeses and seafood. Afterwards, enjoy strolling the boutique shops and restaurants in The Landing.
Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education Centre
A visit to The Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education Centre (NSMEC) combines adventure and nature. It is a unique aquarium located inside Gibsons Public Market. It has a huge collection of natural habitats, local marine fish and invertebrates from the waters of the Howe Sound. As it is located in Gibsons Public Market, you could have a snack here too!
Gibsons & Area Community Centre
If you prefer active indoor activities, then Gibsons & Area Community Centre is for you. It includes an NHL-sized ice arena, squash and racquetball courts, multi-purpose rooms, a youth centre, drop-in activities, and a weight room. They also have table tennis, pool and foosball in their lobby.
Gibsons & District Public Library
There is no better place than the library to discover new things. The Public Library is located in Lower Gibsons on South Fletcher Road. It is one of the few public spaces that are free and accessible to everyone. It houses plenty of books for any age and interest, and is the workplace for creativity and innovation. It has thousands of books, online books, magazines, newspaper articles and research resources and offers different programs and events for kids, teens and adults. Public computers are also available, so you can book a computer session here. Gibsons & District Public Library also has a great outdoor space with a spectacular view of the ocean. And, who doesn’t love free WIFI?
Bonniebrook Beach
Bonniebrook Beach is considered to be the best beach in Gibsons. It is located in the north of Gibsons. Here you can find both: sections of sand and sections of pebbles. The best sand you can find is near the end of Ocean Beach Esplanade. Bonniebrook Beach stretches over 2 kms, so it’s a great place to go for a long walk. Windsurfing is very popular at this beach. You can enjoy the sun all day, have a picnic, and watch the boats passing by. Bonniebrook Beach, with its breathtaking views and picturesque coastal scenery, is one of the favourite places for tourists and locals.
Shop Local on the Coast
While out and about, check out some local shopping venues, there are some really nice stores in this area. Unique clothing and accessories can be found in some boutiques and stores in Lower Gibsons. Finding a perfect gift to take home is very easy here. Wander along Marine Drive, Molly’s Lane, and Gower Point Road to discover lots of cute shops. Try the olive oil at Sunshine Coast Olive Oil or browse the racks at Starlet Vintage. Don’t miss the Gibsons Public Market a few blocks south. lt is the place where you could buy freshly baked bread and pastries, seafood, cheese and a variety of local food. It also houses different special events in the city, so you can check out Gibsons Market calendar for upcoming festivals or view the full calendar for an event to pair with your trip.
By the way, The Gibsons Market has Gala Fundraiser & Tribute again this September and we are proud to support it.
Craft Beer and Cider
The craft beer and cider scene are thriving in Gibsons. Gibsons hosts three well-known breweries: The 101 Brewhouse +Distillery, Tapworks Brewing Company and Persephone Brewing Company. In Upper Gibsons, The 101 Brewhouse +Distillery has craft beers and a small restaurant where you will find casual food along with fun events. Locals say it is also the Sunshine Coast’s first craft distillery, making small-batch gin and vodka. Just a few minutes away in Lower Gibsons you will find Tapworks Brewing Company. They are famous not just for their craft beer but for their incredible patio as well. Don’t miss a chance to visit Persephone Brewing Company near the ferry terminal to experience their farm-to-keg brewery. They grow and use their own ingredients themselves. If beer isn’t what you would prefer, Sunday Cider can help you out. They make small-batch craft cider from 100% freshly pressed apples at their cider house in the forest just north of town.