The Sunshine Coast has always called to explorers seeking breathtaking views, world-class hiking, beachcombing, or a peaceful escape from Vancouver’s suburban jungle.
Each summer, visitors flock to enjoy the ebb away from city life, and the immediate slow down as they drive from Langdale, through Gibsons to Sechelt. Highway 101 is calming as it winds its way through communities of artisans, local farms, distilleries, pop-up cafes and ocean views with beach access points.
Reliving TV History at Molly’s Reach
On our list of many favorite stops is Molly’s Reach. This internationally recognized landmark was made famous as the café and home of the CBC TV series “The Beachcombers.” Refuel on breakfast while you take in the memorabilia displayed on the walls. Options include steak & eggs, eggs benny, french toast, or our favorite, fluffy pancakes. You can also choose from seafood favorites; we highly recommend their fish and chips, and west coast poutine.
Mandala Art in the Creek
Wrapped up breakfast? Then you make your way through Gibsons and pop into Roberts Creek for a Coffee at the Gumboot Cafe. The service up fresh Straight Coffee with a variety of gluten-free and vegan pastries prepared daily in-house! Wander down to the beach with your coffee and view the community mandala. Every summer this masterpiece is restored with a theme, where a team of volunteers spend the day painting the concrete canvas with their artistry.
The Views from Davis Bay
Of course, no visit to the Sunshine Coast would be complete without enjoying some time on the water. As you leave Roberts Creek, one of our most favorite stretches of beach can found at Davis Bay. It’s located just south of Sechelt and boasts 2km of unobstructed ocean views. As one of the few local sandy beaches, it is perfect for kite flying, wind-surfing, and home to the annual Davis Bay Sandcastle competition. Perch yourself on a driftwood log while you enjoy ice cream from local Gourmet Girl cafe, or wander across the street to watch all ages jumping off the local pier!
Delicious Craft Cidery in Sechelt
Have you been craving a taste of local craft cider? Head through Sechelt to Bricker’s Cider, a craft cidery located just 10 minutes from Davis Bay. Although small, this 100 % family-owned and operated business farm has a real passion for cider! Their beautiful 5-acre farm has a funky little tasting room along with picnic area that’s welcome to families and their pets. Their core ciders and seasonal or small batch series are a real delight and are sometimes well out-of-stock due to their popularity.
Camping at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park
Just a 15-minute drive from Bricker’s Cider is Porpoise Bay Provincial Park, which attracts campers throughout the summer due to its exclusive location along the Sechelt inlet. Its sandy beaches are the perfect spot for afternoon picnics and group barbecues, and the playground is a great addition for families. Paddle Boarders are often paddling the calm waters thanks to the shelter of the inlet. Rentals are available from a variety of local operators – many of which can deliver depending on the time of day.
Heritage Forests with Hidden Groves
Looking for a great spot to Hike? Continue north from Porpoise Bay to the entrance of Hidden Grove, a beautiful heritage forest with a network of hiking trails which are home to enormous Douglas Fir trees, Jurassic ferns, and a spectacular outcropping with views extending over the Sechelt Inlet towards Vancouver Island. There are many different paths lush with mossy groves within this true west coast forest that you’re bound to want to complete the entire loop. The routes are very well maintained, and marked with maps and colored markers pointing you to corresponding colored trails – so there’s no chance of getting lost.
Whether you’ve decided to wind your way along the Coast, enjoy lunch at one of the cafes, sunbathe at the beach, or hike through heritage forests – the Sunshine Coast has something to offer anyone looking to returning to what’s real.
