two people standing arm in arm at a viewpoint above a lake in Maderia Park, British Columbia

Ultimate 10-Day Sunshine Coast Road Trip Itinerary (2026 Guide)

BC's Sunshine Coast is technically mainland BC, but it feels like an island. It can only be accessed by ferry or plane and that gives it a remote feeling even though you're really a hop-skip-and-a-jump from the city. The Sunshine Coast is my favourite place to escape to year round whether it's a quick weekend away in the fall or an in-depth road trip at the end of the summer.

And it's a naturally perfect road trip route. The first ferry from Horseshoe Bay will drop you in Langdale, and you will almost immediately get onto Highway 101: the beautiful and infamous final stretch on the Pan American highway. This is my favourite summer route because you can stretch it anywhere from a few days to nearly 2 weeks.

Key Tips for Visiting The Sunshine Coast & Highway 101

man leaning on the railing of a a BC ferry looking out to the Sunshine Coat
  • Ferries: Both ferries we're taking on this trip are run by BC Ferries. If you're new to the system, here's how they work: you drive up to the terminal, pay (or show your reservation), then line up in your assigned lane (it will be on the ticket they give you, and they usually point you in the right direction). Staff will direct you when it's time to board, and once on the ship, you can leave your car and head upstairs for food, coffee, and views.
  • Driving: This entire itinerary requires about 350 km of driving and will take about 7 hours. This is based on starting and ending your trip in Gibsons. All the roads are straightforward and beautiful highways, so it's not a stressful drive.
  • Ferry Reservations aren't required but can save you a lot of stress on busy sailings, especially Fridays, Sundays, and holidays. With a reservation, you still need to show up 30 to 60 minutes early, but it guarantees you a spot. Without one, it's first-come-first-serve. So you'll want to get to the terminal well ahead of time or risk waiting for the next boat.
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer (June through August) for warm beaches and long days; spring/fall for quieter trails and mild weather. You can go in winter and have a cozy time, but it's pretty much off-season everywhere from November to May.
  • Transport: This itinerary assumes you will bring your own car or camper. You can take transit from Langdale to Lund, but it's not easy, and it won't take you to every in-between place. It is also an amazing bike-packing route, but it's long and has some challenging sections, so maybe it shouldn't be your very first trip.
  • Camping: There are both free park-ups and paid campsites everywhere. There are options for everything from upscale 'glamping' to proper rough backcountry camping. Always book ahead or go to first-come, first-served spots early in July/August. September gets less busy, but we still rocked up to a few completely full rec sites as early as 6 PM.
  • Cell Phone Reception: You should be connected in every town mentioned here. The signal can be in and out on longer stretches of highway.
  • Respect Locals and First Nations: This is small-town BC and unceded land. Drive slowly, pack out garbage, and leave no trace. There are sections of highway controlled by the First Nations where the highway speeds go down to school zone speeds. It might feel odd at first, but once you spot the young kids playing, you will understand why it's important to respect the limits they set.
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Sunshine Coast Ferries

This itinerary requires 4 ferry trips, and all routes are handled with BC Ferries. If you're travelling with a vehicle, you can (and should) book online ahead of time. Foot passengers can buy their fare in person.

BC Ferry Price:

FromToPassengerVehicle2 Passengers + Vehicle
Horseshoe BayLangdale (Gibsons)$11$60.30$82.30
Earls CoveSaltery BayFree!Free!Free!
Saltery BayEarls Cove$15.40$51.75$82.55
Langdale (Gibsons)Horseshoe BayFree!Free!Free!
Powell RiverComox$11$51$73

You will generally start your trip from the Horseshoe Bay terminal, work your way up to Lund at the end of the coast, then turn back and retrace your steps.

  • For solo foot passenger: $26.4
  • Solo vehicle passenger: $138.45
  • Couple vehicle passengers: $164.85

We lost out on some savings in our last trip to the coast because we actually finished our trip in Lund and then headed back down to Powell River and took the ferry over to Vancouver Island. This isn't the smartest move for the budget, but it's a great way to keep the BC adventure going. If you opt for the fun option, the totals become:

  • For solo foot passenger: $37.4
  • Solo vehicle passenger: $189.45
  • Couple vehicle passengers: $237.85

These costs are based on the standard rates as of March 2026. Keep an eye out for saver rates! You can save significantly if you book a cheaper rate on early morning and late night weekday sailings. Discounts are limited, so book well in advance and plan around the times if you want to save a bit on transportation.

What to do During The Crossings

If you get a nice day, grab a coffee from the cafeteria and head up to the open deck. It will be windy, but the BC ferries are large and stable, so you won't be wobbling around. The views on every route are stunning, and you have a great chance of seeing wildlife.

On our last trip with BC Ferries, we were following a group of whales for nearly an hour. We were able to just sit on the sundeck, sipping coffee, and watching the whales breach over and over again.

If you don't get the weather for it, there is a lot of seating inside. There are also shops and restaurants. Every ferry has a cafeteria-style general restaurant, but some have multiple options, and some even have a White Spot.

You won't have cell service for most of the trip, and there is no wifi on board. So bring a book or someone you like to chat with.

How Long Do I Need For The Sunshine Coast, BC

Keats Island viewed from Soames Hill, Gibsons

One of the greatest parts of this road trip is that it can be as epic or as non-committal as you want. People do day trips from the city to Gibsons every day. But Gibsons is just the gateway to the Sunshine Coast, and you can continue on all the way to the end of Highway 101, and there is so much to see along the way. So, how long you spend here really depends on how much time you can give to it.

Short answer: 6 days for the southern coast and 4 days for the northern coast. Add 2 or 3 days if you are planning to check out Savary Island and Thormanby Island. So your trip could be a quick 1-week trip, or if you go everywhere and see everything, it could take you closer to 2 weeks. 

This itinerary will break down how to make the most of a trip with a time constraint and suggest what you should prioritize, but we will also go into more detail on how you can expand this into a bigger trip if you have the time.

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Destination #1: Gibsons (2-3 Days)

several boats docked at Gibsons Harbour framed by some red flowers
facade of Molly's Reach cafe in Gibsons, BC

This is the entry point to the Sunshine Coast. Technically, the ferry stops in the town of Langdale, but Gibsons is the first point of interest (no offence, Langdale). 

Gibsons is an iconic Sunshine Coast town and sets the tone perfectly for the rest of the trip. The cute seaside part of town is relatively small and is a popular day trip. But there is a lot more to do in the surrounding area.

You can see the entire downtown area in less than 20 minutes, but we still make sure you make time for a revisit on every trip.

My brief recommendations for Gibsons are a walk through town, then down by the water, a pint at Persephone, and sunset on Soames Hill. But, we also have a detailed guide linked below that will go over everything there is to do, where to stay, and how to make the most of your trip.

16 Best Things to Do in Gibsons, British Columbia (2025 Guide)
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Best Things to do In Gibsons:

man standing at the top of Soames Hill with Gibsons landing visible down in the distance
  1. Wander Gibsons Landing: The waterfront hub with shops, galleries, and cafés. Grab a coffee, walk the pier, and watch the boats cruise by.
  2. Shop At The Public Market: Small but packed with local vibes. Stop for pastries, crafts, and maybe some live music on weekends.
  3. Rent a Kayak or SUP: Paddle around the harbour for a new perspective. Adventurous paddlers can even cross to Keats Island (if conditions are calm).
  4. Eat and Drink at Tapworks Brewing: Rooftop patio with harbour views, great pizza, and local beer. The go-to pub on a cloudy day, but on a clear summer's day, I would opt for Persephone.
  5. Hike Soames Hill: Short but steep climb to sweeping Howe Sound views. Best bang-for-your-buck hike in Gibsons.
  6. Visit Persephone Brewing: Farm-based brewery with yard games, live music, and stellar beer. Come in summer for the energy, fall for cozy vibes.
  7. Watch Sunset at Bonniebrook Beach: Long rocky stretch perfect for sunset walks with big views across to Vancouver Island.

If You Have Extra Time:

  1. Walk to Armour's Beach: A seaside stroll lined with blackberry bushes that ends in a local swimming hole. Perfect for a quick dip. Not the most impressive beach we will see on this trip.
  2. Wander the Farmers Market: Weekend pop-up full of local food and crafts. Small, friendly, and worth a browse if you're in town.
  3. Peruse Some Art Galleries: A cluster of small galleries and studios showing off Gibsons' strong creative scene.
  4. Visit The Museum & Archives: Local history told with character. Small, fun, and a great rainy-day backup.
  5. Hike to Langdale Falls: Easy forest walk ending at a rope scramble down to a waterfall. Cool and shady, especially on a rainy day. Nice hike, but we will have better ones later on the trip.
  6. Gospel Rock: Quick roadside stop with sweeping ocean views. Pair with a swim at nearby Secret or Franklin Beach.
  7. Sea Monkey Café @ Sunday Cider: Food truck café with picnic tables, yard games, and live music nights. Best coffee on the coast.
  8. Roberts Creek: A charming stop between towns with a wide beach, natural pier, and the iconic Gumboot Café.

Where To Stay In Gibsons

If you're without a vehicle, you'll definitely want to stay closer to the waterfront. This isn't just about being within walking distance to the main street and waterfront attractions. It's also because School Road is a MASSIVE hill. It feels steep even when you're driving. So definitely stay at the bottom of the hill if you're walking or biking around Gibsons.

Gibsons Landing Inn
Image from Booking.com

Gibsons Landing Inn

Gibsons Landing Inn offers self-contained comfort with full kitchens, private bathrooms, and WiFi in every room. Unwind in the garden, on your balcony, or the shared terrace overlooking serene surroundings. With express check-in, free parking, and a lift for easy access, it's a relaxed base near Georgia Beach (8-min walk) and Armours Beach. Couples rate it 9.6 for its peaceful location, while families appreciate the sofa beds and flexibility to cook.Check Availability

Having a car opens up some excellent options at the top of the hill, away from the main tourist area, but close to local restaurants and shopping that residents actually use.

Sunshine Lodge Inn
Image from Booking.com

Sunshine Lodge Inn

Just 2 minutes from Gibsons town center, Sunshine Lodge Inn combines convenience with comfort. Rooms feature flat-screen TVs, microwaves, fridges, and work desks, with some offering full kitchenettes. Relax by the seasonal outdoor pool after exploring nearby attractions, or enjoy the WiFi. Langdale ferry terminal is 3.1 mi away, and Sunshine Coast Golf & Country Club is a 10-minute drive. Couples love the location, rating it 8.8 for getaways.Check Availability
Gibsons Garden Hotel
Image from Booking.com

Gibsons Garden Hotel

Gibsons Garden Hotel offers a daily Grab and Go breakfast (7:00-10:00 am) with muffins, fruit, coffee, tea, and juice. Enjoy the year-round indoor pool, dry sauna, and gym. Centrally located in Upper Gibsons near shops and restaurants, it's just 8 minutes from Langdale ferry terminal. All rooms include a microwave, coffee maker, and mini fridge, with select rooms featuring kitchenettes. Sechelt is 25 minutes away, and Roberts Creek Provincial Park is 12 km. Couples rate the location 8.5 for getaways.Check Availability

Destination #2: Sechelt (2-3 Days)

two people sitting on a bench along the Sechelt Waterfront Promenade
Sechelt Waterfront Promenade

Sechelt is a bit bigger than Gibsons and is a great place to load up on supplies at the big supermarkets in town. The town itself is a standard charming small Canadian town, but the main draw to Sechelt is the surrounding nature. Primarily, the stunning Sechelt inlet.

To get there, just head 30 minutes up Highway 101 from Gibsons. Stop off at Roberts Creek on your way for lunch at the Gumboot Café.

10 Best Things to Do in Sechelt, British Columbia (2025 Guide)
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Best Things to do In Sechelt:

  1. Paddle the Sechelt Inlet: Calm waters, mountain views, and wildlife everywhere. Rent a kayak or SUP from Pedals and Paddles and explore. Low tides are best for spotting marine life.
  2. Hike to Smuggler Cove: Easy forest and boardwalk hike ending with sweeping ocean views. Great swim spots at high tide.
  3. Picnic at Porpoise Bay Beach: A family-friendly park with warm, shallow water and big sunset views. Lots of washrooms, garbage collection, and picnic tables.
  4. Halfmoon Bay: A quirky stop anchored by the all-purpose General Store. Grab a snack and enjoy the waterfront patio.
2 people in a red kayak pointed towards a small rocky island that is covered and trees in the Sechelt Inlet

If You Have Extra Time:

  1. Take A Water Taxi To Thormanby Island: A boat-access sandbar paradise with some of BC's best beaches. Pack supplies and plan around the tides. Day trip or overnight camping option.
  2. Lounge at Davis Bay Beach: Long, sandy at low tide and rocky with swim spots at high tide. Hot dogs, ice cream, and classic summer vibes.
  3. Pop By Sechelt Farmers Market: Big market for such a small town. Local produce, crafts, and food from around the world. Saturdays only.
  4. Take A Hike in Hidden Grove: Quiet forest trails under towering cedars. Accessible, peaceful, and perfect for a light walk.

Where To Stay In Sechelt

If you want a unique stay, we suggest Stay Wilder: a cluster of six geodesic domes tucked into the forest above Sechelt Inlet. Each dome has a comfortable bed, wood stove, and cozy setup; lux glamping at its finest. Shared spaces include a cooking area with gas burners, a propane fireplace, and lounge spots to hang out with other travellers.

There's limited water and power (you'll use a composting toilet and a camping-style shower), but that's part of the experience. The domes are spaced out enough for privacy but close enough that you'll end up chatting with fellow campers. Getting there requires a bumpy forest road, but any regular car should be able to handle it. Your car will for sure get dusty, and you risk some scrapes and marks from flying rocks (so don't bring a collectible).

Stay Wilder
Image from Booking.com

Stay Wilder

Stay Wilder Sunshine Coast in Sechelt offers a luxury tent with garden views set in serene surroundings. The accommodation features a private bathroom with bathrobes, BBQ facilities, and a dining area, an electric kettle, and kitchenware. The property provides easy access to local attractions and scenic outdoor activities. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape. Couples particularly love this spot, rating it 8.6 for romantic getaways.Check Availability

If you're not travelling with a car, or just prefer something more traditional, these are some great options:

The Spot at Porpoise Bay
Image from Booking.com

The Spot at Porpoise Bay

The Spot at Porpoise Bay offers waterfront simplicity in Sechelt. Each room features a private entrance, small fridge, and coffee and tea facilities, with select rooms offering ocean or garden views. Truck and RV parking available on site. Located less than 5 5-minute walk from Sechelt Waterdrome and 3.5 km from Porpoise Bay Provincial Park. The friendly staff earn high marks at 8.9. Couples rate the location 8.7. Pets allowed with fees.Check Availability
The Reef Guest Suite
Image from Booking.com

The Reef Guest Suite

The Reef guest suite in Sechelt offers a spacious, recently renovated two-bedroom apartment with a terrace and garden views. The fully equipped kitchenette, free WiFi, TV, and comfortable, spacious living area provide all the comforts of home. Free on-site parking is included. Reception staff speak English and French to welcome diverse guests. Perfect for families or couples seeking space and comfort. Couples rate the location 8.6 for getaways.Check Availability

Destination #3: Thormanby Island (Daytrip or 1 Night of Camping)

North Thormanby Island and a large sandbar on its southern side that is covered in driftwood
North Thormanby Island

Thormanby Island is an optional stop, but could easily be the highlight of your trip. The water taxi from either Secret Cove or Buccaneer Marina lands you on one of the most impressive sandy beaches in the province. Even better, the main beach is a massive sandbar that is all that connects the north and south islands. Once you've arrived, you can pick between views of the Sunshine Coast stretching off into the horizon from the eastern side of the sandbar, or sprawling views of Texada Island and distant peaks of Vancouver Island silhouetted against the horizon on the west. 

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There are full-time residents on both islands, but the sandbar that connects them is a provincial park. It's a perfect day trip with the option to camp overnight. Strong cellphone reception everywhere on the beach. Plan around the tides and bring all the supplies you need; there are no shops or water sources on the island.

What To Do:

  1. Beach-Hop the Coastline: Vaucroft for low-tide walks, Buccaneer Bay east for camping or swimming, and the west side for golden sunsets over Texada.
  2. Hike the Trails: Easy walks on the north island roads or explore forested paths in Simpson Provincial Park. At low tide, you can even stroll the sandy perimeter of the whole island.
  3. Camp at Buccaneer Bay: Five rustic sites with pit toilets and bear caches. Free, first-come first-served, and perfect for a night under the stars.
  4. Wander the Sandbar: Driftwood forts and sandy trails stretch between the islands. Just watch for protected zones and private land.
  5. Swim or Paddle: Calm bays make for great SUP, kayak, or a (brisk) ocean swim when the sun's out.

Destination #4: Egmont (1-2 Days)

man stands on the shore in front of the Skookumchuck Rapids
Skookumchuck Rapids

Egmont is a little town at the end of the first segment of the Sunshine Coast, just past Sechelt. The largest building(s) in town is the West Coast Wilderness Lodge, which has been there since before it was really a town.

There is a pub on the water and a cafe in the woods; pretty much everything else there is to do here is exploring the surrounding wilderness. Boat tours can take you to less-visited inlets, hikes will take you down to record-setting rapids, and if you know what you're doing, it's one of the best diving destinations in the world.

This is one of my favourite spots to visit on the Sunshine Coast, but it is important to know what you want to see before you get there because it's all a bit scattered, and some of the best spots are a bit hard to reach. Check out our more detailed guide where we go over the details of how and when to visit all of the major attractions in the area.

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Best Things To Do In Egmont:

  1. Take A Tour to Princess Louisa Inlet: A jaw-dropping fjord only accessible by boat. Go by private boat or join a zodiac tour to see waterfalls, pictographs, and Chatterbox Falls. This is one of the most incredible natural landscapes I've seen in all of BC, so the tour is definitely a must.
  2. Witness The Skookumchuck Rapids: One of the fastest tidal rapids in the world. Flat 1-hour hike each way through the forest to two viewpoints. Check tide charts for peak flows. I would do this again. It looks even cooler in person than on camera.
  3. Wander Egmont Harbour: Stroll the docks, spot seals, or swing by the local pub for burgers and a pint with waterfront views.
Chatterbox falls flowing into the Princess Louisa Inlet
Princess Louisa Inlet

If You Have Extra Time:

  1. Paddle the Inlets: Calm, island-dotted waters are perfect for kayaking or SUP. Rentals available in town.
  2. Swim or Canoe on Waugh Lake: Big classic Canadian lake. Few rougher floating docks to chill on. Old logs that have been bobbing in the water for decades. And 2 canoes owned by the nearby campsite.
  3. Visit The Egmont General Store: A cozy stop for coffee, snacks, and picnic supplies before heading out on an adventure.

Where To Stay In Egmont

The best option is The West Coast Wilderness Lodge. This is the accommodation connected to the Egmont Adventure Centre. It has an iconic waterfront lodge and has also recently finished construction of a collection of self-contained suites that look out to the inlet. Great pick if you will be here for a few nights and would rather be able to cook for yourself.

The West Coast Wilderness Lodge
Image from Booking.com

The West Coast Wilderness Lodge

West Coast Wilderness Lodge in Egmont offers comfortable rooms with sea view balconies, air conditioning, and free WiFi. Each room includes tea and coffee makers, hairdryers, and free toiletries. Enjoy seafood at the Inlets restaurant, relax at the bar with cocktails during happy hour, or unwind on the sun terrace with outdoor seating. The lodge features a tour desk to help plan local adventures like hiking and fishing. Free on-site parking is included.Check Availability

Other options are:

  • Camping: The most convenient place for viewing the rapids is Strong Waters Campground. A cheaper option would be the Klein Lake Rec Site, but those spots fill up early in the day.
  • Sechelt or Halfmoon Bay: If you want more options or amenities, these towns are a short drive away. You can browse all of the main hotels here:

Destination #5: Powell River (2 Days)

man stands beside a hut sign-posted Tin Hat Hut near Powell River

Powell River is a small city with a big outdoor reputation. From here, you can head to Vancouver Island, start the Sunshine Coast Trail, or just chill at the historic townsite and sample the brewery's selection. The town has a surprisingly rich arts and food scene, thanks to its mix of old mill-town roots and new creative energy. Add in a rugged coastline dotted with islands, lakes tucked into the hills, and some of BC's most famous hiking routes, and you've got plenty to keep you busy.

There is lots to love in and around Powell River, but for me, the absolute winner is hiking to the Tin Hat Hut. Just outside of town, there are some logging roads that take you to one of the coolest stretches on the Sunshine Coast Trail. You can hike up just for the views, or pack a bag and stay the night at one of the campsites or even inside the cabin. This was probably the most memorable night of our most recent Sunshine Coast trip. Check out our detailed guide where we go over the details of getting to the trailhead, the parking situation, the hike, and the campsite set up at the top.

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Highlights

  1. Spend the Night at Tin Hat Hut: Tin Hat Hut is the most iconic hike you can do near Powell River.
  2. Explore the Historic Townsite: A National Historic District with over 400 heritage buildings. Stop into the Patricia Theatre (Canada's oldest continuously operating cinema), or grab a pint at Townsite Brewing.
  3. Hike a Section of the Sunshine Coast Trail: At 180 km, it’s Canada's longest hut-to-hut trail, but you can sample shorter sections near town for alpine views and lakeside huts.
  4. Take a Day Trip to Lund: A 25-minute drive north takes you to the “end of Highway 101.” From Lund, you can hop boats to Savary Island or Desolation Sound, or just grab cinnamon buns at Nancy’s Bakery.
  5. Lounge at Willingdon Beach: A family-friendly beach park right in town with a long shoreline, swimming area, and camping nearby.

If You Have Extra Time:

  1. Lois Lake: A big local lake, great for swimming, paddling, or camping and is less touristy than Desolation Sound.
  2. Hike Valentine Mountain: Short, steep hike right in town with one of the best panoramic views of Powell River, Texada, and Vancouver Island.

Where To Stay In Powell River

This is a cute cabin option just outside of town. Or Waterways is a solid boutique hotel option right by the ferry. You can browse other options in the area here.

Destination #6 & #7: Lund & Savary Island (1-2 Days)

Dozens of boats docked at Lund harbour during sunset
Lund harbour

Lund is literally the end of the road. Highway 101 terminates here, and so do a lot of people's Sunshine Coast trips. If you haven't gotten enough yet, there is still always the water taxi to Savary Island to keep the trip going.

Fun side quest to do: There is a famous Lund sign that declares the end of the 101, and all day road trippers drive up and park their vehicle next to the sign for a photo. I could stand there all day watching different people in all sorts of different vehicles, coming from all sorts of different distances, but all ending in that one spot.

Highlights:

  1. Take a Tour or Paddle Out on Desolation Sound: World-famous kayaking in calm, warm waters surrounded by mountain backdrops. Tours and rentals are available from Lund.
  2. Visit Nancy's Bakery: Get a coffee and a baked good and sit out on their patio by the boardwalk.
  3. Have a meal or a pint at The Boardwalk Restaurant: Classic coastal seafood and pub-style fare right on the water.
  4. Visit Savary Island: This is the main attraction and the reason most people stop in Lund.
A long white sand beach bordered by limestone cliffs at low tide

Savary Island is a tiny stretch of sand, cliffs, and forest just off the northern tip of BC's Sunshine Coast. It's small, it's quiet, and it doesn't try to impress. Some locals live here year-round, but in peak season, they can be outnumbered by the day trippers. 

Beaches stretch for kilometres, the roads are dusty and uneven, and the charm is in the simplicity: one cafe, one general store, and 'the pub'. Most visitors come for the beaches, the sunsets, and the laid-back pace. A bike is well worth it, as the island is a bit bigger than it appears, and it's impractical to bring your car. The island transforms multiple times a day with the tides, so plan your day around the moon and the general store's limited hours.

I personally love to have Savary Island be my final stop on a Sunshine Coast trip. For me its the most laid-back and free-spirited place on the itinerary, and it's a perfect spot to slow down on the beach and appreciate the whirlwind of the last 10 days.

For such a small and inconspicuous island, there is actually quite a bit to see and do, so we've compiled a more comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know, from the best beaches to the best ways to get around.

10 Best Things to Do on Savary Island, BC (2025 Guide)
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Highlights:

  1. Rent Bikes and Beach Hop: Explore the island's dirt roads and steep hills by bike. Regular rentals work well for campers, while e-bikes and scooters are great for day trips (but must be returned by 5 PM).
  2. Catch Sunset at Indian Point: Massive sandy beach at the northwest tip with epic views of Vancouver Island. No facilities, so bring supplies and pack out your garbage.
  3. Have A Beach Day at South Beach: The best all-day beach with 8 km of white sand, calm shallow water, and plenty of driftwood shelters. Loses the sun behind cliffs later in the day.
  4. Get Coffee at Mermaid Café: Quirky, driftwood-decorated café serving coffee, meals, and woodfired pizza (summer only). Perfect stop en route to the north side.
  5. Visit the General Store: Open year-round (rare for Savary). Stock up on groceries, local beer, and snacks. Limited hours: 12 to 5 PM daily.

If You Have Extra Time:

  1. Visit The Hacienda Farmers Market: Small summer market (Tuesdays and Saturdays, July to Aug). Casual vibe, worth checking if you're around.
  2. Boogie Board at Sutherland Beach: Shifting sandbars create shallow lagoons perfect for boogie boarding and younger kids. No facilities, bring what you need.
  3. Take a Walk: Short, mellow trails like Mermaid Beach Trail and Sunset Trail show off the island's forested interior and coastline. This is not a hiking destination, but good for an easy wander.

How to Get to The Sunshine Coast

Fisherman casting a line at sunset near Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast, BC

From Vancouver, head to Horseshoe Bay and take the ferry over to Langdale. Highway 101 takes you across the entire coast up to Earls Cove. From there, you can take another ferry to Saltery Bay and continue to Lund, where the road actually ends.

Flying is an option, too. Small planes and floatplanes connect to Sechelt, Powell River, and other spots, but making this a road trip is worth the longer commute.

If you don't have your own car, your best bet is picking one up in the city and then taking it across on the ferry. You can browse all the major Vancouver rental companies.

Final Thoughts

2 people stand on top of Pender Hill with their arms raised

The Sunshine Coast is like nowhere else in BC. It combines the mountainous scale of the mainland with the coastal charm of the islands. It's easy to get to but feels remote from the moment you get off the ferry. With a long history of artists, conscientious objectors, and free spirits washing up on the shores, it has a distinct bohemian culture that you can't find elsewhere.

FAQ

Do I need a ferry to reach the Sunshine Coast?
Yes. The Sunshine Coast can only be accessed by BC Ferries or a small plane. The main ferry departs from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale, and another from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay.
Do I need a reservation for BC Ferries?
Reservations aren’t required but are recommended on busy days (Fridays, Sundays, holidays). You still need to arrive 30–60 minutes early even with a reservation.
When is the best time to visit the Sunshine Coast?
Summer (June–August) for warm beaches and long days. Spring and fall for quieter trails and mild weather. Winter is quiet and cozy but most services are limited.
How long should I plan for this road trip?
Southern coast: 6 days, Northern coast: 4 days. Add 2–3 days for Savary and Thormanby islands. Total trip ranges from 1 to 2 weeks depending on how much you explore.
Do I need my own car?
This itinerary assumes you bring a car or camper. Public transit is limited, and a car is needed to access most beaches, trails, and towns. The route is also suitable for bike-packing for experienced cyclists.
What types of accommodation are available?
Options range from standard hotels, to backcountry camping, to upscale glamping. Free and low-cost campsites are common, but peak summer requires early arrival or bookings.
Are there any local etiquette tips?
Respect small towns and First Nations land. Drive slowly, follow posted speed limits, pack out all garbage, and leave no trace.
What are the must-see destinations along the Sunshine Coast?
Gibsons, Sechelt, Thormanby Island, Egmont, Powell River, Lund, and Savary Island. Each has unique highlights like beaches, trails, kayaking, local markets, and sunsets.
Are there good day trips or island excursions?
Yes. Thormanby Island is great for beach-hopping and camping. Savary Island offers biking, sandy beaches, and relaxed island vibes. Water taxis and boat tours are available.
Can I paddle or kayak along the route?
Absolutely. Gibsons Harbor, Sechelt Inlet, Thormanby Island, Desolation Sound near Lund, and local lakes like Lois Lake all offer kayaking and SUP opportunities.
Are the hikes beginner-friendly?
Mostly yes. Highlights include Soames Hill, Smuggler’s Cove, Hidden Grove, Tinhat Hut Mountain, and forest walks on Thormanby. Some are short and steep, others are gentle and scenic.
Where can I find local food and breweries?
Gibsons: Persephone Brewing and Tapworks Brewing. Sechelt: General Store and local cafés. Powell River: Townsite Brewing. Savary Island: Mermaid Café and the General Store. Farmers markets are also great stops.
Is cell reception reliable?
Mostly yes along towns and main roads. Service may be in and out on some stretches of highway.
How do I get to the Sunshine Coast from Vancouver?
Drive to Horseshoe Bay and take the ferry to Langdale. Highway 101 runs the coast to Earls Cove, then a ferry to Saltery Bay continues to Lund. Small planes are also an option but slower for a road trip experience.
What makes the Sunshine Coast unique?
It combines BC’s mountainous mainland with coastal islands, has a bohemian artist culture, small-town charm, and feels remote immediately after leaving the ferry.