As a Vancouver-based travel writer, I’ve had the privilege of visiting a ton of B.C. destinations, but I’ve been to the Sunshine Coast the most—I keep coming back to this lush, friendly, charming region that’s only a 40-minute ferry from the city. Read on for a rundown of my favourite outdoor activities, cultural experiences, spa getaways and more from Gibsons to Egmont, plus the best accommodations to recharge in after a long day of oceanside adventure.

PREMIER PLACES TO STAY ON THE SUNSHINE COAST

West Coast Wilderness Lodge

This is a bucket list accommodation: the West Coast Wilderness Lodge is one of the most beautiful hotels I’ve ever stayed in, with gorgeous ocean- and forest-view suites that feel like laid-back luxury (it’s not surprising that it’s a hot wedding venue for couples from B.C. and beyond). The Egmont hotel restaurant offers fresh fish and other West Coast treats… there’s even an option to charter Sunshine Coast Air for a fly-in four-course dinner.

Beachcomber Loft

You can’t visit Gibsons without making a stop at the bright and buzzy Beachcomber Coffee… especially if you happen to be staying right above it. The Beachcomber Loft has New York vibes (think exposed brick, tall ceilings and clean, minimalist design) and is in the heart of town—it’s as dreamy as it is convenient.

The Stonewater

What do you get when art-loving millennials refresh an old Coast motel? The answer is The Stonewater, a gloriously remote, retro, colourful, design-forward stay in Madeira Park. Units include suites, tiny cabins and glamping trailers, and there’s a Nordic-inspired sauna on site (more on that later).

Gibsons Landing Inn

For spacious and central accommodations just off the Gibsons main drag, there’s the Gibsons Landing Inn. Rooms have full kitchens, so you don’t have to dine out for every meal (and the Gibsons Public Market across the street has fresh bread, produce, seafood and more local goods).

Takahashi Gardens Waterfront Retreat

This adults-only Takahashi Gardens Waterfront Retreat, named after bonsai master Willie Takahashi, is all about the zen. There’s one cottage and two suites available, and all of them have their own private outdoor hot tub complete with twinkle lights. In-suite spa services (massages and facials) make this a de-stressing destination.

Backeddy Resort

There are three different cabin options to choose from at the Backeddy Resort in Egmont, and the Instagram-savvy will definitely want to check out the geodesic domes that offer a true oceanfront view. The onsite Backeddy Pub and its sunny patio are a bonus.

ADVENTURES AND OTHER HIGHLIGHTS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST

Hike to the Skookumchuck Narrows

Don’t worry too much about the elevation, because a hike to the rapids via the Skookumchuk Trail is less about great heights and more about wild waters. A stroll through the trees gives you the opportunity to view the spectacular violence of nature from a safe distance: twice a day, the flow of salt water switches in this channel, creating turbulent whirlpools and crashing waves (best viewing times). If you’re lucky, you’ll catch thrill-seeking kayakers or even surfers braving the water.

Relax in a Private Sauna at the Moonshine Spa

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The aforementioned Stonewater has a secret spa tucked behind the vintage digs. Book in at the Moonshine Spa and you’ll have a barrel sauna, hot tub and cold plunge tub all to yourself (or up to five others, if you’re feeling generous). This serene destination is truly enveloped in forest—expect to reach new levels of chill.

Visit the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives

This by-donation museum in Gibsons is the perfect low-cost, high-reward activity (and ideal if the weather isn’t as sunshine-y as this region’s title suggests). The Sunshine Coast Museum is full of artifacts, art and more—think stone pieces from Squamish villages, canning tools from the 1920s and a deep dive of nautical paraphernalia. The gift shop is a favourite stop for me: this is the place to get your t-shirt with the museum’s iconic “definitely not haunted” doll collection on it.

Book a Zodiac Boat Tour

Pulling on the bright orange floatation suit feels a little silly, but once you’re bouncing over the waves and taking on the occasional spray of seawater, you’ll be glad you suited up. Egmont Adventures has an inlet tour that takes you up close to the coast’s most beautiful areas (think cliffsides, waterfalls and some pretty swanky summer homes). You’re likely to see a seal or twenty.

Shop the Block in Sechelt

The retail scene in Sechelt may be one of the Coast’s best-kept secrets, because walkable, shoppable Cowrie Street is full of local goods, secondhand finds, artisan crafts and more one-of-a-kind treasures. Fort is full of funky jewellery and high-quality clothing made by independent designers. Tucked just behind Fort is a vintage clothing store, The Castaway—if you walk by too fast, you might miss it, but this is a must-visit for denim lovers, and the interior décor section is what mid-century modern dreams are made of. Local Tourist has unique, cozy finds that scream “coast” (like a dad cap embroidered with “Aspiring Retiree”).