The Sunshine coast is a not-so-hidden gem with mossy rainforests and sculpted shorelines easily accessible from Vancouver that people often leave off their gap year itinerary.. don't do this!
A short ferry from Horseshoe Bay, the entire coast is dotted with pristine rock beaches and small alcoves inviting you to explore. Driving the Sunshine Coast Highway is a beautiful experience in its own right offering views across to Vancouver Island. The Wobbly Canoe is a highly recommended coffee pit stop on your journey north towards Earl's Cove.
I stayed for a few nights in the delightfully quiet Garden Bay area which was an easy drive. After a stressful week at work a few blissful days away was exactly what I needed. The Pender Harbour Resort and Marina offered plenty of different accommodation options including camping, RV sites, waterfront chalets and a motel. Even though you aren't far from Sechelt the area feels private and traveller numbers drop off right after the summer rush. You would be surprised how many Vancouver locals haven't been this way since childhood.
Some activities worth doing shown in photos below include.
Watching the sunset through the rainforest across the Strait of Georgia at Francis Point Provincial Park which became a park after private land acquisition.
Devouring local seafood at the Lagoon restaurant (don't forget to book as capacity is limited).
Hiking through low hanging clouds up Mount Daniel for panoramic views of Pender Harbour and beyond.
Renting kayaks and exploring national parks and hidden coves.
On your way back to the Langdale ferry terminal don't forget to stop past Gibsons for fresh oysters.
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