The busy holiday season has come to an end, but the new year already feels like an absolute whirlwind for many of us who may be looking for a little relaxation and rejuvenation.
Lucky for us in BC, we have so many spots to choose from for a quick getaway, including the Sunshine Coast.
If you’re leaving from the mainland, it’ll take just a few short hours to arrive at your destination and get the relaxation started.
If you are only able to stay a couple of days, we have some ideas to have the perfect getaway.
Where to stay
It may only be a few hours from home, but you’ll be transported to a serene paradise on the water at Villas on the Inlet at West Coast Wilderness Lodge in Egmont, a 90-minute drive north of the Sunshine Coast’s Langdale ferry terminal.
VillasOnTheInlet.com
These new year-round, self-contained cliffside suites of the perfect escape for those looking for stunning views of the inlet and the mountains.
Since these suites are part of the West Coast Wilderness Lodge, if you stay over the high season, you will also have access to the amenities offered there — including kayaking, jet skiing, and tours of the region.
Where to eat
There are many tasty spots to enjoy a meal or drink, and one of our favourites is Tapworks Brewing Company in Gibsons, just minutes from where you get off the ferry. You will truly find something for everyone at Tapworks — from their Mac ‘N Cheese Bites to Rocky Dock Ceviche to the juicy Elphinstoner Burger. And, of course, being a brewery, they offer “award winning beers that embrace our coastal lifestyle.”
While your lunch or dinner is easily covered at Tapworks, a little further north in Sechelt, Basted Baker is another must-stop spot for breakfast or brunch. They serve up taste bennies, bowls, and biscuit sandwiches, with many unique twists on the classics — including the Goat Cheese Eggs Benny.
What to do
While you could spend your trip looking at beautiful scenery from your cabin or eating your way through the Sunshine Coast, there are also lots of incredible activities to fill your days.
If you are looking to get out onto the water, Sunshine Coast Tours offers a number of different tours, including a boat ride to see the tidal change at the Skookumchuk Narrows near Egmont. Another popular option for seeing the tidal rapids is an easy one-hour hike through Skookumchuk Rapids Provincial Park, leading you to a viewpoint over the water.
Sunshine Coast Tours
If you’re looking to do some shopping, you can drive down to Madeira Park and Pender Harbour and then explore.
Here are just a few of the shops you should check out:
- Earthfair: a charity bookstore with a small selection of gift items.
- Siam 99: Madeira Park is unexpectedly home to a store specializing in Thai imports.
- Bargain Barn Thrift Store: A charming thrift store that benefits the local community.
The author of this article was hosted by WCWL, Sunshine Coast Tourism and Destination BC.