photo by anne-lam of the Sunshine Coast

Welcome to the Beautiful Sunshine Coast!

Located along the shores of British Columbia’s mainland, the Sunshine Coast is only accessible by ferry, private boat, or plane. Only a 40-minute ferry ride from West Vancouver means you can easily visit for the day or take your time exploring our vibrant community.

For businesses fortunate enough to call this coastline home, it offers a unique blend of opportunity and inspiration. Where nature meets the pulse of commerce.

Meanwhile, for travellers seeking respite from the bustle of urban life, the Sunshine Coast promises a rejuvenating escape, whether you’re here for a relaxing sea-side cottage vacation or you’re blasting down the mountain bike trails, there’s an adventure here for everyone.

Local business and tourism are at the heart of our economy. We thank the Shíshálh Nation (Sechelt First Nation) and Skwxwu7mesh (Squamish) Nation for their stewardship, care and leadership on these lands.

The majority of our 30,000 residents call three main zones home: Gibsons, Sechelt, and Pender Harbour. Yet, each side road unveils vibrant and artistic neighbourhoods waiting to be explored. Take a moment to visit the unique communities of Roberts Creek, Halfmoon Bay, Madeira Park, Garden Bay, and Egmont, among others.

Before you embark on your upcoming visit, explore our member directory, offering a diverse array of businesses catering to all your needs. Looking to delve deeper into the Sunshine Coast experience? Visit Sunshine Coast Tourism for further insights and inspiration.

How To Get Here

By Ferry

From Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver)

If you’re driving from Vancouver, take the BC-99 N and follow signs for Horseshoe Bay. Once there, get on the BC Ferries sailing to Langdale on the Sunshine Coast. We highly recommend making a reservation, especially during peak tourist months and annual events. You can find the schedule for Horseshoe Bay to Langdale here. If reservations are full, you can still arrive on a first-come, first-served basis, but be prepared for potential delays.

Alternatively, you can leave the car behind and walk on the ferry. BC Ferries offers paid parking, but it can fill up quickly during peak tourist season. Once in Langdale, you can either:

  • Take BC transit (day passes can be bought at the gift shop on the ferry. Also note, there is no public transit past Halfmoon Bay.)
  • Call or use the Coast Taxi app
  • Use the Coastal Rides App (similar to Uber) to arrange a direct pick up at the ferry.

From Powell River:

Driving from Powell River head to the ferry terminal and catch the 50-minute sailing from Saltery Bay to Earls Cove. This is a non-bookable route, meaning boarding is based on order of arrival at the terminal.

BC Ferries, Photo by Laura Heavens

By Seaplane

Sechelt has a waterfront airstrip used by seaplanes. Upon landing, you can use Coastal Rides or a Taxi to get around.

  • Harbour Air offers flights from Downtown Vancouver, Richmond YVR south, Nanaimo Harbour, and private charters.
  • Sunshine Coast Air offers flights from Naniamo as well as private charters.

Annual Sunshine Coast Events

The Sunshine Coast is known for its annual events, from the Sunshine Coast Art Crawl to the Festival of the Rolling Arts, take a look at some of the most anticipated events the Coast has to offer:

Plus don’t forget about the various year-round and seasonal Farmer’s Markets and Craft Fairs!

Take a look at our Events Calendar for other local events happening on the Sunshine Coast.