Explore the Sunshine Coast Like a Local

One of the best parts of visiting the Sunshine Coast is discovering the places that make it special, from hidden swimming spots and forest trails to memorable meals and locally run experiences.

To help you make the most of your stay, we’ve put together a collection of some of our favourite places to eat, explore, swim, and experience along the Coast. These are the spots we recommend to friends, family, and guests who want to experience a little more of what makes this area so unique.

For our complete guide, organized by Gibsons, Sechelt, Halfmoon Bay, Secret Cove, Pender Harbour, and Egmont, visit our Sunshine Coast Recommendations.

If you’re looking for a place to start, here are some of our favourites.

Our Favourite Places to Eat

1. Inlets Restaurant at West Coast Wilderness Lodge — Egmont
   Beautiful coastal dining with incredible views and a menu inspired by the Pacific Northwest.
2. Badabing Burgers Food Truck — Madeira Park
   A casual local favourite for a great burger after a day of exploring.
3. Trattoria at Ruby Lake Resort — Pender Harbour
   A charming seasonal restaurant surrounded by forest near beautiful Ruby Lake.
4. Gourmet Girl Cafe & Catering — Davis Bay
   A great stop for fresh, locally inspired food and a relaxed Coast atmosphere.
5. Smoke on the Water BBQ — Gibsons
   Delicious barbecue in one of the Sunshine Coast’s most picturesque seaside communities.

Favourite Hikes & Walks

1. Francis Point Provincial Park — Madeira Park
   A beautiful coastal walk through forest and rocky shoreline with fantastic ocean views.
2. Skookumchuck Narrows — Egmont
   One of the Coast’s signature experiences, leading to spectacular tidal rapids.
3. Hidden Grove — Sechelt
   Peaceful forest trails through towering old-growth trees.
4. Soames Hill — Gibsons
   A short but rewarding climb with panoramic views over Howe Sound and the surrounding islands.
5. Mount Daniel — Madeira Park
   A local favourite with a steeper climb and beautiful views over Pender Harbour.

Favourite Things to Do

1. Sunshine Coast Farmers Markets — Throughout the Coast
   Browse local produce, baking, art, crafts, and other Coast-made goods.
2. Halfmoon Sea Kayak — Halfmoon Bay
   Explore sheltered bays, islands, and coastline from the water.
3. Talaysay Tours — Sunshine Coast
   Indigenous-led cultural and ecological experiences that offer a deeper understanding of the land and its history.
4. tem̓s swiya Museum — Sechelt
   An important place to learn about shíshálh history, culture, and connection to the territory.
5. SloCat Harbour Tours — Madeira Park
   A wonderful way to experience Pender Harbour and the surrounding coastline from the water.

Favourite Places for a Swim

1. Ruby Lake — Pender Harbour
   Clear, warm water and one of the most beautiful swimming lakes on the Coast.
2. Katherine Lake — Pender Harbour
   A small, peaceful lake that’s particularly lovely for an easy summer swim.
3. Trout Lake — Sechelt
   A refreshing freshwater stop while exploring the southern Sunshine Coast.
4. Baker Beach — Pender Harbour
   A quiet seaside beach with beautiful views across the harbour.
5. Sargeant Bay — Halfmoon Bay
   A beautiful protected bay surrounded by forest, trails, wetlands, and shoreline.

A local tip: The Sunshine Coast is best enjoyed at an unhurried pace. Leave a little room in your plans for spontaneous beach stops, roadside farm stands, forest walks, and sunsets by the water. Some of our favourite Coast experiences are the ones you don’t plan.