Vacation rentals in Sunshine Coast Regional District

The Sunshine Coast regional district spans around 180 kilometres along the southern coast of British Columbia — from Desolation Sound to Howe Sound, with many towns in between. Although it’s part of the mainland, direct road access to the coast is cut off by mountains, so a ferry crossing makes up part of the 90-minute journey from Vancouver.

This area is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with a bounty of beaches, such as Armours Beach in Gibsons or the expansive Davis Bay in Sechelt, both ideal for swimming. Beautiful freshwater lakes, including Ruby’s Lake and Sakinaw Lake, offer excellent water skiing and tubing, or you can enjoy hiking and wildlife spotting in Cliff Gilker Park or Tetrahedron Provincial Park. There are also several islands to explore, some small and uninhabited, while others are large with residents and places to stay overnight. The idyllic Savary Island offers warm waters and lovely beaches, and the largest one, Texada Island, boasts freshwater lakes and beaches, as well as several nature trails through lush forests.

The Sunshine Coast is a lovely place to visit in summer, with a range of vacation rentals for your stay. You can expect mostly warm, sunny days for enjoying the area’s beaches, lakes, and parks. In June, the region hosts a world-renowned two-week festival of classical music concerts featuring 80 musicians from all over the world. In fall, things start to cool down, but you’ll still enjoy sunny days mixed with chillier days. In September, you can spot humpback whales in Desolation Sound as they pass through on their migratory route. The Sunshine Coast is largely sheltered from the Pacific Ocean, so winters are milder than in most of Canada, but you can still expect cool temperatures and rain, so make sure you come prepared with warm layers. A winter visit is an ideal time for curling up in front of a fire in a warm cabin or cottage.

Skookumchuck Narrows

Head to the Skookumchuck Narrows, connecting the Sechelt and Jervis Inlets, to witness an incredible natural spectacle. Twice a day, the tide changes and the water flow switches, reversing the direction and power of the Sechelt Rapids. These rapids are famous for spectacular whirlpools and provide one of the great whitewater wonders of the world, attracting extreme kayakers from far and wide.

Savary Island

A 40-minute water taxi ride away from Lund is Savary Island, regarded as one of the most beautiful islands in the Strait of Georgia. Known for its white sandy beaches, clear, calm waters, and stunning ocean and mountain views, the island is home to a diverse mix of landscapes, from sand cliffs to ancient forested dunes. You can rent a bike in Lund and cycle from beach-to-beach, making stops in South Beach, Duck Bay, Sutherland Beach, and the Malaspina Promenade.

Cliff Gilker Park

Head to Roberts Creek just north of Gibsons to this hiking-only park with many colour-coded hiking routes which weave through forests, over creeks via wooden bridges, and past stunning waterfalls. The multiple intersecting trails span around seven kilometres, and some have accessibility features, including wide paths and a waterfall viewing platform. The beautiful canopy of the forest means you’ll remain mostly sheltered from the elements if you encounter any rain.