The Sunshine Coast Is A Couple’s Dream Staycation

Just a ferry away

 

The Sunshine Coast feels like you’re somewhere far away, with its quaint small town charm and beautiful landscapes all around. But it’s super convenient to get to, at only a 40-minute ferry ride away from Vancouver. It’s short, but incredibly scenic.

It’s also super small so you can go for a mini road trip and explore all the stunning spots like Gibsons, Robert’s Creek, Sechelt and Halfmoon Bay (just to name a few).

Cozy accommodations

 

Finding a place to stay is easy when on the Sunshine Coast—with a plethora of bed and breakfasts, luxurious retreats and unique accommodations to choose from.

You can live tiny in an adorable micro cabin nestled on private property in Robert’s Creek or live a little more luxuriously at Pointhouse Suite, the gorgeous getaway in Halfmoon Bay with a hot tub overlooking Sargeant Bay. For another glamping-type experience, soak up the luxury at the Painted Boat Resort Spa and Marina in Madeira Park. A couple’s massage is always a good idea.

Lots to do (or not do)

 

All the towns are small but there’s always something to do. Check out the Olive Oil Company in Gibsons for a unique tasting experience with dozens of different flavours and then take some back with you to cook a romantic meal together. Or explore the Gibsons Public Market where you can stock up on local goods for now or later. With organic produce, fresh flowers, artisanal chocolates and a variety of other vendors—you have all the ingredients to create a magical evening. The vibrant Robert’s Creek pier is an art-lovers paradise with a huge mural showcasing the community’s artwork.

However if you want to simply do nothing, this is definitely the place to do just that. The coast has a much more relaxed vibe, where no one is in a rush. So use the time to explore the beaches, trails, or just cozy up with a good book and enjoy quality time with one another.

Serene scenery

Go for a drive along the coast and stop at tons of gorgeous places along the way. Some of the best places to go are Georgia Beach for a relaxing stroll, Soames Hill for a hike with stunning views, Cliff Gilker to chase waterfalls and Hidden Grove if you enjoy forest bathing and taking in all the relaxing sounds of nature.

Travel a bit farther to soak up the scenery in Halfmoon Bay’s Smuggler Cove Marine Provincial Park, you won’t regret it.

Delicious restaurants

 

If you don’t feel like cooking, there’s lots of cool spots to dine at on the Sunshine Coast. For something romantic, you definitely have to check out Drift Café & Bistro in Gibsons. The intimate eatery has a sprawling patio overlooking the water and cozy décor to add to the ambience. Their menu will hit the spot, with entrees including a roasted chicken breast with squash gnocchi and slow-cooked pork shank with warm Winter vegetables. For dessert, you can share warm dark chocolate cake with hazelnut praline, berries and whipped cream or buttermilk beignets with cinnamon icing (or both).

For a hearty breakfast to start the day off right, check out the Gumboot Café in the heart of Robert’s Creek. The charming spot is a great spot for grub any time of the day, but nothing beats their breakfast menu. Dig into Italian baked eggs, a daily frittata, hummus avocado toast or a tofu scramble burrito. You also can’t visit the Sunshine Coast without getting some fish & chips and for that—you have to go to Sharkey’s Fish Locker in Robert’s Creek or Molly’s Reach in Gibsons.

 

Source: 604NOW