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Sunshine Coast

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Featured Trips

Sunshine Coast Adventure

Sunshine Coast Wellness

Sunshine Coast & North Island Circle Route

Highlights of the region.

• Unwind and embrace the coastal lifestyle as you make your way from Gibsons to Egmont, through the friendly communities and scenic lookouts along the way.
• Take a boat journey through glacial carved fjords, past Malibu Rapids and into Princess Louisa Inlet to explore the iconic Chatterbox Falls.
• Spend the day hiking along the coast, kayaking the Sechelt Inlet, mountain biking in Roberts Creek, or simply relax with a good book on one of the many beaches .​​
• Embark on a float plane tour over Sechelt Inlet and surrounding area, with the option to fly-and-dine or journey to a nearby alpine lake.​​
• Get behind-the-scenes with an artist studio tour. With over 1000 studios in the region, the Sunshine Coast boasts the highest percentage of working artists in Canada.
• Enjoy an afternoon strolling the charming seaside town of Gibsons, visiting the many eclectic shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafes, with the backdrop of the Howe Sound and coast mountains in the distance.​
• Join an Indigenous-led walking, kayaking, or SUP tour to learn about First Nations history in the area.​
• Experience sea kayaking at night, a joy for the senses, with the chance to witness bioluminescence - living organisms in the water that create a dance of light as you paddle through the darkness.​
• Relax in style at locally-owned accommodations, from a waterfront guesthouse to a forest retreat. Some accommodations offer massages, yoga, and evening campfires by the sea.
• Enjoy an evening of waterfront dining featuring fresh local seafood and west coast cuisine, or pull up a seat at one of the many local breweries in Sechelt and Gibsons.​

Chatterbox Falls

Seaside Accommodation

Pender Harbour

Madeira Park

Gourmet Cuisine

How it Works

Our Sunshine Coast tours are self-guided, meaning you travel in your own vehicle and we provide a planned itinerary based on your interests.

We arrange all the logistics, including booking your accommodation and day-tours, and provide a detailed itinerary with optional stops and activities for you to explore at your own pace.

The weather on the Sunshine Coast is moderate year-round, with July and August the warmest months. May/June and Sept/Oct are generally quieter months for travel in BC.

Pick Your Dates

Choose your level of luxury.

We offer two itineraries as a starting point which feature different activity levels and style of accommodation. Sunshine Coast Explorer includes a B&B and resort stays, and Unwind & Dine is based at a luxury waterfront guesthouse.

Talk to Our Team

Give us a call (778-400-5299) or reach out via our enquiry form and we will be in touch in 1-2 days. We’ll find out more about your interests and goals for the trip, confirm your preferred dates with our availability, and finalize all the logistics from there.

Depart on Your Adventure

The fun begins now. We provide a detailed itinerary and booking confirmations, so you can set off on your trip with ease. Our team is available for remote support for the duration of your tour as needed.

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Emma mclachlan.

As a recent graduate with a Bachelors in Tourism Development, Emma has used her education and career opportunities to explore Canada, from coast to coast. Her previous experience in hotels, adventure guiding and travel consulting has relocated her to Lake Louise, Whistler, Montreal, Banff and Toronto.

Her exploration of the west coast ignited her love for adventure tourism, but also opened her eyes to the communities marginalized at the hands of the tourism industry. This flourished her passion for creating a more thoughtful relationship amongst tourism suppliers, local communities and tourists. With Mosaic Earth Travel, Emma is connecting her passions in regenerative tourism and travel.

​ Originally from Ontario, Emma’s various relocations exposed her to her favourite activities; including back-country camping and hiking, rollerblading, snowboarding, rock climbing and dreaming of her next adventure. Emma is based in Montreal, QC.

Josh McGarel

An avid photographer for over twelve years, Josh has gained experience with local and international businesses, world-renowned athletes, and individuals to build professional content and brand presence across a variety of platforms.

He has worked on assignment for an expedition cruise operator as Photographer in Residence along the East Coast of Canada, South Georgia, and Antarctica. Here, Josh connected with his love of travel as he documented daily excursions, wildlife, and life onboard, and shared his knowledge of photography through presentations and workshops for passengers.

Pam McGarel

With a Masters of Science in International Development and Sustainable Tourism, Pam has dedicated her career to harnessing the power of travel to support the wellbeing of our planet and its people. She is an experienced guide, planner and project manager with a knack for logistics.

Prior to launching Mosaic Earth, Pam worked in sustainable tourism consulting where she helped develop a globally-recognized certification program for tourism businesses and destinations.

She has experience in public-private partnerships with a polar expedition cruise operator where she built relationships with world-leading field scientists, conservationists, and educators to facilitate their projects alongside the traveller experience. Pam is a member of the Adventure Travel Trade Association and Women Travel Leaders, and loves to connect with values-driven tourism professionals.

​ Originally from Ontario, Pam moved to BC in 2016 seeking outdoor adventure, with favourite activities including hiking, sea kayaking, snowboarding, and road trips around this beautiful province.

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Travellers Know Before You Travel . 

Small Harbour on the Sunshine Coast, Photo Destination BC Local Wanderer

• Coast Mountain Circle Tour
• Discovery Coast Circle Tour
• Fraser Country Circle Tour
• Gold Rush Trail
• Hot Springs and Heritage Circle Tour
• Kettle Valley Railway Tour
• Northern British Columbia Circle Tour
• Pacific Marine Circle Tour
• Peace River Country Circle Tour

Sunshine Coast Tour

• Totem Circle Tour
• Valley Vineyards Circle Tour
• Okanagan Lakes & Rivers Circle Tour

There’s a good reason why the Sunshine Coast bears its name: it receives approximately 2,400 hours of sunlight annually, making it drier and sunnier than other destinations in the region. Sun-warmed beaches, marine adventures, and picturesque coastal scenery are all part of this three-to-five-day circle tour. Drive and ferry your way up the 180 km (110 mi) Sunshine Coast, over to Vancouver Island, and down to the provincial capital of Victoria. This 359 km (222 mi) circle tour stays close to the water and explores the island’s cozy seaside villages, beaches, and marinas.

Route Directions

• From Horseshoe Bay, take BC Ferries to Langdale (40 minute sailing) and drive Highway 101 to  Gibsons  (8 km / 5 mi). Sechelt is up the coast (26 km / 16 mi) and the Earl’s Cove Ferry is further up the highway (51 km / 31 mi).
• The Earl’s Cove Ferry crosses Jervis Inlet at Saltery Bay (50 minute sailing) and the drive to  Powell River is (31 km / 18 mi). From Powell River, BC Ferries will take you to  Comox (1 hour and 15 minute sailing), where you drive south on Highway 19 to  Qualicum Beach  (73 km / 44 mi).
• Follow Highway 19 down the island’s east coast to  Nanaimo (50 km / 30 mi) and then on to  Chemainus  (37 km / 22 mi). Victoria  is at the southern end of Vancouver Island (70 km / 42 mi), and from Swartz Bay near Victoria, BC Ferries sails back to  Tsawwassen  and the mainland (1 hour 35 minutes).

Tour Experiences

Vancouver to sechelt.

From Vancouver, take Highway 1 west to the quaint and charming harbour community of Horseshoe Bay. While waiting to board the ferry to Langdale, be sure to explore the scenic marine village, one of Vancouver’s best stops for fish’ n’ chips! Paddlers and scuba divers will feel right at home in the waters of this small town nestled under the mountains bordering Howe Sound. While on land, the rocky hiking trails provide challenging terrain for trekkers. Enjoy the scenic sailing through Howe Sound.

You will arrive in Langdale 45 minutes later. Drive 8 km (5 mi) into the scenic seaside village of Gibsons , a fishing community less than 30 km (18 mi) from  Vancouver , but well-removed from the big-city hustle and bustle. Nestled amongst Mount Elphinstone, Howe Sound and the Strait of Georgia, this picturesque seaside village offers a relaxing lifestyle surrounded by wildlife and natural beauty. Residents are welcoming, and visitors easily get lost in the hospitable ambience of the alluring community.

Head north 26 km (16 mi) on Highway 101 to the historic town of Sechelt . Rich in arts, culture and old-fashioned pubs and marinas, Sechelt and the surrounding villages are destinations for artisans, writers, and musicians. All along the coast, rocky beaches and gentle surf make kayaking and wildlife-viewing enjoyable activities.

Sechelt to Powell River

Earl’s Cove is the furthest you can drive on Highway 101 before taking a ferry across Jervis Inlet. The 16 km (10 mi), 50-minute ferry trip sails up Agamemnon Channel and around Nelson Island into Jervis Inlet. Along the way, you will see spectacular coastal scenery against the backdrop of the Coast Mountain range and beautiful fjords that adorn British Columbia’s coast.

From Saltery Bay on the other side of the inlet, take some time to explore  Saltery Bay Provincial Park . This park is among the most beautiful waterfronts in the British Columbia parks system. From its shores you can see killer whales, seals and sea lions, and it is also a popular destination for scuba divers.

Continue north on Highway 101 31 km (18 mi) up the coast to Powell River . Situated along the magnificent Malaspina Strait, Powell River is surrounded by some of the most spectacular natural beauty in the world. Powell River’s rich First Nations heritage, and the creativity of its residents, are clearly visible in many of the local shops. The original homes and businesses are Victorian-styled and have become western Canada’s only National Historic Townsite. Powell River’s history as a prosperous forestry community is honoured each year at the Powell River Loggers’ Sports Competition.

Powell River to Qualicum Beach

BC Ferries will then take you from Powell River across the Strait of Georgia to Comox , an incredible urban centre surrounded by recreational getaways. The snow-capped mountains, plunging valleys, and salty sea embody limitless recreational opportunities for adventurers. Hiking and fishing are the most popular activities, but visitors can also relax and take in the unique shops, art shows, and theatrical performances. The city has access to nearby  Strathcona Provincial Park . Through recent additions, the park almost stretches across the whole of Vancouver Island. Within its boundaries are Mt. Golden Hinde, home of the island’s tallest peak, and Della Falls – Canada’s highest waterfall.

As you travel down the island on Highway 19A, you’ll find the community of Qualicum Beach . Overlooking the magnificent coastline and beaches along the Strait of Georgia, Qualicum Beach is a place with legendary hospitality and magnificent coastal landscape. Just 11 km (7 mi) down the road is the community of  Parksville . Parksville has been a tourist hotspot for decades, drawing hoards of visitors with spectacular scenery and the warmest saltwater on Vancouver Island. Collectively, Qualicum Beach and Parksville have grown to become a major tourist destination jointly referred to as Oceanside. Here you’ll find a world-renowned beach that stretches an incredible 70 km (43 mi). Visitors are quick to try sea kayaking or sailing in these pristine waters, but locals will tell you that the real attractions are salmon fishing and scuba diving – Jacques Cousteau has called Oceanside the second best cold-water-diving destination in the world. At low tide the ocean retreats, leaving behind hundreds of tidal pools and smooth sand. Armed with pails and shovels, children and parents alike can spend hours digging and exploring the seafloor.

If you’re looking for freshwater activities, then head 14 km (9 mi) southwest to  Englishman River Falls Provincial Park . The park features two breathtaking waterfalls that empty into narrow rock canyons. At the base of the lower falls is a deep pool perfect for swimming. With large day-use areas, families and nature lovers are in pure paradise amongst the park’s river-skirting trails and old-growth forests.

Qualicum Beach to Tsawassen

Follow Highway 19A south along the awe-inspiring coast of Vancouver Island to Nanaimo . With more than 200 parks, exceptional shopping, cultural scenery, fine dining, and of course, a mild climate, there’s no questioning why Nanaimo is a travelers’ hot-spot. Surprisingly, this active city has the atmosphere of a relaxing seaside getaway. An entire afternoon can be spent on the harbour front watching the flurry of tugs, ferries, floatplanes, and freighters go about their business. Add the fact that Nanaimo is ideally situated as a base for tours to the other parts of Vancouver Island, and you get a destination that’s the perfect choice for any kind of vacation.

The small but spirited town of  Ladysmith  is 23 km (14 mi) down the coast and is often referred to as one of the prettiest small towns in Canada. Take a walking tour of Main Street to see the masterfully restored Edwardian buildings that house art galleries, antiques shops, and other collectibles.

Chemainus , 10 km (6 mi) south of Ladysmith, is known for its world famous murals. Artists from around the world come to Chemainus to paint giant murals and turn the streets into an outdoor art gallery. Stroll through the charming downtown and find over two dozen murals that changed not only the face, but also the livelihood of the little community. Sculptors, potters, and painters continually congregate to this seaside town to take in the flavours and creative energy of other artists.

Continue south on Highway 19 until you reach Victoria , British Columbia’s idyllic provincial capital. Named in honour of Queen Victoria, the city is fittingly decorated and steeped in Victorian decadence. With double-decker buses, formal gardens, and the tradition of afternoon tea, visitors get to experience a little bit of Britain on BC’s West Coast. However, Victoria is fast becoming a mecca for outdoor adventurers. With a mild climate suited for kayaking, cycling, hiking, fishing, golfing, windsurfing, and diving, outdoor enthusiasts here are active year-round. The city is also steeped in rich history that is put on show throughout the many museums, heritage buildings, and Chinatown. Victoria’s Inner Harbour is always bustling with kayaks, whale watching boats, ferries, and float planes. Explore native totems and artwork in the local parks, tour the legislative buildings and don’t miss afternoon tea at the extravagant Empress Hotel as you end this circle tour.

Returning to Vancouver , board BC Ferries at Swartz Bay just north of Victoria and enjoy the 1.5-hour sailing to Tsawwassen  as the ferry passes through the pastoral southern Gulf Islands on its way to the mainland.

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Creating transformational nature connected experiences on the Sunshine Coast B.C.

Our mission is to enhance your lifestyle through awareness and experiences that we hope will inspire you to spend more time in the natural world. 

Awaken your true nature in the wild

Rejuvenate yourself among coastal inlets & mountain ranges on the sunshine coast of british columbia. metta eco-experiences offers wellness adventure tourism, including spectacular bioluminescent and dark sky kayaking, wellness kayak adventures, and private powerboat tours  throughout the inlets.  we focus on reconnecting with nature and exploring the beautiful marine and land based environments. our qualified facilitator guides are knowledgeable, insightful and experienced. they will frame your journey based on your comfort zone and introduce you to safe and exciting ways to experience the natural world. book now and have fun, see wildlife, learn about the unseen world of nature, and create lifelong memories .

Metta Eco ~ Offering Sustainable, Inspiring, Wildlife and Wellness based Explorations  since 1993.

Our Journeys & Tours

The “Into the Night” Journey presents an opportunity to sea kayak at night, and learn about one of the largest daily mass migrations in the world. It is a surreal experience to open our senses as we discover the nocturnal world.. Living organisms emit light, causing the water to glow and sparkle magically. Any motion in the ocean accents this offering, a dance of light as we paddle in darkness. The night sky is magnificent and the journey offers time for solo reflection in a safe and silent environment.

Experience the ocean in a unique way that few have had the opportunity to enjoy!  Witness the waters and marine life of the Sechelt Inlet awaken with a bioluminescent glow. Your kayak glides as if flying, opening your senses in the silence, inviting you to connect deeply with the life source of our planet and the gifts of the unseen world of nature.

kids under 6 ride free in the center cockpit of the double kayak.   Please let us know by choosing a child seat  (N/C) when booking. 

3 Hours | $125 + GST pp

MORE DETAILS

The Inlet Explorer Journey is a nature connected private tour of the Sunshine Coast with a certified skipper. (For Couples, Families & Friends and their dogs)

A great opportunity to experience the incredible Inlets of this beautiful area with guides that are passionate about nature. Our tours are experiential with great conversation as we journey together. We provide insight into cultural history, nature wellness awareness and wildlife viewing. Tea and muffins included, kids under 6 and dogs ride free.

2 Hours | $125 + GST PP

Book 3 persons/ 20% off ~ book 4-5 persons/ 25% off total order, (automatically applied) .

Experience a private tour of the Inlets and beaches near Egmont, Sunshine Coast B.C., with certified skippers/eco guides /professional photographer. (For Couples, Families & Friends and their dogs)

Visit one of the highest waterfalls in British Columbia, and see magestic rock walls that rise vertically out of the ocean.  Enjoy a picnic lunch (included) and l earn about the story of the land. S wimming, snorkelling, photo safari,  or forest-based wellness awareness options available.  

Our 22-foot watercraft seats 5 and is a solid fiberglass ocean going boat with a canopy. We offer custom marine tours, combined with land options, and welcome dogs and kids under 6 for free. Our focus is on sustainable tourism and wellness.

We provide experiential tours, and enjoy engaging in inspirational conversations with our customers as we journey together. This is a 4-hour journey

4 Hours | $220  + GST pp

Book 3 persons/ 20% off ~ book 4-5 persons/ 25% off total order (automatically applied) .

Groups & Corporate Journeys

Contact us .

The beautiful Coast of the Pacific Ocean is so full of wonder and biodiversity. Our journey provides you with the opportunity to explore the coastal waters and forests of Sechelt Inlet with the intent of connecting with nature’s magic and healing properties.

5 – 6 Hours 

There are many beautiful lakes located in Egmont, BC. The many bays and pristine shorelines offer a great way to spend the day exploring and learning.

Your journey includes a choice of single or double expedition sea kayaks as well a variety of experiences that will enhance the tour. We will be providing  basic to advanced kayak lessons on the water for those who wish to learn.  The journey will also focus on nature based interpretation and wellness awareness . We will be stopping for swims in season which can include learning rescues and rolls. A shore lunch will be included as well as the opportunity to connect with the forests energy. This is an awesome day of leisure learning and adventure!

Choose your adventure today!

Awaken your true nature in the wild!

We are located in Egmont (2 hours from Vancouver) on the beautiful Sunshine Coast of BC. This area has many beautiful inlets and rainforests to explore.

Metta Eco Experiences recognizes our presence on the traditional territories of the shíshálh (Sechelt), skwxwú7mesh (Squamish ) , and Tla’amin (Sliammon )  Nations.

Base Camp: (604) 399-8191 or [email protected]

16660 Backeddy Rd, Egmont, BC

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READ REVIEWS

FEATURED ARTICLES

Seattle Times: Beautiful BC offers transformative experiences as individual as each visitor >

World Adventurists:  Read the Article >

Vacay:  Read the Article >

National Geo:   How Bioluminescence works in nature >

OPEN YEAR ROUND! > View Specials

JOIN US FOR MARINE SIGHTSEEING ON THE SUNSHINE COAST!

Occasionally we have a special schedule, to highlight something we can’t do or see on our regular schedule. Below we have a list of upcoming events. Enjoy the comfort of the warm, dry cabin while out in the protected waters of our Inlets. Our boats are well suited for work in any season.

We can also arrange charter outings for something special to you. Call  to discuss any unscheduled work. 604 883-2280 or 800 870-9055

Tuesday Aug 13 or Wednesday Aug 21 Join one of our unique afternoon trip. Depart Egmont at 12:30 pm. Return by 5:30. See our Inlets from a different perspective.

Call to reserve now on an E ND OF SEASON Small Group Special

After Sept 15 2024

Book 4 tickets on our Princess Louisa Inlet tour schedule and save $ 50 Book 6 tickets on our Princess Louisa Inlet tour schedule and save $ 150

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We are always available to charter. Check our blog post “ Should I charter ?” Because charters need special arrangements you will need to call to talk with us ( 800 870-9055) to book.

Charter a Highlights Tour

Create a Highlights Tour for a small, intimate group. There is no better way to get out and see the best side of the Sunshine Coast. It’s most cost effective from our Egmont base but can be arranged to explore any base area.

Charter A Princess Louisa Inlet Tour

Undoubtedly Princess Louisa Inlet is the most popular destination. After all it is world famous. But maybe you want something different from our scheduled program; something more private, or at a different time? You should consider a charter.

Brewery & Bachelorette Shuttle

Brewery & bachelorette shuttle 〰️ brewery & bachelorette shuttle 〰️, *important announcement:.

After careful consideration, I have decided to gradually phase out Sunshine Coast Art Tours to focus our efforts on event transportation within the Sunshine Coast area. This strategic pivot will take place over the coming year.

If any of our offerings listed on our website have caught your attention, such as brewery, bachelorette parties, or art studio transportation, please don't hesitate to get in touch as many of these experiences can still be rendered through our shuttle services.

 LEARN MORE: 778-822-1120

Rest assured, any existing reservations with us will be fully honoured.

Experience Our Sunshine Coast Tours

Art Studio Visits to Distillery and Brewery Tours! We provide unique day trips that spotlight the passion and creativity of Canada’s Sunshine Coast.

Brewery Tour

Flights to Flights

Art Workshops

Coast Art Tour

HUNDREDS OF Art STUDIOS!

Did you know that B.C’s Sunshine Coast has a large and thriving art community? The region boasts one of the highest percentages of working artists in Canada! We have fostered strong relationships with the Coastal artist community and are thrilled to be spotlighting their incredible works through our Sunshine Coast Art Tours.

Treat yourself to a leisurely, carefully designed art journey into the personal studios of some of western Canada’s most renowned artists.

Choose Your Own Art Adventure! The Coast is surprisingly varied when it comes to styles and genres. Whether you like mixed media or street art, we tailor the tour to match your preferences. Or if you want us to surprise you with some of our favourite studio experiences, we will be delighted to share our hidden gems. We have artists working in many different genres on the Coast:

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The Sunshine Coast Art Crawl

We’re a bit spoiled here on the Sunshine Coast, as we live in one of the most thriving and robust art ecosystems in Canada. You’ve likely heard of the Sunshine Coast Art Crawl. It’s the flagship event of the year here in our community. And the quality of work as evidenced by well-known artists like Marleen Vermeulen and Greta Guzek—or the award-winning tinctures of Persephone Brewing Company or the Bruinwood Estate Distillery—is truly second to none. With hundreds of Art studios and 12 high-end craft breweries and distilleries, the concentration of talent is truly astonishing! And artists and brewers continue to flock to the Sunshine Coast.

Click Below for a video snapshot of our Sunshine Coast Art tours

Art Shuttle: 15 Passenger, customized, high-roofed luxury liner.

The Sunshine Coast is closer than you think. As straight as the crow flies, the Sunshine Coast is a mere 16 km from Vancouver. A thrilling 40-minute ferry ride will land you at Langdale Ferry Terminal near Gibsons, B.C., where we will be eagerly waiting for you in our customized Art Shuttle.

Sunshine Coast Art Tours is your local connection to the sensorial delights of the region.

Indeed, Artistry Lives Here. Let us show you!

Sunshine Coast Art Tours

Immerse yourself in the inspiring world of Canadian artistry with Sunshine Coast Art Tours. Our uniquely curated journeys and workshops offer privileged access to the intimate studios of Canada's most revered artists. Our well-received Coast Art Tour, as well as tailor-made excursions like Brewery, birthday and corporate retreat tours, cater to your specific interests and needs. Complemented by our event shuttle service, we offer an exclusive and luxurious experience designed for your repeat enjoyment. Explore the vivid tapestry of Canada's artistic scene in style with Sunshine Coast Art Tours

Customer Testimonials

“Thoughtfully curated, fun and easy - can't wait to do it again!”

— F. MACLEAN

“I can’t say enough great things about this experience and about Douglas as a guide. If you’re visiting the Sunshine Coast on a limited timeline but want to experience the as much of the views, history, and breweries in the area as possible, the Flights to Flights tour is an absolute MUST!! :)”

— LACEY MOLONEY

"Douglas is wonderful to work with and I will definitely be a return customer"

— NATALIE CHIASSON

"A ‘champagne and chocolate’ kind of tour, loved the attention to detail”

— ANNA SMITHE

Sunshine Coast Distillery and Brewery Tours

With one of the highest concentrations of distilleries and craft beer tasting rooms in North America, our brewery tours will leave you satiated—and thirsting for more!

Pamper your palate with some of the most distinguished tasting rooms in western Canada. With over ten tasting rooms to choose from, the Coast has established itself as a major contributor to The Pacific Northwest brewing and spirits scene—and is a much-celebrated portion of the BC Ale Trail.

You can visit:

• Persephone Brewing Company
• Bruinwood Estate Distillery
• Tapworks Brewing Company
• The Bricker Cider Company
• Sunday Cider
• One Foot Crow Craft Distillery
• Twenty Two Taphouse
• The 101 Brewhouse + Distillery
• Townsite Brewing
• Batch 44 Brewery & Kitchen

Sunshine Coast Culinary Delights

Of course all our day tours include a complimentary local lunch.

From high-end charcuterie boards to long table luncheons and seaside oyster bars, we are your local experts when it comes to the region’s charming culinary choices.

Unique Transport

When you board our customized 15-passenger Art Shuttle to travel to hidden artist studios and distilleries, you are transported to a sacred place of creativity—where you are both voyeur and student as you glimpse into the act of artistic process. Sunshine Coast Art Tours will grant you that access.

Our tours can be operated year-round—365 days of the year! Rain or shine, you can stay dry and warm in our luxurious coach as we shuttle you to toasty artist studios. Or in the summer season, you can enjoy the sun-drenched patios of the breweries and distilleries.

We focus on pacing—nothing is rushed about this luxury experience. We visit three or four artist studios or breweries and a delicious one-hour lunch is included. You get to put your feet up and enjoy a glass of champagne with friends and family as you take in the majestic beauty of the Sunshine Coast.

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Happiness Promise

There are hundreds of thousands of guides and tour operators around the world. Figuring out who to trust is stressful and hard.

That’s why we started 10Adventures Tours, we’re here to make it easy to find a great guide or tour operator. We handpick the best local guides and tour operators for 10Adventures, working to ensure you have great guides and a great trip.

We know it sucks to show up in a different country and find out the tents are junk, the guide incompetent or the route different from what we thought we were getting.

We want to give our users peace of mind that you’ll have a great trip and offer a guarantee that we will work with you to make it right.

How does this work? Well, if you feel that something about your trip didn’t’ meet your expectations, let us know. We will then work to gather the details and figure out where things went wrong. If something indeed wasn’t as described, or went wrong with your trip, and the problem was within the control of either oursleves, the guide or the tour company, we will then work out a refund with you that’s proportional to the scale of the problem.

Obviously the best way to make a great trip is to tell your local guide or tour operator and give them the chance to fix the solution while you are on your trip. Most things can be solved by telling your guide when the issue develops. If that doesn’t solve it, then email us right away. Please don’t wait to voice your concerns until the trip is over, as it’s much harder to solve issues after the fact.

We work hard to make sure you have a great trip. If something isn’t right, please email  [email protected]  and we will get to work right away.

Lifetime Deposit

Is there anything better than booking a trip, and being able to have peace of mind when doing so? At 10Adventures, you're covered with Lifetime Deposits! As world travellers ourselves, we understand how important this is and that's why we've introduced our Lifetime Deposits program for most tours on 10Adventures.

It's simple! You pay your deposit to confirm your trip, and if you have to cancel, we'll keep your full deposit amount on file for you to use towards any future booking with 10Adventures. You can use this deposit within the same year, or even 10 years later...it's your call!

• A voucher in the amount of your deposit paid will be issued to you by email on cancellation of your tour booking.
• Lifetime Deposits are transferable, so if you'd like to give your deposit to someone else to book a tour on 10Adventures, just let us know.
• You can only use one lifetime deposit towards a future booking (not multiple).
• If your Lifetime Deposit amount is more than the total tour value you're re-booking, no cash value or credit will be issued.
• Not all tours on 10Adventures are eligible for Lifetime Deposits.
• Lifetime Deposits cannot be redeemed for cash value.
• Bookings with missed payments are not eligible for Lifetime Deposits.

Check out complete details in the Booking Terms and Conditions.

Group Trips

Group travel can be chaotic and messy, which is why going on a trip with family or friends is the fun part and planning the trip, well… isn’t. But what if the group travel experience of your dreams could be organized without the hassle of you needing to plan every detail?

With 10Adventures group tours, you’ll be the mastermind behind an unforgettable trip without the need to worry about logistics, payments, or who can get time off for a holiday.

The VIP-level service of our Travel Advisors allows you to organize the adventure of your dreams, customize it exactly how you want to, and watch the savings roll in as more of your friends and family sign up for the once in a lifetime experience you created. It’s that simple!

Take the first step on your next group adventure by contacting one of our Travel Advisors today.

The window to travel as a family only narrows with time. Make the most of it by exploring the world together and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Why share a travel experience with people you don’t know? Spend your hard-earned vacation surrounded by close friends on the adventure of a lifetime.

Shared travel experiences strengthen bonds and are the perfect way to come together as colleagues to solve challenges in a way that just can’t be done in an office environment.

Connect with members of your club or social circle over shared interests like food, culture, and the outdoors.

• VIP Service: Have a dedicated Travel Advisor who is always a call or a click away.
• Cost Savings: More people mean a lower cost per person. And there are additional discounts for children and shared rooms.
• Customizable: You are in charge and choose the start date, length, itinerary, accommodations, and other services.
• Easy Payment: Flexible payment schedule, and most importantly separate invoices so you aren’t left paying for other people.
• Private: Just you and your group making memories that will last your lifetime.
• Quality Time: There’s no better way to travel than alongside family and or friends. Enjoy quality time exploring the world with those you love most.

Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Self-Drive

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

Discover the culture, communities, and wildlife on this road trip on the spectacular west coast

• Lifetime Deposit - Lifetime deposit means if you need to cancel your booking you’ll get a credit for your full deposit to use on your next booking.

About this tour:

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Why travellers choose this tour

At 10Adventures, we take care of the details so that our guests can focus on making memories. Enjoy these key features on this tour.

We're Canadian

Book with a Canadian company whose mission is to help you travel the world.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 15 nights are included. Accommodations before and after the tour in Vancouver are not included but can be added as a supplement.

Don't worry about meals. 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners are included during your stay at the Klahoose Wilderness Resort. Other meals are not included in this tour.

Check out the 'What's Included' tab for more info on personal transfers during your tour.

Local Support

Travel stress-free knowing in-country local support is available by regular phone or WhatsApp to support you during your tour.

Payments Made Easy

Enjoy the flexibility and ease of staggered payments in your own currency using your choice of credit card.

Route Resources

Route notes, maps, and/or a trail app make navigation on this tour a breeze.

Park Entrance Fees

Included where possible! Check the 'What's Included' tab for more info on park entrance fees during your tour.

Luggage transfers

Take a load off, with optional or included luggage transfers. Check inclusions for further details.

Accommodation for Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Self-Drive

This tour is based on hotels and lodges. Hotels on this trip are 3- and 4-star standard accommodations that are near to local sights and amenities. During your stay in Klahoose, you’ll stay in a luxury eco-lodge in the wilderness.

In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travellers Rooms are double occupancy. Single rooms, including those for solo travellers, are by request and may incur an additional fee.

Hotel in Vancouver

Welcome to Vancouver! Settle in and sleep off any jetlag at your comfortable hotel.

Hotel in Gibsons

This coastal community will charm your socks off. Stroll the downtown core and stop into the Olive Oil Co. to sample hundreds of infused oils and vinegars.

Hotel in Egmont

The small waterfront village welcomes you for a night. Visit the Skookumchuck Bakery and Café for tasty pastries and coffee.

Hotel in Lund

This small harbour town is the beginning of Highway 101. It’s charming and full of tree-hugging British Columbians. Visit Nancy’s Bakery for the best cinnamon buns you’ve ever had.

Klahoose Wilderness Lodge in Desolation Sound

Immerse yourself in nature while you stay at this tranquil eco-lodge. The hotel offers amazing views, warm welcomes, and insight into Klahoose culture.

Night 10-11

Hotel in quadra island.

This magical island is home to a tight-knit community of artists, locals, and people from all over who have settled into natural tranquility. Respect this gorgeous place while you’re here.

Night 12-13

Hotel in ucluelet or tofino.

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a mystical land when you see the sandy beaches at the edge of the forest. These popular surf towns keep their cool and haven’t been over-developed.

Hotel in Victoria

Victoria draws visitors year-round for its pleasant climate, undeniably kind and laid-back people, and charming downtown core. Check out the Inner Harbour, Cook Street Village, and Dallas Road.

Hotels on Standard Tour

Planning a group trip?

Learn how we help group of friends, outdoor clubs and families get the tour they’ve been dreaming about.

Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Self-Drive Tour Details

Vancouver island and sunshine coast self-drive overview.

The Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Self-Drive is a 16-day self-drive discovery of the beautiful natural places along the west coast of Canada. Go at your own pace, and enjoy the freedom to hike, paddle, and explore as you please.

This wonderful itinerary begins in Vancouver, but you’ll soon leave the busy city behind as you travel north. Enjoy the unique communities as you drive along the Sunshine Coast. You’ll spend three days communing with nature at a wilderness lodge in Desolation Sound before you cross the Strait of Georgia to the Gulf Islands. You’ll continue enjoying nature and looking for wildlife on your visit to Quadra and Vancouver Islands. No trip to the west coast could be complete without seeing the spectacular Tofino beaches and rainforest, or the picturesque city of Victoria. This tour offers you a beautiful overview of the coastal regions of British Columbia and a chance to embrace its relaxed lifestyle.

Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Self-Drive Itinerary

Tour begins in vancouver.

Pick up your rental vehicle from the airport when you arrive in Vancouver. Get settled in your hotel and explore the city. Take a stroll through Gastown and visit one of the many lively downtown restaurants.

Enjoy Vancouver

Spend today exploring Vancouver. Take a walk or bike ride along the seawall in Stanley Park, or visit the beautiful beach at English Bay. Take a walk downtown to see the shops on Robson Street. Visit Granville Island to wander the markets or False Creek to see the Olympic Village from the 2010 Winter Games. To go off the beaten track, check out Commercial Drive and Main Street to see Vancouver like the locals do. However you spend today, you’re sure to be caught off guard by the beautiful water and mountain views.

Travel to the Sunshine Coast

This morning, you’ll leave for the Sunshine Coast. Take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale, and check in to your hotel in Gibsons. Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque town, where you’ll find beautiful ocean views and charming restaurants and shops. Since you took a ferry, you’ll feel like you’re on an island, but in fact, you’re still connected to the mainland!

Explore the Coastal Communities

Today, you can take your time and explore all the little points of interest as you drive up the coast along the Georgia Strait. There are many artistic communities with art galleries to visit, as well as artisanal shops, where you can sample the local handmade delicacies. Robert’s Creek, Sechelt, Halfmoon Bay, and Secret Cove are all wonderful places you may want to explore. When you arrive at Egmont, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of Vancouver Island.

Enjoy the Outdoors in Egmont

Along with its magnificent views, Egmont offers many ways to spend an enjoyable day. You can take a sea kayaking trip or visit the rainforests for a peaceful hike. You can also visit one of the cultural centres to learn about the First Nations communities of the Sunshine Coast.

Ferry to Saltery Bay and Journey to Lund

To reach the north coast, you’ll need to take the ferry to Saltery Bay. Spend some time in Powell River to indulge at one of their micro-breweries or world-class restaurants. You can also take a water taxi across to Savary Island to visit its gorgeous sandy beach with water so warm you’ll think you’re in the tropics. Tonight, you’ll stay in the quiet seaside village of Lund.

Take a Boat to Your Lodge in the Wilderness

Today, you’ll embark on an adventure to Desolation Sound. A boat will take you to your wilderness lodge, where you’ll be welcomed with a traditional Klahoose Aboriginal greeting. You’ll immediately feel at peace as you disconnect from the world at this luxury eco-resort.

Desolation Sound and Klahoose Adventures

Enjoy a quiet breakfast before embarking on your boat tour of the sound and Klahoose along the Great Bear Rainforest (available May to August). If you’re visiting between August and October, you may choose to go looking for grizzly bears instead. This excursion takes you to the Toba Inlet, where a guide will take you to platforms on the river to watch for grizzlies in their natural habitat.

Choose Your Own Adventure in Klahoose

Today is a free day for you to explore however you choose. You could take another bear watching trip or book a helicopter or boat trip from the lodge. You’ll find the atmosphere at the lodge so tranquil that you may wish to sit outside and simply enjoy the fresh air and views.

Ferry Travel to Quathiaski Cove

In the morning, the boat will return you to Lund, where you’ll begin your day of ferry travel. First, you’ll take the ferry to Campbell River on Vancouver Island, and then you’ll take a smaller ferry to Quadra Island. The journey will be scenic as the ferries travel across the strait, and you may get lucky and see a whale or two along the way.

Spend the Day Exploring Quadra Island

Quadra Island is a beautiful natural paradise, and you’ll have the whole day to discover its secrets. Visit the beach or take a stroll to admire the views of the islands and mountains across the water. You can also book one of the optional tours and take a sea kayak or zodiac excursion to look for bears, sea lions, seals, whales, and bald eagles.

Travel to the Island’s West Coast

In the morning, you’ll return to Vancouver Island and start your drive to the famous Pacific Rim. As you drive across the island, stop at Cathedral Grove and take a walk in the forest of ancient Douglas Fir trees that tower above you. When you arrive at the coast, you’ll be awed by beautiful, rugged beaches that stretch endlessly before you.

Beach and Rainforest Walks in Tofino

While watching the powerful waves crash onto the beaches this morning, you’ll understand why Tofino is such a popular spot to surf. After a walk along the ocean, you can head inland and hike on one of the many paths through the rainforest. You can also take one of the optional excursions on a zodiac tour to look for marine wildlife, including whales, seals, and eagles.

Spend the Day in Beautiful Victoria

Take a final beach walk before you begin your drive down the island to Victoria. Explore the shops downtown and take a walk on the boardwalk at Fisherman’s Wharf. Visit Fisgard Street, where you’ll find the oldest Chinatown in Canada. Make sure to stroll along the water in the evening to see the twinkling lights of the waterfront government buildings.

Ferry to Vancouver

Take a final look at the Olympic Mountains from Victoria before taking the ferry back to the mainland. You have the rest of the day in Vancouver to visit anywhere you may have missed at the beginning of the tour.

Tour Concludes

Today, your tour comes to a close. You can return your rental vehicle to the airport and begin your travels home. You can also opt to extend your stay in Vancouver if you want to spend more time in the city or visit the Rocky Mountains.

Tour Highlights

Highlights for vancouver island and sunshine coast self-drive.

Visit the charming fishing villages and artistic communities along the gorgeous Sunshine Coast.

Walk along the endless beaches, rainforest paths, and beneath ancient trees as you explore Vancouver Island.

Watch for whales and other marine wildlife gazing at the beautiful view of the mountains beyond the water.

Immerse yourself in nature and the Klahoose culture during your stay at a waterfront wilderness lodge in Desolation Sound.

What's Included

3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners are included during your stay at the Klahoose Wilderness Resort. Other meals are not included in this tour.

Transportation during the Tour

This is a self-drive tour, and you’ll be provided with a rental vehicle for the duration of the itinerary.

Also Included

• Standard vehicle rental Category B
• 24/7 access to helpline
• Canadian taxes
• All ferries on the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island
• Boat transfers between wilderness resort and Lund
• Meals and on-site activities at the resort

Not included

• Flights to and from Vancouver
• Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses
• Admissions or entrance fees to attractions
• Optional activities
• Entrance fees to parks
• Gratuities for tour guides or other staff if desired
• Vehicle insurance

Optional Extras

• Additional nights before or after the tour
• Single occupancy upgrades
• Optional activities or excursions:
• Sea kayak excursion in Egmont
• Helicopter tours in Desolation Soundi
• Sea kayak excursion on Quadra Island
• Wildlife zodiac tour on Quadra Island
• Wildlife and whale watching tour in Tofino

Dates & Prices

This partially-guided tour to the Canada is run as private tour for your group only, and the price per person depends on how many people are in your group.

Prices below are per person:

• Groups of 2+: from $5,325 USD per person*

*-Pricing for this tour depends on the dates of your trip and all the prices are per person. Please click the booking button below to get the exact pricing for your trip dates.

Accommodation

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Tour Booking Process

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Frequently asked questions for Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Self-Drive

How hard is the Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Self-Drive?

We rate this tour as a 1/5. This tour has a flexible itinerary that allows you to choose the hikes and activities so that you can tailor them to your fitness level.

Do I need a visa to travel to Canada?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website , though you should verify with your government.

Is my driver’s licence valid in Canada?

Most standard driver’s licences are valid in Canada; however, International Drivers Permit might be required, or some exemptions might apply. Please check this source about driving with foreign license in Canada .

Is the vehicle insurance included?

No, vehicle insurance is not included in the package. We strongly suggest having one for this tour to avoid liability in case there is damage caused to the vehicle. You can either book vehicle insurance during the booking process, or get one by yourself.

What does partially-guided mean?

Booking a partially-guided tour is a perfect choice for those who like to be in charge of some of their time while travelling, but also don’t want to be on their own during activities. In most cases, a partially-guided tour doesn’t have a tour leader assigned to a group, but some or most of the activities, such as hikes, city walks, or historic site visits, are led by different guides. Also, in most cases, booking a partially-guided tour is way cheaper than booking a fully-guided tour!

Are meals included on the Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Self-Drive?

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover any activities you plan to do. Get your Travel Insurance .

How do I get to Vancouver to start this tour?

Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR). You will pick up your rental vehicle from the airport.

Is the Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Self-Drive in English?

The route guide, maps, and programs provided will be in English.

Where do the Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast Self-Drive end?

This tour ends in Vancouver, where you can drop off your rental vehicle at the Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Canada?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Canada?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

When is the best time to travel to Canada for this tour?

The best time to travel to the west coast for this overland tour is during the summer and early fall, so you can enjoy long, warm days and ideal hiking conditions. This tour is available from May to October.

Tour Difficulty

Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

This tour was made for you!

Start filling out your booking details. Once you submit your request, we'll review availability for this tour and contact you within 24 hours to further customize your perfect adventure.

Why book with 10 Adventures?

Your trip. your way..

Make lifelong memories with the people you care about most. We specialize in custom & private active travel experiences.

Travel made easy.

Spend your time making memories, not planning them. Enjoy a stress-free vacation and leave the trip logistics to us.

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No bots here. A real human is always a click or a call away to ensure you get the adventure of your dreams.

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Immerse yourself in the destination with highly-vetted, local tour operators who love to showcase where they live.

We make it easy for travellers to book private travel experiences, so they can make memories exploring the world with the people that matter most.

— Richard Campbell, CEO

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#sunishinecoastbc

Know Before You Go

Planning a trip to the Sunshine Coast? Here’s what you need to know before you go so that you can explore safely, responsibly, and respectfully.  

Travel Updates and Information

Community notices.

Water usage:  In the Sunshine Coast Regional District, stage 2 water conservation regulations are in effect as of July 5, 2024 for water users on the Chapman and Eastbourne water systems . In the City of Powell River, stage 2 water conservation regulations are in effect as of July 10, 2024. Stage 1 water conservation regulations are in effect in other areas of the Sunshine Coast.

The Sunshine Coast faces increased demand on drinking water resources during periods of drought. Conserving water is a collective effort—familiarize yourself with local water restrictions before you arrive and learn more about  how to conserve water during your trip . 

• Southern Sunshine Coast:  Town of Gibsons - Water Restrictions |  Sunshine Coast Regional District - Water Regulations  
• Northern Sunshine Coast:  City of Powell River - Utilities/Water  | qathet Regional District - Utilities/Water

Additionally, a 'Water Quality Advisory' has been issued for the community of Lund. This is not a boil water notice, but rather a notice that some customers may want to take additional precautions, such as those who are immunocompromised or pregnant. If you are staying in Lund, please inquire with your accommodation for more details.

Campfires:  As of noon on August 28, 2024, campfires are permitted in the Coastal Fire Centre, but please note that fire bans may still be in effect in some areas.  Click here  for more details on the restrictions in the Coastal Fire Centre area, which includes the Sunshine Coast. Campfires must be no larger than 0.5m high x 0.5m diameter and a minimum of 3m (10ft) from combustible materials. Please continue to exercise utmost care and make sure all campfires are fully extinguished. Call *5555 on a cell or 1.800.663.5555 (toll-free) to report a wildfire. A new BC Wildfire Service app is now available for download, and includes interactive maps, news and advisories, and a reporting tool.

Bring your patience:  Some local businesses are experiencing labour shortages. Please remember to be patient in the event of longer-than-normal wait times or unexpected closures. 

Backcountry Preparedness:  Familiarize yourself with  Leave No Trace  principles and check out  AdventureSmart  as a great resource to help you get informed before heading outdoors. Remember the three Ts—trip planning, training, and taking the essentials. 

Roads, Ferries & Transportation

Roads: Construction is underway in areas along Highway 101. Please check  D rive  BC  for details on the current conditions on Highway 101, and leave some extra time to get to your destination. For all other roads on the Sunshine Coast, please visit  scrd.ca/alerts  for the South Coast and  qathet.ca  for the North Coast. Delays are expected between Powell River and Lund in both directions. Paving operations are happening from 7am to 7pm Monday to Saturday between Larson Road and Wilde Road until Friday, September 20. There will be single lane alternating traffic; watch for traffic control.  A highway widening project in the Selma Park area of Sechelt is expected to cause intermittent—and potentially significant—delays on Highway 101 from August 20 to September 30. Plan for extra time to get to and from the ferry terminals.

BC Ferries: The Sunshine Coast is a popular summer destination. Making a ferry reservation is recommended, but if you’re unable to make a reservation, keep in mind that space is also available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit  bcferries.com  for information on travel advisories, route status updates, and current conditions on major routes. You can also download the new BC Ferries app to book trips, check in at the terminal, and stay up-to-date with alerts.

• BC Ferries Travel Advisories
• BC Ferries Current Conditions
• BC Ferries Travel Tips ​

Parks & Trails

The bridge at the wetland (to the right of the campground) in  Inland Lake Provincial Park  has been damaged by storms. Inland Lake Trail is no longer fully accessible and the trail will not be a loop until the re-routing is complete.

Porpoise Bay Provincial Park  is open for day use, however the Angus Creek trails between the beach and the amphitheatre are temporarily closed.

Visit the  BC Parks  website for information on provincial parks. Visit  qathet.ca  or  scrd.ca  for information on regional parks.

Short-term Rentals (STRs)

The Province of BC introduced new short-term rental rules effective May 1, 2024. This includes implementing a provincial principal residence requirement in most urban communities in BC; on the Sunshine Coast this applies to the District of Sechelt and the City of Powell River, but not the surrounding rural areas. Hosts will be required to display a business license in areas where they are required by a local government.

If you are planning a trip to the Sunshine Coast, you can check with your short-term rental host directly to confirm they comply with local government regulations and with BC’s new STR rules. Click here to learn more.

How to Be a Mindful Visitor on the Sunshine Coast

Being a mindful visitor requires a thoughtful approach to travel, one that will help ensure the sustainability of our resources, places, and spaces. To enhance your travel experience and make a positive contribution, these are some thoughtful actions you can take before and during a visit to our region:

Respect the Sunshine Coast’s places and spaces, and everyone who calls this place home.

Do not travel if you are sick, practice physical distancing when possible, and wash your hands regularly. Province-wide COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but these are still good rules of thumb to follow year-round.

Plan ahead—book activities, accommodations, and experiences in advance.

Familiarize yourself with local water restrictions, and practice water conservation.

Adhere to safety protocols, including rules and guidelines at local businesses and in outdoor spaces such as community beaches, trails, and parks.  

Learn the principles of Leave No Trace and check out AdventureSmart to prepare yourself before embarking on outdoor adventures.

Support local. Seek out independent shops and boutiques, eateries, and more.

It is important to acknowledge that the Sunshine Coast region is home to the traditional, unceded, and ancestral territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, shíshálh, Tla’amin, Klahoose, and Xwémalhkwu Nations. Anytime you are exploring the Sunshine Coast, please remember to be safe, responsible, and respectful.  

Travelling to BC

For the latest information on travel to Canada including any federal requirements and restrictions, please visit the Government of Canada website .

Travellers are encouraged to reference Destination BC’s “ Know Before You Go ” page for information on the latest travel restrictions and updates in British Columbia.  

Start Planning Your Next Trip

Check out our  trip ideas  to get some inspiration for your next getaway to the Sunshine Coast, visit our  travel deals & packages  page to see what our partners have on offer, or reach out to one of our  Visitor Centres  for trip planning assistance.

Click here  to view a digital version of the Sunshine Coast Travel Guide.

Explore BC's Sunshine Coast

Click the “play” button to get some inspiration for your next trip.

About the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is located on the southern coast of British Columbia, Canada, extending 180km between Howe Sound and Desolation Sound.

Getting Here & Getting Around

Getting to the Sunshine Coast is part of the adventure.

Travel Guide & Maps

Looking for some trip inspiration and planning tools? Check out the Sunshine Coast Travel Guide, as well as a variety of local maps and resources.

Itinerary Planner

Plan your next trip to the Sunshine Coast. Add business listings, upcoming events, and special offers to your itinerary before sharing it with your travel companions.

Need some trip ideas and inspiration for your Sunshine Coast trip? Try these suggested touring routes & itineraries to inspire your next trip to the Sunshine Coast, BC.

Learn more about the Sunshine Coast with our latest stories, blog, and news updates.

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Tour Itinerary

Please select a preferred pickup point to see the tour itinerary.

1 NORTH TO ALASKA

After picking up all of our Passengers, we head North to Alaska going through the Beautiful Horse Country of Lexington and Louisville, Kentucky. Then on to Lafayette, Indiana to spend our first night on the Road.

2 CHICAGO / WILLIS TOWER / WISCONSIN

We leave Indiana this morning on our way into Illinois and to Downtown Chicago. After a Scenic Ride up Lake Shore Drive and seeing some of the Sights of this Huge City, we stop in the Heart of Downtown Chicago and take you up in one of the World’s Tallest Buildings – The Willis Tower – for a Bird’s Eye View of the “Windy City”. Then it’s on to the Heart of the “Dairy Country” to spend the night in Madison, Wisconsin.

3 WISCONSIN DELLS CRUISE / MINNESOTA / MALL OF AMERICA

This morning we take an enjoyable cruise of the Wisconsin Dells with its many unusual rock formations along the Wisconsin River. Then we make our way into Minnesota by way of the “Twin Cities” – Minneapolis/St. Paul – which have grown up opposite sides of the Mississippi River. We visit the Largest Shopping and Entertainment Complex in the United States – The Mall of America with over 400 Shops and more than 30 Restaurants. We spend the night in Bloomington, Minnesota.

4 NORTH DAKOTA / CANADA / WINNIPEG

This morning as we travel through Minnesota we will stop at the Sauk Centre to see an interpretive film on the area. After having lunch in Fargo, North Dakota, we follow the Red River to the Canadian Border and enter the Province of Manitoba. We spend the night in the Provincial Capital – Winnipeg.

5 MANITOBA / SASKATCHEWAN / SASKATOON

This morning we visit the Provincial Capitol in downtown Winnipeg for a picture stop before making our way across the Province. We head West across the Prairie through the Beautiful farming region of Manitoba into the Province of Saskatchewan. We spend the night in Saskatoon. Saskatoon gets its name from the Indian name for the wild berries that grow in the Area.

6 ALBERTA / EDMONTON / WEST EDMONTON MALL

We leave Saskatoon this morning and make our way into the Province of Alberta. We arrive in Edmonton this afternoon and then visit West Edmonton Mall – the largest Mall in North America. Among this Mall’s many attractions are Fantasy Land with submarine rides, a miniature train, five acre water park and an Olympic size ice skating rink in addition to the almost 800 stores. We spend the night in the Edmonton area.

7 “FLAG ROUTE TO ALASKA” / BRITISH COLUMBIA / MILEPOST “0”

Today we follow Highway 43 from Edmonton, known as the “Flag Route to Alaska”. Traveling through the beautiful countryside we make our way across Alberta and into British Columbia for a picture stop in Dawson Creek at Milepost “0”, the official start of this Alaska Highway. We spend the night in Dawson Creek.

8 ALASKA HIGHWAY / FORT NELSON

This morning we start our incredible journey across the Alaska Highway. This Highway is considered one of the engineering feats of the 20th Century, as it was practically cut through the wilderness in less than 9 months in 1942. It was built as a supply route during World War II to Military Bases in Alaska. We will watch the daylight hours get longer as we continue on our journey North. We leave Dawson Creek and go by Fort St. John, Charlie Lake, Pink Mountain, then by Prophet River and on to Fort Nelson for the night.

9 LIARD RIVER HOT SPRINGS / YUKON

We leave Fort Nelson going by Stone Mountain Park and then on through Toad River and by scenic Muncho Lake with its beautiful bluish-green waters. We also visit Liard River Hot Springs with its tropical oasis and 1090F waters just off the Alaska Highway. Watch for Bear! We then continue on into Canada’s Yukon to spend the night in Watson Lake, Yukon Territory.

10 SIGNPOST FOREST / WHITEHORSE

This morning we stop at Watson Lake’s famous Signpost Forest. It was started in 1942 by a homesick G.I. who nailed a sign up here of his hometown. It has grown to over 14,000 signs including our own Sunshine Tours Sign that we put here in 1983 for all of our groups to follow. We continue along the Alaska Highway to Whitehorse – the Capital of the Yukon. We’ll see some of the sights of this rustic Town including the S.S. Klondike Sternwheeler. We spend the night in Whitehorse.

11 KLUANE NATIONAL PARK / KLUANE LAKE / ALASKA! / TOK

Today we continue along the Alaska Highway to Haines Junction. When we arrive in Kluane National Park we stop at the Visitor’s Center for their award winning slide presentation on the Park. We continue on by Kluane Lake and the snow covered St. Elias Mountains – the highest coastal mountain range on Earth. This afternoon we make it to Alaska – “The Last Frontier”. We stop at the Alaska Welcome sign before continuing on to Tok, Alaska to spend the night. Tok is the “Sled Dog Capital of Alaska”.

12 ALASKA PIPELINE / NORTH POLE / ALASKALAND / FAIRBANKS / SALMON BAKE

On our way to Fairbanks we stop in Delta Junction for a picture stop at the “End of the Alaska Highway” marker. Then we cross the Tanana River getting our first look at the Alaska Pipeline suspended above the River. We arrive in North Pole, Alaska to spend some time at the Santa Claus House with its large collection of Christmas gifts. Tonight we visit Alaskaland, a theme Park covering the past and present of Fairbanks, Alaska’s second largest City. While we are at Alaskaland we Treat you to their famous Salmon Bake and Show. We spend the next two nights in Fairbanks.

13 RIVERBOAT DISCOVERY / FAIRBANKS / CITY TOUR / UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA

This morning we enjoy a relaxing river Journey on board the Sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery. Relax as you learn about past and present life along the river on a four hour Narrated Adventure. We go ashore at the site of an Athabascan Indian Village and walk through the village as experts share their culture and traditions. This afternoon we are joined by a Local Guide for a tour of the Fairbanks Area. We also visit the University of Alaska Museum containing many exhibits of Alaskan culture and History. We also visit the Experimental Gardens at the University. The flowers all over Alaska have much more brilliance than the ones we have at home.

14 DENALI NATIONAL PARK

We leave Fairbanks this morning and travel to Denali National Park. This Park is best known for its wildlife of caribou, moose, wolves and grizzly bear as well as Denali – North America’s Highest Mountain at 20,320 feet. The Tanana Indian name for the mountain is Denali, said to mean the “high one”. We will venture into the park for a closer look before spending the night near Denali Park.

15 DENALI / ANCHORAGE CITY TOUR

This morning we leave the Denali National Park Area for Anchorage – Alaska’s Largest City. As we travel south, Denali dominates the Northwestern sky as we make our way into Anchorage. On arrival we see the sights of the area including Ship Creek Salmon Fish Ladder where Pink, King and Coho salmon jump a spillway in the dam, Earthquake Park showing effects from the major 1964 earthquake, Port of Anchorage, Lake Hood – the busiest float plane airport in the world, University of Alaska, Anchorage, and more. We spend the next two nights in Anchorage.

16 WHITTIER / 26 GLACIER CRUISE

We leave Anchorage this morning on our Motorcoach for Whittier. On arrival in Whittier we board the No. 1 Glacier Cruise – the M / V “Klondike” for an unforgettable and leisurely 6 hour Cruise of 26 Glaciers. Lunch is included on Board the “Klondike”. We see the most beautiful area of dramatic and pristine Prince William Sound. On this Tour we will see not only the World’s Most Breathtaking Glaciers, but playful whales, porpoise, seals, bald eagles, and otters. The female sea otters swimming on their backs holding their babies on their stomachs is a sight you will remember forever! This has proven to be the most unforgettable day of the Tour.

17 MATANUSKA VALLEY / WRANGELL MOUNTAINS

Just outside Anchorage this morning we stop at the Visitor’s Center and Gardens at Palmer in the heart of the rich farming area of the Matanuska Valley for another look at some record size vegetables grown in the area. As we travel thru the MatSu Valley, we make our way by Matanuska Glacier and the scenic Wrangell Mountains to Tok for the night.

18 ALASKA HIGHWAY / WHITEHORSE or SKAGWAY

We leave Tok this morning and travel down the Alaska Highway to Whitehorse, Yukon Territory or Skagway, Alaska, depending on the Alaska Marine Highway schedule.

19 SKAGWAY / INSIDE PASSAGE CRUISE

Today we board the Marine Highway Ferry to travel the Inside Passage. We cruise through the beautiful Inside Passage on a smooth, gliding ride of 450 miles – so don’t worry about getting seasick, in the calm waters where we are never out of sight of land. Cabins are provided on board the Ferry for your comfort.

PLEASE NOTE: Accommodations on the inside passage are very limited. Due to this fact travelers will sometimes share a cabin while on the ferry.

20 SKAGWAY / INSIDE PASSAGE CRUISE (DAY 2)

We continue to cruise through the beautiful Inside Passage on a smooth, gliding ride of 450 miles – so don’t worry about getting seasick, in the calm waters where we are never out of sight of land. Cabins are provided on board the Ferry for your comfort.

21 BRITISH COLUMBIA / PRINCE RUPERT / FRASER LAKE

We go through downtown Prince Rupert and see their famous totem poles made by Local Indian Tribes. Then we continue on into British Columbia through its scenic mountain beauty of Terrace and Smithers to spend the night near Fraser Lake, British Columbia.

22 YELLOWHEAD HIGHWAY / MT. ROBSON / ALBERTA / JASPER NATIONAL PARK

We travel the Yellowhead Highway through the Canadian Rockies. We will stop to see snow covered Mt. Robson – the Highest Point in the Canadian Rockies at 12,972 feet. We cross the British Columbia / Alberta Border and enter Jasper National Park to spend the night near Jasper, Alberta surrounded by scenic mountainous beauty and abundant wildlife.

23 COLUMBIA ICEFIELDS PARKWAY / CANADIAN ROCKIES / LAKE LOUISE / BANFF NATIONAL PARK / CALGARY

We ride today through some of the most beautiful scenery in North America as we drive South along the Icefields Parkway. We travel by the huge Columbia Icefield and take the Iconic Glacier Adventure, with snow capped mountains and Spectacular Scenery making picture stops along the way to see Lake Louise, the Top Attraction in the Canadian Rockies. We stop in the little resort town of Banff for lunch before making our way into Calgary for the night.

24 ALBERTA / SASKATCHEWAN / REGINA

Today we travel across the large farming region of Alberta where bright yellow fields of Canola line the highway on our way into Saskatchewan. Then we make our way into the Provincial Capital City of Regina to spend the night. We stop at the Beautiful Provincial Flower Gardens in front of the Capitol in downtown Regina.

25 ROYAL CANADIAN MOUNTED POLICE MUSEUM / USA / NORTH DAKOTA

This morning we visit the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Museum in Regina covering the History of Canada’s most famous police force. We then head South saying good-bye to Canada as we enter the USA at North Dakota. We make our way into the State Capital City of Bismarck to spend the night.

26 NORTH DAKOTA CAPITOL / SOUTH DAKOTA / CORN PALACE

We stop at North Dakota’s Capitol in Bismarck this morning before making our way into South Dakota, stopping at their Capitol in Pierre. Then we head east to Mitchell to see the famous Corn Palace, decorated with almost 3,000 bushels of local corn and grasses. It is a tribute to the area residents and the fertility of the surrounding soil. We continue on to Sioux Falls, South Dakota for the night

27 IOWA / NEBRASKA / BOYS TOWN

Today we follow the Missouri River to Omaha, Nebraska. Just outside Omaha we tour Father Flanagan’s Boys Town. On this large Campus we see what has made this place so famous. The familiar Two Brothers Symbol and the Motto, “He ain’t heavy, Father, He’s my brother”, have represented Boys Town since the 1940’s. We spend the night near Iowa City, Iowa.

28 ILLINOIS / INDIANA / KENTUCKY

This morning we travel across Iowa and cross the Mississippi River into Illinois and then on to Indiana. We spend the night in Lexington, Kentucky.

29 HOMEWARD BOUND

We’re almost home as we go through Kentucky. We have travelled more than 9,000 miles on our Incredible Journey to “The Last Frontier”. We take home enough memories to last a lifetime!

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