Dreaming of an escape to the Sunshine Coast? You’re in for a treat! This laid-back coastal gem, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and rugged mountains, is a haven for outdoor lovers, foodies, and anyone craving a slower pace of life. And there’s no better place to start your adventure than Gibsons.
Perched at the southern tip of British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast, Gibsons is more than just a gateway—it’s a destination in its own right. With its charming marina, scenic hiking trails, hidden waterfalls, and a vibrant arts scene, this former fishing town offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re here to paddle through glassy waters, sip on locally brewed craft beer, or simply soak in the coastal vibes, Gibsons has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to see and do in Gibsons, must-visit spots nearby, top places to eat, and cozy stays that will make your visit unforgettable. Let’s dive in! (Just don’t take the “sunshine” in Sunshine Coast for granted—the name is more wishful thinking than a reflection of the year-round weather.)
Best accomodations in Gibsons:
- Luxury: Oceanfront Suite (beachfront villa)
- Mid-range: Bonniebrook Lodge (beachfront location)
- Budget: Gibsons Garden Hotel
What to do in Gibsons?
Let’s see the best things to do in Gibsons and its surroundings.
Explore Gibsons Landing
Gibsons Landing, the waterfront hub of the town, is the heart of this vibrant community. Stroll along the pier, shop in locally owned boutiques, or relax with a meal while enjoying views of Howe Sound, Keats Island, and the coastal mountains.
Highlights:
- Witness stunning pink winter sunsets
- Picnic at Winegarden Waterfront Park
- Browse unique local shops
Kayak to Keats Island
Gibsons Landing is a fantastic spot to rent a kayak and explore the calm waters of the Sunshine Coast. Paddle to Keats or Gambier Island for a scenic day trip. If you’re not confident kayaking solo, join a guided tour.
Pro tip: Apply sunscreen and bring a dry bag to keep your phone and valuables safe.
Eat burgers at Molly’s Reach
Gibsons is famous for Molly’s Reach, a restaurant serving burgers, fish and chips, local beers, and cocktails. More than just a dining spot, it was the filming location for The Beachcombers, one of Canada’s longest-running TV shows, with 387 episodes spanning nearly 20 years. After the show ended, Molly’s Reach was transformed into a real restaurant, preserving its iconic status in the community.
Relax on Armours Beach
Armours Beach offers a sandy shoreline with crystal-clear water and spectacular mountain views. A waterfront walkway leads from Gibsons Landing to this picturesque spot. While the water stays cool year-round, averaging 12.5°C in summer, it’s perfect for paddleboarding. And if you’re Canadian, it’s perfect for swimming too. (I’ve been trying to adapt, but I’m hopeless—I should have been born here!)
Visit the Sunshine Coast Museum & Archives
Did you know that Gibsons was named after George William Gibson, who pre-empted this land in 1886 and became a key leader in the growing community? In 1907, the settlement was officially named Gibson’s Landing in his honor.
At the Sunshine Coast Museum & Archives, you can explore the history of early European settlers, foresters, and fishermen, as well as the rich heritage of the region’s First Nations. One of the museum’s notable collections is dedicated to The Beachcombers, the long-running TV series filmed in Gibsons.
Be part of the community at Gibsons Public Market
Overlooking the harbor, Gibsons Public Market is open year-round, six days a week. It features fresh local produce, baked goods, flowers, live music, and community events. The on-site Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education Centre displays local marine life from Howe Sound.
Hike to the top of Soames Hill
Our absolute favorite activity in Gibsons? Hiking! No surprise there, right? British Columbia is a paradise for hikers, and the Sunshine Coast is no exception. The stunning coastal views from various hills define this region, and Soames Hill offers one of the most iconic panoramas—featuring islands, bays, and mountains.
Soames Hill Park boasts about 5 km of trails that wind through lush second-growth forest before leading up to the summit. Though the hike is relatively short, the elevation gain is 250 meters, and you’ll need to tackle over 400 steep steps to reach the top.
But trust us, the effort is worth it. The summit rewards you with breathtaking views of Gibsons Harbour, Howe Sound, and the surrounding islands and mountains. While the round-trip hike takes about an hour, we highly recommend allowing extra time to soak in the scenery. The large rocky plateau at the top makes for a perfect picnic spot.
You can access Soames Hill Park from four different entry points (see them here), but the most convenient way to get there is by car.
Soames Hills hike:
- Distance: 5 km round trip
- Elevation: 250 meters
- Time: about 1 hour (plus time to enjoy the views)
Chase waterfalls near Gibsons
You can find several waterfalls only a short drive away from Gibsons:
- Langdale Falls (2.6 km return): A short but steep hike requiring ropes for the final descent.
- Burnett Falls, Sechelt (0.5 km return): An easy forest walk to a peaceful waterfall.
- Roberts Creek Falls (1.8 km loop): A gentle trail to a twin waterfall in a lush forest.
These waterfalls are at their most spectacular in spring or after heavy rainfall. If you’re used to the powerful waterfalls of British Columbia, a late summer or early fall visit might be a bit underwhelming.
Langdale Falls
Langdale Falls is a short but adventurous hike, starting less than a 10-minute drive from the center of Gibsons. Though the trail isn’t long, it surprised us with some unexpectedly steep sections. To reach the base of Langdale Falls for the best view, we had to climb down with the help of ropes.
It’s a fun and rewarding adventure, but not an easy stroll. Small children or those with mobility challenges may find it difficult—we hiked with our 3-year-old and had to carry him through the steepest parts.
Proper hiking boots are essential for this trail.
Langdale Falls hike:
- Parking: Sprockids park
- Trailhead: Mount Elphinstone Hike Trailhead
- Length: 2.6 km return
- See trail map here.
Burnett Falls, Sechelt
Burnett Falls is just a trickle at the end of summer
Burnett Falls is a leisurely waterfall walk, just a 30-minute drive from Gibsons. A gentle forest trail begins at the end of Burnett Road in Sechelt and leads to a bench with a lovely view of Burnett Falls. While it’s not a particularly large waterfall, it’s surrounded by lush greenery, making for a peaceful and scenic stop. (And best of all, it requires almost no effort to reach!)
Afterward, enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding in the calm waters of Porpoise Bay.
Burnett Falls hike:
- Parking & trailhead: end of Burnett Road in Sechelt
- Length: 0.5 km return
- See trail map here.
Roberts Creek Falls, Roberts Creek
Just 20 minutes drive from Gibsons, this lovely forest trail leads you to a twin waterfall, then further along Roberts Creek. It’s an easy hike, but trail marking is not that straightforward.
Roberts Creek Falls hike:
- Parking & trailhead: at the end of Day Road in Roberts Creek
- Length: 1.8 km loop
- See trail map here.
Take a walk in Cliff Gilker Park
Cliff Gilker Park is just a 10-minute drive from Gibsons and is a local favorite for good reason. The trail winds through a beautiful forest, crossing a scenic bridge over Clack Creek, with several small waterfalls along the way. While none of the waterfalls are particularly large, the clear, rushing water makes for a peaceful and picturesque hike.
We chose the Red Trail loop, which is the best option for water lovers.
- Parking & trailhead: Cliff Gilker Park, just off of Sunshine Coast Highway
- Length: 2.2 km loop
- See trail map here.
- Find a park map here.
Stroll Davis Bay Beach in Sechelt at sunset
The Sunshine Coast is home to some truly idyllic sandy beaches, and Davis Bay Beach is no exception. With its stunning shoreline and a scenic waterfront promenade running alongside it, this spot is perfect for a leisurely sunset stroll.
Whether you’re watching the sky burst into shades of orange and pink, letting the kids dig their way to the other side of the world, or taking a refreshing summer swim, Davis Bay Beach offers a little something for everyone. Just don’t forget to pause and soak in the view—it’s one of the best on the coast.
Where to stay in Gibsons, BC?
Luxurious stay: Oceanfront Suite
Up for a pampering stay at a wonderful location? Oceanfront Suite is in a log home villa that overlooks the ocean, has access to a garden with ocean views, a picnic area and a beach. Trails up to Soames Hill start from here. They even offer kayaks and canoes (if you have experience in using them).
It’s a quiet neighborhood, still it’s only a few minutes drive from the ferry and Gibsons Landing.
Mid-range: Bonniebrook Lodge
This beautiful, historic lodge overlooks the Strait of Georgia and offers a private beach area. All the suites have their private entrance, and there’s a balcony and whirlpool tub for guests. Gibsons Landing is only 10 minutes drive away.
Budget stay: Gibsons Garden Hotel
If you’re on a stricter budget, stay a bit further away from the coast. This hotel is just off of the Sunshine Coast Highway and at a great location to explore Gibsons, and be close to the ferry. They offer a range of rooms, from the simplest to an executive suite (that’s not the budget option :)).
How to get to Gibsons from Vancouver?
The Sunshine Coast is a breathtakingly beautiful yet somewhat isolated region, separated from the mainland by dramatic coastal mountains. Located north of Vancouver along the Strait of Georgia, it can only be accessed by ferry, helicopter, or plane—unless you’re an exceptionally strong swimmer.
We opted for the ferry, with BC Ferries offering daily sailings between Horseshoe Bay and Langdale. The journey takes about 40 minutes and accommodates both foot passengers and vehicles.
Once you arrive in Langdale, Gibsons is just a quick five-minute drive away. However, public transportation on the Sunshine Coast is, let’s say, a bit of a rare species—so renting a car is highly recommended unless you enjoy long, scenic hikes… on highways.
Find the best car rental deals here!
Can you visit Gibsons on a day trip from Vancouver?
It’s not ideal, but you can. Pick an early morning ferry, and return late in the day. If you’re willing to have an action-packed itinerary, you can see quite a lot in a day.
This small-group day tour starts either in Langdale or Sechelt, and it takes you to some of the highlights of the region on a day tour: Gibsons Landing, Roberts Creek, Sechelt and Smuggler Cove Marine Provincial Park.
Book this Sunshine Coast day tour!
What to pack for the Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast may sound like a tropical paradise, but don’t be fooled—this coastal gem in British Columbia has a temperate rainforest climate, meaning you should be prepared for all kinds of weather, no matter the season. Whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or just strolling along the beach, here are five must-have items for every season.
Essential items for every season
- Waterproof Jacket – Rain can surprise you any time of year, and a good waterproof jacket will keep you dry while you explore.
- Comfortable Hiking Shoes (women; men) – Many of the best spots require a bit of walking, and the trails can get muddy, so sturdy footwear is a must.
- Sunscreen – The sun can be deceiving, even on cloudy days.
- Layers (including a warm sweater) – Even in summer, the evenings can get cool, and in winter, you’ll want an extra layer.
- Daypack – Whether you’re hiking Soames Hill or strolling through Gibsons Landing, a small backpack is great for carrying essentials.
the youngest hiker in the family, always in waterproof outfit!
What to pack for spring (March – May)
- Lightweight waterproof pants (women; men) – for unexpected rain and muddy trails
- Quick-dry clothing – it can be damp, but layering helps
- Binoculars – for spotting migrating birds and coastal wildlife
- Hat and gloves – it’s still chilly, especially in the mornings
What to pack for summer (June – August)
- Swimsuit – if you dare to brave the chilly ocean
- Sandals – for the beaches, boardwalks, and ferry rides
- Sunglasses – because when the sun comes out, it’s stunning
- Bug spray – mosquitoes love summer as much as you do
- Dry bag – for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just keeping your phone safe
What to pack for fall (September – November)
- Thermal base layers – fall hikes can be cool, and evenings get chilly
- Wool socks – because dry, warm feet make all the difference
- Flashlight or headlamp – days get shorter, and trails get dark fast
What to pack for winter (December – February)
- Insulated waterproof boots (women; men) – for wet and sometimes frosty conditions
- Touchscreen gloves – so you can check your map without freezing your fingers
- Beanie or warm hat – you’ll appreciate it on windy waterfront walks
- Thermos – perfect for keeping tea or coffee warm on outdoor adventures
- Microspikes – if you plan to hike—some trails can get icy
Check the weather before your trip—conditions change quickly! Dress in layers so you can adjust to the Sunshine Coast’s unpredictable weather.
More things to do on the Sunshine Coast?
Pender Hill and Mount Daniel offer some of the best ocean vistas not only on the Sunshine Coast, but in all of British Columbia.
Porpoise Bay has calm waters, so it’s ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding. Porpoise Bay Provincial Park also has a lovely campground.
Francis Point Lighthouse and Smuggler Cove offer short, scenic coastal trails.
Skookumchuck Narrows is a true “whitewater wonder”, reachable on trail or on water from the small town of Egmont.
Don’t leave without reading our detailed 7 days Vancouver itinerary!
