• Check the Tide Charts. The swim spots and view points around Gibson’s are all at their best towards high tide. Try and time these activities accordingly. 
• Bring your car or plan around transit. The main town in Gibsons is tiny and walkable but everything outside of the main street is a bit of a mission. A 5 minute drive becomes a 30 minute walk and there is no flat ground to be found. It's mostly steep roads with no sidewalks. So walking and biking is only for those who enjoy a challenge. There are local buses that are infrequent but well planned routes. BC Transit is your best bet for researching transit routes ahead of time.
• Time Your Ferry Right The Langdale ferry is the main gateway to Gibsons, and sailings can fill up fast, especially on weekends or holidays. Make a reservation if you’re driving, and if you’re walking on, be ready for lineups during peak hours. Missing a sailing can set you back by hours.
• Pack Layers Even on a warm summer day, the ocean breeze can be chilly. If you’re heading out early for sunrise views or staying late for a patio drink, a light jacket makes the difference between cozy and cold.
• Check business hours as you plan. A lot of businesses close early and some are only open Thursday to Sunday (the busiest times for day trip crowds). A lot of businesses also do themed nights like movie nights, live music, or social events.

This is the heart of town, right on the waterfront. You’ll find art galleries, small shops, and a handful of cozy cafés. It’s a nice place to slow down, grab a coffee, walk the pier, and watch the boats come and go.

1. The Pier: Have a stroll and take in the views of the water and surrounding hills. Early morning or late afternoon is perfect for soft light. Keep an eye out for local fishermen bringing in their catch or the handful of unique ships in the harbour.
2. The Main Drag: Quaint boutiques, artisan shops, and galleries line the street. It’s perfect for wandering without a plan. Pop into a shop, chat with a local, or just soak up the atmosphere. Its no more than a 20 minute walk across the whole area but you can take your time going through the shops.
3. The Waterfront Shops and Restaurants: Along the edge of the water you’ll find cafés and restaurants with patios overlooking the harbor. Great spot for lunch or an afternoon snack, especially if you want to watch boats drift by.

The Gibsons Public Market isn’t big but it's a great bubble of Gibson vibes. Just a short walk uphill from the marina and along the coastal path, it makes for a natural stop if you’re wandering the town. Inside you’ll find a handful of vendors selling everything from fresh produce and specialty groceries to baked goods and handmade crafts.

Pop in for a coffee and a pastry and have a chat with the people behind the counter. Everyone who works here is friendly, and the whole place has an easy going feel that Gibsons does so well.

Aside from shopping, there’s often something happening here on weekends. Live music, cooking demos, or small events that pull in both locals and visitors. There’s a casual café space if you want to sit down for a bit, and if the sun’s out, it’s a good spot to grab something to go before continuing your walk along the waterfront.

Rentals are easy to find in Gibsons, and paddling around the harbor gives you a whole new perspective of the shoreline. Some more intense people take Kayaks across the water to Keates Island for the day. It's not too long of a paddle but water conditions can change quickly so only attempt this if you're experienced out on the water.

Armours Beach isn’t the most dramatic or impressive stretch of coastline, but the walk there makes it worth it. Starting from Gibsons Harbour, a seaside path winds along the water with constant views and blackberry bushes lining the way. If you’re here in late summer, you can pick and snack as you go. The trail also extends the other direction all the way to the public market.

The beach itself is more of a local hangout than a full-day beach destination. It’s a small, sectioned-off swimming area with calm water and a dock to jump from. On a hot day it’s perfect for a refreshing dip and stretching out in the sun for a bit. If you’re looking for soft sand and space to spread out, you’ll want to head elsewhere.

If you’ve only got time for one beach experience in Gibsons, this isn’t the one. But if you’re in town already, it’s a great walk with an easy reward at the end: a quick swim, some sun, and a taste of local life.

Beachcombers is a local and tourist favorite just steps from the waterfront. The aroma hits you before you even step inside, and their espresso is strong enough to wake you up after a morning walk along the pier. Grab a seat outside if the weather’s nice and watch the town go by. They are right on the main stretch so its prime people watching. Fishermen coming up from their boats, locals chatting, and tourists wandering by. Perfect little pause before exploring the rest of the waterfront.

If you’re in Gibsons on a weekend, check for the farmers market schedule. It’s a small one, but great for local food, crafts, and chatting with people who actually live here.

Right in Gibsons Landing, Tapworks has a great rooftop patio that overlooks the harbor. Chill vibes, good pizza, and local beers. The Bao Buns here are particularly good. If you’re picking between Tapworks and Persephone I would say try both. If you don’t have time for both, check out Tapworks on a cloudy day and Persephone if the sun is shining.

Gibsons has a big community of artists; many galleries are tucked into the Landing. Some galleries are open to the public regularly and on some weekends, you can catch studio tours.

Just a few minutes’ walk from the harbour, this little museum is an easy stop if you’re curious about local history, or if you need a backup plan on a rainy day. Admission is by donation, and while it’s not going to be everyone’s idea of a must-see, it’s surprisingly well done for a small-town exhibit. I checked it out while Alia went shopping (museums put her to sleep), and I honestly had a ball because I love these kinds of things.

The museum tells the story of Gibsons and the Sunshine Coast, while also acknowledging that the land is unceded territory of the Squamish Nation. Inside you’ll find two floors of artifacts and displays: everything from 5,000-year-old stone tools to vintage typewriters, photographs of the coast through the 1900s, and even old boats. There’s a reconstructed settler’s kitchen, an area full of phones and telegraphs, and galleries lined with black-and-white portraits. All together it gives a thorough sense of what the coast was like 100 years ago.

It’s not overwhelming in scale. You’ll stumble across quirky details, like the post office drama of the 1920s or the annual canoe pillow fights of the same era. The staff are friendly, clearly proud of the collection, and they’ve even put together a scavenger hunt to keep kids engaged (maybe it would’ve helped Alia too).

If you love stopping to read plaques when you travel, you’ll get a kick out of it. And if not, keep it in your back pocket for when you’re feeling cooped up on a rainy day.

There are two trailheads for Soames Hill (Bridgeman or Eperensa Road), but both routes are pretty similar: wide, flat forest paths that quickly start climbing toward the top. They meet at a wooden staircase that takes you most of the way up. About 75% of the incline is on well-built wooden steps. It will get your heart rate going but its good and stable terrain. The last stretch is a bit more off road feeling. Once the stairs end, you’ve got a steep rocky section right alongside a cliff. It’s short, but definitely a slippery scramble, so take your time here.

At the top, the forest opens into a wide rocky viewpoint that looks straight out over Howe Sound. From here you can spot Keats Island right across the harbour, the colourful little curve of Gibson’s Harbour itself, and on a clear day you can see a little portion of the Vancouver skyline. To the left, Bowen Island rises behind Keats, and on the far horizon you’ll sometimes catch the squiggly outline of Vancouver Island’s mountains.

The hike is short but steep. If you’re not used to uneven terrain, the scramble at the end might feel like a challenge, but for anyone who hikes even casually it’s no problem. Alia did the whole thing in her Teva sandals after forgetting her boots; she was fine, but wished she’d worn proper shoes for the way down.

It’s one of the best bang-for-your-buck hikes in Gibsons: quick, accessible, and with a view that’s perfect for sunrise or sunset.

This is the Trailhead. There is free parking with quite a bit of space. The hike can be done as a loop or as an out and back.

It is an easy hike with wide paths and well maintained trails. Mostly flat with a few gentle inclines. You will talk through the forest in the shade for the entire trail so it stays nice and cool. The trail is easy to follow but criss-crosses with a bunch of mountain biking trails so pay attention to the signs and stick on the walking trail to Langdale Falls.

The challenging part is getting down the last 10 meters to the falls. This part is steep and slippery. It's a close to vertical scramble down some roots. There is a rope set up to help you get down. You’re not really repelling or anything, but it might be too much for people with lesser mobility and tricky for older dogs.

The falls themself are cool but won't be the highlight of your trip to Gibsons. The surrounding forest is stunning and iconically BC. The waterfall itself is about 40 feet and if you come just after some rain it's got some power. The pool at the bottom is pretty small. There are areas you could lay down to dunk for a cold dip but it's not really a swim spot.

Overall this is a great short hike. It's a perfect one to do on a cloudy or rainy day. Some of the other hikes are more worth it if you’re short on time.

We’ve been to Persephone twice now. Once on a misty late-October afternoon and once on a hot August evening. Both times felt totally different, but equally great. The foggy fall visit had this cozy/remote vibe, while the summer night was buzzing with people, music, and food trucks.

The brewery sits on a big farm property just outside of Gibsons. You can actually wander around and check out the barley fields, berry patch, and chicken coop. In the summer, they set out yard games and when the fire ban lifts, there’s wood ready for you to build your own little fire. It’s the kind of spot where you can spend hours without realizing it.

Seating is spread out across the property, so you’ve got options: the big shared picnic tables where it’s easy to strike up a conversation, smaller tucked-away tables for a quieter hangout, and some indoor spaces that have more of a “mancave” feel. 

As for the beer, it’s some of the best you’ll find on the Sunshine Coast, and they usually have a wide range on tap. They do some ciders and seltzers too; there is something for everyone. 

There is also a bookstore upstairs in the loft. It's an offshoot of an amazing bookstore on Granville Island in Vancouver. They have a small selection of books that are perfect to pick up for your sunshine coast road trip. It's a well curated collection. You will get some best sellers and bookstore staples, but you will also get thematic shelves revolving around local flora, indigenous history, or foraging guides.

This is a different experience every time you come. Check the event schedule if you want to line up your visit with some live music. Go on a weekend evening in summer if you want energy, or drop by in shoulder season for a laid-back afternoon with fewer people.

A long stretch of rocky shoreline that’s perfect for an evening walk, especially at sunset. Driftwood everywhere, views across to Vancouver Island, and the sound of the waves. There is lots of free parking and the beach is massive so everyone can carve out their own space.

There are just two road side parking spots next to this rocky outcrop. Top notch view point across the straight of Georgia. It’s a great viewpoint with no hike needed. It’s better at high tide and when the wind isn’t too strong. Right next to Franklin Beach and Secret Beach if you want to pair it with a swim. Both beaches are best at high tide.

This is a food truck style cafe parked up at Sunday Cider. There’s a large picnic area with big shared picnic tables, date style muskoka chairs, empty areas to lay down a picnic blanket, and even swinging chairs hanging from trees. Fun for all ages and species. There were as many babies and dogs as there were adults the last time we went.

There are yard games and gardens. The cafe has a killer brunch menu and our favourite coffee on the coast. If you come a bit later in the day Sunday Cider might be the move; but it's all a shared lounge area so everyone in your group can decide where they are at in their day. Also, on Thursdays they do outdoor movie nights and on Fridays they do live music.

This is the perfect spot to stop between Gibsons and Sechelt. There isn’t much there but it’s so charming. The main attraction is their great beach and its huge natural pier. The few shops and services are just up the road from the beach. It’s one of the busier beaches for swimming but it’s huge so you will have lots of space to yourself. 

One of the most talked about spots in town is the Gumboot Restaurant. Adorable, delicious, and iconic. Grab some lunch at the cafe and then head next door to One Tiny Farm. It’s a small farm with honesty system produce for sale. They host community farm-to-table dinners and support local projects. They have a beautiful farm and lots of plaques explaining what’s going on with their organization. It’s a quick and wholesome stop.

Our go-to is The Tin Can Ranch, a retro Airstream that’s been converted into a cozy little escape. It’s set up with a deck, outdoor kitchen, sauna, plunge tub, and even an outdoor shower. The vibe is quirky but thoughtful, and it feels like a mix between glamping and a boutique stay. The location is quiet but still less than a 10-minute drive from the Langdale ferry, so it’s super convenient.

The owner is friendly and goes out of their way to make the space feel special, which is why we keep recommending it. The outdoor sauna and plunge tub combo is especially good after a day of hiking or exploring town. If you’re after something unique and memorable instead of a chain hotel, this is the spot.

If the Airstream’s not available, Gibsons also has a good mix of B&Bs, small cabins, and guesthouses that give you the same local, laid-back feel. Book early in summer; weekends fill up fast.

Another unique stay option is the Creekside Bunkies, a cozy three-cabin retreat near Gibsons with outdoor shower, loft, fire pit, and trails. It's pet friendly too!

For a more traditional stay check out:

• Bonniebrook Lodge: Beachfront lodge in Gibsons with sea views, French dining, and a private garden. Perfect for a romantic coastal escape.
• Gibsons Landing Inn: Central Gibsons location with modern suites, kitchens, and garden terraces. Just steps from beaches, shops, and cafés.

Getting to Gibsons is straightforward and part of the fun. From Vancouver, make your way to Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal in West Vancouver. The ferry crossing to Langdale takes about 40 minutes, with departures running roughly every 1 to 2 hours. You can walk on as a foot passenger or bring your car if you’re planning to explore beyond Gibsons.

If you’re driving, reservations are smart in the summer months. Ferries fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. You can always arrive a little over an hour before the sailing and try to get a spot but it won't always work. Foot passengers don’t need to book ahead, and if you’re just exploring Gibsons and nearby hikes, you can get around fine with local buses, taxis, or even an e-bike rental once you’re off the ferry.

Once you dock at Langdale, Gibsons is only a 10-minute drive (or a quick bus ride) away. The ferry itself gives you classic West Coast views of the mountains and islands, so treat the ride as the start of your trip, not just transportation.

Gibsons is a year-round destination, but the vibe changes with the seasons.

• Summer (June to Early September): The most popular time to visit. Warm weather, sunny days, and long evenings make it perfect for beaches, hikes, and patios. Expect more crowds and book accommodation early.
• Fall (Late September to November): Quieter and cooler, with beautiful foliage and fewer visitors. Great for hiking and cozy evenings in.
• Winter (December to February): Rainy but peaceful. Not ideal for beaches, but a good time for storm-watching, quiet forest walks, and slower travel. Accommodation is usually cheaper.
• Spring (March to May): A sweet spot. Everything starts blooming, trails are quiet, and the weather can surprise you with sunny stretches.

If you want the best balance of weather and fewer people, late spring and early fall are your windows.

Once you’re done exploring Gibsons, the Sunshine Coast is worth following all the way north. The coastline is dotted with charming towns, hidden beaches, and forested trails. A short drive will take you through Roberts Creek, with its bohemian vibe, murals, and seaside paths, and on to Sechelt, where you can wander the waterfront or grab a bite at a local café. 

From there keep heading north to Pender Harbour, a cluster of small inlets perfect for kayaking, fishing, or just taking in the dramatic views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. The road hugs the coastline for most of the way, so every turn offers a postcard-perfect stop; think sandy coves, thick cedar forests, and mountains that rise straight from the water.

If you have extra time, consider hopping on the ferry from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay. From there, you can continue exploring the northern reaches of the Sunshine Coast, with even quieter beaches and hiking trails that see fewer tourists.

This is an amazing road trip route. If you don't have your own car you will want to rent one in the city and take it over on the ferry. You can compare all the major brands in one place here:

Packing for Gibsons depends on the season, but a few staples will make your trip smoother no matter when you go:

• Layers: Weather on the Sunshine Coast can flip quickly. Bring a mix of t-shirts, long sleeves, and a warm layer like a fleece or light puffer.
• Rain Jacket: Even in summer, sudden showers are common. A packable waterproof layer is essential.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Most trails around Gibsons are easy, but you’ll still want shoes with grip for forest paths and the scramble down to Langdale Falls.
• Swimwear: In summer, beaches like Armours and Bonniebrook are perfect for a dip. Even in colder months, some cabins and rentals have hot tubs or saunas.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water here is safe and delicious so you can skip on buying plastic bottles.
• Daypack: Handy for hikes, carrying snacks, and stashing an extra layer.
• Camera / Phone with Space: Between colorful harbor shots, forest trails, and ferry views, you’ll fill it fast.
• Bug Spray (spring & summer): Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially near water or at dusk.
• Headlamp / Flashlight: Trails and rural roads don’t always have lighting, so a headlamp is great for evening walks back to your stay.
• Book or Journal: Gibsons has a slow, cozy pace. Perfect downtime activity for mornings with coffee or evenings on a deck.