Length
Distance
The Sunshine Coast Passport Tour will take you on a journey up the coast, with 4 farmers’ markets in Gambier, Sechelt and Powell River, and tons of other things to taste & do in the region. Nestled in the southwest corner of BC, the Sunshine Coast is a 180 km (110 mile) stretch of coastal paradise, with a relaxed island vibe. You can find garden-fresh produce, locally raised meats and fresh caught fish at the decades-old markets in this region, and treasures crafted by the province’s largest community of artists.
Don’t forget to download the BC Farmers’ Market Trail app and start exploring this tour yourself! You’ll earn points for every stop you check-in at, level up, and earn rewards!
Start your trip on the Sunshine Coast Tasting Passport Tour at the Gambier Island Farmers’ Market. Back in 2017, this market started out with just two vendors selling their homemade baked goods, along with coffee and traditional chai tea. Since then it has blossomed into a community hub and “market crawl” around the Gambier Harbour.
It’s not your traditional market; Gambier residents set up stalls at the end of their driveways to sell their fresh produce and flowers from their gardens, baked goods, and handmade crafts and artwork. This truly local-to-local market is a must-visit, and it’s a unique way to directly support community members of the Sunshine Coast.
The next market takes us to Sechelt, at the Davis Bay Farmers’ Market. Located next to the historic Davis Bay Wilson Creek Community Hall, this market strives to be “beyond organic”, providing local and super-fresh produce straight from the garden to the market, and then to your plate.
You can pick up a diverse selection of locally grown produce, as well as freshly made bread, baked goods, fruit preserves crafts and artworks. You can also grab hot breakfast and sandwiches, coffee and more!
Staying in Sechelt, our next stop is the Sechelt Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market, the largest outdoor market on the Sunshine Coast! The Sechelt Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market hosts more than 60 vendors every Saturday from the end of March to October, rain or shine.
This market focuses on providing top-notch and hyper-local food and handcrafted artwork. Started by a small group of local farmers and artists, this market has blossomed into a major community hub over the last 25 years. Stop by this market for fresh produce, fresh caught seafood, flowers and baked goods, and artisan items like craft beer, artwork and crafts!
Next, head up to Powell River to visit the Powell River Farmers’ Market, a charming country-style market that has been celebrating the region’s farming heritage for more than 30 years. The Powell River Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday from May through September, and Sundays year-round.
Stock up on organic produce, or grab a hot meal, and enjoy live music and shopping from local vendors and artisans. If you’re bringing the kids along, they’ll love to ride on the train at the miniature railroad.
The Lagoon Restaurant at Painted Boat Resort, Spa & Marina
When visiting the Sunshine Coast, the Lagoon Restaurant in Madeira Park is a must-visit for foodies. Located at the Painted Boat Resort, The Lagoon Restaurant is a waterfront restaurant overlooking Pender Harbour. Their menu showcases locally sourced ingredients with Pacific Northwest flavours. They offer a seasonal menu using fresh and local ingredients whenever possible. Enjoy their craft cocktails or a glass off their menu of local wines.
Wild Scoop Ice Cream
If you’re in Powell River and looking for a sweet treat check out Wild Scoop Ice Cream. Wild Scoop Ice Cream makes hand-crafted artisan ice cream using milk from grass-fed dairy cows and organic ingredients. They also offer delicious lunch options like soups and sandwiches.
Explore some of the fun and unique things to do on the Sunshine Coast with immersive farm experiences, foraging tours, guided tours and adventures, museums and more!
Farm Ventures
Farm Ventures on the Sunshine Coast offers a unique farm experience with hands-on interactions. Visitors can enjoy petting zoos, scenic horse and pony rides, and farm tours. They also provide mobile petting farms and pony rides for special events. It’s the perfect spot for a day with the family.
Shaggy Jack’s Market
Shaggy Jack’s offers educational eco-tours focused on wild and sustainable foods through immersive workshops and experiences. Join a foraging excursion or visit their market filled with locally sourced items. Their tours and classes cater to all skill levels, providing in-depth knowledge about mushrooms and sustainable practices.
Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park
Discover Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park and witness the natural marvel of the Skookumchuck Narrows from viewing spots like Roland Point and North Point. The powerful Sechelt Rapids undergo dramatic changes, with water levels varying by over 9 feet, creating impressive whirlpools that attract extreme kayakers and divers worldwide.
Terracentric Coastal Adventures
Terracentric Coastal Adventures offers small group and private guided adventure tours, suitable for all ages and experience levels. Experienced local guides lead guests on boat, kayak, and hiking tours, designed for participants to discover and appreciate the natural wonders of British Columbia’s west coast. Terracentric also provides kayak rentals, lessons, and marine transport to the Sunshine Coast Trail and Desolation Sound.
Powell River Historic District
Powell River Historic Townsite is a must-visit when you’re on the Sunshine Coast. With over 400 preserved original buildings from the early 20th century, it’s like taking a step back in time. Once home to the world’s largest pulp and paper mill, it now invites exploration of its rich heritage. Get a Historic Townsite Walking Tour Map from a Sunshine Coast Visitor Centre to start your journey.
Patricia Theatre
Established in 1913, the Patricia Theatre is Canada’s oldest continuously operating movie theatre! Located in the heart of the Historic Townsite, the recently restored theatre offers an authentic movie-going experience with modern digital and sound systems. Check it out for your next movie night, or one of their special events.
tems swiya Museum
The tems swiya Museum is a must-see when you’re in Sechelt. This First Nations museum is owned and operated by the shíshálh Nation. Home to an extensive collection of artifacts belonging to the shíshálh Nation, it is integral to the conservation of shíshálh cultural heritage.
Talaysay Tours
Talaysay Tours offers authentic cultural and educational experiences with unique eco-tours. They share First Nations history, culture and traditional ways of living through kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, nature walks, and Coast Salish Art tours.
Plan your stay on the Sunshine Coast with a range of accommodations from high-end oceanfront resorts to cozy cottages, hostels and scenic campgrounds. Find the best option for you at SunshineCoastCanada.com.