13 Wonderful things to do in Gibsons, BC

After three visits to Gibsons, BC, I can happily say that this is one of my favourite places on the Sunshine Coast. In this guide, I’m sharing the best things to do in Gibsons if you’re visiting for the first time in 2026.

Located within the traditional territories of the Squamish (Skwxwú7mesh), Sechelt (Shíshálh), and Sliammon (Tla’Amin) and Klahoose First Nations, the Sunshine Coast is filled with natural wonders. Here you’ll find majestic old growth forests, secluded beaches, magical fjords that cut through rugged mountain ranges, and quaint towns. Perched at the southern end, Gibsons is the gateway to the Sunshine Coast. This quaint town is formally known as Gibson’s Landing and is often the first stop for visitors arriving from Vancouver. There are so many great things to do in Gibsons, from outdoor adventures to art and music events.

I’ve visited Gibsons several times over the past few years (it’s one of my favourite weekend trips from Vancouver). I’ve gone hiking and kayaking, eaten my way around the town, and discovered nearby local gems. In this guide, I’m covering the very best things to do in Gibsons to help you plan your own trip. You’ll also find accommodation recommendations and personal tips to make the most of your time in this cute town!

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TLDR: Top things to do in Gibsons, BC

If you’re visiting Gibsons for the first time and are wondering what to do, here are the three must-do activities I would prioritise (based on my own experience):

Hike Soames Hill
Kayak to Keats Island
Visit Nicholas Sonntag TidePools Aquarium

The best things to do in Gibsons

For such a compact town, there is no shortage of wonderful things to do in Gibsons. Here are my personal favourite sights and activities to see and do.

1. Explore the town

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Howe Sound, Gibsons is a very pretty town. Although the town might be small, there’s a lot to explore. Browse the local clothing stores and charming shops that line the Landing, before stopping in Winegarden Waterfront Park. With sweeping views of the harbour and Keats Island, it’s a lovely spot to sit and relax.

At the bottom of School Road, you’ll find Molly’s Reach, the iconic restaurant featured in CBC’s The Beachcombers. This TV show was one of the longest-running television shows in Canada and ran for 387 episodes before wrapping up in 1990. In 1995, the property was converted into a restaurant and is still heavily associated with the show.

The ‘Persephone’, the logging tugboat that appeared in the show, was donated to the town in 1991. It was restored by volunteers and installed in 2007 as a historical landmark next to Molly’s Reach. As a Brit who didn’t grow up in Canada, I had never heard of The Beachcombers before I visited Gibsons, but my Canadian friends were very excited to see these sights! If you were a fan of the show, you can visit the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives and check out the “Beachcomber Relics” exhibit.

2026 Opening Hours:

Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30am to 4:30pm

Travel tip: Make sure you pop into Gibsons Visitor Centre during your trip. The team are so friendly and will give you advice on what to see and do during your stay. You can pick up travel guides, brochures and maps as well.

2. Visit Gibsons Public Market

This charming public market is situated in the heart of Gibsons Landing and overlooks the harbour and marina. Open all year round, here you’ll find a traditional market with local merchants offering fresh produce, delicious baked goods, beautiful flower arrangements, and specialty products.

But Gibsons Public Market is much more than just a market. It’s a community hub where residents and visitors alike can enjoy art and entertainment. They host live music on Saturday afternoons, cooking classes, art shows, food demos and more. Our Air BnB host told us a trip to the market was one of the best things to do in Gibsons and she was certainly right! You can check what is on during your visit on their website.

3. Hike Soames Hill

Soames Hill Park has over 5 km (3 miles) of trails which wind through the impressive second-growth forest, leading to sweeping views over Gibsons Harbour, Howe Sound, and the coastal mountains. I’ve been lucky to visit many of the towns on the Sunshine Coast over the past 5 years, and this is still one of my favourite hikes!

The hike up Soames Hill can be done in under an hour but I recommend setting aside a few hours so you can enjoy the views at the top. My friends and I packed a little picnic and sat at the top for a couple of hours just soaking in the views.

While the hike may be short, don’t be fooled! It is quite a good workout as it’s all uphill and involves climbing 434 steps to the top. Make sure you are prepared; take plenty of water and wear sensible shoes with good grip. It’s not uncommon for bears and other wildlife to frequent the park, so make sure you are prepared and be bear aware.

You can access the park from four different locations as shown on this map, courtesy of the Sunshine Coast Regional District. You can take your dog but it must be on a leash at all times. If you need more information, the Sunshine Coast Regional District website is a great resource.

4. Visit the aquarium and learn about Howe Sound’s marine ecosystem

Remember when I said Gibsons Public Market was much more than a market? In addition to all the events they run, the market is also home to the Nicholas Sonntag TidePools Aquarium where you can immerse yourself into the underwater world of Howe Sound. If you’re visiting with kids, this is one of the best things to do in Gibsons as a family!

Located on the top floor of the building, the Tidepools Aquarium operates under a ‘collect-and-release’ model. The aquarium’s professional SCUBA divers collect local marine life which housed in the centre for around 6 to 18 months (depending on the species), and then released back into its natural environment. This philosophy promotes sustainable education and allows the public to learn more about their local coastal waters without damaging the ecosystem.

2026 Ticket Prices:

It costs $15 per adult, $11 for students, $13 for seniors, and $7 for children aged 4 – 17. You can find more information on their website.

2026 Opening Hours:

Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm

5. Go kayaking

Gibsons’ location makes it an ideal place to explore the nearby islands in Howe Sound, namely Keats and Gambier. If you’d like to get out on the water, there are a number of companies kayak rentals, lessons and guided tours. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as there are often a few curious sea lions that pop up from time to time!

There are plenty of sheltered inlets and bays around the Sunshine Coast so kayakers of all levels can enjoy this activity. That being said, if you’re renting privately, the local companies do prefer you to have previous experience. This is the case particularly in Gibsons as the winds can be quite strong in Howe Sound.

We booked our kayak rental with Alpha Adventures. Although they’re based in Sechelt, they deliver kayaks and paddle boards to your location on the water. They will bring all the gear (kayaks, oars, life jackets etc.), but you should bring your own dry bag to keep your personal items dry. We didn’t make it all the way to Keats Island as it was so windy on the day we went but we still had a great time and spotted a few seals along the way!

6. Take a boat trip to Keats Island

Keats Island is a small, largely undeveloped island across from Gibsons. It’s home to quiet beaches, forested trails, and beautiful coastal views. There are no cars and very limited facilities, so it really is the perfect place to unwind and switch off. If you don’t fancy kayaking to Keats Island, the Gibsons Harbour Ferry is a popular alternative. The water taxi costs $60 each way for a group of up to 12 passengers.

Once you get there, explore Plumper Cove Marine Provincial Park, one of British Columbia’s oldest marine parks. There are a number of scenic hiking trails on the island such as Keats Loop (approximately 4.3 km with panoramic lookout points), and Salmon Rock-Out-and-Back (about 3.1 km leading to a rocky outcrop).

Food and drink options are very limited. In July and August, Barnabas Landing General Store is open to the public and serves refreshing drinks and fresh-farm produce. If you’re visiting Keats Island outside of the summer months, make sure you pack a picnic and take plenty of drinking water with you.

7. Check out the local cideries

Cider lovers, you’re in luck! Gibsons has two great cideries. Banditry Cider is a beautiful property with an orchard, wetland, and forest to explore. Bring a picnic and enjoy your afternoon sampling their semi-dry apple or hopped blackberry ciders. You can also get a growler filled to take away with you (for my non-Canadian readers, a growler is a cool looking refillable beer bottle). They also serve non-alcoholic tasting flights made with their in-house sodas which is perfect if you don’t drink or are the designated driver like me!

Just a short drive from Gibsons, right off Highway 101, is my favourite cidery, Sunday Cider. They have a lovely outdoor cider bar and picnic area where you can sit and enjoy a drink. In winter, it’s so cozy as they have little fire pits you can sit around! Their flagship cider is the Sunday Sesh which is very light and easy to drink, but my favourite is the Sunday Rosé. It’s made from Okanagan apples, Saskatoon berries, hibiscus, and elderflowers so it’s on the sweet side but it’s delicious. Their ciders are gluten free and vegan-friendly and are made on site in small batches from 100% fresh pressed BC apples.

8. Sample the local craft beers

Home to multiple award-winning craft breweries, the Sunshine Coast has an incredible craft beer culture. So much so that there is actually a Sunshine Coast Ale Trail which stretches all the way from the south coast to the north coast!

There are now three distinct breweries in Gibsons. I’m not a beer drinker (I’ll take wine and cider over beer any day!) but my friends love trying new craft beers so we have visited all three breweries and it was such a fun thing to do in Gibsons. Each place has it’s own unique atmosphere and has plenty of options for non-beer drinkers, including some tasty non-alcoholic beverages.

Persephone Brewing: One of British Columbia’s most unique breweries, Persephone Brewing doesn’t just grow beer. It’s also a farming community with two fields, two apple orchards and two market gardens. This ‘beer farm’ is a wonderful spot to relax whilst trying some of their local beers.
The 101 Brewhouse + Distillery: For the non-beer drinkers (myself included), the 101 Brewhouse + Distillery offers the best of both worlds. Gibsons’ first craft distillery, it has an array of unique gin and vodka cocktails, as well as locally brewed beers.
Tapworks Brewing Company: If you’re looking for somewhere with a view, Tapworks Brewing Company has a large patio which looks out over the ocean and the mountains. And better yet, they host fun trivia nights every Monday.

9. Visit the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives

The Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives is another wonderful thing to do in Gibsons, especially on a rainy day. Housed in a beautiful heritage building with views over the harbour, the museum has some incredible collections. From Indigenous artifacts to early settler tools, it’s a great way to learn about the area’s rich history. As I mentioned earlier, you’ll also find a nod to Gibson’s claim to fame here with The Beachcombers exhibit with memorabilia from the beloved TV show.

In the summer, the museum hosts free historical walking tours on the weekends. They also hold workshops, film screenings and events for the community. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30am to 4:30pm.

2026 Opening Hours:

Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30am to 4:30pm

10. Walk the seawall path

A great way to see some of Gibsons’ main sights is by walking the seawall path from Gibsons Marina to Armors Beah. It’s a pretty flat walk that will take you past some of the best things to see and do in Gibsons. The trail is accessible from the bottom of Winegarden Park, just down the hill from the visitor centre.

The trail will take you to Armors Beach, a favourite swimming spot for locals. The beach park has lovely views of Keats Island and grassy areas to sit and relax. There are also picnic tables and bathroom facilities, making it a popular spot for families.

11. Explore Gibsons Public Art Gallery

Located in the heart of historic Gibsons, BC, Gibsons Public Art Gallery showcases local, regional and visiting artists. The gallery features everything from contemporary paintings and photography, to ceramics, sculptures and mixed media. It’s also a creative hub for the local community and visitors, hosting workshops, artist talks and events.

The art gallery is open every day from 11am to 4pm in the summer; however, it often closes after an exhibition closes for the deinstall. You can check their calendar for the most up to date schedule. Admission is free but as a non-profit registered charity, they are grateful for donations.

2026 Opening Hours:

Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 4pm (closed Tuesday and Wednesday)

12. Pop into the Kube

For art enthusiasts, I highly recommend checking out the Kube. It’s a unique art gallery which carries carefully sourced local and international pieces. You can also find beautiful home decor, unique gifts and apothecary from the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver here. It’s a great place to pop into when you’re exploring if you want to find hand-crafted artisan items.

13. Visit the other coastal towns on the South Coast

Gibsons is a wonderful base from which to explore the other coastal towns. Roberts Creek, Sechelt, Halfmoon Bay, and Pender Harbour are all situated along the South Coast on Highway 101, the main highway on the Sunshine Coast. They’re a short drive from Gibsons so you could easily visit a couple of them on a day trip depending on how much time you have.

If you don’t have a lot of time and there’s only one thing you do, I’d highly recommend driving along the coast to Smuggler Cove Marine Park near Sechelt. Used in the 1920’s by American prohibition alcohol smugglers, the area has a very colourful history! Today, it’s a popular spot for hiking and offers impressive views over Georgia Straight, Thormanby Island, and Texada Island.

Where to eat and drink in Gibsons

With a vibrant food scene, your biggest challenge will be choosing where to dine. Here are a few of my personal favourites:

Buono Osteria

Serving simple dishes packed with fresh, natural flavours is Buono’s speciality. Perched on the water’s edge, the restaurant offers a scenic setting which is complimented by the warm hospitality and focus on Italian family style dining.

Lunitas Mexican Eatery

From Italy to Mexico. Lunitas Mexican Eatery is a must-visit if you’re partial to tacos, burrito bowls, and tequila fuelled cocktails. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and serves up modern-day versions of classic Mexican dishes.

Smoke on the Water BBQ

Commonly known as ‘the barbecue shack’ by locals, Smoke On The Water BBQ is located right on the wharf offering diners a beautiful view. All of their meats are smoked on site with real hardwood to recreate those authentic southern flavours. If you’re a fan of BBQ food, you simply have to try their signature pulled pork, chicken and brisket sandwiches. It’s primarily a takeout venue but it does have 14 seats outside overlooking the harbour.

Smitty’s Oyster House

Just a stone’s throw from the waterfront, Smitty’s Oyster House is ideally situated to serve some of Gibsons’ best seafood. I’m sadly allergic to shellfish so we didn’t personally dine here, but several locals recommended it to us so I had to include it here. If you’re a lover of seafood, book a table at this former marine repair shop and enjoy the catch of the day.

The Black Bean

If you’re looking for a breakfast or lunch spot, stop by The Black Bean in lower Gibsons. They serve gluten-free muffins, bakes sweets, breakfast sandwiches, and hearty soups.

Beachcomber Coffee Co

No trip to Gibsons would be complete without stopping by Beachcomber Coffee Co. Known for their specialty coffees, it’s here that you’ll find the delicious Deadly Donuts (and the real reason for our visit to the coffee shop). These donuts were created in collaboration with Cheeky Monkey Cakes in Sechelt and are available in vegan and gluten free options.

How to get to Gibsons, BC

By car

From Vancouver, Gibsons is a mere 40 minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay and trust me when I tell you it is a beautiful journey! The ferry ride will always be one of my favourite things about visiting the Sunshine Coast or Vancouver Island – it really feels like you’re setting off on an adventure. My biggest tip? Always have your camera ready and spend as much time out on the deck as you can. I have seen whales, dolphins and seals on several ferry crossings. Just make sure you wrap up warm!

Ferries do get busy especially over long weekends, so I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance to secure your preferred crossings. I found out the hard way on my first trip to Gibsons. We didn’t book tickets, so we had to wait for 3 hours before we managed to get a ferry across to Sunshine Coast. It was definitely worth it but not it’s not really the way you want to start your trip!

2026 Ferry Costs:

Horseshoe Bay to Langdale: $58.45 per vehicle plus $16.45 for each adult one way (you can check the sailing schedule here)

Once you arrive in Langdale, it’s just a 5-minute drive to Gibsons.

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By public transit

If you don’t plan to take a car, you can take the #257 express bus from Vancouver city centre directly to Horseshoe Bay and board as a foot passenger. BC Transit offers a regular bus service between the BC Ferries terminal in Langdale and stops in Gibsons, before continuing on to other towns such as Roberts Creek and Sechelt. You can take one of two routes:

#1 Sechelt-Gibsons/ Langdale Ferry
#90 Sechelt-Gibsons/ Langdale Ferry Express

Check schedules and times here. You don’t really need a car once you get to Gibsons as the town is quite compact. However, if you want to explore some of the neighbouring towns or get to the popular Soames Hill, you’ll need to use local buses or hire bikes.

Where to stay in Gibsons

There are plenty of lovely apartments and guesthouses in Gibsons to suit every budget. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

Caprice Bed & Breakfast

I stayed here and can’t recommend it enough! It’s a pet-friendly guesthouse with three rooms, two of which open onto the terrace. The spacious lawn is framed by west coast cedars, hemlocks and firs and overlooks the Strait of Georgia. And the best part? You can finish up a busy day exploring by soaking in the hot tub and outdoor pool! Check prices here >

Bonniebrook Lodge

Although slightly further from the town than other options, this lodge is probably one of my top picks in Gibsons. This historic gem has been renovated over the years but has managed to retain its original beauty. The suites are spacious and contemporary, each with their own private entrance and balcony overlooking the water. Check prices here >

Gibsons Garden Hotel

While I prefer to stay in guesthouses and B&Bs when travelling, quite a few friends have stayed in the Gibsons Garden Hotel and said it was a pretty good option. It has good reviews and amenities. Check prices here >

When is the best time to visit Gibsons

I’ve been to Gibsons in all seasons and can honestly say that there isn’t a bad time to visit! It really depends on the kind of experience you’re after.

Spring

The weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. It’s a great time to see the coast bloom and see local waterfalls at their best. If you enjoy sporting events, the BC Bike Race takes place in May.

Summer

Summer brings much warmer and sunnier days so it’s perfect for relaxing on the beaches, kayaking, and enjoying the outdoor patios. There are also a number of lively markets and festivals, such as the Gibsons Landing Jazz Festival Week. It is peak season so expect it to be busier and accommodation to be more expensive.

Fall

This is personally my favourite time to visit as the autumn colours are so pretty. Temperatures are milder so it’s a great time to hit the hiking trails. Gibsons’ small-town charm makes it the perfect fall getaway.

Winter

Winter is quieter and more laid-back, with misty mornings, storm-watching opportunities, and cozy cafés to retreat to after a seaside walk.

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Gibsons, BC

Whether you choose to stay for a week or just an afternoon, there are so many lovely things to do in Gibsons. There’s a lot of information in this guide so don’t forget to save it so you can read it again later. If you have any questions, please let me know in the comments below and I’ll be happy to answer them!