As a Vancouverite, there are so many beautiful destinations just outside of the city to explore on weekends. The Sunshine Coast is the perfect place to spend a relaxing weekend kayaking and totally escape from the rush of city life. Luckily we have the best itinerary for a 3 day kayak trip that includes all the best parts of a weekend trip away from Vancouver.
Day One
1. Take the ferry from Vancouver to the Sunshine Coast
Take the earliest sailing out at 7:30AM of Horseshoe Bay on the Langdale ferry to get your day started. The ferry is only 40 minutes but still be sure to head onto the Sun Deck to admire the views of the North Shore on your way over.
You can check the ferry schedule here.
2. Stop in Gibson’s for coffee
Stop at the beloved Beachcomber’s Cafe for a coffee and one of their amazing brunch wraps. If you want to adventure around this adorable coastal town, have a walk along the path by the marina and watch all the sailboats come in. It’s so relaxing just wandering around and people watching in such a picturesque location.
3. Drive to Sechelt and rent kayaks
Only 35 minutes away from Gibsons, Pedals and Paddles is the best starting point for a short kayak trip. We suggest you and a friend split a double kayak for a couple nights to explore the calm waters of the Sechlet inlet and admire the stunning mountain views.
The rental includes a lifejacket, whistle, sprayskirt, paddle, paddle float, pump, throw bag, and map – so you’ll be equipped with everything you need. Pedals and Paddles also has extra dry bags to borrow if need be!
Even if you have never kayaked before, the waters here are calm and really are the perfect place to get into the amazing sport. Just be sure to reserve in advance on their website!
Location: 7425 Sechelt Inlet Road
4. Kayak to 9 Mile Beach
Once you grab your kayaks and set off, we recommend heading to 9 Mile Beach. On the East side of the Sechelt Inlet, it is the best campsite to watch the sunset. There are tons of tent spots and a creek for water that separates the two different beaches.
The kayak here from the rental shop is only two hours, but take your time exploring the various coves along the coastline. Once to get to 9 Mile, set up your campsite, make a classic backcountry dinner like a warm curry or pasta, and just relax.
Day Two
5. Kayak to Kunechin Point
After spending a slow-paced morning on 9 Mile Beach with some coffee and a swim, if it’s warm, we suggest heading to Kunechin Point. Just across the Salmon Inlet, this campsite is located in the best spot for panoramic views.
Only an additional hour from 9 Mile Beach, once you get to Kunichen, set up your tent on one of the tent pads and explore around. Spend the rest of the day, reading, playing cards on the beach, and relaxing. The view of the stars here at night are pretty incredible, so don’t tire yourself out too much!
Day Three
6. Head back to drop back off kayaks
The next morning, it’s a 3.5 hour kayak back to Pedals and Paddles. Feel free to break up the trek with a stop on the West side of the Sechelt Inlet on one of the beaches for lunch. It’s stunning seeing the mountain from the other side of the water.
7. Catch the afternoon ferry back to Vancouver
Unfortunately, all good things have to come to an end, but hopefully this two-night Sunshine Coast kayak escape from the city was exactly what you needed. If you think about it, it’s pretty incredible the things we get to do so close to the city.