Halfmoon Bay, Sunshine Coast | Dolf Vermeulen
Halfmoon Bay, Sunshine Coast | Dolf Vermeulen
The Infinite Coast
How to Experience BC's Must-See Coastal Towns
Written by: Amber Turnau | March 16, 2026
The expansive coastline of British Columbia is dotted with charming seaside communities, each shaped by its unique geography and history. Here are a few of the don’t-miss towns located along The Infinite Coast.
Black Rock Oceanfront Resort in Ucluelet | Jordan Dyck
Ucluelet, Vancouver Island
With rugged shorelines and lush rainforest at its doorstep, Ucluelet makes for the perfect coastal getaway.
What to do
Kayak the sheltered waters of Ucluelet Harbour with Hello Nature Adventures Tours and walk along the famous Wild Pacific Trail, where the waves crash against a rocky coastline. Learn about local sea creatures at the Ucluelet Aquarium, and tour the Broken Group Islands with Jamie’s Whaling Station for a chance to see whales.
Where to eat and stay
Savour seafood al fresco at the upscale food truck RAVENLADY Oyster Forte and at Ucluelet Brewing Company.
The luxurious Black Rock Oceanfront Resort makes for a relaxing spa retreat, or cozy up in the rustic Terrace Beach Resort’s rainforest cabins. Stay in a secluded yurt near old-growth forest at Wya Point Resort, located on the traditional territory of the Ucluelet First Nation.
Getting here
Check out BC Ferries vacation packages to book your trip to Ucluelet.
Sechelt, Sunshine Coast | Destination BC
Sechelt, Sunshine Coast
Centrally located on the Southern Sunshine Coast, Sechelt is a hub for exploring the art, nature, and culinary offerings found all along this laid-back stretch of coastline.
What to do
Visit Porpoise Bay Provincial Park to hike the well-maintained trail network, or meet local artists and wherever you see the unmistakable purple banners displayed outside studios and galleries that participate in the Purple Banner Guide. Stop by tems swiya Museum for a chance to see ancient Indigenous artifacts and learn about the shíshálh Nation, who have lived on this land since time immemorial.
Where to eat and stay
Indulge in a hearty brunch at Basted Baker, watch seaplanes come and go from The Lighthouse Pub patio, or sip your way through a cider flight at The Bricker Cider Company, a family-owned orchard in west Sechelt. For a meal with spectacular views, dine at the The Wobbly Canoe or Gourmet Girl overlooking Davis Bay—a popular spot to view the sunset.
Watch ever-changing landscapes from your perch at Pointhouse Suites in Sargeant Bay, just west of Sechelt, or find tranquility at Cabins on the Coast, home of the top-rated “Alfie the A-Frame.”
Getting here
Get to the Sechelt by air with Sunshine Coast Air and Harbour Air, or by sea with BC Ferries.
Wild Renfrew, Port Renfrew | @joordanrenee
Port Renfrew, Vancouver Island
Experience the remote west coast of Vancouver Island in Port Renfrew.
What to do
This small fishing village is known for its massive Douglas firs, cedars, and Sitka spruce trees. Port Renfrew is frequented by hikers finishing their multi-day trek along the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, though day trippers can tackle smaller sections of the trail. Take a whale- and wildlife-viewing tour with Orca Spirit Adventures or go fishing with Mckenna Sportfishing.
Where to eat and stay
Wild Renfrew offers an excellent home base for recreation with its oceanfront cottages and other accommodation options, and their popular Renfrew Pub. Dining alternatives include the funky vibes at Tomi’s Home Cooking, and local fare at Coastal Kitchen Cafe. Port Renfrew makes a perfect overnight destinations as you drive the Pacific Marine Circle Route.
Getting here
Check out ferry and accommodation packages for this route with BC Ferries.
Ruckle Provincial Park | Southern Gulf Islands Tourism/Rob Wilson
Ganges, Salt Spring Island
The artsy seaside town of Ganges is overflowing with character and charm, and is home to a thriving food scene.
What to do
Starting in April, the vibrant Salt Spring Island Saturday Market attracts a wide variety of local vendors, including an artisan cheesemaker, a gluten-free bakery, organic soap makers, farmers, and artists working in a range of media. Salt Spring is also home to wineries, cideries, breweries, distilleries, and a maker of mead.
During your stay on Salt Spring, be sure to visit Ruckle Provincial Park and Ruckle Heritage Farm, BC’s oldest working farm. Salt Spring Adventure Company offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals, as well as whale watching and guided kayaking tours. Explore the island’s hidden gems on one of Tour Salt Spring‘s regular tours, or create your own itinerary on a private tour tailored to your interests.
Where to eat and stay
Check out the quaint Tree House Cafe or dine at Rock Salt Café and Restaurant for global flavours and comfort foods with an ocean view. Retreat to the Mineral Springs Resort for rest and relaxation. For lakeside living, try The Cottages located just minutes from Ganges.
Getting here
Fly to Salt Spring via Harbour Air or take BC Ferries.
Cow Bay, Prince Rupert | Northern BC Tourism/Marty Clemens
Prince Rupert, Northern BC
Nature exists on a massive scale in Prince Rupert, a community on the north coast of BC that embraces a deep connection with Indigenous culture.
What to do
Learn about the Tsimshian First Nations and other Northwest Coast Peoples at the Museum of Northern BC, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts and research materials.
As a gateway to both the Great Bear Rainforest and Haida Gwaii, Prince Rupert boasts unparalleled nature and wildlife experiences around every corner. Head out on the ocean with Skeena Kayaking, and visit the Khutzamateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary with Prince Rupert Adventure Tours. Drive to North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site for a history lesson, or grab your own catch-of-the-day with Haida Fishing.
Where to eat and stay
Walk to the quirky Cow Bay district for a coffee and pastry at Cowpuccino’s Coffee House. Just up the street, you’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere—and a tasty selection of craft beer—at the Wheelhouse Brewing Company. And Dolly’s Fish Market is a great spot to pick up fresh-caught seafood.
Stay at the Crest Hotel, with its panoramic views of the harbour. Or, for a quieter setting, rest your head in one of Cassiar Cannery’s waterfront cabins, located 25 minutes outside of the city.
Getting here
Flights to Prince Rupert depart daily from Vancouver International Airport. Alternatively, sail the scenic BC Ferries route through the Inside Passage.
Haida Heritage Centre, Haida Gwaii | Grant Harder
Skidegate, Haida Gwaii
Indigenous culture, pristine nature, and unsurpassed outdoor adventure are found in the remote village of Skidegate on Haida Gwaii.
What to do
There are many ways to celebrate the living culture of the Haida People. Take a boat tour with Haida Style Expeditions to visit Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site. A visit to the Haida Heritage Centre at Kay Llnagaay to learn about art, language, traditions, and contemporary life is also a must, as is a visit to iconic Balance Rock. Rent a car—or even a bicycle—to travel to viewpoints and attractions around the island.
Where to eat and stay
Taste Haida-inspired cuisine at Keenawaii’s Kitchen, where Chef Roberta Olsen serves fresh, local ingredients from her home. And swing by the Daajing Giids Farmers’ Market (pronounced daw-jean-geeds), open year-round on Saturdays, for farm-grown produce and artisanal goodies.
Enjoy a tranquil stay in oceanfront cabins at Haida House in Tllal, which offers a, immersive experience in the culture of the Haida Nation. Jags Beanstalk, a family-owned bistro with several guest rooms, is another great option.
Getting here
Fly directly to Haida Gwaii from Vancouver International Airport, or sail with BC Ferries via the Inside Passage to Prince Rupert, with a connecting ferry to Haida Gwaii.
Originally published in February, 2020.
Getting Here & Around
Visitors to British Columbia can arrive by air, road, rail, or ferry.
Pacific Rim National Park | Abby Cooper