Located on the breathtaking traditional territories of the Tla’amin, Klahoose, shíshálh, Skwxwú7mesh, and Homalco Nations, the aptly named Sunshine Coast is one of the most stunning places in British Columbia, Canada. Tucked away on the far west coast of mainland British Columbia, the Sunshine Coast is a 180 km stretch of Canadian coastal land that begins just north of Vancouver on Howe Sound and runs all the way to Desolation Sound in the north. This incredible area is only accessible via ferry, boat, or plane making it one of the most protected and beloved parts of the province. Not only is the Sunshine Coast a beautiful place to visit, it is also home to incredible communities of passionate people and in recent years has become a culinary destination. Here you can find a variety of different cuisines and dedication to fresh, sustainable, local ingredients. We’ve rounded up our very favourite restaurants to visit during your stay at one of the beautiful EMR properties to the Sunshine Coast!
Gibsons (78km | ~1hr 10mins from local Sunshine Coast properties)
For visitors coming from Vancouver to the Sunshine Coast, Gibsons is the most popular destination for a day trip. With a great food scene, vibrant town centre and friendly community it’s worth the trip from the EMR properties near Egmont!
Drift Cafe
With gorgeous panoramic views of the ocean and nearby Keats Island, the patio at Drift Cafe alone is worth the visit. But if you’re in Gibsons and looking for a casual brunch to dinner bistro that offers a menu filled with delicious dishes made with fresh ingredients, this is the place to go!
Smoke on the Water BBQ Shack
Right on the wharf in Gibsons is one of the best places for authentic BBQ in British Columbia. Smoke On The Water BBQ Shack offers guests mouth-watering, fall-off-the-bone BBQ made with locally sourced meat and fresh, local veggies. All of the meat is smoked on site using real hardwood to create the authentic southern flavours. From incredible sandwiches and tacos to generous platters and indulgent sides, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your craving! You can choose takeout or hop on a stool and enjoy your order on the outdoor bar seating overlooking the water.
Buono Osteria
This little Italian bistro and pizzeria in the heart of Gibsons is known for the incredible wood-fired pizza, succulent in-house made pastas and great views of Keats Island and the Shoal Channel. With a lovely modern seaside dining room, incredible cocktails and carefully curated wine list, Buono Osteria is an ideal place for an elevated, casual evening on the edge of the water.
Roberts Creek, Davis Bay & Sechelt (54km – 66km | ~49min – 1hr from local Sunshine Coast properties)
This area of the Sunshine Coast is beautiful and is a great area for kayaking, farmers markets and of course, great restaurants!
The Gumboot Restaurant
When the sun comes out in Roberts Creek, there’s only one place to go to enjoy incredible patio and lawn seating, great food and friendly service: The Gumboot Restaurant. This homey, down-to-earth restaurant is known for their unique fusion dishes, generous breakfasts and delectable in-house-made, frozen, takeout dinners.
The Wobbly Canoe
Located on the shores of Davis Bay Beach, this lovely, forward-thinking eatery is the perfect place to enjoy a casual dinner, try a local beer or signature cocktail and enjoy the laid-back local vibe. With a great patio to enjoy in warmer weather and an incredible menu filled with fresh seafood dishes, classic casual fare and a generous amount of vegetarian options, there’s something for every appetite at the Wobbly Canoe!
Lighthouse Pub
Whether you’re looking for a lively bar to sit alongside fellow hockey fans or an expansive patio that offers unobstructed ocean views of the Sechelt Inlet, you’ve found it in the Lighthouse Pub. Since 1988 this neighbourhood marina pub has been busy making great food, pouring healthy pints and being the hub of this lovely coastal town.
Saffron Restaurant
If you’re looking for really authentic Indian food while you’re staying on the Sunshine Coast, don’t miss out on an evening at Saffron Restaurant. This family owned and operated restaurant serves incredible authentic northern Indian cuisine made with in-house ground spices and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Secret Cove & Madeira Park (36km – 24km | ~34mins – ~22min from local Sunshine Coast properties)
These beautiful little areas are filled with local hangouts, beautiful little marinas and incredible culinary finds!
Upper Deck Restaurant “La Bettolina”
Nestled in Halfmoon Bay, the Upper Deck Restaurant on Secret Cove Marina is one of the best restaurants for Italian food on the Sunshine Coast. With a dedication to serving seasonal dishes made with the highest quality, local ingredients and an award winning team of chefs and top-notch servers, it’s no wonder that the Upper Deck is one of the most popular places for locals and visitors alike!
The Lagoon Restaurant
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a delicious meal in a fantastic setting, you’ll want to make a reservation at The Lagoon Restaurant in the Painted Boat Resort Spa and Marina. With a menu that is inspired by the Mediterranean, filled with fresh seafood and incredible local produce, the dishes at The Lagoon Restaurant are befitting of the spectacular setting and lovely rustic, contemporary west coast dining room. While you dine, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Pender Harbour and if you time it right, you can catch a spectacular sunset!
Egmont ( 2km | ~3min from local Sunshine Coast properties)
From heart-pounding water recreation adventures, stunning views and beautiful fresh-water lakes to explore, Egmont is a lovely spot to spend your holiday in BC!
Inlets Restaurant
For a fine dining experience on the Sunshine Coast, you won’t find a better restaurant than Inlets Restaurant in the West Coast Wilderness Lodge. West coast elegance meets European charm in the stunning dining room and patio and because it is uniquely located on the water’s edge, just north of the Skookumchuck Narrows, the views from the dining room and pergola-canopied patio are absolutely breathtaking. The menu is a mixture of Pacific Northwest and global flavours creating dishes that are sure to inspire and delight.
