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Have you ever watched a movie or TV show and found yourself immediately searching for its filming locations?
After watching Murder in a Small Town, I felt a strong urge to visit Gibsons and the surrounding areas of the Sunshine Coast. Living in the province adjacent to British Columbia, I have visited many times and felt I had seen most of the region. However, this series—based on the books by Canadian author L.R. Wright that follow detective Karl Alberg’s investigations—introduced me to a place that I had yet to experience.
While researching the area for a potential trip, I was reminded that the nostalgic series The Beachcombers was also filmed there. It felt like the perfect summer destination to spend a few days exploring the locations for these shows in person.
I looked forward to seeing the iconic Molly’s Reach sign, strolling through the town centers to see if the small-town vibes depicted in these shows were authentic, and walking along the marinas and beaches.
My time there was everything I hoped it would be. It felt a bit like a Hallmark movie, as so many people were open, inviting, and genuine in their desire to connect, share, and celebrate their communities with me. With 180 km to explore and popular towns like Gibsons and Sechelt, it was easy to navigate and explore.
How to Get There
I was initially concerned about navigating the ferry with our LTV, as I had only ever traveled as a walk-on passenger or in a car. What felt like a daunting task, however, turned out to be seamless and easy.
We took BC Ferries from Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to the Sunshine Coast (Langdale). Although I worried that bookings would be full, our flexibility with dates and times (and the discovery of 10 sailings a day in both directions) allowed us to board without any issues. We easily booked our round-trip tickets on the BC Ferries website.
Regarding our ferry tickets, I wanted to ensure we have the correct dimensions for our vehicle. Please find the size information for the LTV in the chart below:
| Unity | Wonder |
| Height – 10′ 6″ (3.200 m) with AC | Height – 9′ 11.5″ (3.034 m) with AC |
| Length – 25′ 1″ (7.645 m) | Length – 24′ 9″ (7.544 m) |
The ferry ride costs approximately $115 for a round trip and takes about 40 minutes each way. I suggest having your camera ready, as you will see some beautiful scenery along the way.
Where to Stay
Langdale Heights RV & Golf Resort
Located only five minutes from the Langdale Ferry Terminal and a 12-minute drive to Gibsons, this is the perfect place to start and end your few days on the Sunshine Coast. It offers fully serviced sites and a par-three golf course where pets are welcome. Amenities include washrooms with showers, coin laundry, a fitness facility, a convenience store, and a children’s playground. There is also an on-site restaurant open Thursday through Saturday from 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
Cost – $60 per night.
Located one hour north of Gibsons. This campground allows the opportunity to travel through Sechelt and Halfmoon Bay and gives a nice overnight stop after a few hours of exploring. Amenities include washrooms with showers, coin-operated laundry, a children’s play area, a communal fire pit, and a horseshoe/games area. It is fully serviced and allows pets.
Cost – $55 per night.
We would have loved to stay there, but we couldn’t get in because we were booking at the last minute. They accept bookings up to four months in advance and keep some spots available on a first-come, first-served basis, but I would definitely recommend booking ahead if you want to stay. The location is close to the water and has showers and bathrooms available.
Day One – Gibsons
Coffee – Beachcomber Cafe
An award-winning specialty coffee producer based in Gibsons, British Columbia, that captures the laid-back lifestyle of the Sunshine Coast. The coffee is delicious (grab a bag to go). There is seating inside, but the perfect spot is on the patio, people watching on Main Street, Gibsons.
Picture Perfect Spot – Molly’s Reach
No trip to Gibson’s is complete without a stop and photo at the iconic Molly’s Reach. It became famous by being the real-world anchor for a beloved fictional world (in both The Beachcombers and Murder in A Small Town), cementing its place in Canadian pop culture history, and is Gibson’s most prominent landmark. Located on the main highway, you cannot miss it as you drive through the town.
Shopping – Morgan’s Apothecary
There are numerous shops along Main Street, and I recommend popping into them all to discover the special offerings each has to give.
I especially fell in love with Morgan’s Apothecary. Hand-blended essential oils that are plant-based and cruelty-free and designed to help alleviate a multitude of concerns. The store is beautiful, and the owner was there to answer all my questions, explain her background, and hand-select products to support my health goals.
After a stroll downtown, I was happy to walk to The Marina and take in the beautiful ocean views. The homes surrounding the area are picture-perfect.
Happy Hour – Lunitas
A must-stop spot for tacos and cocktails with a perfect happy hour menu and a great view of the marina.
Saturday and Sunday: 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Weekdays: 5:00 – 6:00 pm. $2 off classic margaritas and $5 chips and pico de gallo.
Brewery – Persephone
A great spot with great beer, a multitude of places to sit inside and out, and a real small-town feel. Look for days they offer live music!
Day Two – Seschelt
Yoga – Coast Flow Yoga
This particular yoga studio offers classes in Sechelt and Gibsons, with a variety of options for all levels and abilities. I took mat Pilates and loved the welcoming vibes.
Coffee and Work – Juno
Just the most special spot. Delicious coffee and a great menu, I recommend the eggplant sandwich. Also, the decor was super cute. A few hours here to get caught up on work was ideal.
Walk Along the Beach/Shop – In Front of Wharf Ave
The beach here is beautiful and a block away from many local shops.
Happy Hour – The Lighthouse Pub
The Lighthouse Pub overlooks Porpoise Bay and has the largest tiered outdoor patio on the Sunshine Coast. While you sit and sip, you can watch float planes take off and land. Happy hour runs from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm alongside “appie hour” with food for $6 and a great drink selection
Afternoon Shopping – John Henry
Located at John Henry’s Marina and Resort in Pender Harbor.
This historic general store offers an amazing variety of goods, including provisions for boaters and campers, gifts, housewares, homemade greeting cards, and the most extensive selection of beer, wine, and spirits north of Sechelt.
They are open seven days a week from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Dinner – Osprey
After your stop in the General Store, be sure to stay at John Henry’s Marina and Resort for dinner at Osprey. Offering a la carte share plates or an impressive “chef’s experience” family-style tasting, this is a little gem with an amazing view. Keep in mind it is only open Wednesdays – Saturdays from 5:00 pm onward. I recommend making a reservation.
Day Three – Driving Back to Gibsons
Must Stop – West Coast Wilderness Lodge
Located at the Northern tip of the Sunshine Coast, this luxurious resort is a beautiful stop to walk around. Head to the sundeck or their onsite restaurant, Inlets, for unforgettable views.
Lunch – Brickers Cider
This fantastic family-owned and operated cidery offers over 20 different ciders throughout the year, reflecting the current fruit and season. I highly recommend trying the Earl Grey dry cider.
While you are there enjoying a flight or a glass in their open-air garden, definitely swing by The Shed for food. They have great salads and pizzas that make for a wonderful overall experience.
Walk in Gibsons
Back in Gibsons, it is a must to walk along the beach/ocean wall. There is a safe path that lets you walk among the boats near the marina and take in the sunshine and sea air.
Happy Hour – Gramma’s Pub
The waterfront pub offers a gorgeous view of the harbor and a great happy-hour menu.
Brewery – Tapworks
With a tagline “crafted for the coast,” this brewery didn’t disappoint. Great after-work vibes, along with indoor/outdoor seating, the staff was great, and the beer was awesome.
Dinner – The Station Tapas & Wine Bar
Located centrally and seaside in Gibsons, this must-stop has a carefully curated wine list, delicious cocktails, and unreal tapas and larger plates. I recommend the gnocchi.
Stop By – Gibson’s and District Public Library
For the full-circle experience and to follow along with the locations of Murder in a Small Town, this rounded out my Sunshine Coast experience.
Summary
On my travels, I love searching for new destinations amongst places I have already discovered. I’ve lived next door to British Columbia all my life and have been there more times than I can count, but I had never had the chance to explore The Sunshine Coast.
If you are looking for an incredible getaway in your LTV, look no further than British Columbia’s beautiful Sunshine Coast.
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