Situated on a narrow isthmus is the charming seaside community of Sechelt (ch’atlich). The name refers not only to the array of outdoor enthusiasts and artists who call the area home but also to the inlet itself and the shíshálh (Sechelt) Nation whose land they occupy. The area is absolutely worth a visit if you love being out on the water.
The Village of Sechelt features a quaint historic downtown where visitors can explore spots like the Doris Crowston Gallery, Botanical Garden, and a variety of vibrant local shops, Totem poles, and murals along Cowrie Street. Visitors can wander down a scenic seawall to take in the breathtaking views, or plan stops at the sandy beaches at Porpoise Bay Park and Sandy Hook Park.
One of the world’s best paddling experiences
In addition to plenty of maintained hiking and biking trails to explore, Sechelt is home to one of the world’s most incredible paddling experiences. Paddlers of all abilities can bring or rent a board and paddle the stunning waters of the inlet, uncovering hidden bays, fjords, and offshore islets. Since most of the coastline is sheltered, protection from winds and the elements is all but guaranteed.
Visitors can choose from freshwater or ocean paddling, or whitewater kayaking for those with more experience under their belts. The latter is best experienced at the famed Skookumchuck Narrows, which is home to one of the world’s largest tidal flows.
There’s also a renowned qathet Canoe Route that’s a favourite among freshwater paddlers, stretching 57 km across eight lakes. According to Sunshine Coast Tourism, the massive paddling journey takes around five days to complete, but any of the lakes in the region would make for an idyllic day trip, too.
Ocean lovers can check out the spectacular views of Desolation Sound and Sechelt Inlet, both of which are fjord-like waterways with a breathtaking mountain backdrop.
Ancient forests
Prefer to walk amongst ancient trees? A visit to the Hidden Groves just north of the village is in order. This ancient forest protects 170 acres of 500 to 1,000-year-old trees, protected by the Sechelt Groves Society.
Looking to extend your trip with even more gorgeous stops? Check out the nearby David Bay Beach or Tuwanek Beach.
Where to stay
The Sunshine Coast features a mix of hotels, short-term rentals, and B&Bs, also offering camping opportunities in multiple provincial parks and private campgrounds, including marine access-only campsites. If you’re looking for an ideal place to land at night after a day of adventuring that’s not in a tent, any of the following spots are great options:
Sechelt is accessible via a 40-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale. From here, visitors can either drive, bike, or take transit along Highway 101 for the remainder of the way, or pop over via float plane or boat.
How to get there: Take a ferry from Horseshoe Bay, West Vancouver, to Langdale, and drive 26 minutes to Sechelt via the Sunshine Coast Highway/BC-101 N.
Recent Posts:
One of North America’s ‘coolest towns’ is in B.C. & it’s completely surrounded by the Rockies
The world’s longest free ferry ride sails across this B.C. lake into a different time zone
