While the rest of the country is still blanketed with the white stuff, the Sunshine Coast has been graced with early spring flowers and the robins frolicking on the greens. We've mowed the grass once already and had our fingers in the dirt.

Got to love spring, the smell of bonfire, sounds of birds chirping, and the feeling of the warm sun upon thy face.

Ok ya... we've  had our fair share of rain, but Spring has definately arrived here on the Coast!

There are so many  special and magical places to discover here on the Coast, and especially vibrant and cool in early spring. Where I hang out alot is part way up the Sechelt Inlet and here is what you can experience there:

- You will see lush waterscapes of coastline along the Sechelt Inlet. If you venture past  Porpoise Bay Provincial Park your drive from Sechelt will end in a little seaside place called Tuwanek. A small community of full time residents, cottagers, and a selection of rental cottages for your getaway as well as a couple  5 star B&B's, The Tuwanek Hotel and  The Water's Edge Spa and Tranquility Bay B&B.

A public beach to sit and take in the daily natural surroundings, beachcomb, keep an eye out for local sea lions, otters, porpoise and a  variety of birds, a scuba diver or kayaker perhaps. There are many marine parks accessed by kayak or boat along the shores of Sechelt Inlet, so come back when it warms up this summer. Recreational rentals are available such as kayaks, bicycles, paddle boards, and boat tours, camping and RV'ing opportunities galore!

-Forest nature trails, like "Hidden Grove" tucked away on the East side of Sechelt Inlet, on your way up to Tuwanek. Well groomed and easy walking trails amongst the giant cedars and forest plants. Take in the breathtaking solitude of  a walk in these forest places.  Tetrahedron and Mt. Richardson Provincial Parks are access from this area offering higher alpine hiking, snowmobiling,  snow sports and wilderness camping.

photo courtesy of Ayla Heeds

-Experience the local hospitality of Gail and Manuel Medeiros's delightful and cozy waterfront restaurant, the Blue Heron Inn, located on the waters of  Sechelt Inlet. Delicious food prepared by Manny, ambience that will bring you down a couple notches and golden service by Gail and staff. Enjoy a dish while mesmurized by the sea and mountain setting, what a  romantic place! You must experience an evening at the Blue Heron Inn!

There are many properties offered for sale in this area, some tucked away in forest settings, others atop a hill with outstanding views up the Sechelt Inlet, smaller cottage style for your recreational getaway or larger  waterfront homes for full time living, I can assist you in your search for a piece of  paradise....

As we set sail out of Horseshoe Bay leaving the thriving metropolis of Vancouver behind, I instantly feel like I'm worlds away from the stress and demands of everyday life.

Looking towards home on the Sunshine Coast, I breathe in the fresh sea air and feel the wind rejeuvinate me once more.

There's something special about feeling kinda removed from the big city .... like island living....and yet so close! The ferry terminal is never more than an hour from downtown, even on the slowest bus, and the boat ride itself a mere 40 minutes. Just long enough to relax and enjoy the view (you might see dolphins!), grab a bite to eat or peruse the gift & book shop full of unique, locally made, west coast products. 

Home on the Coast is beyond cool, with the community full of artisans, crafters, performers, and writers, surrounded by ocean and abundant nature, beauty and fresh air. You're on what's known as coast time, no hustle and bustle.

Downtown is just steps from the beach and it offers many local shops and eateries, pubs and more.

Some of my favourite local attractions include: miles of beautiful hiking trails like Hidden Grove, Sechelt farmers and artisan markets on Saturdays, Sechelt's downtown Thursday evening markets, Davis Bay sand castle competition, the Festival of the Written Arts and the Sleepy Hollow Rod Run and Show n Shine both in August, Pender Harbour Jazz  Festival in September, Sunshine Coast Art Crawl and the Mushroom Festival in October, Dakota Ridge for snow shoeing and X-country skiing, and I can't leave my favourite off the list, the Gibsons Landing Jazz festival. But that is just to name a few!

Home on the Coast means being accessible to:

Vancouver by way of 40min. ferry ride

or 20min by float plane

Shopping, good restaurants, coffee shops and pubs

8 banks

Lots of quality indoor recreation centres

and outdoor recreation opportunities

Newly expanded hospital

Great  schools

Come on over and enjoy and getaway and explore the Coast!!!!!