Despite popular belief, B.C.’s Sunshine Coast is not an island. While accessible only via boat (or plane), the 180-kilometre stretch located in the southwest corner of the province is actually connected to the mainland, but cut off from the rest of the region by mountains. Departing the Horseshoe Bay Terminal in West Vancouver, ferrying over takes about 40 minutes and arrives at the Langdale Terminal in the main town of Gibsons.

Possessing an eclectic, laid-back vibe with no shortage of cute cafes, markets and outdoorsy activities, it’s the perfect place to pack the whole gang into a capable SUV — like the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder — and embark on a quick weekend getaway.

Pro tip: during peak season, making a ferry reservation is recommended. Otherwise, space is first-come, first-served. The return fare is free. Visit bcferries.com for more information.

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First introduced in 2022, the fifth-generation Nissan Pathfinder emerged even family-friendlier than its predecessor showcasing a larger design accommodating up to eight — or seven if the available one-touch folding second-row captain’s chairs and removable centre console are equipped — and 470 litres of cargo capacity behind the rear bench. This is enough to fit several bags stacked up, and there’s also a nifty under-floor plastic storage compartment to stash dirty gear or a duffle bag. Legroom was spacious for every occupant.

Particularly the range-topping Platinum model that we tested (MSRP $61,186), the crossover bordered on luxury boasting beautiful semi-aniline leather upholstery, heated/cooled front and heated rear seats, 13-speaker Bose stereo, nine-inch infotainment touchscreen and excessive amounts of sound deadening providing a quiet ride. The exterior looks great too with the blocky V-motion grille, blistered fenders, 20-inch wheels and a gorgeous coat of two-tone Obsidian Green Pearl/Super Black Metallic paint.

All Pathfinders utilize a smooth 284-horsepower 3.5-litre V6 engine, mated to a quick-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission, sending 259 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels. Sitting on a front strut/rear independent multi-link suspension setup, the 4,642-pound vehicle and a full complement of passengers handled the twisty coastal roads better than it should. If the optional tow package is installed, a maximum 6,000-pound trailer is haulable. Traveling a mix of city and highway roads, I averaged a respectable 12.9 L/100 km of fuel consumption.

ProPILOT Assist is now standard across all trims. Leveraging the built-in cameras and sensors, and navigation data, the hands-on driver-assistance technology can steer, accelerate and brake in both open and heavy highway traffic taking cruise control to the next level. The Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite is standard as well encompassing collision warning, automatic braking, blind spot monitoring, and a multitude of other systems to keep those on board safe.

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Opened in 2021, Banditry Cider (538 Pratt Rd.) is located in the heart of Gibsons and operates on a working orchard home to 40 varietals of heritage fruit trees. Its delicious offerings, like Semi-Dry Apple, Rhubarb & Spruce Tip, Bramble & Bine and Cheeky Pash, are made using B.C.-grown ingredients and free of concentrates and artificial flavourings. Enjoy them in a can or glass, as part of a flight or fill a growler to go. Designated drivers should definitely try the kombucha or a jar of small batch ice cream made by local favourite Little Spoon.

Though no regular meal service is available on site, patrons may purchase cheese, cured meats, olives and more to create a custom charcuterie board; bring their own picnic basket; or check out Tk’s Gourmet Turkish Cuisine food truck. Take a load off at one of the many tables and chairs scattered around the property — children will love the play area and resident ducks wandering about the farm.

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The Gibsons Public Market (473 Gower Point Rd.) is a one-stop destination for fresh Sunshine Coast produce, seafood and baked goods. Emelle’s Catering Market Bistro is a great option to brunch and admire the beautiful harbour and marina while shopping, and if visiting on a summer weekend there’s live music Saturday afternoons.

In addition, every summer the venue hosts a night market complete with a DJ, performances, kids’ activities, artisan vendors and of course food and drink. In December, a winter festival takes over the space where patrons can browse crafts, attend holiday cocktail making and other workshops, and drop the young ones off at the licensed provider-supervised Childcare Room for a little adult time.

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Seeking majestic views of Howe Sound and BPM-raising exercise but only have an hour or two to spare? Then Soames Hill hike is an excellent option. The two-kilometre round-trip journey (green trail) features mostly stairs and an elevation gain of 65 metres. Entry is accessible at either 639 Bridgeman Rd. or 481 Esperanza Rd., however be aware that parking is limited at both spots. Be mindful to watch for signage when the trail forks to stay on the right path.

Moderately challenging due to the steep climb, there are two main viewpoints. The first is found atop a flat rock peering out towards Keats Island across the water, and a perfectly acceptable place to stop and turn back. Adventurous types can keep going to reach a less obstructed lookout down the coastline towards the Strait of Georgia.

Bonus: Drive 15 minutes northwest of Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast Highway/BC-101 N to arrive at the eclectic town of Roberts Creek. Populated by approximately 3,553 people, the main hub is the corner of Roberts Creek Road and Beach Avenue. Grab a bite at Gumboot Café (the pizza is delicious), serving the neighbourhood for 25-plus years, before walking over to Roberts Creek Pier for truly spectacular seascapes.

Art-lovers rejoice — there are several art studios open to the public and people may embark on a free self-guided tour thanks to the Purple Banner program (coastculture.com/purple-banner-tour). If heading to the aforementioned Pier, make sure to stop at the mandala, which is a community art project dating back to 1997 where volunteers contribute to a giant circular painting each year.