Whether you are making the decision of putting your kids into school or homeschooling for the year this is officially the last week of summer. Now is your last chance to get a relaxing holiday in!

One of my favourite quick and easy yet relaxing escapes is anywhere on the Sunshine Coast.

This beautiful destination boasts views of the ocean while providing the comfort of small town luxuries such as local eateries and coffee shops.

Popular destinations along the Sunshine Coast are Gibson and Sechelt. 

Gibsons for families

The downtown strip on Marine Drive is scattered with a variety of eateries. Our favourite is Buono Osteria – a yummy Italian restaurant with views of the water. The staff were so friendly with our then 6 month old that I would definitely recommend this restaurant for young families. 

If you turn up Marine Drive and make a quick left turn onto Grower Point Road you can find some of the best coffee on the Sunshine Coast. Beachcomber Coffee is a local coffee institution and they sell doughnuts too!! They have seating inside and a few patio spots. 

At the end of Grower Point Road sits Gibsons Public Market which hosts a bounty of local produce and treats!! In it is Emelle’s Market Bistro – one of our favourite places to grab breakfast. The space is quite large which makes it easy for kids to run around. It also has a fun aquarium pillar leading to the Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education Center. 

If it’s a nice day out strolling along the street and sitting at the waterfront park right across from Gibsons Visitor Centre is the perfect way to spend a nice relaxing day.

Another popular destination, a 30 minute drive further inland, is Sechelt. 

Sechelt with your little ones

If you’re waiting to make more meals in your accommodation there’s the Clayton’s Heritage Market or if you are wanting to explore local little more there’s always the Farmer’s Markets on weekends. During our last couple trips over we’ve picked up fresh fish from Sechelt Fish Market and charcuterie goods from Plethora Fine Foods.  

On the days you just want to eat out there’s the Basted Baker with amazing breakfasts and baked goods as well as the new Batch 44 Brewery. On our last trip there we went with Maya and we saw more families with little ones in the Brewery than ever before. Their food was amazing too – Maya loved the mac & cheese.

When we weren’t eating we took Maya for a swim at the aquatic centre or a stroll along the waterfront. 

The Sunshine Coast is only a 40 minute ferry ride away with sailings every two hours. The cost for a ferry to the Sunshine Coast covers your trip there and back so it’s not as pricey as sailing to Vancouver Island.

You can find a variety of AirBNB accommodations along the coast or further inland as well as some accommodation with the local hotels. 

So if you are looking for a last minute getaway that won’t take forever to get to I recommend checking out the Sunshine Coast.