There is a long list of creative souls who live on the Sunshine Coast. Many of these locals run small businesses that offer unique experiences and crafts inspired by the ocean, mountains, and forest. Here are 11 holiday gifts from the Sunshine Coast, perfect for your friends and family this season.
1. Growler of Beer or Cider from Local Brewers
The Sunshine Coast is a great place for beer enthusiasts to explore. Four breweries and one cidery are found between Gibsons and Powell River. Pop into the cozy tasting rooms at Persephone Brewing Company, Gibsons Tapworks, The Bricker Cider Company, The 101 Brewhouse + Distillery, or Townsite Brewing and buy a new growler filled with a seasonal beer (or cider!) for those craft-brew lovers.
2. Fishing Experience with a Local Charter
The waters off the Sunshine Coast are full of salmon, lingcod, rockfish, spot prawn, crab, and more. There are endless fishing opportunities from Gibsons to Lund, with operators keen to take people fishing on the ocean. Treat your angling pals to a day charter with BC Fishing Charters in Gibsons, Gulf Rascal Charters or OTB Charters in Pender Harbour and Powell River Sportfishing Charters in Powell River.
3. Cooking Essentials from Sunshine Coast Olive Oil Co.
Do you know an aspiring chef? They will sing all your praises when a bottle of artisanal olive oil appears in their stocking. Sunshine Coast Olive Oil Co., based in Gibsons Landing, specializes in selling imported oils and balsamic vinegars from all over the world. Choose from an award-winning extra virgin olive oil or an 18-year aged espresso dark balsamic for that next top chef in your family.
4. Loose Leaf Tea from Davis Bay Tea Company
Cozy nights beside the fire during winter’s cooler months calls for a cup of warm, comforting tea. The Davis Bay Tea Company sources and imports quality loose leaf tea from Europe with signature blends including Earl Grey Cream Tea, Sunrise Green and Black, and Sunset Fruit Tisane. A few boxes of loose leaf is the perfect gift for those who love to curl up with a good book and relax.
5. Wilderness Floatplane Tour with Sunshine Coast Air
What an experience it would be to fly past 7,000-foot granite cliffs to a cascading waterfall, or land on a turquoise lake in the middle of the wilderness. Sunshine Coast Air offers unique floatplane tours for adventurous friends and family. Book a trip to Chatterbox Falls in Princess Louisa Inlet or out to Phantom Lake. Why not make it a trip for two and include yourself in the adventure? Happy holidays to you, too.
6. Tasty Caviar from Northern Divine
Did you know the only producer of certified organic caviar in North America is right here on the Sunshine Coast? Northern Divine sells award-winning caviar from sturgeon raised with fresh, glacial water from the mountains of the Sunshine Coast. It’s a great present for those with a taste for the finer things in life.
7. Chill and Immerse Package from Cabana Desolation Eco Resort
Imagine waking up in a cabana overlooking the ocean before setting off in a sea kayak to explore hidden inlets and coastal shores. Does this sound like a dream for someone close to you? If so, you are in luck. Book 3 to 8 days at Cabana Desolation Eco Resort with their Chill and Immerse Packages.
8. Fresh Coffee Beans from Local Roasters
Fresh coffee is essential for those who adore their daily cup of joe. There are several local coffee shops on the Sunshine Coast who roast their own beans. Grab a bag from 32 Lakes Coffee Roasters in Powell River, Strait Coffee in Wilson Creek, or Beachcomber Coffee in Gibsons.
9. The Must-Own Hand Knit Pollen Sweater
Besides holding down some of the best cinnamon buns in all the land at Nancy's, the seaside village of Lund is known for the end of the road and also the must-own hand knit Pollen sweater. Every outdoor enthusiast will have and adore these staple sweaters for life. We love that each piece has the itchy barb layer removed from the fiber which means the wool does not shrink when washed.
10. Dinner for Two at Coastal Cookery
Everyone loves a night out. When the bill is on someone else, that night out is even better. Coastal Cookery, in Powell River, uses quality local ingredients and offers a menu designed for sharing. Grab a gift card to this restaurant for the romantic couple on your list.
11. Spa Runaway Package at Painted Boat Resort
If you know someone who likes pampering, this is the gift for them. Book them a two-night stay in a waterfront villa at Painted Boat Resort. This package includes a massage or facial spa treatment and relaxation time at the SPA Garden. The outdoor garden features a glacial rain shower, hot tub, sauna, and saltwater floatation pool.
Feeling inspired? Get out there, support local businesses, and give the gifts of the Sunshine Coast.
Happy holiday to you, and yours.