TV & Film on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is no stranger to the spotlight, with its breathtaking landscapes and charming communities often taking centre stage in TV shows and films. Whether you're a fan of classic Canadian television or a movie buff, exploring the real-life locations of your favorite scenes can add an exciting layer to your visit.
Dive into the cinematic history of the Sunshine Coast and plan a trip inspired by these productions.
TV Series
The Sunshine Coast has played a starring role in notable TV shows, adding a touch of coastal magic to each storyline.
The Beachcombers (1972 – 1990)
The Beachcombers is more than just a TV show—it's a piece of Canadian television history. Spanning nearly two decades with over 350 episodes, this iconic CBC series introduced millions of people to the adventures of Nick (Bruno Gerussi), Relic (Robert Clothier), and friends in the quaint town of Gibsons. Today, visitors can explore the Beachcomber Relics exhibit at the Sunshine Coast Museum & Archives for a touch of nostalgia and discover other tributes to the show throughout the community. The art installation at the Gibsons Visitor Centre was created by Indigenous artist Cory Douglas, who played a role in the series.
Two movies also came out in the 2000s, starring Jackson Davies, Dave Thomas, and Graham Greene: The New Beachcombers (2002) and A Beachcombers Christmas (2004).
Murder in a Small Town (2024 - )
Murder in a Small Town is a TV adaptation set to debut in September 2024. Stars Rossif Sutherland, Kristen Kreuk, and Mya Lowe will be bringing the suspense of L.R. Wright’s beloved Karl Alberg book series to life. While the original stories were set in Sechelt, much of the filming took place in nearby Gibsons. Keep an eye out for the premiere and see if you can spot any familiar locations!
TV Episodes
Over the years, the Sunshine Coast has made guest appearances in various TV episodes, each showcasing the natural beauty and unique culture of the region. Some of these include:
- Canada Over the Edge (2013) – Season 2, Episodes 7 and 8 explore the region’s snowcapped peaks, deep inlets, and offshore islands.
- Facing Waves (2017) – Explore the waterways of the Sunshine Coast in the Season 5 premiere episode, “Paddling BC’s Sunshine Coast.”
- Wild Archeology (2019) – Discover the rich history of Sechelt in Season 2, Episode 4: “War and Peace: Sechelt B.C.”
- Epic Trails (2019) – Season 2, Episode 2 takes you on a journey through the rugged and scenic trails of the Sunshine Coast in “Canada’s Sunshine Coast BC.”
- Still Standing (2023) – In the season 8 premiere, discover Gibsons, BC as it charts a new course as a hub for Filipino culture, tourism, and craft beer.
- The Amazing Race Canada (2024) – The excitement of this reality show hit the Sunshine Coast in two back-to-back episodes, where teams navigated challenges and stunning landscapes in episodes titled “Call Me The Olive Man” and “Plot Twist: It’s a U-Turn Vote.”
Films
The big screen has also captured the beauty and mystique of the Sunshine Coast. You might come across some familiar-looking locations during your visit.
Needful Things (1993)
Needful Things is the film adaptation of Stephen King’s 1991 horror novel by the same name, starring Ed Harris and Max von Sydow. The movie was partly filmed in Gibsons, which steps in for the fictional town of Castle Rock, New England, and adds a touch of coastal charm to the eerie atmosphere of the film.
The Last Mimzy (2007)
Joely Richardson, Rainn Wilson, Timothy Hutton star in The Last Mimzy. Roberts Creek’s serene beaches take on a mystical quality in this film, where otherworldly events unfold in a family-friendly sci-fi adventure.
Charlie St. Cloud (2010)
Gibsons Landing and its harbour are showcased in Charlie St. Cloud, a heartwarming drama starring Zac Efron, Kim Basinger, and Charlie Tahan. The picturesque setting adds depth to the film’s exploration of love, loss, and the supernatural.
Exile (2023)
Set against the backdrop of Powell River, Exile is a tense thriller starring Camille Sullivan and Adam Beach that will have you on the edge of your seat. Visit the town and see if you can match the real-life locations with the film’s intense scenes.
Can I Get a Witness (2024)
Premiering at the 2024 Toronto Film Festival, Can I Get a Witness stars Sandra Oh, Cassandra Sawtell, and Jovanna Burke in an innovative live-action and animated feature that includes scenes shot in Powell River. Be sure to watch for recognizable landmarks such as Powell River’s historic Townsite district.
Hallmark TV Movies
A number of Hallmark movies have filmed scenes on the Sunshine Coast. These include Blind Date Book Club (2024), Nantucket Noel (2021), Christmas Sail (2021), All Summer Long (2019), A Godwink Christmas / A Christmas Coincidence (2018), and The Irresistible Blueberry Farm (2016).
Documentaries
The Sunshine Coast’s unique culture and stunning landscapes have inspired a wide range of documentaries, capturing stories about everything from outdoor adventures to historical narratives. These films offer deep insights into the people and places that make this region so special.
The End of the Road (2017)
The End of the Road is a fascinating documentary that tells the story of the draft dodgers and hippies who settled in Lund, BC, during the 1960s and 70s. This film delves into the countercultural movement that shaped much of the Sunshine Coast’s modern identity, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who sought refuge and a new way of living on this remote coastline.
On the Verge (Arc'teryx, 2022)
On the Verge is a short film by Arc'teryx that was shot in Powell River and highlights the adventures of athletes pushing the boundaries of endurance. The documentary showcases the rugged beauty of the Sunshine Coast, making it a perfect destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Mountain Biking Features
Sechelt and other parts of the Sunshine Coast have been the backdrop for numerous mountain biking documentaries, which capture the challenging terrain and breathtaking views that make the region a must-visit for biking enthusiasts. These films highlight the exhilarating experiences that await those who explore the Sunshine Coast’s extensive trail networks.
