So Close Yet Worlds Away

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is coming to British Columbia in June & July 2026! The Sunshine Coast’s proximity to Vancouver, one of 16 host cities in North America, makes it the perfect spot for a variety of getaways.

Book a pre- or post-match getaway, pairing a match in Vancouver with some scenic sightseeing outside of the city; or plan an escape from the buzz of activity the tournament will bring to Vancouver. Here on the Sunshine Coast, you can connect with nature, immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture scene, and enjoy rejuvenating wellness activities. Rest assured, there will still be plenty of places where you can watch football matches, cheer on your favourite team, and get a taste of the excitement that FWC26 will bring to BC.

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Trip Inspiration

Start planning your trip today—find trip inspiration and offers from Sunshine Coast businesses below.

Pre- and Post-game Explorers

Travelling for the FIFA World Cup 2026™? Extend your trip beyond the stadium and make the most of your time in British Columbia by arriving early or staying a little longer to visit the Sunshine Coast. The region stretches from Gibsons to Lund, and is easily accessible by scenic ferry or flight—offering a relaxed coastal experience where outdoor adventure, local culture, and great food come together.

Here are a few trip ideas to inspire your stay:

Stay & explore: Add a few nights before or after the soccer/football matches to unwind on the Sunshine Coast. From full-service resorts to cozy cabins and quaint hotel rooms, there are plenty of inviting places to stay.
Outdoor adventures: Hike forested trails, book a guided kayak or boat tour to explore the coastline, or simply spend a day at the beach.
Food & drink experiences: Enjoy fresh local fare at cafés and restaurants, visit one of the Sunshine Coast's vibrant farmers' markets, and stop by local breweries, cideries, and distilleries to enjoy a craft beverage.
Creative communities: Creativity is woven into the fabric of everyday life on the Sunshine Coast. Home to a large population of artists practicing all manner of disciplines, the Sunshine Coast is full of art galleries, studios, and markets to discover. There are also plenty of fun events to attend, where you can soak up the local vibes.

Day Trippers

If you’re short on time during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the lower Sunshine Coast makes an easy and rewarding day trip from Vancouver. A 40-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale brings you to the Sunshine Coast, where you can explore the charming communities of Gibsons, Roberts Creek, and Sechelt. Public bus transit and a rideshare service called Coastal Rides are options to get you from the Langdale ferry terminal to local points of interest.

A few day trip itinerary ideas include:

Waterfront wandering: Stroll harbours, beaches, and seaside paths. Check out the Gibsons Seawalk, Roberts Creek Pier, or the Davis Bay Esplanade and Trail Bay Walkway in Sechelt.
Local flavour: Grab lunch, coffee, or treats from local cafés, eateries, and food trucks.
Arts & culture: Visit galleries, boutiques, museums, community landmarks, and public art installations. Gibsons Landing, the Heart of the Creek, and Downtown Sechelt are charming places to explore.

With some good planning, you can also take a day trip from the Sunshine Coast into Vancouver for a match. Afternoon matches work the best for this, ensuring that you have time to catch morning and evening ferries.

Note: Communities past Sechelt are better suited to overnight or multi-day trips. There is a lot more to explore on the Sunshine Coast!

Escape Seekers

If the energy of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ isn’t your thing—or you simply want a break from the crowds—the Sunshine Coast offers a calmer alternative to Metro Vancouver. Easily reached by ferry or plane, there's plenty of room to explore communities from Gibsons to Lund.

Here, space comes naturally and days unfold at a slower pace—ideal for visitors or locals seeking time away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

A few trip ideas include:

Quiet stays: Cozy accommodations are available in communities like Pender Harbour, Powell River, and Texada Island. Pick up some groceries from local specialty shops and plan for a quiet night in, or grab some take-out and head to the beach or a park for a picnic.
Outdoor calm: Venture outside to find forested trails, lakes to paddle, and peaceful shorelines to wander along.
Room to breathe: Find fewer crowds and more leisurely experiences. Things operate on "Coast time", and you'll find yourself settling into a natural flexibility.
Time offline: Take a moment to reset and reconnect. Book a spa experience, visit a local bookstore to find the perfect beach read, and take time to simply relax.

Special Offers

Now is the time to plan for your FIFA World Cup 2026™ experience in British Columbia. Sunshine Coast businesses are offering packages and promotions to help you make the most of your trip. Book early to avoid disappointment!

Sunshine Coast Events

Along with watch parties and soccer/football-related events, there are plenty of other things happening on the Sunshine Coast in June and July. Here's a glimpse of what's happening in June and July—be sure to check out the full calendar of events.