The Area: Sunshine Coast, Pender Harbour
Pender Harbour and the Freshwater Lakes
The Sunshine Coast is part of the south coast of BC but is accessible only by boat, ferry or float plane. It has been a popular recreational area since the 1950s, with its combination of rugged coastlines and mountains and beautiful freshwater lakes.
Pender Harbour is a popular boating destination, and the two main boating lakes, Ruby Lake and Sakinaw Lake offer freshwater boating at its best.
If you love to play on the water, the location is ideal. The cottage is a short stroll to Ruby Lake public docks and boat launch and not far away is Dan Bosch Park, which is an ideal lakefront beach spot on Ruby.
Other nearby lakes include Garden Bay, Hotel Lake, North Lake and Klein Lake.
Activities
Kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddle boards and speed boats, Ruby has it all.
Other activities in the area include boat tours, golfing, hiking, horseback riding, 4x4 and even an art gallery tour.
Nearby hiking trails include the Suncoaster Trail, Mount Daniel and the Skookumchuk Narrows Provincial Park.
Getting There - Getting Supplies
BC Ferries - Sunshine Coast - Horseshoe Bay to Langdale
Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal is about 20-30 minutes north of Vancouver.
You do not need a reservation but in peak summer months, it's advisable. Otherwise allow for a sailing wait - you can go for a walk, grab a bite to eat or coffee in the Village of Horseshoe Bay.
Check the BC Ferries website for schedules, bookings and service notices.
Langdale - Town of Gibsons
The Langdale Ferry Terminal is where you'll arrive. The nearest town is Gibsons.
It's where "The Beachcombers" was filmed and Molly's Reach still offers diner food.
Sechelt
About 30 minutes up the Sunshine Coast Highway is the City of Sechelt. It has several good restaurants and pubs - the Lighthouse Pub is where the float plan airport is and a great spot for a pub lunch.
Sechelt is the largest town on the Coast and has several grocery stores and pretty much everything you need. Cowrie road has many shops, thrift stores and farmers markets. .
Madeira Park
Another 30 minutes up the highway is Madeira Park, where there is an supermarket, Liquor Store and pharmacy. There are also a few restaurants and a Legion.
Ruby Lake
From Madeira, a further 15 minutes up the Sunshine Coast Highway is Hallowell Road. The road is marked by post boxes and turns to the left. Just past the turnoff is the Ruby Lake Resort. If you arrive here, turnaround and go back one street.
Egmont
Forgot something? The town of Egmont has a General Store and basic supplies including gasoline and propane.
Eating Out
La Trattoria Italiana - Ruby Lake
An easy walk from the cottage is "La Trattoria Italiana" restaurant, part of the Ruby Lake Resort. It’s open for lunch and dinner during the summer season, and has excellent fresh food and a good wine selection.
The Backeddy Pub - Egmont
The Backeddy Pub in Egmont does very good food and has incredible views. Worth checking out any time of year and live music on Saturday nights.
Inlet Restaurant - Westcoast Wilderness Lodge - Egmont
Near the pub in Egmont is the Inlet Restaurant is part of the Wilderness Lodge. It is a bit more up-market and magnificent views and great food. Make sure you call first as they often have private functions.
Skookumchuk Bakery - Egmont
Planning to do the Skookumchuk Rapids hike? Stop at the little forest bakery known for its yummy cinnamon buns.
Grasshopper Pub - Madeira Park
The Grasshopper Pub is in Madeira Park is a good spot with patio overlooking Pender Harbour. Madeira also has a few other restaurants and a Legion.
Activities and Tours
Discover the best of the local area with our guided tours and adventure activities.
