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Gibsons, BC is a charming coastal town known as the gateway to the Sunshine Coast, offering an abundance of cute boutiques, delectable food options, and (in typical West Coast fashion) glorious views and nature.
Adding on the fact that Gibsons was, for decades, the setting for one of Canada’s longest running TV series (The Beachcombers), this laidback town has plenty to brag about.
But what exactly is there to do when the Sunshine Coast isn’t so sunny?
We recently spent a rainy weekend exploring the area, and found out first-hand that when in Gibsons, you don’t necessarily need sun to have fun.
Below, you’ll find a list of things to do in Gibsons when it rains. We hope you find it helpful!
1. Grab a local coffee
To start your rainy day in Gibsons off right, some local coffee is in order.
For this, we recommend Beachcomber Coffee, a local craft coffee company with delicious fairtrade and organic products that are as visually appealing as they are delicious.
At Gibsons Landing, you can enjoy their products at their dedicated cafe on on Gower Point Rd, where they offer their signature tasty coffee & a small but mighty selection of local donuts from Deadly Donuts.
If you’re feeling gluttonous, we can highly recommend grabbing a Mocha (with whip!) and an Apple fritter.
Their vibrant yellow branding and neat assortment of merch also make for great eye candy while you wait for your treats to be prepared.
Looking for more baked goodies beyond donuts? Sandy’s Bake Shop is another nice place to grab some homemade baked goods if you need a treat with your coffee!
2. Taste some local brews
The Sunshine Coast has gained a reputation lately as a craft brewing paradise, and Gibsons is a great place to (literally) get a taste of the action.
During our visit, we cozied into Gibsons’ 101 Brewhouse + Distillery, the town’s first craft distillery, which offered plenty of delicious drink options, and tasty burgers which hit the spot after a cold commute over from Vancouver.
Elsewhere in Gibsons, you’ll also find Tapworks Brewing Company, and legendary Persephone Brewing Co, renowned for their adorable farm ambiance.
3. Stock up on gourmet oils/balsamics
For foodies seeking rainy day activities in Gibsons, look no further than a visit to Sunshine Coast Olive Oils, which offers an epic assortment of premium artisan olive oils, balsamics, and gifts sourced from around the world.
This cozy shop is filled with dozens of tasty gourmet products, from garlic-infused Italian olive oil to balsamics in tasty flavours like cranberry-pear and key lime.
And, with a gorgeous view over the harbour below, this shop is a must-visit in Gibsons, rain or shine.
PS: Keen to sample something a little different? We recommend trying a Balsamic Beverage, which is made with sparkling water and a splash of balsamic (usually one of their fruity flavours, don’t worry!) This surprisingly refreshing concoction is a must-try!
4. Enjoy some local seafood
When it’s raining in Gibsons, seeking shelter in a delicious restaurant is always a good bet… all the better when fresh seafood is involved!
After all, when you’re on the coast, you have to take advantage.
Smitty’s Oyster House is a popular pick right at Gibsons Marina, known for its feature on the Food Network’s “You Gotta Eat Here!” Time constraints meant we didn’t get to have lunch here as planned, but we’ve heard great things.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for some seafood to bring home, then Gibsons’ Fisherman’s Market is a must-visit.
5. Visit the Gibsons Public Art Gallery
While small, the Gibsons Public Art Gallery is a great rainy day thing to do in Gibsons.
Entry is free (although donations are encouraged!), and exhibitions regularly rotate to provide visitors with a fresh experience each time.
The tiny gift shop here is also a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs before heading home.
6. Stop by the Sunshine Coast Community Museum
Another rainy day activity to enjoy in Gibsons is a visit to the Sunshine Coast Community Museum, which houses over 9000 photographs & documents that present the history of the region (and its inhabitants).
Spread out over two floors, this museum offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about the history of the Sunshine Coast, and is definitely a spot we’ll have to come back for, since we didn’t get a chance to see it for ourselves this past trip.
7. Scope out Beachcombers locations
While it has been over 30 years since the last episode of CBC’s The Beachcombers aired, the cultural impact of this show is still felt today, particularly in Gibsons, where reminders of the show are everywhere you turn!
Iconic Beachcombers sights in Gibsons include Molly’s Reach Restaurant and the show’s legendary boat, “the Persephone”.
8. Stop by the Gibsons Public Market
While small, Gibsons Public Market makes for another great place to hide from the rain.
Consisting of an award-winning bistro and a handful of locally owned businesses, this covered market was built to bring the community together and “create a vibrant hub of Coastal life”.
Inside the market, you’ll also find the Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education Centre, a unique community aquarium that operates under a “collect-hold-release-model” which collects only local marine life and releases it back into the wild after a short stay at the centre.
9. Venture over to Sechelt
While there are plenty of great rainy day activities to enjoy in Gibsons, those with a bit of extra time in the region should definitely explore more of the Sunshine Coast.
Sechelt for example is home to several more breweries, boutiques & sights, including a beautiful waterfall that looks even better when it rains!
Check out our things to do in Sechelt when it rains guide for more inspo.
Did we miss any of your favourite rainy day activities in Gibsons?
Let us know in the comments so we can add more to our list!