By Doc Pow special to Outdoor Vancouver
Here’s how you can camp on the edge of epic.
We’re giving you a list of suggestions and a big dose of inspiration about how you can experience B.C.’s largest Gulf Island called Texada.
Found along the Sunshine Coast, the island is home to an incredible array of secluded beaches, eye-popping adventures and camping surrounded by ocean waters.
Each year, this island is home to a long list of events, including the annual Texada Blues and Roots Festival, happening Aug. 4 and 5.
Read my story on FestivalSeekers.com to learn more about just what happens on this magical island. You’ll learn the best spot to play your guitar (or just chill).
Edge of epic camping at Shelter Point
This is one big surprise discovery so be prepared to be wowed by the view from your tent or trailer. There’s a reason this has been a gathering place for millennia among the Tla’amin First Nation. Shelter Point is on the edge of Gillies Bay, with a waterfront campground that’s sure to put you in a mellow state of mind. Strum your guitar or play some bongos next on the beach, and let your troubles melt away.
Shingle Beach
Texada is known for unusual rocks, and on this unique beach-meets-camping spot (home to the annual music festival Diversity), you’ll find out all about what the locals call “shingles” – thousands of little pebbles or stones with flower formations imprinted into them. Go for a barefoot walk on the beach if you are looking for free foot message, which goes perfectly with the suggested $5-a-night oceanside camping you’ll find here.
Learn more on Sunshine Coast’s beaches here.
Get Baked at the Farmers Market
Your creative talents are sure to soar after a visit to Texada’s weekly Farmers Market, happening every Sunday at noon. Go say “high” to Alexis Mclean, from Totally Baked, who bakes up totally tasty treats. Top tip: get there early so you don’t miss out on her Root Beer Pulled Pork meat pie, or for something sweet, I bet you’ve never tasted a blueberry cheesecake with a brownie bottom?
Van Anda
Step back in time. This is a place steeped in history. Spend time playing your guitar, harmonica or maybe some drums out on the wharf which has an awesome view of “Powell Riviera” as some call it – and the north part of the Sunshine Coast.
Sailing Away
As my story on FestivalSeekers says, Texada rocks! This is a place that you’ll likely never forget because of the welcoming and creative people. As you’re leaving B.C.’s largest Gulf Island, I guarantee you’ll be strumming or humming all the way home.
If You Go
Learn about how Sunshine Coast Tourism can help you make your plans.
Note: Texada is a time warp, it might not be that easy to get to, but once you’re here you will want to stay a while.
Yes, it may take three ferries to get here from Vancouver, but it’s all part of its charm. There are daily flights from Vancouver to Texada, via KDAir. Or, drive up the Sunshine Coast. Texada is serviced by BC Ferries with daily sailings. (It’s a pretty cheap trip for two, under $27 for the 35-minute passage).
Buy your Texada Blues Festival tickets online now, at TexadaBluesFestival.com
Learn more about B.C.’s largest Gulf Island and why people keep coming back. (It might have something to do with the people, or the baked goods.) Learn more at FestivalSeekers.com.
