That’s right. We’re here, where everyone wishes they lived. We have space and privacy and easy access to nature. We take biodiversity, clean water, and abundant forests for granted. Every single day most of us get at least an eyeful of ocean, forest, mountain, and stream, the sorts of splendours that are an exciting rarity for many. And during this time, while we are still being cautious about travelling, our resorts and businesses are busy preparing for when we can wholeheartedly welcome visitors again. They’re offering some staycations close to home for all of us. It helps them stay tuned up and it means great opportunities for locals!

BEACH GARDENS RESORT & MARINA

This fabulous family-friendly seaside resort is just south of Powell River. Plan ahead and save twenty percent on stays between June 1st to September 30th, 2021, when you book direct by April 30th 2021. – beachgardens.com

SUNSHINE COAST AIR SPRING FLY ‘N DINE WITH BUONO OSTERIA

What a way to be a tourist in your own town! Celebrate birthdays or anniversaries in style. This mini tour takes only a few hours and gives a whole new perspective on our outstanding location. Depart Sechelt in a classic Beaver or Cessna to soar along the pristine coastline in search of orcas, sea lions and porpoises. Land at the Gibsons waterfront dock and head up to Buono Osteria, a local Italian-themed eatery popular for its soul-satisfying menu and stunning water views. Enjoy an intimate three-course meal in the private dining lounge with top-notch service. – sunshinecoastair.com

COPELAND ISLANDS MARINE PARK – OVERNIGHT KAYAK AND BIRDING TOUR WITH FOOTPRINT BC

The Copeland Islands, gateway to Desolation Sound. So close, but unless you have your own boat, so far! Combine adventure with ease, and exercise your biceps and birdwatching skills in this compact and all-inclusive break. Enjoy two days of birding-by-kayak and camp overnight in the Copeland Islands Marine Park. – footprintbc.ca

HAPPY HOLIDAYS MOTORHOMES

We can’t travel, but what if we just want to be someplace . . . else? Priority is being given to British Columbians for provincial camping spots this year. If you dream of escaping your day-to-day routine and immersing yourself in nature, chilling, and recharging your batteries, give yourself an RV package trip to explore our very own beautiful Sunshine Coast and its communities. – happyholidaysmotorhomes.com

KLAHOOSE WILDERNESS RESORT – BC’S NEWEST INDIGENOUS CULTURAL DESTINATION

With the purchase of the former Homfray Lodge, the new Klahoose Wilderness Resort is now one hundred per cent Indigenous-owned. The resort welcomes its first guests to its superb location on May 13, accessed by boat or seaplane only, on Homfray Channel in Desolation Sound. This intimate, exclusive wilderness experience allows guests to safely enjoy the quiet, wide-open spaces of the resort, waters, and rainforest of Desolation Sound. Whether it’s a family-friendly summer escape, exclusive romantic getaway, or immersive wildlife and cultural tours, they have it all at Klahoose Wilderness Resort. – klahooseresort.com

Information from Sunshine Coast Tourism with words by Nancy Pincombe