Smuggler Cove Marine Provincial Park — Attraction in Area B (Halfmoon Bay)

It's a crime to share details of this location. Smugglers Cove is a gem. One of those places that makes you feel like you're in an ad for the BC Tourism Office. Like you've stumbled into one of those places that you know in a decade will be crawling with people. The parking lot for 8 cars should be an indicator of how special this place is. You have to get there early. And if the tides are right and the sun is out. I can't think of a more quintessential example of the PNW. Ocean you can dive right into that's teeming with life. Or explore The gorgeous park. Varied terrain with trails that loop and connect. Beautiful vistas overlooking the inlet or I guess the Cove. Sailboats will often anchor in the harbor and some look almost pirate ship like. But as I said, you should not go there. It is a crime to share such a...

A beautiful park with amazing views and easy trails. Main trail is very well groomed and easy to walk (possible to even push a more rugged stroller/buggy/wheelchair on it). Beyond the main trail (where you need to go for the really good views) the trail transitions to a more moderate walk on an established trail. Can be muddy and rocks/roots can be slippery in the rain. Walked every inch of trail in the park (with lots of stops to enjoy the scenery/relax as well a explore some of the rocky islands) and was back to my car in about 1.5 - 2 hours - very easy to explore in a short amount of time while traveling through. Definitely worth a visit if you are on the Sunshine Coast. One of my new...

Great hiking trails. You'll start off through your typical coastal forest and come into a wetland. Keep your eyes out for all the different kinds of wildlife - beavers, woodpeckers, even garter snakes! After this you'll come upon the Cove itself. Continuing on will take you through an incredible forest of Arbutus trees before providing lots of flat, oceanside rocks; perfect for a picnic and to catch some rays! Bring your bug spray - the mosquitos were vicious this time of year. Of course, respect the land and wildlife, and pack out everything that you pack in. Note: there used to be outhouses along the trail but now the only one is at the...