We spent the first week of Spring Break this year on a joint-family getaway on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia. The draw was simple: stunning coastal scenery and a chance to unwind.

We found a big vacation property on Home Exchange (which we’ve been using more) that looked ideal. Lots of room to sleep everyone, indoor spaces to play and hang out, beautiful views of the ocean, and all within a few hours from Vancouver.

When we arrived, the kids were ecstatic – partly because the winding drive was over but mostly because they had a huge house to explore. They quickly claimed the bunkbed room as their own. We had a huge kitchen to make meals, and there was a hot tub, fireplace, and karaoke machine to entertain us without ever leaving. The living room offered impressive ocean views and there was often someone sitting in the comfy window seat with a pair of binoculars.

A highlight for Astrid was a kayak trip on our final day. Despite the cooler, breezy conditions, her determination got us paddling out into the swells. It was cold and we had a few waves crashing over the boat, but we decided to explore the little islands nearby before we turned around. In between the islands, it was surprisingly calm and our paddle was rewarded by the appearance of a curious harbour seal family, their sleek heads popping up near our kayaks – a truly memorable wildlife encounter.

We also explored the shoreline and ventured on a few hikes. While the girls sometimes needed encouragement to get moving, the discoveries along the way proved worthwhile. Tide pools teemed with bright purple sea stars, and one afternoon, we were surprised by the sight of sea lions playing in the waves.

Beyond the outings, the week offered ample time for relaxation and connection. Dozens of rounds of Sushi Go and Happy Families, and a No Thank You Evil adventure were the board game highlights. We also spent lots of time quietly reading, playing Smash Bros on the Switch, and an evening singing karaoke. Before bed each night, the girls diligently documented their experiences in their journals.

The week wasn’t without its challenges. Our friends’ son got sick before the trip, preventing him from joining us. This meant their week was spent navigating shifts to care for him back home, and we never had everyone all together at the same time.

Despite this, our time on the Sunshine Coast was a refreshing break. The combination of breathtaking ocean views, opportunities for exploration, and relaxed friend and family time created a collection of moments we’ll look back on fondly.

More photos here.