The Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast has mild winters (seldom with snow) and warm dry summers. There are 270 growing days per year (up to 90°F/ 30°C), with the growth of sub-tropicals (eucalyptus, fig, kiwi and palm) observed in some coastal pockets. The backdrop of the Coast Mountains, ocean coast and "Inland Sea" (Sechelt Inlet) contribute to the scenic nature of the Sunshine Coast (for details, see www.thesunshinecoast.com).  There are numerous parks including the newly established Spipiyus Provincial Park (Caren Range), home to a 'cloud forest' containing some of the oldest yellow cedar and western hemlock in Western Canada (for information see  the BC Parks web site).  Wildlife abounds in the region including deer, eagles, elk, mountain goats, osprey, otters, sea lions and seals (see www3.bc.sympatico.ca/driftwood/vowsech.htm for more information).

The Town of Sechelt
Sechelt (pop. 8,000) is the geographic centre of the Sunshine Coast. The Shishalh Indian Band (Coast Salish), from which Sechelt gets its name, occupied the town-site historically. Today they sponsor a museum, gift shop and theatre. Sechelt has many services and amenities, including a hospital, shopping mall and several fine restaurants.  The town holds several concerts and festivals each year.  For events and attractions, see the Sechelt Chamber of Commerce web site.

The Hamlet of Tuwanek
Tuwanek, approximately 12 km (7 miles) from Sechelt, is situated on the eastern side of Sechelt Inlet at the foot of Mount Richardson.  The name is derived from Tuwanekq, one of the 4 divisions (septs) of the Sechelt Nation. The Sechelt Indian salmon hatchery and a world-reknowned scuba diving site (Tuwanek Point) are also nearby.  Tuwanek is in close proximity to Mount Richardson, Porpoise Bay, Sechelt Inlets Marine and Tetrahedron Provincial Parks.