Netflix Series Murder In A Small Town Reveals the Beauty of BC's Sunshine Coast
The Netflix series Murder In A Small Town has brought global attention to the stunning Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, Canada. This picturesque region, accessible only by ferry or air from Vancouver, serves as the primary filming location for the crime drama, based on novels by Canadian author L.R. Wright.
Exploring the Sunshine Coast Through Netflix's Lens
The Sunshine Coast stretches approximately 180 kilometers from Howe Sound to Desolation Sound, renowned for its abundant sunshine, sheltered inlets, and forested mountain backdrops. It offers ideal conditions for boating, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, creating a secluded lifestyle that perfectly sets the scene for the series.
In Murder In A Small Town, the story originally set in Sechelt is adapted with filming largely centered in Gibsons. The show features Rossif Sutherland as police chief Karl Alberg and Kristin Kreuk as librarian Cassandra Lee, with seasons one and two available on Netflix and season three currently in production on the coast.
Key Filming Locations for Fans to Visit
Sunshine Coast Tourism has highlighted several spots from the series that viewers can explore in person. Here are some notable locations:
- Gibsons Seawalk: Featured in multiple episodes, this 1.2-kilometer waterfront walkway offers views of the marina and Salish Sea, where scenes include strolls and dramatic discoveries.
- Molly’s Reach by Black Bean: A iconic Gibsons eatery appearing from the first episode, known for breakfast sandwiches, paninis, and local drinks, with a famous "Welcome back!" sign.
- Gibsons Public Market: A hub in the series for meetings and discoveries, housing vendors like Crazy Red’s Breads and Fisherman’s Market, plus an aquarium showcasing local marine life.
- Rockwater Secret Cove Resort: Located in Halfmoon Bay, this resort serves as a fictional wedding venue in season two, offering tenthouse suites, spa treatments, and kayaking opportunities.
- Twenty Two Taphouse: In Sechelt, this spot doubles as the Gibsons Club in the show, featuring 22 beers on tap and a lounge for cocktails.
Other locations include High Beam Dreams for events, Sunday Cider for craft beverages, and various streets in Gibsons and Sechelt where fans might recognize local shops and eateries from background scenes.
Tourism Impact and Visitor Tips
A spokesperson for Sunshine Coast Tourism notes that the series has sparked interest, allowing fans to experience the landscapes firsthand and possibly encounter active filming. The region encourages visits to these spots while enjoying activities like warm-water swimming in summer and exploring protected marine environments.
Accommodation options range from cozy hotels to geodesic domes, catering to diverse traveler preferences. For more details, visitors can check resources like sunshinecoastcanada.com to plan their trip.
With its combination of natural beauty and cinematic appeal, the Sunshine Coast continues to attract both tourists and production crews, solidifying its status as a premier destination in British Columbia.
