The Glow of a Ruby: Ruby Lake gets its name from the amazing ruby colour at sunset. Ruby Lake’s average summer temperature is 17 degrees celsius - one of the warmest lakes in BC. The water is rated as one of the clearest and cleanest on the coast.
The Venice of the North: Ruby Lake Resort is located just minutes from Pender Harbour, known as the "Venice of the North" because of the complex maze of waterways, inlets, protected harbours, rivers and lakes. The Harbour has the largest and best-protected anchorage in the Pacific Northwest. Over 100 miles of shoreline to explore by kayak, sail boat, canoe or yacht.
Francis Point Provincial Marine Park: The Sunshine Coast's newest eco-attraction is the Francis Point Provincial Marine Park, a mere 20-minute drive from Ruby Lake Resort. The 80-hectare property, classified as a "very dry maritime sub-zone", is a low elevation forest with diverse plants and shrubs found only on the Eastern side of Vancouver Island and limited areas of the Sunshine Coast.
The Spirit of the Rainforest: An Amphitheater without compare! Giorgio Cogrossi's vision of a performance space where "Nature is the first expression of art" has been realized here. A covered stage built around a giant tree, surrounded by a stone walled amphitheater with seating for 150 will inspire audience and performers alike.
Iris Griffith Field Studies and Interpretive Centre: A large new development! A unique wetland location for an advanced and eco-friendly project. The Iris Griffith Field Studies Centre, named in honour of the late local naturalist Iris Griffith, is designed using innovative construction techniques and sustainable practices. The focus is on educational excellence in the study and appreciation of our natural world for students of all ages. www.lagoonsociety.com/interpretive-centre.php
The Coast of Atlantis: National Geographic and Jacques Cousteau have rated B.C. the number 2 dive spot in the world, second only to the Red Sea. The Sunshine Coast lays claim to the title of dive capital of Canada for its animal life, water clarity, vivid colours, diver-friendly tides, sheltered passages and deep ocean currents.
Fresh Water Salmon Spawning: Ruby Creek is a short run of water that drains from Ruby Lake to Sakinaw Lake. The creek provides spawning habitat for a rare population of coastal cutthroat trout and for kokanaee salmon. Kokanee spend their entire life in fresh water and, like sockeye, turn red when spawning. The best viewing time is late fall.
Year-round Flora & Fauna: The Sunshine Coast's mild temperature has attracted gardeners from everywhere. Here on British Columbia's Sunshine Coast you can break soil and toil in your garden in January, see semi-tropical plants (even banana trees!) and enjoy colors 12 months of the year. The Annual Garden Fest takes place March 23 & 24 at the Rockwood Centre in Sechelt.
Visual & Performing Arts: The Sunshine Coast is home to one of the highest per-captia ratio of artists, crafters and talented artisans to be found anywhere in Canada. The Coast Cultural Alliance (CCA) is an organization of artists and supporters dedicated to "a celebration of the arts". Ruby Lake Resort is a proud member of the CCA. www.suncoastarts.com
BC Ferries "Circle Pac" Tour: BC Ferries "Circle Pac" tour offers discount rates on one-way passage to visit the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island. It's the best way to explore cosmopolitan Vancouver, the relaxed pace of coastal towns, and the forested inlets and peaks of our sheltered coastline.
Princess Louisa Inlet: Take a day excursion by boat to Princess Louise Inlet, a granite-bordered fjord carved by glaciers. The steep sides are mirrored in the tranquil waters. This is a favourite destination with boaters. Stop at spectacular Chatterbox Falls to see the power of nature. www.princesslouisa.bc.ca
