A True-Crime Fan’s Guide to Moving to the Sunshine Coast BC
If you’ve been watching Murder in a Small Town and secretly thinking… “Wait, could I actually live there?” you’re not alone.
The series has sparked a lot of interest in the Sunshine Coast and for good reason. The ocean views, walkable waterfronts and cozy small-town energy feel straight out of a novel because in many ways, they are.
And yes, many of the filming locations are real places you can visit (and even buy a home near).
This post is inspired by and gives full credit to the fantastic original feature by Sunshine Coast Tourism: “Murder in a Small Town Film Locations You Can Visit.” (Sunshine Coast Canada)
(If you’re planning a trip or want the full location list, their guide is the must-read.)
Why This Show Has People Looking at Sunshine Coast Real Estate
According to Sunshine Coast Tourism, the show is based on crime novels set in Sechelt and filmed largely around Gibsons and other local communities. (Sunshine Coast Canada)
That combination of cinematic scenery + real coastal towns has created a surprising result:
➡️ People aren’t just visiting, they’re asking what it’s like to live here.
And honestly, it makes sense.
The Sunshine Coast gives you:
- Small town charm without losing amenities
- Dramatic coastal scenery everywhere you turn
- Tight knit communities with personality
- A lifestyle that feels slower, calmer, more intentional
It’s basically “coastal mystery series energy”… minus the crime.
Iconic Filming Locations You Can Actually Experience
Here are a few local spots highlighted by Sunshine Coast Tourism and why buyers fall in love with the surrounding neighbourhoods.
📍 Molly’s Reach — Gibsons
One of the most recognizable locations in the show (and a local icon thanks to The Beachcombers legacy). (Sunshine Coast Canada)
Why buyers love this area:
Walkability, waterfront vibes and that classic Gibsons Landing charm. Homes here often feel like they belong in a movie set because, well… they do.
📍 Gibsons Public Market — Gibsons
Featured multiple times in the series and a true community hub. (Sunshine Coast Canada)
Real estate vibe:
People looking for lifestyle first, property second. Think: coffee walks, ocean views and spontaneous market stops.
📍 Gibsons Seawalk
A scenic waterfront path that shows up in several scenes. (Sunshine Coast Canada)
Why locals love it:
This is the “morning walk before work” or “sunset reset” type of place and homes near it are always in demand.
📍 Rockwater Secret Cove Resort — Halfmoon Bay
Used as a fictional wedding setting in the series. (Sunshine Coast Canada)
Real estate energy:
Private, luxurious, west coast retreat living, perfect if your dream is a quiet coastal escape.
So… Are You a True-Crime Fan Thinking About Moving?
Here’s what I see happen all the time:
1️⃣ Someone visits the Sunshine Coast because of a show or recommendation
2️⃣ They realize how relaxed and beautiful life feels here
3️⃣ Suddenly they’re searching things like:
- “Buying a home on the Sunshine Coast BC”
- “Best realtor in Gibsons”
- “Sechelt homes for sale”
- “Moving to the Sunshine Coast from Vancouver”
And that’s where local knowledge becomes everything.
Because the Sunshine Coast isn’t just pretty, it’s nuanced:
- Waterfront vs. view properties
- Septic systems and rural lots
- Ferry lifestyle realities
- Community differences between Gibsons, Sechelt, Roberts Creek and beyond
Buying or Selling on the Sunshine Coast BC
Whether you’re:
- Falling in love with the area through TV and film
- Dreaming about small town coastal life
- Looking to buy your first Sunshine Coast home
- Or planning to sell and move into your next chapter
Working with someone who actually knows the local rhythm matters.
I’m a third generation local and full-time Realtor® helping buyers and sellers navigate real estate across Gibsons, Roberts Creek, Sechelt, Halfmoon Bay and the surrounding coast.
And yes, sometimes the lifestyle really does feel like a movie.
Full Credit + Read the Original Guide
This post was created to share and expand on the incredible work by Sunshine Coast Tourism, whose original article highlights the filming locations in detail and is absolutely worth checking out.
📍 Original article:
Murder in a Small Town Film Locations You Can Visit — Sunshine Coast Tourism (Sunshine Coast Canada)