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Out and About Thetis Island

This thickly forested Northern Gulf Island off the west coast of the British Columbia mainland is the smallest and least populated of all the Gulf Islands. Covering only 10 square kilometres, Thetis is primarily rural and maintains a community-minded spirit even though it is within close proximity to many major urban centres, such as Vancouver, Victoria, and Seattle.


FACTS FOR THE VISITOR

Every Island has a story …

Thetis Island was named for early surveyors of the area aboard the British frigate, H.M.S. Thetis. This boat was moored at Esquimalt from 1851 to 1853. The adjacent Kuper Island bears the name of Thetis’ captain. These two islands were originally joined by mud flats, but in 1905 a cut was dredged for the first time, which allowed boats to pass through this channel. Pioneers first established themselves on Thetis in 1873. Over 100 years later, by 1986, Lawrence Trail had been built through the centre of the Island to provide direct access between Preedy Harbour and the Lawrence homestead on Pilkey Point.

Who lives on Thetis?

There are about 340 permanent residents and many summer cottage owners that enjoy Thetis Island. Most of the island’s residents are involved in the arts or are enjoying their retirement with Thetis Island as their backdrop.

Where is it and how do I get there?

Thetis Island is 6 kilometres from the closest point on Vancouver Island, 56 kilometres west of Vancouver, 80 kilometres north of Victoria, and 32 kilometres south of Nanaimo. There is easy access by a small ferry from Chemainus on Vancouver Island every 90 minutes daily. It’s hard to miss the mock Tudor building that houses Thetis’ ferry terminal so take a minute to enjoy this, the first stop on your Thetis Island itinerary. Check the BC Ferries web site at www.bcferries.com or call 1-888-BCFERRY (BC) or (250) 386-3431 (Victoria).

When should I go?

The mild, Mediterranean-like climate of Thetis makes this an ideal location for visiting year round. Warm winters and dry summers attest to the fact that Thetis lies in the rain shadow of Victoria and visitors will note that the climate is much less rainy than that of neighbouring Vancouver. 

What should I do when I get there?

Although Thetis has no commercial centre, the island still has a number of important amenities to offer the visitor, including: 2 marinas (one with a pub and restaurant, the other with a café), artist’s studios, accommodation, a variety of community services, convenience stores, nurseries, and an abundance of recreation opportunities. But with all of this to do, don’t forget to take some time to relax in this pristine and leisurely environment!

What are some of the Island’s unique features?

Crime-free ...

Thetis Island is proud of its status as virtually crime-free, making this an ideal and safe location for families to visit. 

Discover the Water ... 

Telegraph Harbour on Thetis Island is an area not to be missed! Take in the views of Canoe Pass, an area so shallow that boats are often moored here unintentionally until the tide rolls in! This pass has separated Thetis from Kuper Island, a First Nations Reserve, since 1905. If you are visiting in the summer, you can take a refreshing dip in the warm Harbour. For winter tourists, you may want to stick to warmer pursuits, like strolling the roads of the island or golfing a round on the Mt. Brenton Golf Course at Chemainus.

Explore on Foot ...

The entire island can be seen best via bicycle tour or on foot, no need for a car! St. Margaret's Cemetery beside Capernwray is a beautiful place for you to explore the historical gravestones that make up this final resting place for Thetis’ ancestors. While out and about, you will enjoy the Douglas Fir, Terrestrial Herbaceous, and Garry Oak ecosystems that make up this Cascadia bioregion (meaning coastal, Pacific Northwest).

Private … and Privately Owned

Most of Thetis is privately owned, apart from a small stretch of beach and roadway. The island is mainly used by the three Christian camps found here and has no public land or parks. Thetis is dedicated to tranquility, community, and natural beauty.

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I just finished uploading this House for sale, 233 PLATEAU Road, Out of Town, British Columbia

Welcome home to West Coast contemporary living on Thetis Island. Experience the tranquility & privacy this well cared for home provides. This 4 bdrm & den home has a spacious sundeck, backyard garden, pond, waterfall & workshop. The large kitchen & practical floor plan allow separation into 2 areas, B&B potential. Generously sized bdrms are filled with natural light from skylights. Renovations in '08 evidence the pride of ownership enjoyed by the current owners. Some maintenance & updating still in progress. The 1.4 acre land parcel offers varying topography with extensive natural rock formations, currently incorporated into the water feature in one area. Parking for multiple vehicles, woodshed, small outbuildings & garage offer plenty of room for projects & activities. Thetis Island has some on island services & is serviced by 11 ferry sailings/day to Chemainus & 3 flights/day to Vancouver. Come over & see one of the Southern Gulf Islands' last secret & serene islands.

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I just finished uploading this Other for sale, 24 BELLA VISTA Road, Out of Town, British Columbia

Ultra-rare, one of a kind West facing, walk-on waterfront bldg lot on Thetis Island. Welcome home to 200+ ft of low bank walk on beachfront with expansive views of Preedy Harbour, neighboring islands & glorious crimson sunsets. If you're looking for only the finest views & property avail with moorage for your boat in front, this level .78 acre park like parcel is leading contender. Private & level, there is hydro/tel/internet available & a driller well. Build the home this amazing property deserves. Extensive beach & shoreline topography complete this magnificent opportunity for excellence. Enjoy the climate of the Southern Gulf Islands & build the island paradise you've always wanted. Thetis Island has 11 ferry sailings per day to Chemainus & 3 flights per day to Vancouver.

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I just finished uploading this Empty Lot for sale, 59 Pilkey Point Rd., Thetis Island, BC

Escape to the peace and serenity of Thetis Island. Rarely does such a prime waterfront building lot become available. Located at the head of Telegraph Harbour, the lot slopes down to offer low bank waterfront access and the cleared level building site at the top gives you commanding views of Telegraph Harbour and the Marina. A once in a lifetime chance to build your Island getaway, this is the ONLY waterfront building lot of its kind left on the Harbour and presents a real opportunity to build or hold property in the most desirable part of Thetis Island. Centrally located within a short walk of the Marina/Pub/Post/Store&Liquor Store and just around the corner from the Ferry. 12 Ferry sailings/day to Vancouver Island and 3 scheduled float plane flights to Vancouver daily makes Thetis Island one of the most secret and desirable locations in the Gulf Islands. This unique waterfront building lot with amazing views is affordable Gulf Island excellence, don't delay! Motivated Seller bring your offer!

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I just finished uploading this Empty Lot for sale, Thetis, South Island Area, BC

An incredible 11.71 acre waterfront property ready for your enjoyment and development. This very rare, beautifully treed, and private acreage faces south and west on the ocean waterway CUFRA INLET and slopes from Pilkey Point Road down to the water. Property has over 500 ft of LOW BANK waterfront. Hydro pole accessible at edge of lot but no development has occured on this land. Adjacent property has a drilled well with abundant good water and installed septic. There are many gorgeous building sites on the acreage and the zoning R2 allows for a residence dwelling and a 700 sqft cottage. Currently a 200 sqft cabin exists on property in excellent condition, as well as a 10x10 sqft deck, wharf and ramp down to the water.

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I just finished uploading this House for sale, 107 KLAHOWYA ROAD, Thetis, South Island Area, BC

ENJOY WATCHING DEER & wildlife on your deck. Private 3 bedroom rancher on 2.47 acres in the forest. A short walk to marinas & the ferry terminal, this home is on a no thru road, has a good well with lots of water & RV parking. This spacious single level home has large rooms, wrap around decks, wood siding & quality thermal wood windows. The ideal Thetis Island lifestyle.

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I just finished uploading this House for sale, 81 Blue Heron Road, Thetis Island, BC

Waterfront cottage on Thetis Island located in Canoe Pass with south facing exposure and sheltered gorgeous views. This home is situated on 1.35 acres of beautifully forested property & only a few steps from your front door to launch your kayak or canoe. A low tide, the scenery is magnificent & privacy beyond belief makes this a very special getaway. Separate guest accommodation adds to the equation, making this a treasure for anyone wanting their dream vacation home on the ocean at an affordable price. Buyer to verify measurements.

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I just finished uploading this Empty Lot for sale, Island in BC, Thetis, South Island Area, BC

DEEP WATER MOORAGE-WATERFRONT Acreage with over 400 ft of shoreline & east/west exposure. Property located adjacent to Thetis Island Marina & Pub and has existing renewable foreshore lease to 2015 which allows deep water moorage, float-ramp-dock. This 5.20 acre parcel is zoned R2 which allows 2 residences; home and cabin on 650 sqft. Land is separated by Harbour Road which offers 1.35 acres of waterfront below and 3.85 acres above. Foster Point Rd. provides easy access to the upper acreage.

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I just finished uploading this House for sale, Island in BC, Thetis Island / Gulf Islands / Other Islands / Vancouver Island / Smaller Islands, BC

ENJOY WATCHING DEER & wildlife on your deck. Private 3 bedroom rancher on 2.47 acres in the forest. A short walk to marinas & the ferry terminal, this home is on a no thru road, has a good well with lots of water & RV parking. This spacious single level home has large rooms, wrap around decks, wood siding & quality thermal wood windows. The ideal Thetis Island lifestyle.

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I just finished uploading this Empty Lot for sale, Oceanfront, Thetis Island / Gulf Islands / Other Islands / Vancouver Island / Smaller Islands, BC

OCEANFRONT 2.50 ACES and ready to build on, Thetis Island, B C's beautiful Gulf Islands. Zoning for 2 homes-160 ft of beachfront. Ferry/boat access, drilled well & services at lot line. A great spot for a recreational home or lifestyle change.

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I just finished uploading this House for sale, 3109 Tillicum Rd, Saanich West, BC

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY! Offer invited. To be sold as part of a land assembly along with # 3105 and # 3113 Tillicum Road. All houses are ready to be torn down or moved off site to make way for a new development. The house on the corner at #3101 Tillicum Road MLS 231620 is also for sale and could be purchased separately to have all 4 houses in a row available for a larger corner development. Act quickly before this opportunity is gone. Sold as is where is. Yeild analysis by Eric Barker Architect.

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I just finished uploading this Empty Lot for sale, Islands in BC, Thetis Island / Gulf Islands / Other Islands / Vancouver Island / Smaller Islands, BC

Very buildable Thetis Island building lot in most prestigious area of Thetis Island. 2.305 acre gently sloping building lot for extreme privacy. Walking distance to Thetis Island ferry. Very quiet rural island. Great for summer home or for year round residence. Hydro to lot line, drilled well. Property line is on Pole 4 and on Pole 6.

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I just finished uploading this Condo for sale, 801 1030 WEST BROADWAY, Vancoiuver, BC

Move right into this brand new suite on the 8th floor or alternatively purchase as a fantastic revenue property. The open and well laid out floorplan with floor to ceiling windows offers unobstructed views. Fantastic finishings throughout such as granite countertops, custom cabinetry, wood flooring and a relaxing deep soaker tub. A good sized North and East facing balcony makes this suite complete. Also comes with a secured underground parking spot and the 2-5-10 year New Home Owners Warranty for peace of mind.

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I just finished uploading this House, 187 Pilkey Point Road, Thetis Island BC

Welcome to beautiful Thetis Island, located in the Gulf Islands. Rarely does such a private and pristine property become available. This Custom built 2yr old home, was built with trees from the land, and situated so as to ensure preservation of natural view corridors. The open beam construction and hardwood floors showcase the fine craftsmanship of this lovely home, while giving it the cozy warmth of exposed wood. The living area is accentuated by the vaulted 20ft. ceilings, dramatic beams, and huge windows which give this home the style of a timeless masterpiece. Patios off both East and West sides, with a great open floor plan, ensure ample room for wonderful West Coast living! Regular Ferry service to Vancouver Island, with scheduled float plane service to Vancouver, makes Thetis Island one of the most desirable locations in the Gulf Islands. This unique and private level lot is a short walk from public beach access and swimming; this is affordable Gulf Island excellence!

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MLS® property information is provided under copyright© by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board and Victoria Real Estate Board. The information is from sources deemed reliable, but should not be relied upon without independent verification.