Beautiful Thetis Island

Thetis Island lies nestled amongst the idyllic southern Gulf Islands between Vancouver and Vancouver Island, British Columbia (BC), Canada.

Situated centrally in the Pacific Northwest Coastal region, Thetis combines the advantages of a mild climate with convenient access to major centers, such as Vancouver and Seattle, whilst at the same time maintaining an atmosphere of rural seclusion and tranquility. The Southern Gulf Islands and Saanich Peninsula (Victoria, BC) have the best climate in the region. A mediterranean combination of mild winters and warm, dry summers support a unique ecosystem and provide an ideal environment for outdoor recreation. Thetis Island is in the rain shadow of Vancouver Island, having an annual rainfall of about 850 mm - far dryer than Vancouver.

Throughout the coastal area opportunities for outdoor recreation abound, whether it be water sports, hiking, skiing, mountaineering, bird watching, fishing or golfing. The protected waters around Thetis Island are ideal for kayaking, and the Gulf Island's many marine parks make camping or day trips an inviting prospect. At the same time the convenience of the major cities of Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo (on Vancouver Island) mean that culture and shopping are close at hand. Easy access to these vibrant cities is available by (twice daily) scheduled air service (15 minutes to Vancouver downtown or airport) or by ferry and road (less than a one hour drive to Victoria). The closer centers of Duncan and Nanaimo also offer full services, shopping and recreational opportunities.

Just the other end of a thirty minute ferry ride is the pretty town of Chemainus on Vancouver Island, well known for its famous murals, beautiful golf course, and posh theatre. Chemainus provides services including a hospital, medical services, and shopping thanks to many interesting boutiques and galleries.

The ferry service is reasonably priced and runs hourly from 6:25 AM to 10:20 PM daily, allowing you to easily explore Vancouver Island by day trips or take in a movie.

Thetis Island is about 1035 Ha (2560 acres) in area, and is approximately 3.5km wide and 5km long. The Island is somewhat of an "H" shape. Two north-south ridges define the east and west of the Island, with Burchell Hill at 179.6m forming the high point on the west and Moore Hill at 177.9m feet on the east.

Thetis is home to a small community of about 340 people excluding part-time summer residents. Local facilities include a community center, pub and restaurant, Post Office and small store, a garden nursery, two marinas and a well-equipped volunteer fire department with paramedic support. There are no parks, but there are many public access points to the oceanfront.