That is the big question: Why should you buy property on Keats Island?

The simplest answer is that it has so much to offer for any family's lifestyle. There are numerous things to do to keep you and your family busy and entertained year-round so you can enjoy all seasons on the island.

There are different things to do as the seasons change, all being equally amusing and enjoyable. In the summertime, you can take a visit to a popular location located on the farms of "Barnabas Family Ministries" which looks out towards the BC Ferries Langdale Terminal and Gambier Island. Here, you will find a fantastic spot to get an assortment of menu items including ice cream, coffee, candy, kombucha, milkshakes, popsicles, and a selection of farm-made merchandise such as soaps, coffee beans, preserves, lip balm, jewellery, clothing, candles, mugs, and many other items, you name it! After your stop at the store, there are volunteer representatives willing to give you a tour of this beautiful property available to rental groups and more kids camps in the summer. There are also many different animals on the property that you can visit including chickens, pigs, bunnies and ducks. The General Store is open to islanders normally at the end of June to the end of August. Although the General Store isn't an official store, this spot is the only store-related area on the island which promotes Keats's small island lifestyle. Another summer activity that is fully maintained and organized by fellow Keats Island community members is the water trampoline and small dock located at West Beach. This beach is the most popular beach all year round, although, especially in the summertime. It's the perfect spot to swim and tan with your family and to meet other families. West Beach is also the location of the New Year's Day polar plunge where the community gathers to wash off the old year and bring in the New Year! Another winter activity is to have a campfire and roast marshmallows and hot dogs and also tidy up your property from the fallen branches and debris. 

One of the community's favourites about the island is the unique views. There are a variety of different trails that take you to extraordinary picture-perfect locations like the above image shown. These hikes are frequently used so they are accessible all year round so you can see the island in all conditions. Each trail varies in length but they're all relatively short and can be completed within 20 minutes. 

One of the lengthier trails leads to the Provincial Park that is located on the island: "Plumper Cove Marine Park". The park is open to the public year-round and is accessible by trail or boat; however most visit by boat. There are designated camping spots if you want to stay the night and a beautiful long beach that is great for swimming. Many cottage owners have invested in kayaks and/or paddle boards for their families which are very popular to take a paddle to the near islands or to go and see the many beaches, sea creatures, and marine life.

Aside from the various activities to partake in, the Keats Island community is close-knit and will never fail to assist your family to get settled and feel welcome. Everyone is always willing to lend a hand with tasks or even to just chat as neighbours do. There are a couple of community associations that plan island events such as the Eastbourne Kids Fishing Derby and the polar plunge mentioned before! These events bring the community even closer and give more opportunities for fun. Also, there are individuals and families of all ages and lifestyles for you and/or your kids to connect with so you will always feel welcome and a part of the community.

Transportation on the island is very different from the mainland as most get around on golf carts or other atv like vehicles; however, the island is so small that everything is within walking distance and is suitable for most people as the community organizes fresh gravel to be spread after the rainy seasons. In addition to the people-friendly roads, everywhere on the island is very pet friendly as most islanders with friendly dogs let their animals roam off leash and most residents remember to clean up after them.

Although there is no official fire safety on the island, there are a few firefighters who have volunteered their time to train other islanders in the rare event of an emergency. The community holds fundraisers every now and then to improve the equipment we have accessible and to increase water access to all parts of the island. There are also a couple of nurses on the island for minor medical questions or opinions. These community features can help you and your family feel safer. In addition, there is absolutely no crime on the island as the cottagers are incredibly trusting and generous toward each other.

Whether it's the plentiful amount of things to do, the idea of being part of an inclusive and safe community, or the small island lifestyle, Keats Island just might be for you! Contact Trish Cowley at 778-229-9142 or homes@trishcowley.com for more details about the island life or about available listings.