The dramatic tides in and around Sointula create amazing mud flats and tide pools that are home to hundreds of little creatures. Be sure to take a romantic walk along the beach (day or evening) or beachcomb in the sun for the unique shells and pebbles. Orca are known to rub their backs along the beaches of Malcolm Island every summer and fall.
Some visitors include a hike along the park trails or camp in one the many locations around the island for a closer, "natural" experience kind of stay.
A deeply rooted arts community thrives in Sointula and the Studio Tours are open from 10am-4pm (unless otherwise posted). Visit the arts, ask about their craft, pick up a token from your trip, and see the island all at the same time!
Population: 800
Highlights:
Bere Point Trail - Mt. Waddington Regional District Park
Mitchell Bay
Mount Cain
Annual “Artopia” Festival of the Arts - end of July (workshops included)
Boat Harbour - marine facility
Kaleva Road - hiking & biking between ocean and farmland
Beautiful Bay Trail
Pulteney Point Lighthouse
History:
Kwakiutl Laich Kwil Tach and Namgis First Nations are known to have frequented the local islands (around Malcolm island), some bands were even permanent residents. Today, many of their descendants still occupy territories on Malcolm Island.
Known after the early 1900's as the Finnish Utopia of the Pacific, "Sointula" means "Place of Harmony" in the Finnish language. It was founded by a group of Finnish settlers left from Nanaimo by water in 1901. Their intentions were to establish a utopian socialist society - the "Kalevan Kansa".
Discoveries made in Sointula's past regarding the fishing industry were related to the gillnet. These new found techniques remain part of the industry today.
The local museum can be visited by appointment.
Climate:
Summer average 19 degrees Celsius
Winter average 0 degrees Celsius
Sointula Accommodations
Sointula Things to Do
British Columbia
