Sea 4 Miles Cottages - Sointula, Malcolm Island, British Columbia, Canada

Sointula – population approx. 750

There’s something about Sointula that makes people stay longer then planned, and quite often they return, or choose to move here. Could it be the laid back approach on life, the warm and friendly people, or the fact that sometimes you have to drive around sleeping dogs or wild turkeys?

Malcolm Island is located off the north east coast of Vancouver Island, and serviced by BC Ferries. Sointula, meaning harmony, was settled in 1901 by a group of Finns that dared to dream of starting a Utopian commune.

Vancouver Island		Malcolm Island

The island is 26 kilometers long with a network of roads extending west to east. The north side remains restricted from any residential or commercial use other than a small campground in the Bere Point Regional Park.

The 25 minute ferry ride brings you to the heart of Sointula. The island businesses’ provide most of the essential services.

Co-op stores for food staples, dry goods, fuels, hardware
Evergreen Credit Union, CIBC only part time, ATM on island.
Post Office, Library, Museum, Thrift shop
Gift shop, Gardening shop
Restaurant
Crafts & Art Galleries
At the harbour – Burger place, Laundry, Showers, Moorage
Elementary school, church, seniors club, seniors housing
Shellfish Co-op, Wild Island Food Bakery Co-op

Many talented artisans and crafts people have galleries in their homes spread throughout the community. The spectacular harbour, Rough Bay, and it really isn’t rough, is managed by the local Lions club. Depending on the season it can be an extremely busy place with fishing and pleasure boats coming and going or loading and unloading.

For more information on the rest of the areas of the island see: things to explore.