Texada Island - Sunshine Coast

Texada Island - the Jewel of the Gulf Islands.

Rich in history, Texada Island was home to two gold rushes in the late 19th and early 20th century. The community known as Van Anda was a bustling town, complete with the largest opera house north of San Fransico, saloons, most notably the Bucket of Blood Saloon, illegal distillary on the east side of the island in Pocohontas Bay that supplied liquor to the United States during prohibition, hospital and hotels.

Three fires struck the little town, one in 1910 and another in 1912 and the third in 1917. There are very few of the original buildings left, the town was litterally destroyed, once, twice, three times. In the last major fire, the store was literally saved by a bucket brigade and still stands today.

Two friends of mine own that little piece of history and run a textile business from it today. Creating beautiful clothing and accessories for men and women of organic fabric. Hemp & bamboo are a couple of the fabrics that designer Milla works with. Be sure to check out their shop and drop in for a visit with Mike and Milla if you are in VanAnda.

Unique in so many ways, history has it that it Texada Island rose and sunk from the ocean twice, and as such has a unique ecosystem. Biologist and zoologists study the plant and wildlife on the island on a regular basis and Texada Island is home to a unique breed of stickleback fish that can only be found in the beautiful lakes.

The local first nations people did not colonize the island for fear of it 'sinking', but they fished and foraged for food on a regular basis.

There are no predatory animals here, and atving, hiking and nature walks are at their best through the numerous trails and forests.

There are two communities on the island, Van Anda and Gillies Bay. There are gorgeous sandy beaches as well as pebble swimming beaches on the island. You can find sand dollars, moon shells and you may even find the famous Flower Rock.

The Boating Club is located in Van Anda and there are some berths available for visiting boats.

It is a beautiful little spot located in Marble Bay and is very protected. You can catch salmon and prawn just out side the breakwater as a special treat.

I hope you enjoy your visit. I loved it so much, I bought a little cottage in Van Anda and it is my 'great escape'.

Texada Island Events

Texada Sandcastle Weekend August 17-18 2008

You just can't miss the fabulous Sandcastle Weekend in Gillies Bay. This is a great time for all. The campground is usually full, so book your stay early. For more info on this event visit Texada Tourism Website. There is a great pancake breakfast, bed races in the tennis courts that are a must see, and a great parade.

Jazz on the Rocks 2008

Jazz on the Rocks 2008 has been cancelled due to unforseen circumstances. The event is scheduled to take place in 2009. For more information visit the Jazz on The Rocks Website.

Texada Annual Fly In - July 13

Join in the fun at the Gillies Bay Airport on July 13 from 9am - 4:30pm. Aviation history buffs will not be disappointed and it is an event for everyone. Pancake breakfast, BBQ's and more! Visit Texada Annual Fly In Information for details of the event.

Diversity Festival on Texada July 11-14

This is an amazing cultural event for those who are musically inclined. A fabulous line up of artists including:

• Dubblestandart
• Dub Gabriel
• Dub Matix
• Liquid Stranger - Interchill
• Don Peyote - Interchill
• La La Boom Boom
• More Artisits....

Diversity Festival takes place annually at Shingle Beach campsite on fabulous Texada.

If you are planning on attending Diversity, Tickets are already onsale and you can buy them online. There are limited tickets available so get your now. Visit Diversity Ticket Sales to get your tickets now.

Return from Texada Island to Sunshine Coast homepage