Pickleball Passion Ignites

Pickleball Passion Ignites in the remote community of K’il Kun (Sandspit), Haida Gwaii

Nestled on coast of Moresby Island on Haida Gwaii lies the tiny community of K’il Kun (Sandspit), with a population of just 300 people. It's the kind of place where the world slows down, and nature envelops you. Now, thanks to one passionate player, it’s also becoming an unlikely hotspot for pickleball lovers.

Andrew Purdey, the owner of Hekate’s Retreat in K’il Kun (Sandspit), didn’t just bring his love of pickleball with him to Haida Gwaii—he brought the courts too. As an avid fan of the sport, Andrew believes in pickleball’s ability to build community, encourage active lifestyles, and—above all—bring joy.

If you’re a fan of pickleball and like the idea of combining your sport with an unforgettable travel experience, K’il Kun (Sandspit) is calling. Hekate’s Retreat, now home to two covered pickleball courts onsite, offers the perfect base for group getaways, retreats, or solo adventures with your paddle in tow.

Hekate’s Retreat sits on the grounds of what was once a working sheep and cattle farm in the late 1800s, originally homesteaded by the Mather family. In 1969, the property was transformed into The Willows Golf Course, echoing the classic links-style layouts of Scotland. By 1972, it opened to the public. Today, the course stands as British Columbia’s most westerly golf course, offering 9 holes, 18 tee boxes, and 6,220 yards of seaside beauty. It’s a course equally loved by beginners and seasoned players.

Adding to its appeal, the property now features a Nordic Sauna Circuit—a wellness experience where guests cycle through heat, cold, and rest. With an electric sauna, outdoor cold plunge tubs, a cold shower, and a serene relaxation area with a fire pit. The property also has a restaurant and a variety of accommodation options to choose from. All of this is just steps from the ocean and five minutes from the K’il Kun Xidgwangs Daanaay Airport. Getting there is easy with daily 90-minute flights from Vancouver or ferry access from Northern BC.

Why pickleball you ask? Andrew’s passion for pickleball is rooted in its simplicity, inclusivity, and community spirit. “It’s a game that everyone can play, at any age—and it’s fun!” he says with a smile. But Andrew’s vision extends beyond the local community. He sees Hekate’s Retreat as a destination for pickleball vacations, where groups can gather for friendly matches, wellness, and a deeper connection with nature and each other.