Six beautiful Ontario islands to visit

Wolfe Island, St. Lawrence River

Located in in Southeast Ontario’s Frontenac County, Wolfe Island is the largest of the famous Thousand Islands.

The island is situated where Lake Ontario ends and St. Lawrence begins, across the waters from Kingston. It is known as a quiet, picturesque place with secluded beaches, sand dunes and cycling routes.

Getting here

Wolfe Island is about 20 minutes from Kingston via a year-round ferry service from the Kingston Terminal to Wolfe Island Dawson’s Point dock, just under five kilometres east of Marysville.

Things to do

Visit the Old House Museum to learn more about the island’s history. Sample butter tarts from the original Wolfe Island Bakery, right by the dock. Explore the various cycling routes and hike through wetlands to the beach. Enjoy beautiful lake views, exceptional birding and the rare dunes of Big Sandy Bay Conservation Area.

Where to stay

For an overnight stay, book a room at the charming Blue Moose Bed and Breakfast in Marysville.

Manitoulin Island, Lake Huron

At the top of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, Manitoulin Island is the world’s largest freshwater island. Several lakes can be found on the island, which is in a lake as well.

Manitoulin is home to six Anishnaabeg First Nations, a living testament to the region’s flourishing Indigenous communities and culture.

Getting here

Access the island over the Little Current Swing Bridge or board the scenic two-hour MS Chi–Cheemaun, ferrying passengers and vehicles between Tobermory and South Baymouth.

Things to do

Hike an extension of the Niagara Escarpment to a spectacular lookout point on the along the Cup and Saucer Trail or skirt behind the curtain of water at Bridal Veil Falls. Supporting local tourism operators, Wikwemikong Tourism offers a variety of outdoor and cultural experiences that reflect the culture and traditions of the Anishnaabek people.

Where to stay

Enjoy luxury at Manitoulin Hotel & Conference Centre or connect with nature at Manitoulin Eco Park. The Scandinavian-style cabins at Ten Mile Point Accommodations feature large windows facing gorgeous water and nature views.

Pelee Island, Lake Erie

Head to the southernmost inhabited point in Canada and discover a place like no other. A leisurely 90-minute ferry ride will transport you to the warm shores of one of Ontario’s best kept secrets. Pelee island is the same latitude as wine-making appellations in Portugal, Spain and France.

Getting here

Board the Pelee Island Ferry from either the Leamington or Kingsville docks.

Things to do

Get around by bicycle, e-bike or even in a golf cart.

Venture out to the tip of the island at Fish Point Nature Reserve. Keep a keen eye out for migrating shorebirds and butterflies. Tour the picturesque ruins at Vin Villa, the site of Canada’s first commercial estate winery founded in 1866 and relax at Pelee Island Winery Pavilion, the outdoor wine garden overlooking Lake Erie.

Where to stay

Accommodations range from camping grounds to cottage rentals, bed and breakfasts and inns. The Wandering Dog Inn is a picturesque spot that reflects the island’s laidback character. Stone House 1891 has great Canadian craft beers and delicious farm-to-table food.

Toronto Island Park, Lake Ontario

You don’t need to venture far from the city to soak up breezy island vibes. Just a short 15-minute ferry ride from Harbourfront, this car-free group of 15 islands connected by boardwalks, pathways and bridges is the perfect destination for a summer day trip.

Getting here

Ferries run on a frequent schedule from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal to Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point and Ward’s Island.

Things to do

Fun activities include paddling, cycling and frisbee golf. Check out the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, built in 1808. Centerville Theme Park beckons to the little ones with over 30 rides and attractions like the chair lift, mini golf, log ride and an antique carousel. For those looking to unwind, simply park yourself on a beach and soak up some sun.

On the islands, the backyard garden patio at The Riviera or the Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co. are both great spots to spend a summer afternoon. Just across the harbour, downtown Toronto serves up a smorgasbord of culinary choices.

Grasshopper Island, Rice Lake

Join Island Spirits for an off-grid eco-getaway on a private, 10-hectare island that is undoubtedly one of Ontario’s most unique getaways. Grasshopper Island is a car-free island in the middle of Rice Lake.

Getting here

Captain TJ from Island Spirits will ferry you over to the island from Roseneath.

Things to do

Take advantage of the on-site kayaks, canoes and paddle boards, and dive off the floating swimming barge. Visit the sheep, piglets, hens, goats, bunnies and alpacas that call the island home.

Savour the flavour of pizza and bread made in the 100-year-old wood-burning oven. Reconnect around the campfire and marvel at the star-studded show above on a clear night.

Where to stay

Stay in an eco-cabin, cabin pos or set up your tent in the campgrounds.

St. Joseph Island, Lake Huron

St. Joseph is the second largest island on Lake Huron and is located just off the shore of Sault Ste. Marie in Northern Ontario.

Getting here

Cross the Bernt Gilbertson Bridge from the mainland for a weekend adventure.

Things to do

The two main villages, Hilton Beach and Richard’s Landing, offer key amenities from restaurants to shops. Hilton Beach Marina provides services for boaters like dockage, gas, power, pump-out and more. Opportunities abound for anglers of northern pike, trout, bass and salmon.

Country roads meander over diverse terrain, making the island a popular destination for touring by motorcycle or bicycle. Also worth a visit is Fort St. Joseph, a National Historic Site of Canada. Once a thriving British outpost, the site features fort ruins, a visitor centre, a museum and nature trails.

Where to stay

Set up camp at the Busy Beaver Campground or book a cozy bed and breakfast.