8 Beautiful Islands To Visit Around Ontario In 2024 That Feel Like A Mini Slice Of Paradise
Add these spots to your bucket list!
A colourful street. Right: A person swimming by a waterfall.
Island adventures await! You don't need to travel to the tropics in order to enjoy some island time. There are several gorgeous isles in and around Ontario where you can enjoy a little slice of paradise this year.
Some of these spots can only be reached by ferry, but they're worth the trip. From car-free islands filled with horse-drawn carriages to sandy beaches and hidden gems surrounded by turquoise water, these places have "summer getaway" written all over them.
You can hike to majestic waterfalls, take a dip in crystal waters, visit unique attractions and discover natural wonders at these spots.
Here are 8 magical islands in and around Ontario where you can totally unwind this year.
Flowerpot Island
Price: $9 per adult, plus ferry fee
Address: Flowerpot Island, ON
Why You Need To Go: Situated in Fathom Five National Marine Park, this mystical island is brimming with natural wonders and is worth a trip this year.
The island is known for its towering flowerpot-shaped rock pillars, from which it derives its name. Aside from these marvels, you can see caves, a historic light station, rare plants and more while visiting this spot.
The rocky shoreline along Beachy Cove is a magical place to take a dip or go snorkelling and features tropical-blue water.
The island can only be reached by boat from Tobermory and there are two services which run from mid May to mid October, weather permitting. It is possible to reach the island by kayak or canoe, but it is recommended for experienced paddlers only.
Heart Island
Price: $12.50 USD per adult plus ferry fee
When: Castle reopening May 11, 2024
Address: 1 Heart Island, Alexandria Bay, NY
Why You Need To Go: You can unleash your inner royalty with a trip to this enchanting island. Heart Island is located just across the border from Ontario in the U.S. and is home to the majestic Boldt Castle.
The palace, which dates back to 1900, is a beautiful spot for a day trip and is accessible from both Canada and the U.S. There are several tour boats to choose from and you'll need to bring a passport along.
You can learn more about the castle's history, explore the ground and visit the whimsical Yacht House which is located on Wellesley Island.
Pelee Island
Price: $7.50 + per adult for ferry service
Why You Need To Go: Pelee Island offers a range of attractions and things to do. Situated on Lake Erie, the island is accessible by ferry, plane or personal watercraft.
You can enjoy outdoor activities like nature trails and cycling routes. The island is home to about 10,000 acres of fields, forests, beaches and more, making it an idyllic spot for a nature-lover. During the warmer months, you can bring your bathing suit and take a dip at some of the sandy beaches along the water.
There are several eateries where you can grab a meal or ice cream cone.
Pelee Island Winery is a boozy spot to spend a day and offers tours, tastings, a gift shop and more.
Some activities and shops on the island operate from May to October, so it's best to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
L'île-Perrot
Why You Need To Go: Situated between Ottawa and Montreal, this four-season destination is worth adding to your bucket list. The island is accessible by car, making it a convenient spot for a day trip.
From lush orchards where you can go fruit-picking to paddling routes, cruises and more, there's so much to enjoy.
Markets, cruises and delicious restaurants await at this beautiful island. The Historical Park Pointe-du-Moulin will whisk you back in time, and during the fall, you can get lost in a giant corn maze at Verger Labonté.
Mackinac Island
Price: $22.95 + per round trip ferry ticket
Why You Need To Go: Voted the best island in the continental U.S, this little paradise is filled with "incredible natural landmarks, awe-inspiring sunrises and unforgettable sunsets."
The island is car-free, meaning that many horse-drawn carriages and bicycles roll along the quaint streets. You can visit the charming shops and bite into some "world-famous" Mackinac Island fudge.
The island offers some beautiful trails, including one that leads to Arch Rock, a unique formation located by turquoise waters.
There are resorts, restaurants, spas and more to enjoy while visiting.
You can take a quick ferry ride from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace in order to reach the island. Flying is also an option.
Wolfe Island
Price: Free admission for ferry
Why You Need To Go: Situated along the St. Lawrence River near Kingston, Wolfe Island is the largest of the Thousand Islands.
It's known for its "beautiful sunrises, breath-taking sunsets and spectacular night-time skies" and is a hidden nature oasis.
You can head to Big Sandy Bay, a "hidden paradise" located on the island. The white sand beach is a 1.5 kilometre hike from the parking lot and will transport you to another world.
It's also a great spot for cycling and has many beautiful routes to explore. You can get a ferry for free from Kingston.
Manitoulin Island
Price: $18.05 per adult one way for ferry
Why You Need To Go: Ontario is home to the "largest freshwater island in the world" and it's a magical summer destination.
Located in northern Ontario, Manitoulin Island has so much to explore and can be reached by car or by the Chi-Cheemaun ferry during tourist season.
You can head to the mystical Bridal Veil Falls and take a dip in the turquoise swimming hole beneath the cascade or have a beach day on the sandy shores of Providence Bay.
The Cup and Saucer Trail is a stunning hiking spot that leads to towering views of the island. From camping and stargazing to historic sites, this destination has something for everyone.
St. Joseph Island
Why You Need To Go: This 140,000-acre island is located 45 minutes from Sault Ste. Marie and offers paddling opportunities, beaches and more.
The island is home to two villages and you can find "great restaurants, campgrounds, motels, full-service marinas and charming shops" in both.
During the spring, you can enjoy some of the island's "famous" maple syrup and delicious pancake breakfasts. The island is connected to mainland by a non-toll bridge, making it easily accessible.
Whether you're craving a beach day, scenic hike or small town charm, these islands have something for everyone. Enjoy a little piece of paradise without venturing too far at these beautiful destinations.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.