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Summary

7 Ontario Islands That Are Little Paradises You Can Explore This Summer

Soak up the sun at these spots!
Lead Writer, Travel

Ontario is a pretty great place to be in the summer. It's full of sandy beaches, delicious ice cream parlours, picturesque hikes, and shining waterfalls. The province is also home to some island paradises that are just waiting to be explored. Surrounded by blue waters, these spots will transport you to a whole other world. Take a trip to Ontario's island paradises for the perfect little getaway.

You don't need to hop on a plane for an island vacation. These spots in Ontario offer gorgeous views and sparkling shorelines for you to enjoy.

Wine lovers can explore a lush vineyard and adventure to a historic lighthouse on Pelee Island.

Wolfe Island has tons of things to do and see. Big Sandy Bay offers a secluded sandy beach you'll want to relax on all day long. In the fall, you can get lost in a massive corn maze on an island farm.

Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world. With glimmering waterfalls, elevated hikes, and sprawling forests, you'll want to spend your whole summer here.

Ontario has so many natural wonders that are worth seeing at least once, so be sure to add some of these spots to your bucket list as well.

Hop onboard a ferry and drift away to these island paradises.

Pelee Island

Price: $7.50 + per adult one way

When: Ferry runs April to early December

Address: Pelee, ON

Why You Need To Go: This island gem is brimming with things to do and see. Spend the day at a winery, hike the waterfront trail, relax on sandy beaches, and visit a historic lighthouse. Ferry services are available for transport to the island.

Flowerpot Island

Price: $7.90 entrance fee per adult

When: Ferries run May to mid-October

Address: Flowerpot Island, ON

Why You Need To Go: Famous for its massive flowerpot-shaped rock pillars, you can check out a historic light station, picnic by the flowerpots, and even camp out. 

St. Joseph Island

Address: St. Joseph Island, ON

Why You Need To Go: Accessible by a toll-free bridge, this large island features a charming town, beautiful beaches and gardens, as well as historic sites. Known for its bounty of maple syrup, you can indulge in pancake breakfasts and sweet maple tours each spring.

Wolfe Island

Price: Free ferry

Address: Wolfe Island, ON

Why You Need To Go: Located on the waters of Lake Ontario, this island features tons of fun activities. Visit the secluded shores of Big Sandy Bay, and wander through a massive corn maze in the fall. A free ferry runs to the island year-round.

Simcoe Island

Price: Ferry fare

When: Ferry runs on demand May to September

Address: Simcoe Island, ON

Why You Need To Go: Just off Wolfe Island, you'll find Simcoe Island. This tiny spot of land is home to a lighthouse built in the 1800s, and it will transport you back in time. A ferry runs on demand from Wolfe Island.

Manitoulin Island

Price: $17.20 + per adult for ferry one way

When: Ferry runs May-October

Address: Manitoulin Island, ON

Why You Need To Go: Accessible by ferry or by the famous swing bridge, this island is a true paradise. The largest freshwater island in the world, this spot boasts boardwalks, gorgeous waterfalls, boreal forests, and more.

Amherst Island

Price: $1.50 + ferry fare

Address: Amherst Island, ON

Why You Need To Go: Home to one of the "prettiest towns in Canada," this island features peaceful sandy beaches, bicycle trails, and more. 

We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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