7 Ontario Islands You Can Visit This Summer

Ontario is filled with lakes, shorelines, ferry routes, and surprisingly beautiful island escapes. If you are looking for islands in Ontario that you can actually visit during summer, there are plenty of scenic, historic, adventurous, and family-friendly options across the province.

Some Ontario islands are easy day trips by ferry, while others are better for weekend getaways, road trips, camping adventures, cycling trips, or quiet waterfront escapes. You can visit islands by car ferry, passenger ferry, boat tour, kayak, water taxi, or park shuttle, depending on the destination.

This guide covers seven of the best islands in Ontario to visit this summer, including famous Great Lakes destinations, peaceful rural islands, national park escapes, and easy island day trips Ontario travellers can plan without needing a complicated expedition.

Best Islands in Ontario to Visit This Summer

1. Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is one of the most iconic islands in Ontario and one of the best summer island destinations in the province. Located in Lake Huron, between Georgian Bay and the North Channel, it is known as the largest freshwater island in the world.

Unlike smaller islands that work best as short day trips, Manitoulin is large enough for a full road trip. It has small communities, beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, Indigenous cultural experiences, scenic drives, local shops, and quiet lake views. It feels more like its own destination than a quick stop.

You can reach Manitoulin Island by driving through Little Current from Northeastern Ontario or by taking the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry between Tobermory and South Baymouth during the sailing season. The ferry ride itself is part of the experience, especially if you are building a summer road trip through the Bruce Peninsula and Northern Ontario.

One of the most popular things to do on Manitoulin Island is hike the Cup and Saucer Trail, which offers some of the best views on the island. Bridal Veil Falls is another must-visit stop, especially in summer when visitors can enjoy the short walk, scenic waterfall, and nearby village of Kagawong.

Manitoulin Island is best for a weekend getaway or longer stay. You can visit for a day if you are already nearby, but most travellers will get more out of the island by staying at least two nights, and there are many campgrounds to choose from.

Best things to do:

• Hike the Cup and Saucer Trail

• Visit Bridal Veil Falls

• Explore Little Current and Kagawong

• Relax at local beaches

• Take the Chi-Cheemaun ferry

• Enjoy scenic drives across the island

Best for: Road trippers, hikers, couples, nature lovers, longer summer getaways

2. Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are among the easiest islands to visit in Ontario, especially if you are starting from the GTA. Located just offshore from downtown Toronto in Lake Ontario, this island chain offers skyline views, beaches, picnic areas, bike paths, gardens, lagoons, and a much slower pace than the city.

The islands are reached by ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal near the waterfront. Ferries usually connect visitors to Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point, and Ward’s Island, each offering a slightly different experience.

Centre Island is the most popular choice for families because it has picnic areas, bike rentals, beaches, and Centreville Amusement Park. Hanlan’s Point is better for beachgoers, longer walks, and a slightly quieter atmosphere. Ward’s Island has a peaceful, village-like feel with charming homes, pathways, and waterfront views.

This is one of the best island day trips Ontario travellers can take because it does not require a long drive, overnight stay, or complicated planning. You can go for a few hours or spend the entire day exploring.

The Toronto Islands are also one of the best places in the city for skyline photography. The view looking back toward downtown Toronto is especially beautiful around sunset.

Best things to do:

• Bike around the islands

• Visit Centre Island with kids

• Relax at the beach

• Walk through Ward’s Island

• Kayak or paddle through the lagoons

• Take skyline photos of Toronto

Best for: Families, first-time visitors, couples, cyclists, beachgoers, easy day trips

3. Flowerpot Island

Flowerpot Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Ontario for hiking, photography, clear water, and dramatic shoreline scenery. Located in Fathom Five National Marine Park near Tobermory, it is famous for its natural limestone sea stacks, turquoise Georgian Bay water, caves, forest trails, and historic lightstation.

This is one of the best islands to visit in Ontario if you want a summer adventure that feels truly memorable. The water around the island is incredibly clear, and the rock formations make it one of the most recognizable natural attractions in the province.

Flowerpot Island is only accessible by boat. Most visitors take a tour boat from Tobermory, with some tours offering drop-off options so you can hike and explore the island before returning later in the day. Experienced paddlers may also access the island by kayak, but this should only be attempted in safe conditions with proper experience and equipment.

Once on the island, visitors can hike to the famous flowerpot rock formations, see the cave, visit the lightstation area, enjoy picnic spots, and take in the rugged Georgian Bay scenery. Swimming is possible in some areas, but the water is cold and rocky, so water shoes are helpful.

Flowerpot Island is best as a full-day trip from Tobermory. Book your boat transportation in advance during summer, especially on weekends.

Best things to do:

• See the flowerpot rock formations

• Hike the island trails

• Visit the cave

• Explore the lightstation area

• Take photos of Georgian Bay

• Enjoy a scenic boat ride from Tobermory

Best for: Hikers, photographers, nature lovers, couples, adventure travellers, day trips from Tobermory

4. Pelee Island

Pelee Island is one of the most unique Ontario island getaways because it is the southernmost inhabited community in Canada. Located in Lake Erie, it offers beaches, cycling routes, vineyards, birdwatching, quiet roads, nature reserves, and a laid-back island atmosphere.

The island is reached by ferry, usually from mainland ports such as Leamington or Kingsville depending on the season and schedule. Because ferry times can affect your entire trip, it is important to check the schedule before planning your day.

Pelee Island is best for a weekend getaway, although a long day trip is possible if ferry times line up well. It has a slower pace than many busy Ontario summer destinations, making it ideal for cycling, beach stops, picnics, birding, and relaxed exploring.

Cycling is one of the best ways to experience the island. The roads are quiet, the scenery is open and peaceful, and there are plenty of places to stop for lake views or photos. Visitors can also explore nature areas, visit beaches, enjoy local food, and experience one of Ontario’s most distinctive island communities.

Pelee Island is especially appealing for travellers who want a quiet summer destination that feels far removed from city life.

Best things to do:

• Cycle around the island

• Visit local beaches

• Go birdwatching

• Explore nature reserves

• Stop at local food and drink spots

• Enjoy a peaceful Lake Erie getaway

Best for: Cyclists, couples, birdwatchers, beachgoers, quiet getaways, weekend trips

5. Amherst Island

Amherst Island is one of the best islands in Ontario if you want a quiet, rural, off-the-beaten-path summer escape. Located west of Kingston near Loyalist Township, the island sits in Lake Ontario and is known for farmland, lake views, birdwatching, cycling, local history, and a peaceful community feel.

The island is reached by ferry from Millhaven to Stella. The crossing is short, making Amherst Island a realistic day trip from Kingston, Napanee, Prince Edward County, or the surrounding region.

Amherst Island is not a flashy tourist destination, and that is exactly why it is worth visiting. It is quiet, scenic, and ideal for travellers who enjoy slow exploring rather than packed attractions. You can cycle country roads, look for birds, stop for lake views, and enjoy the feeling of being somewhere peaceful and uncrowded.

Birdwatchers especially love Amherst Island because it is known for owl sightings and open rural landscapes. Cyclists will also enjoy the island’s quiet roads and gentle scenery.

Services are limited, so plan ahead. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and anything else you may need for the day. Check ferry timing before you go so you are not rushed on the return trip.

Best things to do:

• Cycle quiet rural roads

• Go birdwatching

• Enjoy Lake Ontario views

• Explore the village of Stella

• Take a peaceful country drive

• Photograph farmland and waterfront scenery

Best for: Cyclists, birdwatchers, quiet travellers, road trippers, nature lovers, low-key day trips

6. Wolfe Island

Wolfe Island is one of the most accessible and enjoyable Ontario islands to visit from Kingston. Located at the entrance to the Thousand Islands region, it is known for cycling, rural scenery, waterfront views, beaches, wind turbines, small-town charm, and beautiful Lake Ontario landscapes.

The Wolfe Island ferry connects the island with Kingston, making it an easy and affordable summer trip. The crossing is short, scenic, and convenient, which makes the island especially appealing for visitors who want a ferry adventure without a major travel commitment.

Wolfe Island is excellent for a summer day trip. You can bring a bike, explore quiet country roads, visit the village of Marysville, enjoy local food, stop for waterfront views, or simply drive around and take in the open fields, lake views, and big skies.

One of the island’s most popular summer spots is Big Sandy Bay, a beautiful beach area that requires some planning because access may be seasonal and involves a walk from the parking area. If you want a beach-focused day, check current access details before heading out.

Wolfe Island is best for relaxed exploring, cycling, and scenic drives rather than a packed itinerary.

Best things to do:

• Cycle around the island

• Explore Marysville

• Visit Big Sandy Bay when accessible

• Take a scenic ferry ride

• Photograph rural landscapes

• Enjoy a relaxed day trip from Kingston

Best for: Cyclists, families, couples, road trippers, day trips from Kingston, slow summer exploring

7. Beausoleil Island

Beausoleil Island is the largest island in Georgian Bay Islands National Park and one of the most scenic summer islands in Ontario for camping, hiking, swimming, paddling, and classic Georgian Bay landscapes. Located near Honey Harbour, it offers rocky Canadian Shield shoreline, forest trails, sandy areas, wetlands, clear blue water, and peaceful natural scenery.

Unlike some of the easier ferry-access islands, Beausoleil Island requires more planning. It is not connected by road, so visitors need to arrive by private boat, water taxi, kayak, or park transportation when available.

The extra effort is part of what makes it special. Beausoleil Island feels more remote and nature-focused than many other Ontario islands, making it ideal for campers, paddlers, hikers, and families who enjoy outdoor adventures.

Visitors can hike forest trails, swim in Georgian Bay, paddle along the shoreline, camp under the stars, watch wildlife, and enjoy the peaceful feeling of being surrounded by water. The island has both easier areas and more rugged sections, so you can choose the experience that fits your comfort level.

Beausoleil Island can work as a day trip if you plan carefully, but it is even better as an overnight camping trip.

Best things to do:

• Camp in Georgian Bay Islands National Park

• Hike island trails

• Paddle along the shoreline

• Swim in Georgian Bay

• Watch for wildlife

• Enjoy Canadian Shield scenery

Best for: Campers, hikers, paddlers, nature lovers, families, weekend getaways

Best Ontario Islands by Travel Style

• Best island for beaches: Pelee Island, the Toronto Islands, Manitoulin Island, and Wolfe Island are some of the strongest beach-focused options, depending on whether you want a quiet lake escape, an easy city day trip, or a longer summer getaway.

• Best island for hiking: Flowerpot Island and Beausoleil Island are the best choices for hiking, with Flowerpot Island offering dramatic rock formations and Beausoleil Island offering a more rugged Georgian Bay national park experience.

• Best island for a day trip: The Toronto Islands are the easiest day trip from the GTA, while Wolfe Island and Amherst Island are excellent options from the Kingston area.

• Best island for families: The Toronto Islands are the most family-friendly choice thanks to Centre Island, beaches, picnic areas, bike paths, and easy ferry access.

• Best island for cycling: Pelee Island, Wolfe Island, and Amherst Island are all excellent for cycling because they offer quieter roads, rural scenery, and a slower summer pace.

• Best island for a quiet getaway: Amherst Island and Pelee Island are ideal for travellers who want a peaceful escape without the heavy crowds of Ontario’s busiest summer destinations.

• Best island for first-time visitors: The Toronto Islands are the easiest introduction to Ontario island travel, while Manitoulin Island is best for travellers who want a larger road trip experience.

Tips for Visiting Islands in Ontario During Summer

Summer is the best season for exploring islands in Ontario, but island trips usually require more planning than regular road trips.

Before you go, check ferry schedules, boat tour times, parking rules, and weather conditions. Some islands have limited transportation windows, and missing a return ferry can create major delays.

Book accommodations early for popular Ontario island getaways, especially on Manitoulin Island, Pelee Island, and near Tobermory if you are visiting Flowerpot Island. Camping on Beausoleil Island should also be planned ahead of time.

For day trips, arrive early. Ferries, boat tours, beaches, and parking areas can get busy during summer weekends and holidays.

Pack practical summer essentials, including:

• Sunscreen

• Reusable water bottle

• Bug spray

• Hat

• Sunglasses

• Snacks

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Light sweater or windbreaker

• Swimsuit and towel if visiting beaches

Food options can be limited on smaller islands, so do not assume you will always find restaurants, stores, or cafés. This is especially important for Flowerpot Island, Amherst Island, Beausoleil Island, and quieter areas of Pelee Island or Manitoulin Island.

Respect natural areas by staying on marked trails, packing out garbage, avoiding wildlife disturbance, and following all park or conservation rules. Many of the most beautiful islands in Ontario are also sensitive natural environments.

Final Thoughts

Visiting islands in Ontario is one of the best ways to enjoy summer in the province. These destinations offer ferry rides, beaches, hiking trails, cycling routes, historic communities, wildlife, peaceful waterfronts, and some of the most beautiful lake scenery in Canada.

The best part is the variety. You can plan an easy Toronto Islands day trip, a cycling weekend on Pelee Island, a quiet rural escape to Amherst Island, a Georgian Bay camping trip on Beausoleil Island, or a longer road trip across Manitoulin Island.

Whether you want adventure, relaxation, family fun, photography, or a peaceful place to slow down, there are plenty of Ontario islands you can actually visit this summer.

Choose the island that fits your travel style, check ferry and boat schedules before you go, and build it into a summer road trip or weekend getaway worth remembering.

FAQ About Islands in Ontario

What are the best islands in Ontario to visit?

Some of the best islands in Ontario to visit include Manitoulin Island, the Toronto Islands, Flowerpot Island, Pelee Island, Amherst Island, Wolfe Island, and Beausoleil Island.

These islands offer a mix of beaches, hiking, cycling, camping, ferry rides, wildlife, and scenic summer getaways.

What islands in Ontario can you visit by ferry?

You can visit several Ontario islands by ferry, including Manitoulin Island, the Toronto Islands, Pelee Island, Amherst Island, and Wolfe Island.

Flowerpot Island is reached by boat tour or private boat from Tobermory, while Beausoleil Island is reached by boat, water taxi, private vessel, or park transportation options when available.

What is the largest island in Ontario?

Manitoulin Island is the largest island in Ontario and the largest freshwater island in the world. It is located in Lake Huron and is large enough for multi-day road trips, hiking, beaches, small communities, and scenic drives.

Are the Toronto Islands worth visiting?

Yes, the Toronto Islands are absolutely worth visiting, especially in summer. They offer some of the best views of the Toronto skyline, plus beaches, bike paths, picnic areas, gardens, lagoons, and family-friendly attractions.

They are also one of the easiest island day trips in Ontario because ferries leave directly from downtown Toronto.

Can you stay overnight on Ontario islands?

Yes, you can stay overnight on several Ontario islands. Manitoulin Island and Pelee Island have accommodations, while Beausoleil Island offers camping in Georgian Bay Islands National Park. Some other islands may have limited lodging, seasonal rentals, or nearby mainland options.

Always book early for summer stays.

What are the best Ontario islands for a summer day trip?

The best Ontario islands for a summer day trip include the Toronto Islands, Wolfe Island, Amherst Island, and Flowerpot Island.

Toronto Islands are easiest from the GTA, Wolfe Island and Amherst Island are great from the Kingston area, and Flowerpot Island is ideal if you are already visiting Tobermory.

Which Ontario islands are best for beaches?

The Toronto Islands, Pelee Island, Manitoulin Island, and Wolfe Island are strong choices for beach-focused summer trips.

Flowerpot Island has beautiful water and shoreline scenery, but it is better known for hiking, rock formations, and sightseeing than traditional beach lounging.

Do you need a car to visit islands in Ontario?

It depends on the island. You do not need a car for the Toronto Islands, and many visitors explore by walking or cycling.

A car is useful for Manitoulin Island and Pelee Island, especially if you want to explore widely. Wolfe Island and Amherst Island can be explored by car or bike, while Flowerpot Island and Beausoleil Island are better suited to walking, hiking, paddling, or boat access once you arrive.