20+ Awesome Things to do on Manitoulin Island

Boozhoo-Biindigen, is the welcome you’ll receive on the largest freshwater island in the world. Manitoulin Island means “Spirit Island” in the Ojibwe language and it’s so fitting. As soon as I stepped foot on the island, I could feel its magic! You will too! So, if you’re looking for unforgettable road trips in Ontario then add Manitoulin to your list! In this travel guide you’ll find everything you need to know to help you plan your Manitoulin road trip. Discover all the top things to do on Manitoulin Island, where to eat and sleep, as well as essential road trip tips to ensure you have an epic adventure!

A Little About the Island

With a population of roughly 13,000, Manitoulin Island is home to a wealth of untouched wilderness. The Island is 160 km long, 2,766 square km in size, and is home to over 100 inland lakes. It’s located in Lake Huron, north of the Bruce Peninsula and west of Sudbury. You could even add it to your Northern Ontario road trip itinerary!  

Human habitation on the island dates back over 9,000 years. Manitoulin Island is considered one of North America’s oldest prehistoric civilization sites. There are six Indigenous reserves on Manitoulin. One of which, Wikwemikong, is the only unceded reserve in Canada.

20 Best Things to do on Manitoulin Island

The island is filled with a boat load of amazing places to visit, charming small towns, and epic hiking trails. With so many things to experience, there’s something for everyone. So, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, here’s my list of the best things to do on Manitoulin Island!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. In clicking through and purchasing from these links I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you, THX!

Explore Little Current

In Ojibwe it’s called Waiebijiwang, which translates to “where the waters flow.” However, early French visitors called it “Le Petit Courant.” Little Current is the main town on the island as well as the first one you come to when arriving by road. You’ll cross over onto the island via the Little Current swing bridge.

Little Current is one of the top places to visit in Manitoulin Island! Along with having a variety of restaurants and shops, there are plenty of things to do in town.

One of the top attractions is the Little Current Swing Bridge. The bridge opened in 1913 and can be viewed by various locations in town including the Waterfront Trail. A great time to check it out is in the early mornings of summer. For the first 15 minutes of daylight hour, it opens to allow boats to run through.

The Waterfront Trail is part of the Little Current Recreational Walking Trail, which is 7 km in total. Running along the northern shore of the island to Low Island Park, the trail takes you along the picturesque downtown boardwalk.

Along the trail you’ll also see the Little Current Lighthouse. Plus, it connects downtown to the Manitoulin Hotel, which is a short 10-minute walk.

There are plenty of things to do in Little Current! If you’re looking for great Manitoulin souvenirs and gear then head into Outpost General Store. The shop has an assortment of great gift ideas and many have a true island vibe.

Plus, there are plenty of Manitoulin themed items like sweatshirts, mugs, and more. Another fun shop, especially for those with a sweet tooth, is Mercantile. This store harkens back to the old candy shops of decades past.

If you’re Manitoulin road trip has you in town on Wednesdays then you’re in luck! Every Wednesday night during the summer there’s live music across from the Anchor Inn.

Readers will know, I’m a big street art fan! So, I was blown away that the island is filled with it! Dare I say it’s one of the best places to find street art in Ontario! In Little Current, along Worthington Street you’ll find a massive mural. The piece was created for Canada’s 150 and depicts the history of Little Current.

Travel Tip: Little Current is a great place to base yourself for your Manitoulin road trip!

Hike the Cup & Saucer Trail

The top of the list of things to do on Manitoulin Island for many is hiking the Cup and Saucer Trail! The trail is the island’s most popular for many reasons! It’s home to winding paths through varying terrain and has multiple epic viewpoints!

Access to the Cup & Saucer hiking trail is off Highway 540. The trailhead is less then a 20-minute drive west of Little Current. There is a large parking lot as well as portable toilets. The area is home to 12 kilometres of hiking trails. You’ll find three different trails, the main trail, the south loop, and the Adventure Trail. Depending on which trail you take, the hike can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours.

The main trail, also known as the red trail, is a 6 kilometre loop. This trail takes approximately two hours. The south loop, also known as the blue trail, is roughly 9 km. This one will take you around four hours to complete. A fun addition to both is the Adventure Trail. At only 2km, the Adventure Trail adds a level of skill as it takes you through narrow passageways and up steep wild ladders.

If you’re looking for epic Ontario trails with views, then this is one of the best! Set along the northern end of the Niagara Escarpment, it’s hope to towering cliffs over 200 feet (70 metres) high. While there are multiple viewpoints along the trail, the two main ones are The Cup and The Saucer. Both offer unique views over the North Channel and Lake Manitou.

Travel Tip: I highly recommend heading out first things in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Visit the Ojibwe Cultural Fountain

One of the best places to learn more about the First Nations people of Manitoulin is the Ojibwe Cultural Fountain. The centre is located in M’Chigeeng, 20 minutes southwest of Little Current. In 1974, the foundation was established to preserve the culture of the Anishinaabe of Manitoulin Island. Plus, it hopes to nurture all factors of the culture, including language, spirituality, arts, and their traditions.

The Ojibwe Cultural Fountain is open all year long and is a large 11,000 square feet complex. Here, you’ll find a museum, art gallery, gift shop, outdoor amphitheater, and more! Within the museum and gallery, you’ll see a variety of pieces including antler carvings, porcupine quill boxes, ancient scrolls, and so much more. Another important part of the museum is the information and history of the Residential School System.

You’ll learn all about the Anishinaabe people’s culture and history. Plus, they also run various workshops and events.

Address: 15 Old Highway 551 Rd, M’Chigeeng

Enjoy the Sky at Manitoulin Eco Park

Did you know that Manitoulin is home one of northeastern Ontario’s designated Dark Sky Preserves? Set between Little Current and South Baymouth is Manitoulin Eco Park. Once known as Gordon’s Park, the new name reflects its dedication to conserving the land in a sustainable way.

Covering over 250 acres, the Manitoulin Eco Park is home to a wealth of things to do on Manitoulin Island! First, it’s home to a family-friendly campground as well as other accommodation like tipis and cabins. While the Eco Park is off grid, they still have a solar-heated swimming pool, an interpretive centre, WIFI, hiking trails, and a mini-putt course. All of these things are free to guests.

The Eco Park is open May through September. Plus, you can also book their rustic stargazing cabin in the winter! For those looking to visit and hike the trails for the day, you can obtain a day pass from the main office. They also run an assortment of fun and educational events, like astronomy nights, stargazing hikes, and Perseid Meteor shower nights!

Address: 18777 ON-6, Tehkummah

Check out a Lookout

As the north end of the Niagara Escarpment reaches onto Manitoulin, the island is home to a range of landscapes and terrain. Thanks to the escarpment, you’ll find a long list of incredible lookouts across the island. There’s everything from cliff top views sweeping over forests to lookouts over water. A few top lookouts on Manitoulin Island are McLean’s Mountain, Strawberry Channel, and H. Noble Memorial Park Lookout.

One of the easiest lookouts to access is McLean’s Mountain Lookout. The lookout is located just 5 minutes south of Little Current. Among farmlands there’s a parking lot. Here you can find a short hiking trail and an awesome view! You view is north and looks out over the North Channel and the Little Current swing bridge.

Another must visit Manitoulin lookout can be found just south of Little Current too. Along Highway 6 you’ll find Strawberry Channel Lookout. With a large viewing platform, you’ll see sweeping views over the picturesque Strawberry Channel.

East of Gore Bay sits a lovely spot for a view and picnic. The H. Noble Memorial Park Lookout offers views of Gore Bay, the harbour, and beyond! Plus, the lookout has public washrooms, ample parking, and picnic tables. There’s even a short one kilometre hiking trail, Noble Nature Trail.

Do you love lookouts as much as I do? Other lookouts include Hindman Park Lookout, Mississagi Strait Lookout, Maple Point Lookout, M’Chigeeng Lookout, and Buzwah Lookout.

Visit Bridal Veil Falls

Two of the top attractions on Manitoulin Island are the Cup and Saucer Trail and Bridal Veil Falls. This stunning waterfall in one of the best in Ontario! Found within the town of Kagawong, the waterfall can be easily accessed off Highway 540. There’s a small parking lot, public washrooms, and picnic tables.

Dropping 40 feet into a pool, is fed from Lake Kagawong. The lake is Manitoulin’s second largest lake! Bridal Veil Falls can be viewed from multiple angles. From the parking lot there is a steel staircase leading down to the base of the falls. The staircase has three different lookout points. If you’re looking to cool off in the summer, the pool at the base is a popular swimming spot.

If you’re looking for a different perspective then head behind the falls! Or you can follow the trail that runs from the bottom of the stairs along the brook. The trail leads into Kagawong, plus, you’ll find a few rapids along the way.

Travel Tip: If the main parking lot is full, you can find another lot further down the road. Or you can park in town and take the Billings Connection Trail that leads to the base of Bridal Veil Falls.

Address: 50-64 Main St, Kagawong

Explore Kagawong

If you’re visiting Kagawong for Bridal Veil Falls, be sure to make time to explore the charming village. The name Kagawong means “where mists rise from the falling water.” Located between M’Chigeeng and Gore Bay, Kagawong is a heritage village with plenty of things to do and see! Plus, as the sign says, it’s ‘Ontario’s prettiest village!’

Set along the shores of Mudge Bay, Kagawong is small but has lots of places to visit as well as shops to explore. Other than Bridal Veil Falls, the other big attraction in town is the Old Mill Heritage Centre and Post Office Museum. The Old Mill Heritage Centre is located along the waterfront, within the former pulp mill.

Also along the waterfront, is a tiny little lighthouse. If you’re looking for the historic Kagawong Lighthouse, it’s on the way out of town. If you love art, you’re in luck, there are a handful of fabulous art galleries in town. There’s even a chocolate factory to pop into for fuel for your adventures!

During the summer, on Wednesdays in July and August, you can visit their large farmer’s market. Vendors include artisans, farmers, bakers, and many more! There are also hiking trails, including the Billings Connection Trail, and a couple of beaches too!

Take a Wiikwemkoong Tour

One of the most culturally significant areas on the island is Wiikwemikoong. Located on the eastern peninsula, Wiikwemikoong is Canada’s only officially recognized Unceded Indian Reserve. It’s home to Manitoulin Island’s largest First Nation community and is one of a few Cultural Capitals of Canada.

The area is filled with an array of interesting sights that range from historic ruins to beautiful lookouts. You’ll also find one of the best trails on Manitoulin, the Bebamikawe Memorial Trail. The area is best known for hosting one of North America’s longest running powwows.

Wiikwemikoong tourism offers an array of authentic Indigenous experiences where you can learn more about their history, culture, and traditions. There’s a famous summer cultural festival as well as one to multi-day tours. Some of the tours include hiking, canoeing, foraging, and more! Plus, be sure to pop into their gift shop. At the shop, you’ll find an incredible assortment of Anishnaabek handcrafted art that includes jewellery and crafts.

Explore Providence Bay

One of the most beautiful places on Manitoulin Island can be found on the south shore. Home to one of the largest sand beaches on Manitoulin, it’s only fitting that Providence Bay’s name in Ojibwe, Bebikodawangog, translates to “where sand curves around the water.”

You’ll find a few fabulous things to do in Providence Bay! One of the top activities is hiking the Providence Bay Boardwalk. This winding boardwalk trail runs parallel to the beach and offers plenty of awesome views of Lake Huron. There are also various interpretive signs about the area’s history and wildlife.

In town you’ll find a few places to eat and drink, like the Mutchmor and Providence Peace Café. This trendy little shop and café sells local pieces, Manitoulin Island souvenirs, plus coffee and food. They also have a few suites for accommodation above. And for those who love street art, you’ll find some of the best on the island here!

Visit an Art Gallery & Trading Post

Manitoulin Island is home to over a dozen art galleries and trading posts! Most of which sell a wide array of handcrafted Indigenous crafts, art, and more. If you’re looking for a unique souvenir from your visit to the island, I highly recommend purchasing some from one of the trading posts.

A few top art galleries and trading posts are Lillian’s Crafts, Ten Mile Point Trading Post, Perivale Gallery, and Manitoulin Trading Post. Perivale Gallery is a gem that’s hidden in the forests on the southern shores of lake Kagawong. Along with hosting workshops and public events, the gallery is home to art in all mediums like pottery, photography, and paintings.

One of the most popular is Ten Mile Point Trading Post. The shop is on Highway 6 in Sheguiandah. Shelves are filled with a staggering assortment of Indigenous items.

It’s a great place to pick up moccasins, paintings, local music, clothing, and so much more! Another top spot is Lillian’s Crafts, which can be found in M’Chigeeng. As with the other trading posts, Lillian’s is filled with tons of treasures from a range of handcrafted pieces by First Nations artists to beads and other cool craft ideas.

However, there’s a hidden gem of a museum tucked off one of the rooms. Here, you’ll find traditional regalia, historic artifacts, and more!

If you’re looking for more places to visit then check out Neon Raven Art Gallery in M’Chigeeng and K.B. Reynolds Mastin Gallery in Manitowaning.

Explore Gore Bay

A favourite small town on Manitoulin Island is Gore Bay! Much like Little Current, there are plenty of things to do in Gore Bay as well as places to stay and eat! Set on the northern shore of Manitoulin, Gore Bay is 45 minutes west of Little Current. It’s home to a charming downtown as well as a scenic waterfront.

The quaint downtown of Gore Bay has a few restaurants and cafes like Loco Beanz Coffee House and The Codmothers. You’ll also find interesting shops and street art too! Down by the waterfront are more attractions and restaurants. On Fridays, May through October, you can find the Gore Bay Farmers Market here, selling crafts and food.

You’ll find a variety of places to eat here too, like Spit Rail Brewery and Purvis Fish & Chips. There’s also a boardwalk and Fish Point Park. The park has a long pier stretching out into the bay. Plus, there’s a picnic table at the end! It’s a wonderful spot to eat your picnic or take out!

Gore Bay is also home to two museums and a gallery. There’s the Gore Bay Museum, Harbour Centre Gallery and above the gallery is the William Purvis Marine Museum. And for those looking for a hike and lookout, take the Noble Nature Trail in town which climbs up to the scenic lookout, East Bluff.

Find all the Lighthouses

Surrounded by water as islands are, it’s no surprise that Manitoulin is filled with lighthouses! There are nearly a dozen lighthouses on Manitoulin Island and surrounding small islands. Many of them can be visited today but all can be admired and are worth a peek!

A few of the most popular Manitoulin lighthouses are Janet Head Lighthouse, Providence Bay Lighthouse, Little Current Lighthouse, South Baymouth Lighthouse, Kagawong Lighthouse, and Mississagi Lighthouse. However, the Mississagi Lighthouse, located in Meldrum Bay, has been closed for a few years and is in serious need of rehab. The area is home to trails and a campground, plus the lighthouse, when open, is available for tours and is a small museum.

In Gore Bay, you’ll find Janet Head Lighthouse, which is Manitoulin’s second oldest standing lighthouse. Plus, it can be toured through the summer months. The lighthouse in South Baymouth is in a very scenic spot and is beautiful at sunset! One lighthouse that gets forgotten about is the Manitowaning Lighthouse, as it’s tucked away from the main part of town.

There are plenty other lighthouses on surrounding islands that you can see from Manitoulin or by boat. Some include Great Duck Island Lighthouse, Lonely Island Lighthouse, Strawberry Island Lighthouse, and Clapperton Island Lighthouse.

Explore Misery Bay Provincial Park

The best park to explore on Manitoulin is Misery Bay Provincial Park. Located 35 kilometres west of Gore Bay, Misery Bay is the only operating provincial park on the island. With an eco-friendly visitor centre and 15 kilometres of hiking trails, you can easily spend all day in Misery Bay.

Located on the southern shore of Manitoulin, the park is considered a world class park thanks to its alvars. Much of the park consists of ancient flat rock which is called an alvar. The park is home to unusual landscapes, like sand dunes, as well as rare plants. If you’re like me and always on the hunt for orchids in Ontario, you’ll find a variety of species here, like the Large Yellow Lady’s-slipper.

There are four hiking trails in the park, Coastal Alvar Trail, Misery Bay Trail, Inland Alvar Trail, and Mac’s Bay Trail. I highly recommend doing the red Coastal Alvar Trail. The trail is an 8 km loop trail that brings you through forests, across the coast and alvars, and past most of the main features of the park. Be sure to make note if any of the trails are closed due to high water levels before you head out.

You’ll find a bunch of weird and cute hidden gems throughout the park, like old cabins, lookouts, and more! Making it one of the most unique Ontario provincial parks!

Travel Tip: Because of the size of the park and the remoteness of it, I highly recommend ensuring you gas up before you head out. Plus, be sure to bring plenty of food and water.

Hiking Tip: If you want to do the Coastal Alvar Trail but not the entire thing, then combine it with the Inland Alvar Trail to shave a couple of kilometres off.

Catch a Sunset

Some of the best sunsets I’ve had have been on islands! With all the stunning landscapes, waterfront boardwalks, and lookouts, there are plenty of places to watch the sunset in Manitoulin!

A couple of my favourite include the boardwalk and Low Island Municipal Park in Little Current. Also, Pierside Restaurant and boardwalk in South Baymouth. Or, you can sit on the steps of the boardwalk in Providence Bay!

If you’re looking for more, I’ve heard McLean’s Mountain Lookout and the Mississagi Lighthouse are stellar too!

For early risers, head to the eastern edge of the island for awesome sunrises. You can pop over to Strawberry Lookout, the marina in Manitowaning, or the lookout at Ten Mile Point Trading Post.

Take a Cruise with North Channel Tours

If you want to see more of Manitoulin from the water or explore the surrounding area then check out one of trips with North Channel tours.

The company works out of Little Current and has a couple of different boats that are available for guided tours, water taxi, or private tours. Their fabulous tour takes you around Manitoulin Island, the neighbouring islands, as well as up to Killarney.

Two great tours with North Channel to consider are their Sunset Dinner Cruise and the Voyage to Killarney. The Sunset Dinner Cruise takes you out for dinner on the waters of the North Channel with live music and delicious food. The cost is approximately $70. You can check out reviews here.

If you’re looking for a grand tour and adventure then hop aboard their Voyage to Killarney tour. This is a full day sightseeing tour that brings you from Little Current to the Village of Killarney. In Killarney you can disembark for 2.5 hours and explore and grab some lunch or treats.

A few highlights of the tour include seeing the Strawberry Island Lighthouse, windswept pines, and views of white quartz cliffs.

More tours options include visiting the Benjamin Islands or the Baie Fine Fjord.

Address: 1 Water St West, Box 596, Little Current

Visit High Falls

The other amazing waterfall on Manitoulin is High Falls. This one is much less busy than Bridal Veil Falls. So much so that when I visited with a friend, we had it all to ourselves. High Falls can be accessed at the end of High Falls road off of Highway 6. It’s 20 minutes south of Little Current.

Fed by the Francis Brook, High Falls is smaller than Bridal Veil Falls. This plunge waterfall is 32 feet (10 metres) high. There is a short trail that leads to the opposite side of the waterfall where you can get a nice view. However, the area is fragile, so watch where you step.

Good news was announced at the beginning of 2022 for improvements! Funding has been obtained to improve the park and trail to make it more accessible. It will include a barrier-free walkway, bridge, and more!

Travel Tip: You can’t access the falls from the parking lot on Highway 6. It is surrounded by fencing. You have to turn down High Falls Road. At the end you’ll find a short trail to the waterfall.

Go to the Beach

If you’re planning a summer Manitoulin road trip then you might want to spend some time on the beach. You’ll find a bunch of great beaches on Manitoulin.

The most popular and famous one is Providence Bay Beach. This nearly 2 km long beach is one the southern shores of the island is home to crystal clear waters, beautiful sand, and a variety of amenities. If you’re looking for a proper beach day, this is the beach you want!

The Kagawong Beach, located right in town, is another great option. If you’re looking for a quick dip, try the pool at the base of Bridal Veil Falls. There are a few beaches around Lake Mindemoya. One of the best can be found at the end of Ketchankookem Trail. At the end of the trail on the left is a public beach.

More beaches in Manitoulin Island are Maple Ridge Sandy Beach, Julia Bay Beach in Gore Bay, South Baymouth Beach, and Low Island Beach in Little Current. There’s also one next to the marina in Manitowaning.

Visit a Museum

Whether you’re looking for things to do indoors on Manitoulin Island or want to learn more about the Island, you’ll find a bunch of museums. The museums on Manitoulin cover a wide range of topics, from Indigenous culture and history to stories from European settlers.

A few of the best Manitoulin Island museums are the Assiginack Museum Heritage Complex, Old Mill Heritage Centre, Centennial Museum of Sheguiandah, the Little Schoolhouse & Museum. The Assiginack Museum in Manitowaning showcases life of early settlers in the area.

Beyond the museum, there are a few historic buildings on the grounds, including a school house and blacksmith shop. Note that it is open seasonally, from June through September. In Kagawong, the Old Mill Heritage Centre shares the history of both Kagawong and Manitoulin Island.

The William Purvis Marine Museum shares the history of Gore Bay as well as the commercial shipping history of the Great Lakes. In South Baymounth there’s The Little Schoolhouse & Museum. It explores the history of South Baymouth, Michael’s Bay, and one room schoolhouses on the island.

The Centennial Museum of Sheguiandah has a main centre and six other buildings to explore. Here you’ll learn about the Sheguiandah Archaeology Site that date back to over 11,000 years ago as well as about settlers in the area.

There are other museums and learning centres on the island that are worth checking out. In Providence Bay there’s the Harbour View Centre. The Centre celebrates the interesting ecology and wildlife of the island. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for things to do with kids on Manitoulin Island. There are a variety of interactive displays and children programing.

Explore South Baymouth

At the southern end of the Island, where the ferry from Tobermory arrives on the Island, is South Baymouth. The area is a scenic spot to visit on Manitoulin. There’s a lighthouse, boardwalk, a few restaurants, and museum.

If you’re looking for the best things to do on Manitoulin Island in South Baymouth then I highly recommend hiking the Bowerman Trails. A trailhead can be found just west of the marina. These fun and whimsical trails were created by a local in his spare time.

The two-km trail system takes you through forests, wetlands and out to the shores of Lake Huron. The best part is that the boardwalks are not your standard ones. They are all carved from cedar trees from the area and wind their way through the landscape as if in a fairy tale!

If you’re looking for a great place to eat head over to Pierside Restaurant. They have a large deck looking out over the water. It’s also a perfect spot to watch the sunset and the ferry come in. Plus, next door is the Manitoulin Trading Post. The shop is filled with unique souvenirs and a gallery with local Indigenous arts and crafts.

Take in the Street Art

As many know, I’m always on the hunt for street art! I was honestly surprised to find as much street art on Manitoulin Island as I did. You can find murals or some form of art in nearly every village and small town on the island. Beyond the art galleries, there’s everything from murals on buildings to rock art along trails.

One of the best pieces of street art on Manitoulin is in Providence Bay. On the south side of Mutchmor and Providence Peace Café you’ll find a massive mural by international artists Shalak Attack, Flya Bruxa, and Bruno Smoky. It’s meant to represent Manitoulin.

There’s a bear, fish, beach, waterfalls, owl, and even a hawberry branch. Also in Providence Bay, there’s a sculpture by Julieanne Steedman called Stories of the Lake.

The piece is part of the Great Art for Great Lakes project. You can find other pieces from the project in Toronto and Thunder Bay.

As mentioned before, there’s a large mural in Little Current that depicts its history. The mural was created for Canada’s 150 along Worthington Street. Another mural can be found in downtown Gore Bay. On the side of Loco Beanz there’s a piece that’s based on Jack Whyte’s artwork, a local artist. The mural showcases some of the buildings from both the past and present of Gore Bay.

If you’re looking for unique places to find art on Manitoulin then add the Billings Connection trail to your list. Starting in Kagawong and going to Bridal Veil Falls, you’ll find a series of 10 interesting art pieces along the trail.

More Manitoulin Island Things to do

Are you looking for more Manitoulin Island attractions? As mentioned, there is a wealth of places to go, things to do, and experiences to be had. So, if you’re looking to fill in more days on your Manitoulin road trip I’ve got a few more events and places for you to check out. Below you’ll find some of the more off the beaten path activities on Manitoulin!

Enjoy more Manitoulin Island Trails

Beyond the popular spots and parks, there are so many amazing hiking trails on Manitoulin! One popular spot that has a hiking trail that many miss is at Bridal Veil Falls.

The trail is part of the Billings Connection Trail. It runs from the waterfront in Kagawong, along the river, and to Bridal Veil Falls. Plus, there’s interesting pieces of art along the trail.

Other trails to check out include Fossil Hill, Bebamikawe Memorial Trail, Maple Ridge Trails, and Nimkee’s Trail.

Visit Blue Jay Creek Provincial Park

Another park on Manitoulin that is worth a visit is Blue Jay Creek Provincial Park. The park is located on the south end of the island, 15 minutes west of South Baymouth. While there is no camping in the park, it’s a great spot to go birdwatching and hiking. Plus, it’s home to forests and wetlands as well as the largest swale system and raised beach on the Island.

Go to the Theatre

Many might not know this but Manitoulin is home to a few different theatre companies. In Manitowaning, there’s the Burns Wharf Theatre Players. They put on a new show every spring.

The Gore Bay Summer Theatre performs a few different productions every summer at the Gore Bay Community Hall.

Then there’s the world renowned Debajehmujig Theatre Group. They also perform in Manitowaning and their shows are based around the Indigenous culture and traditions. Throughout the year they put on various workshops, shows, and events.

Attend a Powwow

One life-changing experience is to attend a Powwow. All of the First Nation communities on Manitoulin have their own unique powwows. The Sheguiandah First Nations host an annual powwow on the first weekend in July. Wiikwemkoong hosts two different ones. In the middle of June, the community has their traditional powwow and during the Civic Holiday weekend they put on a competitive one.

Visit Island Roots Flower Farm

In Mindemoya you’ll find one of the hidden gems on Manitoulin, Island Roots Flower Farm. This women-owned farm is home to over 30 flower varieties and is one of the best places to see flowers in Ontario! Set on five acres, it’s a dreamy spot for those wanting to pick your own flowers!

Cycle the Island

Manitoulin Island tourism has seen an increasing number of cyclers hitting the island’s roads. With nearly endless stretches of open road and plenty of incredible places to stop along the way, it’s no surprise that cycling is one of the new popular activities on Manitoulin.

There are 14 cycling routes that cover over 850 km on the Island. Plus, big news for this year is that there will be e-bikes available to rent and charge at points across the island!

Attend the Haweater Festival

Taking place every August long weekend in Little Current is the Haweater Festival. This lively festival celebrates all things Manitoulin, including the island’s trademark hawberries!

The festival has a bunch of events like parades, artisan shows, competitions, and fireworks. For over 50 years, the festival delights locals and tourists.

Tips Planning a Manitoulin Island Road Trip

Manitoulin Island is one of the top Ontario road trips! There are so many Manitoulin Island places to visit during your road trip. So, to best maximize your time I’ve compiled a few tips to help plan a Manitoulin Island road trip. Discover the best time to visit, where to get gas, driving tips, and more!

When to Visit

The short answer for the best time for visiting Manitoulin Island is summer! During the summer, the weather is ideal and all of the businesses are open.

However, if you’re a winter person then a visit to the island means plenty of snowy adventures and barely any tourists. What are the best things to do on Manitoulin Island in the winter? You can go cross country skiing, ice fishing, skating, chase frozen waterfalls, and more!

How to Get to Manitoulin Island

There are two main ways to get to Manitoulin. You can access the Island year-round by road. Take Highway 69 north to Sudbury, then west ON-17, and then south on Highway 6. Travel time from Toronto to Manitoulin is approximately 6.5 hours.

In the summer you can travel to Manitoulin via the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry. The ferry travels between Tobermory and South Baymouth, which is on the south shore of Manitoulin. The ride is roughly 1.45 hours.

Where to Get Gas

If you’re looking for where to fill up on the island, there are a few gas stations. Some of which are cheaper because they are on the reserve. However, if need to fill up before you get to the island, you’ll find cheaper gas prices in Espanola compared to on ON-17.

Shops & Restaurant Hours

One thing to be aware of is that not all shops and restaurants run on traditional opening hours. Some run on “Island Time.” So, plan accordingly or call ahead to make sure the business is open. Also, many businesses either close after peak summer season or run on reduced hours.

Bathrooms

If you’re out exploring all day, whether it’s in the small towns or on the trails, don’t fret if you have a baby bladder. There are plenty of public bathrooms and portable toilets across the island.

Wildlife on Manitoulin Island

Please note that there is a wealth of wildlife on Manitoulin. What animals call the island home? There are deer, wolves, snakes, bears, bobcats, and a wealth of urban wildlife like racoons.

Driving on Manitoulin Island

There are a few things to note when driving on Manitoulin. I’ve mentioned where to get gas above but be aware that it is a large island and some places are remote.

So, make sure you always have at least half a tank, to be safe. Also, be aware of the wildlife at night when driving. Many roads are without lights, so exercise caution and drive slower at night and during dusk when wildlife is more active.

What to Pack for Your Visit?

Essentials to pack for Manitoulin in the summer are: bug spray, sunscreen, and a cooler to fill with water and food. For those visiting Manitoulin in the winter, be sure to pack your car with winter road trip essentials like a shovel, sand or kitty litter, extra mitts and scarves, and windshield wiper fluid with anti-freeze.

Where to Eat & Drink on Manitoulin

You’ll find a wide array of places to eat on Manitoulin Island! Across the island are food trucks, breweries, and restaurants serving up everything from classic fish and chips to Indigenous cuisine. There’s even a local coffee shop, Loco Beanz Coffee House. As a big coffee fan, I was thrilled to find a fabulous café like this one. It has locations in Little Current, Gore Bay, and Manitowaning.

Little Current

In Little Current you’ll find the largest selection of places to eat. The two main hotels in town have restaurants, Anchor Inn Hotel and Manitoulin Hotel & Conference Centre.

The Anchor Inn serves traditional Canadian fare. They specialize in local seafood that’s caught fresh from Lake Huron!

North 46 at the Manitoulin Hotel offers casual fine dining. You’ll find menu items made with local ingredients and a heavy focus on Anishinaabe fare. Both are open year-round and have patios.

If you’re looking for a fab food truck then head to The Port. Their menu is wide and so is their picnic area! For a pint pop into Manitoulin Brewing Company and for a treat grab an ice cream from 3 Cows & A Cone.

Kagawong

Close to Bridal Veil Falls in Kagawong, you’ll find a few great places to score sweet treats! For all your sweet tooth needs head to Boo-Bah-Lou Candy Corner. The shop has all the best old school candy from your childhood along with unique treats from around the world.

Close by is Sugar Bush Coffee House. I stopped here a few times and loved every treat I bought and both their hot and cold coffee beverages. In town, don’t forget to stop into one of the best chocolate shops in Ontario – Manitoulin Chocolate Works!

Providence Bay

The charming small town of Providence Bay Manitoulin Island has a couple of noteworthy places to grab grub and drinks. Lake Huron Fish & Chips is open seasonally and has more than just fish.

Plus, you’ll find one of my favourite shops on the island, The Mutchmor and Providence Peace Café! This is shop is all encompassing. It has a gift shop, plus it’s a restaurant and café too!

Gore Bay

There are plenty of options if you’re looking for places to eat in Gore Bay. A couple of top choices are Split Rail Brewing Co and Buoy’s Eatery.

Visit Manitoulin’s first craft brewery, Split Rail Brewing Co. One must try is their Hawberry Ale! It’s made with hawberries hand-picked on the island.

Another great restaurant is Buoy’s Eatery! They’re all about using local ingredients. With fish from the waters around the island as well as produce and meats from local farms, it’s all fresh and fabulous! I highly recommend you try their pizza!!

South Baymouth

On the southern side of the island is South Baymouth. There are a couple of places to eat and one is Pierside Restaurant. Here, you can wait for or watch the Manitoulin Island ferry coming in during dinner from their large patio. Pierside has a large menu with something for everyone, from breakfast to after dinner dessert!

Where to Stay on Manitoulin Island

Across the Island you’ll find a variety of different accommodation. A great affordable option is camping. There are a few different campgrounds on Manitoulin including; Gordon’s Park, Breakwater Park Campground in Meldrum Bay, and Mindemoya Court Cottages and Campground.

If you’re looking for unique places to stay in Ontario then you’ll find one on Manitoulin. The Hexagon is a cool off-the-grid open concept cottage. Located right on the water and home to multiple skylights and big windows, the views are awesome! It sleeps two to three people and has everything you need for a fun getaway. You’ll also find a ton of cute and cozy cottages.

During my stay, I booked a room at the Manitoulin Hotel & Conference Centre. Located in Little Current, the hotel is owned by area First Nations people. It’s home to over 50 rooms, an outdoor pool, and North 46 Restaurant.

This incredible hotel is built with wood and stone from the area and even the furnishings incorporate Indigenous cultural elements. Some rooms offer views of Georgian Bay’s North Channel. If you’re looking for the best hotel on Manitoulin Island, I highly recommend this one. It was even named company of the year in 2021!

Check out the list of great places to stay here!

Frequently Asked Questions about Manitoulin Island

When planning your Manitoulin Island road trip many questions will arise. Below you’ll find all the information about Manitoulin you’ll need to know before you go. Discover what the Island is known for, where it is, things to see in Manitoulin Island, and how to get there.

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