Toronto 
Pelee Island, the largest island in Lake Erie and the southernmost populated point in Canada, is home to wineries, beaches, picturesque sunsets, lakefront cabins, and many activities that draw interest from kids and little ones.
Credit: Library Playground/Flickr/Attribution-NonCommercial 2.0 Generic
During the summer season, all of these wonderful things, experiences, and activities can be found all over the Island.
Pelee Island is a hub for arts and culture that are on full display through local galleries, stores, and events. On any given weekend in the summer, there is likely to be a concert, market, or event to celebrate local arts and culture. Beyond those, Pelee Island offers relaxation through waterfront stays and beach days, as well as a great deal of local food and drink to explore.
Access and how to get there:
Take Pelee Island Ferries, MV Pelee Islander I & II, from Leamington until July 28.
Starting July 29, the MV Pelee Islander ferries will depart from Kingsville until December 8.
Pelee Island Beaches & Nature Adventures
- The East Park Beach is in the campground of the same name. East Park is also the location for the public East Beach on Pelee Island. Day-use visitors can take advantage of the park store, picnic areas, and sandy Lake Erie shores.
- Pelee Island’s two Nature Preserves, Lighthouse Point and Fish Point, both serve as public beaches. Plus, visiting each will give you experiences on either side of the island. Lighthouse Point Provincial Nature Reserve is on the eastern shores, while Fish Point Provincial Nature Reserve is on the east.
- Sunset Beach, on the west side of the Island, is a short distance north of the Leamington Ferry Terminal. As the name would indicate, this is an awesome place to catch a sunset over Lake Erie.
- Get out on the surrounding waters with the expert guides from Pelee Island Charters. Tours include cruising through points of interest and views of other islands.
- Use Pelee Island’s West Dock to access the waters on a calm day with your own boat or paddle boat.
The Best Trails on Pelee Island
Whether you’re a hiker or a cyclist, Pelee Island is home to a great trail system for both activities. It is also common to see cyclists on the roads of Pelee Island.
- Lighthouse Point Nature Reserve offers an easy hike via the Interpretive Trail. The trail leads to the scenic Pelee Island Lighthouse and lookout area.
- Fish Point, on the south side of Pelee Island, offers a 2km out-and-back trail which leads to Canada’s southernmost point on land.
- Pelee Island has its own section of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail. This 30km route loops the entire Island around the Lake Erie shores while connecting all the beaches and parks.
- Pelee Island Adventures makes getting around and sightseeing faster and easier with rentals for golf carts or e-bikes.
- Cycling Pelee Island is also a fun way to sightsee, thanks to the Waterfront Trail and the connecting roads (paved and unpaved).
Arts & Culture on Pelee Island
The Stone & Sky Group provide a handful of opportunities to explore the arts and culture of the Island. Check out these local spots below for even more browsing and shopping.
- The Pelee Island Museum & Heritage Centre is a great way to familiarize yourself with the Island before exploring. The Museum also provides this list of Discovery Sites around Pelee Island; use it to create a self-guided historical tour of Pelee!
- One of the more unique attractions on Pelee Island is the Butterfly Sanctuary and Teaching Garden. They offer summer tours and curated experiences.
- Visit local galleries like 2Chicks Creative Glass Studio or Pelee Island Art Works.
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Where to Dine on Pelee Island
One of the highlights of dining on Pelee Island is the chance to escape the restaurant and fast food chains. Enjoy 100% local restaurants, fast food, and pubs for your summer getaway on Pelee Island.
- The Westview Tavern is a great place for local eats as well as live local entertainment and music.
- Stone House 1891 has a large and spacious waterfront patio
- Stop by The Dog & Goat Restaurant for snacks, takeout, or picnic foods.
- Get more unique dining experiences from Pelee Island Adventures. The company provide island tours and tastings for craft beer, wine, chocolate, and deluxe picnic basket packages.
- Make it a self-guided drink tour and consider stops like Pelee Island Vineyards, Vin Villa, or Pelee Island Winery Pavilion.
- Get your ice cream fix this summer on Pelee Island with The Shack, or Coneheads Ice Cream & Mini Golf.
Credit: Pelee island Tourism
Summer Events on Pelee
Pelee Island’s Stone & Sky organization and the Westview Tavern are responsible for many of the celebrations that take place here each summer.
- Pelee Island’s Stone & Sky Music & Art Series features events throughout the summer, including the Greek Revival Theatre Festival in June, Art at the Quarry in July, and a Quarry Farmers’ Market every Saturday from June to August.
- Catch live musical performances at the Westview Tavern on weekend evenings.
Where to Stay on Pelee Island
One of the greatest things about most of the Pelee Island accommodation options is that almost all of them are close to the water and shore. This also includes a handful that are steps from beaches or ferry docks.
- Pelee Island offers a variety of waterfront options like Pelee Lake Muse Cottage & Guest Suite, Kiki’s Westview Motel, The Wandering Dog Inn, or the East Park Campground.
- There are many Airbnb rentals on Pelee Island from which to choose. The options include large cabins for up to eight people, smaller and cozier cottages, or a full home.
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What a great story! Stay at the Main Station, nestled within the renowned Dog and Goat Restaurant. This unique accommodation offers unbeatable proximity to the lighthouse, pier, and dock. My adventure on the island included their mouthwatering food, with a menu featuring delicious burgers, fresh salads, and beer on tap literally where I am staying. Comfort and cuisine – there’s nothing else like it on the island! Indulge in an unforgettable island adventure by staying and eating there.