Things to see and do on Manitoulin Island
Your Ultimate Ecape
Adventure, Culture, and Relaxation in One Unforgettable Destination
Welcome to Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island, where nature, culture, and adventure come together to create the perfect escape. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills or peaceful moments by the water, Manitoulin offers something for everyone.
Outdoor adventures and Scenic Trails
To begin your journey, you can Hike through natural beauty on scenic trails that wind through forests, cliffs, and lakeshores. Popular routes like the Cup and Saucer Trail offer breathtaking views you won’t want to miss. In addition, you can enjoy the Many Lookouts with fabulous views. Next, grab your walking shoes and take a tour through the Mindemoya Cave. The cave was carved out by water after the last Glacier 10 000 years ago. Furthermore, there are seven lighthouses you can visit located all across Manitoulin Island, take time and do a lighthouse tour.
Fun in and on the Water
If you prefer the water, you can Enjoy a scenic boat cruise on North Channel Cruise Lines to places like Killarney or the Benjamin Islands. They have day and sunset dinner cruises many with live entertainment. Consequently, they have many options available for different types of events, some culinary focused. They are also creating new events utilizing their new Louisa Island location.
Alternatively, you can cast your hook and enjoy a day out fishing. Whether in your own boat or on a charter, there are endless lakes on and surrounding Manitoulin Island to meet any anglers needs.
After a warm day of touring, you can relax on pristine beaches, where crystal-clear waters invite you to swim, kayak, or simply soak up the sun. From quiet coves to family-friendly shores, Manitoulin’s beaches are a summer dream come true. On the other hand, maybe a Fun day at the Waterpark with the kids is on your agenda.
For the ultimate rejuvenation, enjoy a 4 hour water/heat/earth and body experience at the Amabel Spa. With Indoor & outdoor hydrotherapy pools, saunas, meditation and forest bathing gardens. To top it off, enjoy a guided skin application (facial or hand/foot) ending ultimately with a lovely lunch overlooking the lake.
Land-Based Travel by bicycle or motorbike
Before hitting the road, consider downloading the Driftscape App to your device. By doing so, you can take a guided audio or video tour through any or all the communities across Manitoulin Island.
From there, you can explore the island by bike, or motorcycle with winding country roads and trails perfect for cyclists of all levels. Every turn brings new landscapes and charming communities to discover.
Local Flavors and Rural Charms
While out exploring, be sure to visit a local garden centre, apiary or pick up some fresh vegetables or farm fresh eggs. Indeed a stop at a local farmers market will net you fabulous local products. Moreover, you can learn about the importance of local species plants and pick some up for your garden. Maybe picking some fresh strawberries or raspberries is a plan for a sweet treat. Just opened in July 0f 2026 is the Pleasant Valley Farm Agricultural Education Centre. an education centre that offers hands on & interactive learning, live animals, play areas and more! Learn about farming in Ontario and on Manitoulin Island in a fun & welcoming environment.
Sports, Recreation and Wildlife
For sports enthusiants, you can spend a day on the links, for those of you who love to golf, Manitoulin Island has 3 golf courses to get you your golfing fix.
In addition to golf, you can enjoy a wonderful day with horses. Enjoy the healing effects of the Ojibwe Spirit Horses or go out horseback riding, feeling the wind in your hair and the peaceful rhythm of the trail beneath you. Honora Bay Riding Stable or Kicking Mule Ranch
Even when winter arrives, you can Snowmobile, cross country ski or snowshoe, on various groomed trails across Manitoulin Island.
Rich History and Cultural Heritage
To broaden your horizons, you can dive into history and culture at local museums and cultural center’s that showcase the island’s Indigenous heritage and pioneer past. Learn the stories that shape this unique land and its people. Visit the past at the Sheguindah National Historic Site. Visit the World’s largest Peace Pipe, Drum and Dream Catcher combination on Zhiibaahaasing First Nation or attend an indigenous Pow Wow
The Ultimate Culinary Journey
Local Eateries
When it comes to dining, you can Savor local flavors at a variety of eateries, from cozy cafés to lakeside restaurants serving freshly caught fish and locally grown ingredients. Farm-to-table freshness is always on the menu. Meet some locals and take part in a local community supper, often fundraising for the community. Many community events happen, especially during the summer but they do happen all year round.
Take a food road trip
Meanwhile, surprises await you on the back roads. For instance, who knew you could find a fabulous pizza place in the middle of a back road?
Likewise, if you have a hankering for fish and chips or for fish taco’s, take a look at the restaurants listed on our fish taco tour to find your favourite. For those interested in dessert, you can Plan an Ice Cream Road Tour. Beat the heat. We have ice cream shops all across Manitoulin Island; therefore, you can try a new one every day of the week.
Finally, why not embark on a sweet and scenic driving tour around Manitoulin Island in search of the ultimate “made on Manitoulin Island” butter tart. Journey down back roads to find the road side baking sheds (usually open Friday/Saturday) Take the Butter Tart Tour.
Hire a Chef
Are you having a special event why not hire one of Manitoulin Islands top chef’s and have them create a feast to your specifications at your chosen location.
Local Shopping and Craft Breweries
Before heading home, make sure to visit our fabulous Micro Brewery.
Time for a little shopping? Manitoulin Island, is also a hidden gem for shoppers seeking distinctive, locally crafted goods and authentic cultural experiences. From Indigenous art and crafts to small-town boutiques.
And that’s just the beginning.
Your adventure awaits
With art galleries, festivals, boating, stargazing, and so much more, Manitoulin Island offers endless ways to connect with nature, culture, and community. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a whole season, your next unforgettable adventure starts here.
Manitoulin Island — where the journey is as magical as the destination.
