Discover Manitoulin Island: Your Ultimate Guide to Ontario's Island Retreat

With hiking, beaches, and rich Indigenous heritage and culture, the world's largest freshwater island is a must-visit spot. Here's your ultimate guide to visiting Manitoulin.

Manitoulin Islandis a hidden gem in the heart of the Great Lakes region of Ontario, Canada. Known locally as Mnidoo Mnising in Anishinaabemowin, this scenic destination offers a blend of natural beauty, rich Indigenous culture, and outdoor adventures. Here's a guide to visiting the world's largest freshwater island—Manitoulin Island. 

Where is Manitoulin Island?

two paddlers in a canoe approach the LIttle Current Swing Bridge on sparkling, glassy water at sunset.
The Little Current Swing Bridge—gateway to Manitoulin Island.

Manitoulin Island is located in Lake Huron, Ontario, approximately a one-and-a-half-hour drive southwest from Sudbury via the iconic Little Current Swing Bridge. The island separates the larger part of Lake Huron from Georgian Bay to the east and the North Channel to the north.

How To Get to Manitoulin Island

The island is an ideal destination for exploration by car, RV, or motorcycle*. From Toronto, head up Highway 400 to Sudbury, then hop on Highway 17 West to Espanola. From there, it's a straight shot down Highway 6 to the Little Current Swing Bridge.

Alternatively, you can take the full-service MS Chi-Cheemaun (Ojibwe for "big canoe") ferry from Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula to South Baymouth on Manitoulin. The ferry operates from the first Friday in May until the Sunday after Thanksgiving in October. Buy tickets online here.

*Riding your motorcycle on Manitoulin? Check out these articles on riding the Manitoulin Island Loop and touring Manitoulin Island.

The MS Chi Cheemaun; a large ferry with its bow painted with a brightly coloured mural of birds on a swirling blue background. a family looks eagerly into the distance over the rail of the MS Chi Cheemaun
A ride on the MS Chi-Cheemaun is the perfect introduction to an island adventure.

Regions of Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin is divided into several regions, each with its own unique character and attractions. The primary regions of Manitoulin Island include:

  1. Northeast Manitoulin and the Islands (NEMI)
    • Key Areas: Little Current, Sheguiandah, and surrounding islands
    • Highlights: The town of Little Current serves as the gateway to Manitoulin, featuring shops, restaurants, and the iconic Swing Bridge.
  2. Central Manitoulin
    • Key Areas: Mindemoya, Providence Bay, and M'Chigeeng
    • Highlights: Amenities in the town of Mindemoya, the beautiful beach at Providence Bay, and the cultural hub of M'Chigeeng First Nation.
    • Nestled in Lake Mindemoya on Manitoulin Island, which itself sits in Lake Huron, Treasure Island is a hidden gem. Not only is it the largest island on Manitoulin, but it's also the world's largest natural island in a lake on an island in a lake. Although there are no permanent residents, it is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and exploring.
a deer walks in a broad grassy field dotted with green trees during a golden summer sunrise.
Enjoy the quiet beauty of Mindemoya.
  1. Western Manitoulin
    • Key Areas: Gore Bay, Kagawong, and Meldrum Bay
    • Highlights: This region offers picturesque waterfront views, the Bridal Veil Falls in Kagawong, and the historic lighthouse in Meldrum Bay.
  2. Tehkummah
    • Key Areas: South Baymouth and surrounding areas
    • Highlights: Home to the ferry terminal in South Baymouth, this area connects the island to the Bruce Peninsula via the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry.
  3. Wikwemikong Unceded Territory
    • Key Areas: Wikwemikong and surrounding areas
    • Highlights: Found on the island's eastern side, this community is the largest Indigenous community on Manitoulin. Rich in culture and history, it offers various cultural experiences and events.
  4. Assiginack
    • Key Areas: Manitowaning and surrounding areas
    • Highlights: Manitowaning is one of the oldest settlements on the island, featuring the Centennial Museum of Sheguiandah and historical sites.

Outdoor Activities on Manitoulin Island

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See the beautiful views along the causeway to Meldrum Bay.

Manitoulin Island boasts a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors to the island will find many opportunities to camp, hike, fish or swim at a variety of beautiful beaches along the shores of Lake Huron. The island has four main rivers: the Kagawong, Manitou, Blue Jay Creek and the Mindemoya, each providing spawning grounds for trout and salmon. Manitoulin Island has 108 freshwater lakes, some of which have their own islands. Lake Manitou is the largest lake in a freshwater island in the world.

There are so many activities to explore on the island—take a look at these fun ways to experience Manitoulin's natural charms:

Manitoulin Island Hiking Trails

two people smiling as they take a photo in the lush green forest at the top of a cliff on Cup and Saucer Trail.
Manitoulin is full of beautiful trails for every hiker. // Cup and Saucer Trail

A hiker’s dream, virtually every community on Manitoulin boasts its own unique hiking trail. Most range in difficulty from easy to moderate, with the M’Chigeeng Trail and the famous Cup and Saucer Trail being the more challenging exceptions. Here is a list of the top trails to explore:

  1. Bowerman Trails in South Baymouth      
    Difficulty: Easy to Moderate       
    Waiting for the Chi-Cheemaun ferry or just disembarked? The Bowerman Trails are a great way to spend your time (about an hour), offering a delightful detour with beautiful views.

  2. Manitoulin Eco Park     
    Difficulty: Easy       
    On Hwy 6, just north of Hwy 542, this private park and dark sky preserve features a nature interpretive centre and three hiking trails through five different ecosystems, offering an immersive nature experience.

  3. Little Current Recreational Walking Trail      
    Difficulty: Easy       
    This 12 km path is well-lit, labelled and includes minimal elevation changes (and benches), making it ideal for a relaxing walk.

  4. Misery Bay Trail     
    Difficulty: Easy      
    Misery Bay Provincial Nature Reserve, located 10 minutes west of Evansville, is an 860-hectare park on the south shore of Manitoulin Island, offering a tranquil natural escape.

  5. McLean’s Park      
    Difficulty: Easy      
    Nestled on New England Road off Hwy 6, midway between Manitowaning and South Baymouth, this 100-acre park offers verdant landscapes perfect for a serene hike.

  6. Bridal Veil Falls Trail System      
    Difficulty: Easy to Moderate       
    Situated in Kagawong, the Bridal Veil Falls trail system provides easy access to stunning waterfalls and scenic trails, making it a must-visit destination. Take a dip in the almost magical pool at the bottom of the falls, or enjoy a picnic at the top.

Bridal Veil Falls; a gentle, misty falls that creates a veil of water that decends off a cliff into a rocky pool below. The falls is surrounded by lush green foliage. Bridal Veil Falls; a few people walk in a line along the steep, smooth rockface behind the curtain of water of the falls.
The gorgeous Bridal Veil Falls is a must-visit for anyone who comes to this island oasis.
  1. Noble Nature Trail    
    Difficulty: Easy to Moderate   
    This 1.1 km trail offers a pleasant stroll starting at the intersection of Water and Bay Streets on the Gore Bay shoreline, ideal for a relaxing nature walk.

  2. Gore Bay Boardwalk Trail   
    Difficulty: Easy   
    The Boardwalk Trail follows the town’s waterfront and connects with the Noble Nature Trail, providing a leisurely and scenic walk.

  3. Wagg’s Wood  
    Difficulty: Easy   
    Located right off Hwy 542, across from the municipal office in Mindemoya, Wagg’s Wood offers a convenient and beautiful hiking experience, with 4 distinct woodland trails including an accessibility trail for anyone with mobility issues or strollers.

  4. Sheshegwaning - Nimkee’s Hiking Trail   
    Difficulty: Easy to Moderate   
    North of Silver Water off Hwy 540 in the Sheshegwaning First Nation, it offers gorgeous views of the North Channel and boreal forest.

  5. Bebamikawe Memorial Trail    
    Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate    
    Located at the end of Beach Road in Wikwemikong, the Bebamikawe Memorial Trail offers 14 km of picturesque trails featuring spectacular lookouts and educational signage. Perfect for nature lovers of all skill levels. *Note: You will require a parking permit, which you can get here.

  6. M’Chigeeng Trail   
    Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult   
    Short but steep, the 5-kilometre M’Chigeeng Trail offers a good workout, views of the area, and a fun photo op of the Hollywood-esque trail sign.

  7. Cup and Saucer Trail   
    Difficulty: Challenging   
    Located 20 km west of Little Current, with ample parking off Highway 540, 3 km past the Bidwell Road corner, the Cup and Saucer Trail is renowned for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views. This trail takes you to the highest point on the island (PS: Check out the ale inspired by it by Manitoulin Brewing). 

Providence Bay Beach at sunset; a white sand beach with calm glassy water under an orange sunset.
Soak up the sun and rejuvenate at Providence Bay Beach.

Beaches in Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is home to numerous beautiful beaches, perfect for enjoying the island's natural beauty. Here's a list of some of the notable beaches you can visit:

  1. Providence Bay Beach
    • Location: Providence Bay
    • Features: One of the island's most popular beaches, known for its long sandy shoreline, boardwalk, and shallow, crystal-clear waters. Amenities and restaurants within walking distance and a playground on the beach make it a convenient and fabulous destination for families.
  2. Mindemoya Beach
    • Location: Mindemoya Lake, Central Manitoulin
    • Features: A quiet, family-friendly beach with picnic areas, shallow waters, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
  3. Carter's Bay Beach
    • Location: Near the town of Tehkummah
    • Features: A more secluded and undeveloped beach, known for its pristine sand dunes and clear waters. It's a great spot for those looking for a quieter experience.
  4. Kagawong Beach
    • Location: Kagawong
    • Features: Located near Bridal Veil Falls, this small beach offers a lovely place to relax and swim, with nearby amenities and picnic areas.
  5. South Baymouth Beach
    • Location: South Baymouth
    • Features: A small beach near the ferry terminal, perfect for a quick dip while waiting for the ferry or exploring the town.
  6. Misery Bay Provincial Park
    • Location: Western Manitoulin
    • Features: A more rugged and natural beach within a provincial park, known for its unique alvar landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
  7. Gore Bay Beach
    • Location: Gore Bay
    • Features: A small, charming beach located near the marina, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

These beaches provide a range of experiences, from popular and family-friendly spots to more secluded and natural areas. 

Camping on Manitoulin Island

These campgrounds offer a range of experiences from full-service sites to more rustic options, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your preferences. Be sure to check availability and book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

  1. Mindemoya Court Cottages and Campground
    • Location: Near Mindemoya
    • Features: Offers a variety of camping options, including tent sites and cabin rentals. Amenities include a sandy beach, boat rentals, and picnic areas.
  2. Providence Bay Campground
    • Location: Providence Bay
    • Features: A family-friendly campground with sites for tents and RVs, close to the popular Providence Bay Beach. Facilities include restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
  3. Manitoulin Resort and Campground
    • Location: Manitowaning
    • Features: Provides both cabin rentals/glamping and campground sites. 
  4. Batman's Cottages and Campground
    • Location: Near Sheguiandah
    • Features: Tenting and RV amenities, cottage rentals, WIFI, store, fishing, fishing boat/kayak/canoe and SUP rentals, swimming, hiking trails, recreation hall
  5. Stanley Park Campground
    • Location: Spring Bay (near Mindemoya)
    • Features: Tenting and RV facilities, swimming, fishing, store, laundromat, close to many popular attractions
  6. Idyll-Glen RV Park
    • Location: Near Mindemoya
    • Features: Tenting and RV facilities, swimming, fishing, boat launch, store, cottage rentals, laundry, close to many popular attractions
  7. South Bay Resort
    • Location: Near South Baymouth
    • Features: RV and tenting facilities, cottage rentals, showers, laundry, WIFI, boat/kayak/canoe rentals, swimming, close to MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry
  8. Manitoulin Eco Park
    • Location: Highway 6, just north of Highway 542, near the town of Little Current
    • Features: This designated Dark Sky Preserve, nestled in a hardwood forest, offers a perfect setting for connecting with nature and some of the best stargazing around.
  9. Point Grondine Park
    • Location: Near Killarney Provincial Park on the mainland, part of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory
    • Features: Owned and operated by the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory as a backcountry wilderness park. It offers incredible hiking trails, canoe routes, backcountry campsites and cultural tours. 

Find more camping options:

a person silhouetted aganst a night sky full of stars at the Manitoulin Eco Park
Manitoulin Eco Park offers opportunities to experience the natural wonder of this extremely beautiful place.

Learn About Local Indigenous Cultures on Manitoulin 

Manitoulin Island is home to six First Nations communities. The island is a significant cultural and historical area for Indigenous Peoples. Each First Nation has its own unique traditions, languages, and cultural practices, creating a rich diversity on the island. You are encouraged to read about each First Nation using the links below to learn about the communities before you arrive. The Indigenous communities on Manitoulin Island include:

  1. Wikwemikong Unceded TerritoryLocated on the eastern side of the island and home to the largest Anishnaabek community on the Island.
  2. M'Chigeeng First NationSituated in Central Manitoulin.
  3. Sheguiandah First NationLocated near the town of Sheguiandah.
  4. Zhiibaahaasing First Nation—Located on the western side of the island, next to Sheshegwaning First Nation.
  5. Sheshegwaning First Nation—Located on the north-western shoreline of Manitoulin Island, approximately 112 kilometres west of Little Current. 
  6. Aundeck Omni KaningLocated in the northeastern part of the island. It is situated near the town of Little Current.

Visiting Manitoulin Island affords plenty of opportunities to learn about the cultures and traditions of Indigenous communities in the area, from the members of the communities themselves. Try participating in a guided canoe tour or spirit walk. Don't miss attending a Pow Wow for an immersive experience in Anishinaabe arts, crafts, dance, and cuisine. The Zhiibaahaasing First Nation Pow Wow and the Sheguiandah Annual Jiingtamok are a couple of the many spectacular events are held in the area in the summer. Find a pow wow to attend with this Complete List of Pow Wows in Ontario and this Northeastern Ontario Pow Wow Guide.

two girls in beautifully coloured, beaded regalia dance in the grassy pow wow grounds at the Sheguiandah Annual Jiingtamok. A man in beautiful brightly coloured and feathered regalia dances in the grass at the Sheguiandah Annual Jiingtamok.
Attending a pow wow on Manitoulin is an experience like no other. // The Sheguiandah Annual Jiingtamok

Festivals on Manitoulin Island

Attend the Wiikwemkoong Annual Cultural Festival to experience the vibrant culture of the Anishinaabe people. This festival showcases traditional dance, music, crafts, and local cuisine, providing a deep insight into the island’s Indigenous heritage.

Best Things to See on Manitoulin Island

The Mississagi Lighthouse, standing on the rocky and forested shore of Meldrum Bay, surrounded in clear turquoise water under a bright blue sky.
Learn about Manitoulin's many lighthouses and their stunning locations. // The Mississagi Lighthouse, Meldrum Bay

Where to Stay on Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveller's needs. From charming bed and breakfasts to rustic cottages and modern lodges, you'll find the perfect place to stay while exploring the island. 

Many of the fishing lodges on Manitoulin offer a range of fishing experiences, from guided trips to self-guided adventures, along with various accommodations to suit different preferences. 

It’s always a good idea to check availability and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

  1. Manitoulin Island Hotel and Conference Centre
    • Location: Little Current
    • Description: A modern, Indigenous-owned hotel with a design that is infused with symbolism and meaning, and decor that reflects the First Nations traditions.  Offering a range of rooms and suites, it features amenities such as a fitness center, on-site dining, and conference facilities, and also provides easy access to local attractions and scenic views of the waterfront.
  2. Bear's Inn
    • Location: South Bay
    • Description: A waterfront resort with 6 modern cottages with on-site nature trails, local wildlife, children’s playground, fishing and other outdoor activities.
  3. Manitoulin Inn
    • Location: Mindemoya
    • Description: A comfortable motel-style inn offering rooms and suites, located close to the town's amenities.
  4. Mindemoya Motel
    • Location: Mindemoya
    • Description: Offers a variety of rooms and is conveniently located near local shops and restaurants.
  5. Twin Peaks Bed & Breakfast
    • Location: Mindemoya
    • Description: A charming Victorian-style B&B offering cozy rooms and home-cooked breakfasts, with easy access to local attractions.
  6. Manitoulin Resort
    • Location: Manitowaning
    • Description: A family-friendly resort offering cottages, cabins, and campsites, located on the shores of Lake Manitou.
  7. My Friends Inn Manitoulin
    • Location: Manitowaning
    • Description: Offers a range of cozy rooms and suites, ideal for travellers looking for a homey stay.
  8. Hutchinson's Cottages and Campground
    • Location: Sandfield
    • Description: Offers charming cottage rentals and campsites with beautiful lake views, ideal for a peaceful getaway.
  9. The Queen's Inn
    • Location: Gore Bay
    • Description: Situated on the waterfront of beautiful Gore Bay, this historical inn has been rated among the top ten B&B's in Ontario by Cottage Life Magazine.
  10. The Rockville Inn
    • Location: Mindemoya
    • Description: A quaint bed and breakfast with beautiful gardens and cozy accommodations, near the Cup and Saucer hiking trail and Wikwemikong Cultural Festival.
  11. Red Lodge Resort
    • Location: Manitowaning
    • Features: A charming lodge offering motel-style rooms and cottage rentals, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, a beach and fine dining with lake views.
  12. Island Sunrise Cottages
    • Location: M’Chigeeng/Spring Bay
    • Features: Private lakeside cottages, self-guided or fully-guided fishing, paddling packages and sightseeing trips.  Close to hiking trails, art galleries, and local amenities, yet far enough away to be quiet and peaceful.
  13. The Bayview Cottage
    • Location: Gore Bay
    • Features: Offers cozy cottages with gorgeous bay views.
  14. The Mutchmor
    • Location: Providence Bay
    • Features: Loft rentals with close proximity to the beach, cafe, art gallery and in-house workshops.
  15. Turtle Creek Lodges
    • Location: Near Mindemoya
    • Features: cabin rentals, fishing, hiking, and beautiful views of Lake Manitou.
  16. The Inn at Gore Bay
    • Location: Gore Bay
    • Features: Luxurious waterfront rooms as well as cabin rentals, surrounded by the natural beauty of Gore Bay. Onsite dining at the Watersedge Pub and Restaurant.
  17. Lake Kagawong Family Cabins
    • Location: Kagawong
    • Features: Cozy family-friendly cabin rentals with fishing, boating and swimming access, close to many attractions including Bridal Veil Falls.
  18. Wayside Motel
    • Location: Manitowaning
    • Features: Attractive, comfortable motel rooms within close proximity to many key attractions. Offer dog-friendly rooms.
  19. The Carter House
    • Location: Kagawong
    • Features: Beautiful luxury B&B that also offers glamping teepees. Close access to Bridal Veil Falls and Kagawong Beach.
  20. Anokawen
    • Location: Near Gore Bay
    • Features: Cozy forest cabins, guided forest bathing meditations and handcrafting and traditional skill experiences designed with all ages in mind.
  21. Rock Garden Terrace Resort
    • Location: Spring Bay
    • Features: A charming resort located in Mindemoya, offering a range of accommodations including cottages and cabins. Known for its beautiful garden setting and tranquil atmosphere.

Find more accommodation ideas on Manitoulin with this Insider’s Guide.

Dining on Manitoulin Island

  1. Bear LC
    • Location: Little Current
    • Cuisine: Offers an innovative Japanese fusion menu.
  1. Garden’s Gate Restaurant
    • Location: Tehkummah
    • Cuisine: Locally sourced fine dining 10 minutes from South Baymouth.
  2. Manitoulin Brewing Company
    • Location: Little Current
    • Cuisine: Known for its craft beer, great patio and pub-style food such as burgers and sandwiches.
  3. Stop 540 Diner
    • Location: Silver Water
    • Cuisine: A friendly diner serving homestyle cooking, known for its fresh-cut fries, homemade hamburgers and hand-battered fish and chips.
  4. Huron Island Time
    • Location: Providence Bay
    • Cuisine: Features a Caribbean menu and specialty ice cream in a beachside setting.
  5. 3 Cows and A Cone
    • Location: Little Current
    • Cuisine: Fresh ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, burgers, fries, pizza, and subs.
  6. Maja’s Garden Bistro
    • Location: Mindemoya
    • Cuisine: Fresh, local, and organic food served in a beautiful garden setting. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
  7. Split Rail Brewery
    • Location: Gore Bay
    • Cuisine: Manitoulin Island’s first craft brewery, and an excellent spot for sampling local brews.
  8. The Codmothers'
    • Location: Gore Bay
    • Cuisine: Casual family dining in the hub of Gore Bay.
  9. Purvis Fish & Chips
    • Location: Gore Bay
    • Cuisine: Fresh and local fare on the Gore Bay waterfront, with phenomenal cocktails to boot.
  10. North 46 Restaurant
  11. Anchor Inn Hotel and Restaurant
    • Location: Little Current
    • Description: A historic hotel offering cozy rooms and a full-service restaurant, lively bar and street-side patio. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Located in the heart of Little Current, it's an ideal spot for exploring the town and enjoying local hospitality.
  12. Elliot's Restaurant
    • Location: Little Current
    • Description: A family-friendly restaurant known for its home-style cooking and comfortable setting—it’s a local favourite.

Are we missing your favourite restaurant? Email us at info@northernontario.travel to let us know! 

Plan Your Visit to Manitoulin Island Today

About Northern Ontario

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