Ohio's Lake Erie Islands

Ohio's Lake Erie islands offer four distinct ways to experience the water, scenery, history, and outdoor recreation of Shores & Islands Ohio. Explore Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island, Kelleys Island, Middle Bass Island, and North Bass Island, each with different attractions, transportation options, places to stay, and reasons to visit.

What islands can visitors explore in Shores & Islands Ohio?

Visitors can explore four inhabited Lake Erie islands in the Shores & Islands Ohio region: South Bass Island, home to Put-in-Bay; Kelleys Island; Middle Bass Island; and North Bass Island. Each offers a different experience, from attractions and entertainment to state parks, natural areas, boating, fishing, and quieter island getaways.

Choose Your Lake Erie Island

Put-in-Bay

Put-in-Bay, South Bass Island, has been an ideal stop over for boaters ever since early French and English explorers “put in at the bay.” By 1864…

Kelleys Island

The largest of Ohio's Lake Erie Islands, Kelleys Island, is dominated by natural areas.

Middle Bass Island

Neighboring both Kelleys Island and South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay), Middle Bass Island blends nature and serenity on this secluded island getaway.

North Bass Island

The northern-most inhabited island in the Shores & Islands region, North Bass Island, is a quaint, secluded getaway known for its beautiful state park.

How do visitors get to Ohio's Lake Erie islands?

Most visitors reach Put-in-Bay, Kelleys Island, and Middle Bass Island by ferry from the mainland, while private boats and aircraft provide additional options. North Bass Island does not have regularly scheduled ferry service and requires private boat, charter, or aircraft access. Routes, schedules, vehicle policies, fares, and seasonal availability vary by island and operator.

Ferry Options

Good to know before going

Confirm which mainland port serves the island.
Check ferry schedules and the final return departure.
Review parking, vehicle, bicycle, luggage, and pet policies.
Allow extra time during busy weekends and events.
Check weather and operating conditions before traveling.
Do not assume every island has the same transportation or visitor services.

Which Lake Erie island is right for your trip?

For attractions and entertainment
Put-in-Bay offers the broadest mix of attractions, restaurants, shopping, historical sites, and live entertainment.
For nature and a relaxed getaway
Kelleys Island combines beaches, preserves, trails, geological features, dining, and village amenities with a quieter pace.
For boating and a quieter island stay
Middle Bass Island emphasizes its marina, state park, natural areas, historic Lonz Winery property, and more secluded setting.
For a remote outdoor experience
North Bass Island has limited visitor infrastructure and is better suited to visitors specifically planning around boating, fishing, hiking, birding, or primitive recreation.

Island Events

Island events include festivals, concerts, historical programs, nature activities, community celebrations, boating events, and seasonal gatherings. Event dates, admission requirements, transportation demand, and ferry schedules should be reviewed before traveling.

Explore Kelleys Island in a Whole New Way at the Kelleys Island Amazing Race

Some races are all about speed. The Kelleys Island Amazing Race is all about adventure. Described as a "weekend on wheels," this unique summer…

The Benson Ford and How it Became the Coolest Private Home in Ohio

For those who have traveled to South Bass Island (commonly referred to by the name of the village Put-In-Bay) aboard the Jet Express, you have perhaps had a…

A Tail-Wagging New Event on South Bass Island - Introducing the Inaugural Put-in-Bay Dog Bowl

Hosted by the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Shores & Islands Ohio Get ready for an unforgettable summer kickoff on Saturday, May…

Frequently Asked Questions
About Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands

Can visitors take a car to the Lake Erie islands?

Vehicle access depends on the island and ferry operator. Some ferries transport vehicles, while others are passenger-only. Many visitors choose to leave their vehicle on the mainland and use walking, bicycles, golf carts, or local transportation after arriving.

Do ferries to the Lake Erie islands operate year-round?

Ferry schedules vary by island, operator, season, weather, and lake conditions. Service is generally more frequent during the warmer travel season, while some routes may have limited or no service during colder months. Visitors should confirm current schedules before traveling.

Can visitors explore more than one island during a trip?

Yes, visiting multiple islands can be possible depending on ferry routes, schedules, and seasonal service. Travelers planning an island-hopping itinerary should review transportation connections and allow enough time between departures.

Which island is Put-in-Bay on?

Put-in-Bay is a village located on South Bass Island in western Lake Erie. Put-in-Bay is the island’s primary visitor area and is known for attractions, restaurants, historic sites, shopping, boating, and entertainment.

Are Ohio’s Lake Erie islands family-friendly?

Yes. The islands offer family-friendly experiences including parks, beaches, historic sites, nature areas, outdoor recreation, attractions, and sightseeing. Available activities vary by island, so visitors can choose a destination that best fits their interests and travel style.

Explore More of Shores & Islands Ohio

Continue exploring communities across the mainland, from Lake Erie waterfront destinations to historic towns and outdoor recreation areas throughout Erie and Ottawa counties.

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