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, wine making established the island as a visitor destination. Today more than 1½ million people annually enjoy the quaintness of a small-town life, with Victorian-era buildings, and resort community amenities. Put-in-Bay offers a wide variety of activities for the entire family. Most tour the island by bicycle or golf cart. When the sun goes down Put-in-Bay lights up with exciting nightlife; dozens of restaurants and pubs offer a wide selection to please every taste and budget. Come winter, islanders enjoy some quiet time and guide adventurous visitors looking for world-class ice fishing on a frozen harbor dotted with colorful ice shanties.

To find a list of ferries to the islands, please click here.

Webcam

The scenery looks so much better in person, but if you’re at your desk looking on a computer, we understand. Don’t worry, the lake’s not going anywhere. Check out the nearby attractions and events listed above!

(Please note that sometimes a cam might be offline. If so, we are working hard behind the scenes to get it back online as soon as possible. We love showing you the amazing views that Shores & Islands Ohio has to offer.)

PUT-IN-BAY WEATHER

Put-in-Bay Harbor

Community Chronolog: Track Nature’s Changes

These Shores & Islands Ohio Chronologs, are part of a community-science initiative documenting how Lake Erie’s landscapes and ecosystems change throughout the year. Each Chronolog captures a unique view — from coastal wetlands to inland parks — creating time-lapse records that help scientists and visitors observe environmental change and shoreline restoration.

When you visit, place your phone on the mounted bracket, take a photo, and upload it using the on-site QR code. Your photo will join others in the interactive nature time-lapse, showing how our region transforms through the seasons.

To learn more about the Chronolog project and view other stations across the region, visit our Chronologs page.