Are you always thirsty for excitement? Then you must plan a trip to Tobermory, a must-visit small harbour town in Southern Ontario. It is also famously known as the freshwater scuba capital of the world. You would love to flock to this town because it offers many activities to satisfy your adventurous soul. You can go hiking, stargazing, camping, or even laid-back and relaxing activities like sunbathing on the beach. Now, I understand you cannot pack all of these activities in a single day, so take a look at the best things to do in this bustling town and plan your itinerary accordingly!
1. Hike at the Bruce Trail
Can you imagine embarking on a journey along Canadaโs oldest footpath, the Bruce Trail? Stretching approximately 900 kilometres, this iconic trail promises an unforgettable adventure through some of Ontarioโs most breathtaking landscapes. You will also spot numerous small waterfalls and side trails along the way, remember to distinguish them, the main trail is marked with white signs, while the side trails are marked with blue signs.
2. Have Fun at the Bruce Peninsula National Park
The Bruce Peninsula National Park is located just a few kilometres from Tobermory. You will discover a plethora of places to explore, like Georgian Bay to the east, lake Huron to the west, and Cape Hurd Channel to the north. You can rent yurts and engage in other activities such as swimming, boat riding, and snowshoeing (if it is snow season). If you love to stroll under nature, this one is definitely for you.
3. Hike the Grotto
The main reason why you should visit the Bruce Peninsula National Park is the Grotto, and it is everyoneโs top pick among the places to visit in Tobermory, Ontario. The hike leading to the cave is difficult but enjoyable. Once you have made it to the cave, you can cool yourself off in the waters of Georgian Bay. The view from the top is spectacular and will make you feel you are in the Caribbean rather than Canada.
4. Hike at the Flowerpot Island
Flowerpot Island has a loop trail that covers the lighthouse and will let you explore caves and unique rock formations. Yeah! I must remind you to carefully pack your belongings before starting. Make sure to wear hiking shoes before you embark and carry food and water; you will need at least four hours to complete the loop.
5. Explore Shipwrecks at the Fathom Five National Marine Park
To get to Fathom Five National Marine Park, you must take a ferry from Flowerpot Island to Tobermory. Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before the departure of my ferry, as parking at the harbour is scarce. This park isnโt your average marine spotโitโs home to 22 captivating shipwrecks, including the famous Sweepstakes, resting peacefully in Big Tub Harbour. No wonder people flock here for epic scuba diving adventures! I strongly recommend you visit there as it offers endless possibilities for adventure on and off the shore.
- It has a treasure trove of water activities waiting to be explored, from kayaking and swimming to unforgettable boat tours.
- With most of the park comprising the pristine waters of Georgian Bay and a small portion of the captivating shoreline, thereโs no shortage of aquatic adventures to dive into.
- Lastly, there are three trails here. One takes you directly to Tobermory, Ontario, while the other two take you through the Bruce Peninsula towards the Georgian Bay shoreline.
6. Go on the Glass Bottom Boat Tour and Helicopter Tour
Get ready for an aquatic adventure like no other with Tobermory Cruise Line, Blue Heron Cruises, and Bruce Anchor Cruises! But hereโs the catch: none of their boats boast glass bottoms. If youโre eager to explore Tobermoryโs underwater wonders without diving in, fear not! Their glass-bottom tours offer a fascinating peek into the world beneath the waves, showcasing mesmerizing shipwrecks and colourful flora in all their glory.
7. Head Over to Manitoulin Island
Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world, shared between Georgian Bay and Huron Lake. In the summer months, you can take the Chi Cheemaun Ferry to reach the island, where you can glimpse the Cove Island lighthouse. I want to tell you about the different trails it offers-
- Cup and Saucer Trailโ There are two lookouts of different lengths, namely the Cup and the Saucer. Although it is hard to climb up, itโs worth it when you have made it. You can get amazing views of the Niagara escarpment, lakes, and wetlands. Make sure you come here with the right shoes and appropriate gear.
- Great Spirit Circle Trailโ Home to several first-nation communities, the Great Spirit Circle Trail lets you experience authentic Aboriginal culture. You can experience story-telling and the voice of the drum here.
- Misery Bayโ There, you will find three trails. the Coastal Alvar Trail, the Inland Alvar Trail, and the Misery Bay Trail.
- Bebamikawe Memorial Trailโ It also has three trails to choose from. What is surprising about this trail is that two dogs will guideย you along the trail and protect you from the bears. The dogs move as you move and sit as you sit. Just imagine the unique experience you are going to attain if you have a non-human tourist guide, you will spot beautiful scenes along the trail.
- McLeanโs Park Trail Systemโ The McLeanโs Park Trail system in Manitowaning is the easiest of all. It is well-suited for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring wildlife.
- South Baymouth Lookout Trailโ This short 3 km trail, complete with a picturesque boardwalk, kicks off just a stoneโs throw away from the Chi Cheemaun Ferry. Clocking in at around 20 minutes to complete, itโs the perfect way to stretch your legs and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
- Kagawong River Trailโ It is a short hiking trail famous for the Bridal Veil Falls. Steel stairs lead down to the falls. You must visit here in the summer to enjoy the waters and spotfish while swimming.
8. Grab Beer and Coffee
Itโs coffee time. I mean, who doesnโt love beer and coffee? While hiking the trails of Manitoulin Island, you will have plenty of options to choose from. Loco Beanz at Little Current is great for coffee and snacks. You can even go to Manitoulin Espresso Bar and the Sugar Bush Coffee House for coffee,ย hot chocolate, snacks, and many more.
9. Gaze Stars at Manitoulin Eco Park
The Manitoulin Eco Park is a dark sky preserve where you can gaze at stars. If you are a fan of astronomy, then this is the go-to place for you. The park follows a no-white-light and no-campfire policy. You may wish to camp at their main campground by renting a tipi tent or a slightly luxurious cabin (bunkie).
10. Check out the Little Current Swing Bridge
Even though itโs a bit of a journey from Tobermory, let me tell you, the Little Current Swing Bridge is an experience worth travelling for! This iconic bridge links Goat Island with Manitoulin Island, offering a glimpse into the regionโs rich maritime heritage. I must tell you what makes this bridge truly special. So, every hour, like clockwork, it swings open for 15 minutes to allow marine traffic to glide gracefully beneath its arches.
11. Enjoy at Sauble Beach
Vacation tours seem incomplete without the beaches, especially when you are in Canada. Nestled just 90 kilometres south of Tobermory lies the serene gem of Sauble Beach, tucked away in South Bruce Peninsula County. It also holds the title of the worldโs second-longest freshwater beach. Apart from enjoying the waters, you can hire jet skis or have fun on the swings installed on the beach. The Ascent Aerial Park is near the beach, where you can take the zipline or indulge in climbing, jumping, and rope activities.
12. Visit Owen Sound
Just a stoneโs throw away from Tobermory, nestled along the picturesque shores of Georgian Bay, lies the vibrant city of Owen Sound. Renowned for its stunning waterfalls and rich cultural tapestry, itโs a must-visit destination for any traveller exploring the region. You will find restaurants serving cuisines from the Mediterranean, American, Mexican, Greek, and other international cuisines.
13. Explore the Rocky Little Cove Beach
I can tell you one more beach park thatโs very close to Tobermory. Head over to the beach in theย Little Cove Provincial Park, another protected area in Ontario. Donโt let the chilly weather deter youโjust be sure to don the right footwear for a picturesque stroll along the frozen shores. During winter, the beach gets covered with snow, and you must have the right footwear to walk. And if you are going by vehicle, please remember that parking is scarce here.
14. Have Fun at Singing Sands Beach
Located within the Bruce Peninsula National Park, this beach is renowned for its picturesque dunes. With shallow waters, itโs an ideal spot for families with children. Donโt miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Wild Garden trail, accessible from Singing Sands Beach. Along a boardwalk, this trail showcases lush ferns, exotic plants, and diverse wildlife, adding to its natural beauty.
15. Observe St. Edmunds and Peninsula Museum
If you want to experience something different from beaches and trails, then head over toย St. Edmunds and Peninsula Museum. It is a 19th-century one-room schoolhouse, and records show that the school ran classes for grades one to eight. You will find maritime artifacts, farming implements, and indigenous objects on display. Entry is free, but the museum welcomes your donations.
16. Visit the Town of Lionโs Head
Located 50 kilometres to the south of Tobermory is theย small townย of Lionโs Head, called because it resembled the head of a lion. The popular tourist attractions you must visit in Lionโs Head are:
- The Lionโs Head Beachโ It is a small rocky beach where you can swim, paddle, and kayak. If you wish to stay at the beach, you may do so by renting a room at Lionโs Head Motel, which offers you excellent beachfront lodging.
- Lionโs Head Lookout Trailโ It is a beautiful 16-kilometre part of the Bruce Trail. If you are planning to hike this trail, you should dedicate an entire day to it. In the first part of the trial, you will notice the turquoise blue water and the fauna from the cliffs, while the second part of the trail is a forest hike. Make sure to spot the 10,000-year-old Lionโs head pothole on the way.
So whether youโre seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a taste of the good life, Tobermory has it all. It is an excellent place to visit for a quality and memorable vacation, as you get the best experiences from beaches to trails to scenic views to astronomy and food.
Last Updated on April 11, 2024 by Pragya Chakrapani
