Georgian Bay Islands National Park, Ontario: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Georgian Bay Islands National Park protects 63 islands within the world’s largest freshwater archipelago? This hidden gem, just two hours north of Toronto, offers a unique blend of Canadian Shield granite landscapes and lush forests that inspired the famous Group of Seven painters. Whether you’re seeking serene hiking trails, crystal-clear swimming spots, or peaceful camping under the stars, this national park delivers unforgettable experiences in a pristine natural setting.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Georgian Bay Islands National Park is only accessible by water, which adds to its charm and pristine nature. Located approximately 165 km (102 miles) north of Toronto, the journey requires some planning but is well worth the effort.

From Toronto to Honey Harbour

The first leg of your journey takes you to Honey Harbour, the gateway to the park. From Toronto, it’s about a 2-hour drive north via Highway 400. If you don’t have a vehicle, consider renting one for maximum flexibility.

Water Transportation to Beausoleil Island

Once at Honey Harbour, you’ll need to take a boat to reach Beausoleil Island, the largest island in the park and the center of most activities:

• Parks Canada DayTripper: This official shuttle operates from Friday to Tuesday during the summer season. It’s included with roofed accommodation bookings but can also be reserved for day trips. Advance booking is essential as spots fill quickly.
• Water Taxis: Private water taxis are available for tent campers or those wanting to access more remote areas of the island. Expect to pay between $100-150 CAD depending on your destination on the island.
• Private Boat: If you have access to your own vessel, there are docking facilities available on the island (fees apply for coming ashore).
• Kayak: Experienced paddlers can kayak to the island from Honey Harbour. Rentals are available locally.

Free parking is available at Honey Harbour for park visitors. Remember to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled boat departure.

Best Time to Visit Georgian Bay Islands National Park

The park is open seasonally, with the main visitor season running from late May to early October. Each season offers a different experience:

Recommended: Late June to early September offers the best overall experience with warm temperatures, full services, and good swimming conditions. For a quieter visit with beautiful scenery, consider early September when the summer crowds have diminished but the weather remains pleasant.

Getting Around Locally

Once on Beausoleil Island, you’ll find several ways to explore the park’s 26 km (16 miles) of trails and diverse landscapes:

On Foot

Hiking is the primary way to explore the island. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging routes over Canadian Shield terrain. The park provides trail maps at the Visitor Centre, and most trails are well-marked with colored markers.

By Bicycle

Mountain biking is permitted on several designated trails on the southern portion of the island. Bike rentals (adult sizes only) are available at the Cedar Spring Visitor Centre. Bikes cannot be transported on the Parks Canada DayTripper but can be brought via water taxi with advance notice.

By Water

Exploring the shoreline by kayak or canoe is a fantastic way to experience the park from a different perspective. While rentals aren’t available on the island, you can arrange rentals in Honey Harbour and have them transported to the island.

For visitors with mobility concerns, the southern portion of the island around Cedar Spring is the most accessible, with some paved paths and relatively flat terrain.

Where to Stay

Georgian Bay Islands National Park offers a range of accommodation options from rustic camping to comfortable cabins. All accommodations require advance booking through the Parks Canada reservation system.

Roofed Accommodations

Camping Options

Nearby Accommodations

If you prefer to visit as a day trip or want additional comfort, several accommodation options are available in nearby Midland and Honey Harbour, ranging from hotels to bed and breakfasts.

Dining & Local Cuisine

There are no food services available on Beausoleil Island, so visitors must bring all necessary food and drinks. Here’s what you need to know about dining during your visit:

Self-Catering

• Day Visitors: Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water. Several picnic areas are available around the island.
• Campers: Bring all food supplies for your stay. Cabins have mini-fridges and cooking facilities (gas BBQ with side burner). Campsites have fire pits (when no fire ban is in effect).
• Water: Potable water is available at the Cedar Spring Visitor Centre. Backcountry campers should bring water purification methods.

Nearby Dining Options

In Honey Harbour and Midland, you’ll find several restaurants and grocery stores where you can purchase supplies before heading to the island:

• Honey Harbour: Small general stores and seasonal restaurants near the marina.
• Midland: Full-service grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes about 20 minutes from Honey Harbour.

Local Specialties

While preparing your food supplies, consider including some local specialties from the Georgian Bay region:

• Fresh fish from Georgian Bay (whitefish and perch are local favorites)
• Ontario-grown fruits and vegetables (especially berries in summer)
• Local craft beers from Midland and surrounding areas
• Maple syrup products from nearby producers

Remember to practice proper food storage, especially if camping, as the island is home to black bears and raccoons.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Georgian Bay Islands National Park offers a wealth of activities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the top attractions and things to do during your visit:

Hiking Trails

With 11 interconnecting trails stretching over 26 km (16 miles), hiking is one of the best ways to experience the park’s diverse landscapes. Trail maps are available at the Visitor Centre.

Swimming and Beaches

The park boasts several beautiful swimming spots with crystal-clear waters:

• Cedar Spring Beach: The largest beach with shallow waters, ideal for families. Located near the campground with nearby facilities.
• Christian Beach: A more remote beach on the western side of the island, perfect for watching sunsets. Bring water shoes as the shoreline may have sharp shells.
• Thumb Point: Offers deeper swimming waters with smooth Canadian Shield rocks for sunbathing.
• Honeymoon Bay: A secluded spot on the north side of the island with beautiful views.

Note: Swimming is NOT permitted in Fairy Lake due to elevated bacteria levels.

Wildlife Viewing

The park is home to diverse wildlife, including:

• 33 species of reptiles and amphibians (more than anywhere else in Canada)
• Various bird species including great blue herons, loons, and pileated woodpeckers
• Mammals such as white-tailed deer, black bears, and raccoons
• The eastern Massasauga rattlesnake (Ontario’s only venomous snake)

The best wildlife viewing opportunities are during early morning or evening hours. Bring binoculars for better spotting.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Indigenous History

Georgian Bay Islands National Park has a rich Indigenous history. The islands served as traditional stopping places, seasonal campsites, and home to several villages for the Anishinaabeg people. In the mid-19th century, Chief John Assance led his people to Beausoleil Island after ceding their lands to European settlers.

The island was known to the Anishinaabeg as a “rocky place floating about the mouth of a river” and was the site of important cultural traditions, particularly those related to women’s coming-of-age ceremonies.

Cultural Sites

• Cemetery of the Oak: Located near the Heritage Trail, this cemetery dates back to the 1800s and was a burial ground for Métis people on the island. It was restored in collaboration with descendant families and local communities.
• Giant’s Rock Chair: Just north of Cedar Spring campground at Finger Point, this natural rock formation shaped like a chair offers great photo opportunities and views of the bay.
• Archaeological Sites: The island contains some of the earliest sites of human occupation in Ontario, with artifacts dating back to 3500 BC regularly found during archaeological digs.

Interpretive Programs

Parks Canada offers daily interpretive programs and guided hikes from the Visitor Centre during the summer season. These programs provide insights into the park’s natural and cultural history, including:

• Indigenous interpretation sessions
• Traditional fire-making demonstrations
• Stories of Georgian Bay
• Guided nature walks
• Evening programs such as stargazing and storytelling

Check at the Visitor Centre upon arrival for the current program schedule.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Water Activities

Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of Georgian Bay, the park offers excellent opportunities for water-based activities:

• Kayaking/Canoeing: Explore the shoreline and nearby islands by paddle. Experienced kayakers can even reach the island from Honey Harbour.
• Fishing: Try your luck fishing from shore or boat for species ranging from perch to muskie. A valid Ontario fishing license is required, and fishing is not permitted in inland lakes.
• Boating: Boaters can dock at designated areas around the island or anchor offshore in one of the many sheltered bays.

Cycling

Mountain biking is permitted on three designated trails in the southern portion of the island:

• Huron Trail: A flat, wide trail suitable for beginners
• Christian Trail: Another relatively easy trail with good views
• Georgian Trail: A more challenging rocky route for experienced riders

Bike rentals are available at the Cedar Spring Visitor Centre during the summer season.

Photography

The park offers countless opportunities for photography enthusiasts:

• Sunset Photography: The north side of Beausoleil Island (especially Honeymoon Bay) and Christian Beach on the west side offer spectacular sunset views.
• Landscape Photography: The contrast between the southern hardwood forests and northern Canadian Shield provides diverse shooting opportunities.
• Wildlife Photography: Patient photographers may capture images of the park’s diverse wildlife, from herons to turtles.

Stargazing

With minimal light pollution, the park offers excellent stargazing opportunities. The open areas of the Canadian Shield on the northern part of the island provide unobstructed views of the night sky. Bring a blanket and enjoy the celestial display.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Ensuring a safe and respectful visit to Georgian Bay Islands National Park requires awareness of several important considerations:

Wildlife Safety

• Black Bears: The island is occasionally visited by black bears. Store food securely, especially overnight. If you encounter a bear, back away slowly without running.
• Massasauga Rattlesnake: This endangered species has a distinctive rattle to warn you of its presence. If you hear a rattle, calmly back away. While venomous, its bite is rarely fatal to humans. Never kill or disturb these protected snakes (fines up to $250,000 CAD).
• General Wildlife: Observe all wildlife from a distance and never feed animals.

Water Safety

• Monitor weather conditions as storms can create dangerous boating conditions.
• Wear appropriate footwear when swimming to protect against sharp rocks and shells.
• Life jackets are recommended for all water activities.
• Remember that swimming is prohibited in Fairy Lake.

Trail Safety

• On the north side of the island (Canadian Shield), wear proper footwear with ankle support to prevent injuries on uneven terrain.
• Follow the colored trail markers carefully, especially on the northern trails where the path crosses bare rock.
• Bring sufficient water, especially during hot summer days.

Respect for Private Property

There are two YMCA camps on the island (Camp Kitchikewana in the south and Camp Queen Elizabeth in the north). These camps don’t allow visitors for the safety of campers. Follow signs and stay on designated trails.

Environmental Etiquette

• Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash.
• Stay on designated trails to protect sensitive vegetation.
• Use established fire pits only and obey any fire bans in effect.
• Respect archaeological sites and do not remove any artifacts.

Practical Travel Tips

Essential Packing List

Reservations and Planning

• Book Early: Accommodations and DayTripper spots fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. Reserve as soon as the Parks Canada booking system opens (typically in January for the following summer).
• Visitor Centre Hours: The Cedar Spring Visitor Centre is typically open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM during the summer season.
• Cell Service: Cell phone coverage can be spotty on the island, particularly in the northern sections. Download maps and information before your trip.
• Parks Canada App: Download the free Parks Canada app for offline access to maps, trail information, and interpretive content.

Accessibility Information

The southern portion of Beausoleil Island around Cedar Spring is the most accessible area of the park:

• Some paved paths and relatively flat terrain near Cedar Spring
• Accessible washrooms at the Visitor Centre
• One accessible cabin available (reserve well in advance)
• The DayTripper boat can accommodate wheelchairs with advance notice

For specific accessibility requirements, contact the park directly before your visit.

Experience the Magic of Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Georgian Bay Islands National Park offers a perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness, allowing visitors to experience the stunning beauty of the world’s largest freshwater archipelago. From hiking through diverse landscapes to swimming in crystal-clear waters, the park provides unforgettable experiences for nature lovers of all kinds.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day camping adventure, the unique combination of Canadian Shield granite, windswept pines, and turquoise waters creates a landscape that has inspired artists for generations. Pack your gear, book your transportation, and prepare to discover one of Ontario’s most beautiful hidden gems in Georgian Bay Islands National Park.