Categories: Things To Do

This Ontario island is considered one of ‘Canada’s best kept secrets’

Photo via Pelee Island Winery

Looking for a summer getaway off the beaten path? Plan your summer right and explore Ontario for all it has to offer. Pelee Island on Lake Erie in Ontario is the place you need to be.

Known as Canada’s southernmost populated island, Pelee Island is a popular destination with plenty of things to do in the summertime. It’s even considered one of “Canada’s best-kept secrets,” according to its website.

There are 300 permanent residents on Pelee Island year-round, and around 1,500 in the summertime.

“From historical sites to shops, nature walks, and nightlife, Pelee Island provides visitors with a myriad of opportunities,” it says.

The quiet and friendly island is especially beautiful in the summertime when the sandy beaches, pristine waters, and lush trails are best enjoyed.

The island is also home to a marina and campground, as well as shops, restaurants, galleries, a performing arts venue, and the stunning Pelee Island Winery, regarded as the “birthplace of winemaking in Canada.”

There’s also the historic Vin Villa stone ruins, where you’ll get to “descend below ground to opulent, meticulously restored wine cellars with antiques and stained glass.”

Pelee Island’s Lighthouse trail is not only picturesque but full of history. It overlooks the shallow Pelee Passage where over 200 shipwrecks took place, the remains scattered around the area to this day.

The island’s tourism site lists all of the restaurants, shops, services, and accommodations that are open for the season, making it easy to plan ahead.

As for getting around on the island, many people prefer walking or biking, but you can also drive onto the ferry with a personal vehicle or rent your very own Golf Car.

If you’re up for the challenge, biking around the whole perimeter takes around four hours.

The ideal time to visit Pelee Island is from May to October. If you have a free weekend in your summer schedule and aren’t sure what to do with it, consider this your sign to give Pelee a try.

This calls for a little road trip!