Lake Erie’s north shore has many gems but one stands out above the rest. Port Burwell, Ontario is known as the “Jewel of Erie’s North Shore”, an area that has a little of everything from lakeside views to a historic lighthouse that visitors can check out.

Getting there

Port Burwell is tucked between Port Bruce and Port Rowan along Lake Erie.

If you’re driving from Toronto it will take you just under two and a half hours.

Things to do in Port Burwell, Ontario

The first stop is the historic lighthouse.

The Port Burwell Lighthouse was built in the 1840s and is one of the oldest and most historic marine sites on Lake Erie!

The lighthouse was restored in 1986 by a team of Mennonite craftsmen from the Aylmer area, and is now a popular tourist attraction!

While the lighthouse is currently closed for repairs visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for an unforgettable panoramic view of the village and harbour front when it’s open.

The history of Port Burwell goes even deeper – literally.

The HMCS Ojibwa Submarine Tours is a must-see.

Guests are invited to explore a historic Oberon Class Cold War Submarine HMCS OJIBWA.

According to Port Burwell, it is “quite simply the most unique and exciting experiential tour around.”

The sub stands 297.5 feet long, five stories high and there are guides to take you around for an in-depth submariner tour with various stories of those who served.

Book your tour and experience something truly unique.

port burwell ontario
Image via Chris Hill/Shutterstock

And while it’s starting to get chilly, Port Burwell Beach is an ideal spot to end your day. Grab some blankets and find an area along the 2.5 km long shore to watch the sunset.

A trip to Port Burwell is in order, Ontario!

Taylor Lucas

Associate Editor – Taylor is a Toronto-based journalist with a passion for storytelling. Whether chasing a story, writing, or editing, she brings a creative spin to the media world and has a blast doing it. Taylor brings years of journalism experience in sports, local/national news, and entertainment. In her spare time, you can typically find Taylor trying out a new restaurant or cocktail bar, cooking, golfing or binge-watching true crime documentaries.

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