When you visit Tobermory, you can’t help but feel like you’re at the world’s edge. The town’s jagged coastline is home to some of the most spectacular vistas in Ontario, making it an excellent place for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Here are my 17 favorite things to do while visiting this charming harbor town:
The Grotto is a natural wonder in Bruce Peninsula National Park near Tobermory, Ontario. It’s a popular destination for adventurers due to its unique geological formations, crystal-clear water, and picturesque surroundings.
The Grotto is a sea cave with a natural pool carved out of the ancient rocks by the waves of Lake Huron over thousands of years.
Visitors can hike through scenic trails to reach the Grotto or arrive by boat. Once there, they can swim in the clear blue waters, explore the cave, and climb the rocks for panoramic lake views. The Grotto is a breathtaking destination offering a unique experience for those seeking to connect with nature and marvel at its beauty.
– Address: Bruce Trail, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Phone: +1 519-596-2364
– Website: https://parks.canada.ca/
Flowerpot Island, located in the heart of Georgian Bay, is a popular tourist destination in Tobermory accessible by boat or seaplane.
The island features several hiking trails and beaches, offering something for everyone. The accessible Flowerpot Trail takes you through forested areas with stunning views over Georgian Bay and up onto cliffs overlooking Flowerpot Island.
Along the trail, you can see some remarkable rock formations. For a moderate hike, the “Punkey” Trail takes you around Punkey Bay Beach – an idyllic spot with clear waters ideal for swimming or snorkeling (though keep an eye out for jellyfish!).
– Address: Flowerpot Island, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Phone: (855) 596-2999
Fathom Five National Marine Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular national park in Ontario, Canada.
It’s the only national park in Canada that protects a freshwater ecosystem, offering a unique opportunity to explore shipwrecks, caves, and underwater wonders all in one place.
With four distinct sections, including the Bruce Peninsula National Park Reserve, Sibley Peninsula Conservation Area, Fathom Five National Marine Park, and Georgian Bay Islands National Park Reserve, the park, which was first established in 1987, spans more than 1,000 square kilometers of land along Lake Huron’s north shore. These sections surround Georgian Bay and together form the protected area known as “Fathom Five Country.”
– Address: 121 Chi sin tib dek Rd, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Phone: +1 519-596-2233
The MS Chi-Cheemaun is a passenger ferry that connects Tobermory with Manitoulin Island and the Bruce Peninsula.
It is a part of the Canadian Merchant Fleet and has a capacity of 600 people and 140 automobiles. The MS Chi-Cheemaun is a ferry that runs on Lake Huron in Ontario, Canada, linking Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula to South Baymouth on Manitoulin Island.
The boat provides a picturesque route between the two locations, making it a vital transit link for inhabitants and visitors. The name “Chi-Cheemaun” means “big canoe” in the Anishinaabe language, which has a solid relationship to the region’s land and rivers. The ferry provides passengers with breathtaking views of Georgian Bay and the mountainous shoreline of the Bruce Peninsula, as well as the opportunity to see animals such as whales, dolphins, and eagles.
Since its construction in 1897, the lighthouse has served as the region’s unmistakable emblem.
The tower, built on a rocky cliff and measures 18 meters tall, provides stunning views of Georgian Bay.
Visitors may ascend the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse, which is still in service, where they can take in a panoramic view of the surroundings.
A favorite vacation place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the lighthouse and the island are home to various animals, including rare birds and reptiles. A must-see site in Tobermory, the Flowerpot Island Lighthouse provides a look into the region’s rich nautical heritage and scenic splendor.
– Address: Municipality Of Northern Bruce Peninsula, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
The Big Tub Lighthouse in Tobermory gets its name from how it resembles a tub.
It was built in 1885 and is now a component of Fathom Five National Marine Park, one of Canada’s earliest national parks, located at the entrance of Big Tub Harbour. A gorgeous area to visit, the lighthouse looks out over the harbor, where various boats, yachts, and villas are housed.
Visitors can go to the lighthouse’s highest level to see stunning perspectives of the surroundings, including the crystal-clear waters of Georgian Bay.
– Address: 264 Big Tub Rd, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Phone: (800) 268-3838
Cyprus Lake is a popular spot for fishing and swimming. The Cyprus Lake trail is an easy walk around the lake and a great place to see wildlife. The course takes you through a forest of pine, spruce, and cedar trees before you reach the lake, which has many little islands perfect for lazing about on.
Cyprus Lake is home to many different kinds of waterfowl, including loons (a type of duck), grebes (diving birds), and mergansers (ducks). You might also spot deer or squirrels if they’re feeling adventurous enough!
In Tobermory, a tiny port town in Ontario, Canada, Circle Arts is a lovely art gallery.
The gallery displays various works of art made by local and regional artists, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and jewelry.
Since its inception in 1969, Circle Arts has become a cherished fixture in the neighborhood by allowing guests to see and buy one-of-a-kind works of art.
– Address: 14 Bay St, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Phone: +1 519-596-2541
St. Edmunds & Peninsula Museum is a fascinating destination in Tobermory that offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
The museum is in a landmark structure formerly serving as the community’s Anglican church. It has exhibitions on shipwrecks, the Great Lakes shipping sector, and the area’s maritime history.
Visitors can explore the displays, which feature pictures, relics, and hands-on activities to learn more about the region’s past.
– Address: 7072 Hwy 6, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Phone: +1 519-373-7032
Singing Sands Beach is a unique and stunning location in Tobermory, situated on the southeastern side of the Bruce Peninsula.
This beach stands out because it is one of only two solar-powered beaches in Canada, with a vast expanse of solar panels covering a significant portion of its surface.
What makes this beach special is the ringing sound that echoes through it when you walk on it. This natural wonder is caused by tiny grains of sand acting as resonators that amplify the sounds created by people walking over them, giving rise to the name ‘singing sands.
Visitors are drawn to this unusual phenomenon, which makes for an unforgettable experience. While most people swim here, others opt for hiking along nearby trails to see local wildlife, such as deer, bluejays, squirrels, and wildflowers, adding to the adventure while exploring Tobermory.
– Address: Singing Sands Interpretive Trail, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Phone: +1 519-596-2233
The Cove Island Lighthouse is one of the most iconic landmarks in Tobermory. It has been featured in many movies and TV shows, including Star Trek: The Next Generation.
Built-in 1855, this historical site was once used as an active lighthouse for ships traveling through Georgian Bay.
Today, visitors can climb up its winding staircase to get a better view of Tobermory from above or swim at its beachfront location just steps away from town.
Indian Head Cove is a popular destination in Tobermory known for its crystal clear turquoise waters and unique rock formations.
It’s located on the Bruce Peninsula, just a short hike from the Grotto, another popular natural attraction. Visitors can swim, snorkel in the calm waters, or sunbathe on the surrounding rocks.
The cove provides a tranquil retreat from the bustle of the town and is bordered by a thick forest.
– Address: Bruce Trail, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Website: https://explorethebruce.com/
A little bay called Little Dunks Bay may be found on Lake Huron’s northwest shore. It is named after the British vessel “Dunks” shipwreck and is situated on the Bruce Peninsula in Ontario, Canada.
Little Dunks Bay is reachable from Tobermory by vehicle or boat as a day excursion. If you’re traveling by car, stop at Flowerpot Island or Fathom Five National Marine Park.
– Address: Municipality Of Northern Bruce Peninsula, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
Little Cove Beach is a small beach on the edge of Tobermory. It’s not as busy as other beaches in the area, but it’s one of my favorites because it has this secluded feeling.
There are no facilities or lifeguards here–just a few picnic tables and some driftwood logs for seating. That said, people come here for swimming, surfing, and kayaking, so there will always be someone around if you need help with something (or if someone needs yours).
The water at Little Cove is clear blue-green with beautiful offshore rock formations that make for great photo ops! If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path place to spend time splashing around in Lake Huron’s calm waters, come check out this hidden gem!
Tobermory Wave Adventures is an ideal place to go kayaking, with tours lasting 2-6 hours or more, depending on your preferences. The terms start at $85 per person and offer various options, such as the Sunset Tour, which lasts around 3 hours and takes place during sunset to provide a more intimate experience with fewer people on the water.
This tour offers views of colorful sunsets, breaching whales, and abundant wildlife.
The Sunrise Tour is another popular option, lasting 2-3 hours and providing a chance to witness incredible sights, such as groups of dolphins jumping around in the water as the sun rises.
– Address: Dock 4, Little Tub Harbour, Bay St, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Website: https://www.tobermorywave.com/
Diver’s Den is a scuba diving school in Tobermory, offering various courses to suit all levels of experience. They offer classes for beginners and advanced divers who want to expand their skill sets.
If you’re just starting, they have full-day introductory sessions that include pool training and a brief introduction to equipment before heading out onto Lake Huron for your first dive!
Suppose you’ve already got some experience under your belt but want more advanced training or certification. In that case, they also offer specialty courses like technical diving (using mixed gases) or search & recovery (rescuing people from water).
– Address: 3 Bay St, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Phone: +1 519-596-2363
– Website: https://www.diversden.ca/
The Golden Gallery is a jewelry store with a long history in the heart of Tobermory. Their broad assortment of fine jewelry is ideal for those looking for something special. You may drive or walk right up to the business.
The team is experienced and always eager to assist you in finding the perfect item for your requirements.
– Address: 7434 Hwy 6, Tobermory, ON N0H 2R0, Canada
– Phone: +1 519-596-2280
– Website: http://www.goldengallerytobermory.com/
Tobermory is a unique place to visit because of its stunning natural beauty, crystal clear turquoise waters, and diverse wildlife. The town’s friendly locals, fresh seafood, and charming restaurants make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Ontario’s natural beauty and cultural offerings.
Tobermory is a fantastic destination. You can take advantage of all we’ve just described and more. You can go on your exploration and learn things for yourself!
