Pelee Island Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Pelee Island, from outdoor adventures and scenic views to local culture and customs, and where to stay and eat.


Introduction to Pelee Island

Nestled in Essex County, in Southwestern Ontario, Pelee Island is a hidden gem of Ontario, Canada. This small island in Lake Erie boasts an abundance of natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences, drawing visitors from around the world.

While the island is small, there is much to explore on Pelee Island. From hiking and biking routes to culturally significant museums and historical sites, Pelee Island has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share the best things to do, see, and experience on Pelee Island, along with tips on where to stay and what to eat.

List of Places to Visit in Pelee Island

Here’s a list of some of the top places to visit on Pelee Island:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Pelee Island is home to a variety of museums and historical sites, telling the story of its rich history and unique culture:

  • Pelee Island Heritage Centre: This museum features exhibits showcasing the island’s history, from prehistoric times to present-day.
  • Alvinston to Pelee Island Ferry: This ferry served as the main link between Pelee Island and the mainland for over a century. Now, it sits in the harbor as a museum piece.
  • South Shore Line School Museum: This restored one-room schoolhouse provides visitors with a glimpse into what life was like for island children in the early 20th century.
  • Old Stone House: This historic house has been restored to provide visitors with a glimpse into the island’s past, and was once home to the island’s first doctor.

Natural Attractions of Pelee Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pelee Island is bursting with natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top natural attractions to check out:

  • Fish Point Provincial Nature Reserve: This nature reserve is home to 6 km of sandy beach and dunes, and is a great place for bird-watching and hiking.
  • Pelee Island Bird Observatory: This is an excellent spot for bird enthusiasts, where you can observe and learn about migratory birds passing through the area.
  • Lighthouse Point Provincial Nature Reserve: This is an excellent spot to enjoy panoramic scenic views of Lake Erie and the surrounding areas.
  • West Dock Attractions Park: This park has a public beach, picnic area, and boat launch for visitors to use.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pelee Island

Pelee Island has a variety of beautiful hiking and biking trails to explore, here’s a list of some of the top routes:

  • West Beach Trail: This trail is an easy 1-km hike, giving visitors access to a sandy beach and stunning views of the lake.
  • East Shore Road Trail: This is a 10-km long biking trail which passes through beaches, vineyards, and fields.
  • Fish Point Nature Reserve Trail: This gentle trail is 6 km long and is a great spot for bird-watching and nature enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Pelee Island: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do on Pelee Island:

  • Winery Tours: Pelee Island is home to a variety of wineries, offering wine tastings and tours through the vineyards.
  • Birding: Pelee Island is a superb spot for birdwatching, and the Pelee Island Bird Observatory offers tours and educational programs.
  • Beach activities: Visitors can enjoy kayaking, swimming, and paddleboarding on Pelee Island’s beaches.
  • Fishing and Boating: Pelee Island is an excellent spot for recreational fishing and boating.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pelee Island

If you’re planning to spend a week in Pelee Island, here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time on this stunning island:

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at the hotel Day 2: Visit the Heritage Centre and the Old Stone House, followed by dinner at one of Pelee Island’s restaurants Day 3: Spend the day hiking the West Beach Trail and relaxing on the public beach
Day 4: Take a winery tour and enjoy wine tasting, followed by dinner at a local restaurant Day 5: Visit the Fish Point Nature Reserve, followed by bird-watching at the Pelee Island Bird Observatory Day 6: Enjoy a day out on the water, fishing or boating Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Pelee Island

The food and drink scene on Pelee Island is as unique and diverse as its culture and history. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pelee Island Quiche: This savory quiche is made with asparagus, Pelee Island mushrooms, and local goat cheese.
  • Lake Erie Perch: Freshly caught from the lake, Lake Erie Perch is a must-try dish for seafood lovers.
  • Pelee Island Venison: Venison is a popular protein in Pelee Island, with most restaurants featuring this game meat on their menus.

Local Beverages

  • Pelee Island Wines: Pelee Island is home to a number of vineyards producing award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Merlot.
  • Local Craft Beer: Visitors can enjoy a pint of locally brewed craft beer at Pelee Island’s pubs and bars.

Where to Stay in Pelee Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Pelee Island has a variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the top choices:

  • The Island Bed & Breakfast: A charming and cozy bed and breakfast located in the heart of Pelee Island.
  • The Windsor Arms: This upscale hotel offers luxurious accommodations and a fantastic on-site restaurant.
  • Pelee Island Hostel: For budget travelers, the Pelee Island Hostel offers affordable dormitory-style accommodations.

What to Buy in Pelee Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Pelee Island:

  • Pelee Island Wine: Bring home a bottle or two of Pelee Island’s award-winning wines, available for purchase at local vineyards.
  • Handmade Crafts: Pelee Island has several shops featuring locally made crafts, including pottery and textiles.
  • Pelee Island Honey: This locally produced honey is a great gift for foodies and health enthusiasts.

Local Culture and Customs of Pelee Island

Pelee Island has a rich and unique culture, influenced by its history and location. Visitors may observe some of the local customs, such as:

  • Respect for Environment: Pelee Island is an environmental outpost, and residents take pride in protecting their natural surroundings.
  • Wine and Grape Harvest Festival: This annual event, held in September, is a celebration of Pelee Island’s wineries and grape harvest.
  • Island Time: Life on Pelee Island moves at a slower pace, and visitors should plan accordingly.

Best Time to Visit Pelee Island

The best time to visit Pelee Island is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the fall season is also a great time to visit, with the grape harvest and Wine and Grape Harvest Festival taking place in September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pelee Island

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Pelee Island:

Do:

  • Respect the environment and wildlife
  • Participate in the local culture and customs
  • Try Pelee Island’s local food and drink

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas
  • Ignore local customs and culture
  • Abuse recreational drugs or alcohol

Safety and Health

Safety in Pelee Island

Pelee Island is a safe destination for visitors, but it is advised to take precautions such as:

  • Locking all doors and windows when leaving your vehicle or residence
  • Being aware of your surroundings when walking at night
  • Wearing sunscreen and protective clothing when spending time outdoors

Health in Pelee Island

Pelee Island has a medical clinic, but visitors are advised to bring any necessary medications and medical supplies. It is also recommended to:

  • Bring insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and ticks
  • Stay hydrated during the hot summer months

Getting to Pelee Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors traveling to Pelee Island have several transportation options to choose from:

  • By Ferry: The Pelee Island Ferry provides regular service from Leamington, Ontario, and Sandusky, Ohio.
  • By Air: Visitors can fly to Windsor International Airport, followed by a 2-hour drive to Leamington, where they can catch a ferry to Pelee Island.
  • By Private Boat: Visitors can also bring their own boats to Pelee Island, and dock at the West Dock area.

How to Get Around in Pelee Island

Pelee Island is small and easily explored on foot, but visitors may also rent bicycles or vehicles at the ferry terminal.

Where to Go Next from Pelee Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can extend their trip beyond Pelee Island by exploring the nearby attractions:

  • Point Pelee National Park: Located on the mainland near Leamington, this national park is a nature lover’s dream, offering hiking trails, beaches, and wildlife viewing.
  • Sandusky, Ohio: A short ferry ride across Lake Erie, Sandusky is home to Cedar Point amusement park, beaches, and historic attractions.
  • Detroit, Michigan: A major city located across from Windsor, Detroit offers visitors a rich cultural experience, including museums, parks, and sports arenas.

Conclusion

Pelee Island is a hidden gem, full of natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, there is always something new to discover on this stunning island. This comprehensive guide has shown you the best things to do, see, and experience on Pelee Island, along with tips on where to stay and what to eat.

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