Yes. Ohio has island life, too.

In fact, Ohio is actually home to more than a dozen natural islands, all differing in size, their number of inhabitants, and above-water presence (with the rise and fall of Lake Erie’s water levels), as defined by the ODNR Office of Coastal Management. The following are eight accessible Ohio islands that hold some pretty unique attractions, pieces of history, and unforgettable experiences waiting for you. And just wait until you see the breathtaking waterfront scenery! Curious to learn more? Let’s start exploring!

1. South Bass Island
South Bass Island, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456, USA
Sean Munson/Flickr
South Bass Island, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456, USA
Rick Austin/Flickr
South Bass Island, often called the "Secret Midwest Playground" is home to the small town of Put-In-Bay—which has plenty to do and see. Popular locations and attractions to check out are The Butterfly House, Adventure Bay Amusement Park, the Antique Car Museum, the Chocolate Museum, Put-In-Bay Winery, Kimberly’s Carousel, Perry's Cave and Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial. South Bass Island is also home to one of the best campgrounds in Ohio.
2. Kelleys Island
Virginia/Flickr
Kelleys Island, OH 43438, USA
James St. John/Flickr
Ohio's largest island is home to Glacial Grooves State Memorial, Inscription Rock, Kelleys Island State Park and other attractions. Few people are aware that the largest accessible glacial grooves in the world are located on Kelleys Island (pictured.) Learn more about what makes Kelleys Island such a fantastic Ohio day trip destination.
3. Middle Bass Island
Ohio Sea Grant/Flickr
Middle Bass Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH, USA
LakeGuy4/Trip Advisor
Located between South Bass and North Bass Island is Middle Bass Island, which has a rich grape production and wine-making history. This small, quiet island is an ideal getaway for those looking to truly get away from it all. Activities here include boating, fishing, golf cart rentals, swimming and more.
4. Whiskey Island
k_e_lewis/Wikimedia Commons
Whiskey Island, Cleveland, OH 44102, USA
Whiskey Island & Wendy Park/Facebook
At the mouth of the Cuyahoga River you'll find this small Cleveland island, which features a 22-acre public park (known as Wendy Park) sand volleyball courts, a public marina and a bar/restaurant. It's a great way to spend a day away from the hustle of the city. Who knew you could practically walk to an Ohio island?

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5. Gibraltar Island
Ohio Sea Grant/Flickr
Gibraltar Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH 43456, USA
Ohio Sea Grant/Flickr
This small island is located just offshore of South Bass Island. Science and History Tours of this island show you what kind of research goes on at Ohio State University’s Stone Laboratory and the outside of Cooke Castle, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (pictured.)
6. Johnson’s Island
Counselman Collection/Flickr
Johnson's Island, Danbury Township, OH, USA
Melinda Huntley/Flickr
Johnson's Island is located in the Sandusky Bay, just three miles from the city of Sandusky. The island was once the site of a Prisoner-Of-War camp for Confederate officers captured during the American Civil War. Today, this island is a National Historical Landmark, and the camp's cemetery (pictured) is a popular stop for history buffs.
7. Catawba Island
Mike Sharp/Wikimedia Commons
Catawba Island, OH 43452, USA
Frank DiBona/Flickr
Technically, the Catawba Island is part of the Ottawa County peninsula. It's a popular spot to enjoy the waters of Lake Erie. Boating, golf, scuba diving and Catawba Island State Park are popular things to do and see here. While you're there, you can take this off-the-beaten-path adventure to explore the youngest marsh preserve in Ohio.
8. North Bass Island
North Bass Island/Facebook
North Bass Island, Put-In-Bay Township, OH 43436, USA
North Bass Island/Facebook
Last but not least on our list of fascinating Ohio islands is North Bass Island. Also known as Isle St. George, the least developed of the Bass Islands is less than two miles from the Canadian border. This beautiful, quiet island features a vineyard and North Island Bass Park. The island is accessible by airplane or boat, but there is no ferry service or public dockage available. One of the best ways to experience the area is by exploring North Bass Island State Park.

Have you been to any of these Ohio islands? What was your experience like? Share your stories, photos, and thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! For related content, check out our list of the best Ohio day trips. There’s so much to explore in the Buckeye State!

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More to Explore

Ohio islands

Beth C. | December 12, 2022

What are the most unique places in Ohio?

The most unique places in Ohio include:

  • The Wilds
  • German Village
  • Ohio State Reformatory
  • Old Man's Cave
  • The J.M. Smucker Company Store and Cafe
  • Peninsula
  • Jungle Jim's
  • Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
  • Yellow Springs
  • Clifton Mill
  • Raven's Glenn Winery
  • Idle-Hour Ranch

 

The state of Ohio is brimming with must-visit destinations. The Ohio State Reformatory might be the most unique day trip destination in all of Ohio, and it's notorious for being the setting of the Shawshank Redemption. Visit today and you can tour the famous prison, which is also rumored to be haunted. Another great place to explore in Ohio is German Village in Columbus. This historically German neighborhood features an assortment of local restaurants, shops, and one of the largest used bookstores in the state.

Does Ohio have any beaches?

Ohio may not be located on the coast, but it's not exactly land-locked, either. Thanks to Lake Erie, Ohio has remarkable beaches. Some of the best beaches in Ohio include:

  • Headlands Beach
  • Alum Creek
  • Geneva State Park Beach
  • Old Field Beach
  • Kelleys Island State Park Beach

 

If you plan on visiting any of Ohio's beaches, be sure to be mindful of others and take back everything that you bring with you. Keeping these beaches beautiful is important!

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