Georgian Bay Islands National Park Tours and Activities

Georgian Bay Islands National Park which includes a bridge
Georgian Bay Islands National Park
Georgian Bay Islands National Park
Georgian Bay Islands National Park featuring a bridge and forests
Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Thrill to the dramatic rock formations, pine forests and wildlife of this magnificent island park as you hike along scenic trails and kayak on the waters.

Experience the beauty of Canada’s spectacular natural landscape amid the glacial islands of the Georgian Bay Islands National Park. Outdoor enthusiasts have their pick of exciting activities: hike, mountain bike, boat, camp and spot wildlife.

The national park is a collection of around 60 islands and islets that form part of one of the world’s largest freshwater archipelagoes. It is also known as Canada’s 30,000 Islands.

Start your tour at Beausoleil Island, the biggest and most visited island. Follow trails that lead through mature forests, rocky areas and wetlands. There are 12 picturesque routes, which range from wheelchair accessible paths to demanding hikes. Find designated picnic areas, safe swimming beaches and fishing sites, all framed by white pines, red oaks and impressive rock faces. Keep watch for wildlife, such as deer, raccoons and snowy owls. Paddle a kayak around the island’s shoreline to secluded bays and unspoiled islets.

Stay overnight on Beausoleil in one of the campgrounds along the island’s eastern or northern shore. Bring your own tent and equipment, rent a prospector tent or enjoy the comfort of a waterfront cabin. 

Stop by Bone Island, the only other island in the park that has services and amenities, including picnic areas and boat docks. 

Georgian Bay Islands National Park is a 2-hour drive north of downtown Toronto. There is a direct bus service between downtown Toronto and the park’s Honey Harbor. Access to the islands is by water only and water taxis and kayak rental are available at Honey Harbour. Alternatively, step onboard the Day Tripper for a scenic boat ride to various Beausoleil Island locations. Free parking is available for visitors using this boat service.

The park is open year-round and there is an admission fee. Services, such as the visitor center and the Day Tripper boat, operate from May to November. September and October are good months to visit, when the trails are quieter and the fall foliage is at its most impressive. Find details of opening times, fees and accommodation on the park’s official website.

Popular places to visit

Heritage Trail Trailhead

You can take time to visit Heritage Trail Trailhead during your travels to Georgian Bay. Stroll along the area's lakeside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Heritage Trail Trailhead

Nautilus Marina

Explore the waterfront in Honey Harbour with a trip to Nautilus Marina.

Nautilus Marina

Lownie Island

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lownie Island during your travels in Georgian Bay. Stroll along the area's lakeside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Lownie Island

Buller Island

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Buller Island during your travels in Georgian Bay. Stroll along the area's lakeside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Buller Island

Whalesback Islands

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Whalesback Islands during your travels in Georgian Bay. Stroll along the area's lakeside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Whalesback Islands

Cow Island

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Cow Island during your travels in Georgian Bay. Stroll along the area's lakeside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Cow Island

Best Lodging Options Near Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Quality Inn & Conference Centre

Quality Inn & Conference Centre

2.5 out of 5
924 King Street, Midland, ON
Quality Inn & Conference Centre
Comfort Inn Midland

Comfort Inn Midland

2.5 out of 5
980 King St, Midland, ON
Comfort Inn Midland
Super 8 by Wyndham Midland

Super 8 by Wyndham Midland

2 out of 5
1144 Hugel Avenue, Midland, ON
Super 8 by Wyndham Midland
Christie's Mill Inn & Spa, BW Premier Collection

Christie's Mill Inn & Spa, BW Premier Collection

3.5 out of 5
263 Port Severn Rd N, Georgian Bay, ON
Christie's Mill Inn & Spa, BW Premier Collection
Hampton Inn Midland, On

Hampton Inn Midland, On

2.5 out of 5
877 King Street, Midland, ON
Hampton Inn Midland, On
Knights Inn Midland, ON

Knights Inn Midland, ON

2 out of 5
751 Yonge St, Midland, ON
Knights Inn Midland, ON
Rawley Resort

Rawley Resort

4 out of 5
2900 Kellys Road, Severn, ON
Rawley Resort
Midland Inn & Suites

Midland Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
720 Prospect Blvd, Midland, ON
Midland Inn & Suites
Tay Motel

Tay Motel

2.5 out of 5
3015 Mayhew Rd, Severn, ON
Tay Motel
See all 2,389 properties in Georgian Bay Islands National Park
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Georgian Bay Islands National Park

At Georgian Bay Islands National Park, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including wildlife watching, snowshoeing, and scenic boat rides. The park offers unique island experiences perfect for group trips and backcountry adventures, making it an ideal destination for outdoor fun. Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems that this beautiful region has to offer, ensuring a memorable vacation in Ontario's natural paradise.

Shopping

In Georgian Bay Islands National Park, enjoy local shops for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit Orillia Square Mall, located 43.5km away, where you'll find a variety of family-friendly stores and entertainment options in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Midland Golf and Country Club, where the scenic views and outdoor atmosphere create a perfect retreat. For relaxation, indulge in soothing treatments at Bamboo Spa or Panache Spa and Academy, both offering tranquil environments to rejuvenate your body and mind.

Adventure

The Heritage Trail Trailhead offers a scenic hiking experience with breathtaking views, located 1.4km from Georgian Bay Islands National Park. The Penetanguishene Rotary Park Trailhead, 11.3km away, provides beautiful outdoor landscapes. Explore the Copeland Creek Wetlands Trail, situated 12.9km from the park, for diverse wildlife and stunning scenery.

Nightlife

In Georgian Bay Islands National Park, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Horseshoe Adventure Park, an arcade filled with family fun, only 38.6km away. For a romantic evening, head to Playtime Casino Wasaga Beach, 48.3km away, or catch a show at Sunshine and Company theatre, just 212.9km away.

Find the best attractions near Georgian Bay Islands National Park

Discover the beauty of Georgian Bay Islands National Park, where you can explore stunning islands, urban parks, and nature reserves. This picturesque location offers a range of activities for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, while also providing rich cultural experiences. Enjoy the natural landscapes and local attractions, making your visit to Georgian Bay Islands an unforgettable adventure.

  • Awenda Provincial Park: Located 11.3km from Georgian Bay Islands National Park, Awenda Provincial Park offers a tranquil escape with its friendly atmosphere and inviting excursions. Explore its lush forests and serene beaches, perfect for relaxing walks or picnics.
  • Six Mile Lake Provincial Park: A mere 9.7km away, Six Mile Lake Provincial Park is a haven for adventure seekers. Enjoy breathtaking scenery as you partake in outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and fishing, all while surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
  • Discovery Harbour: Just 8.0km from the national park, Discovery Harbour features picturesque views and sandy beaches. It's an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenic shoreline, making it a perfect day trip destination.

Best time to go to Georgian Bay Islands National Park

The best time to visit Georgian Bay Islands National Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Georgian Bay Islands National Park falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Georgian Bay Islands National Park falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is very cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January17.4°F (-8.1°C)Light RainVery CloudyAverageAverage
February18.3°F (-7.6°C)Light RainVery CloudyAverageAverage
March27.3°F (-2.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April38.5°F (3.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
May51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
June60.6°F (15.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August66.4°F (19.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
October48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November36.9°F (2.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December26.8°F (-2.9°C)Light RainVery CloudyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Georgian Bay Islands National Park

To save money on your visit to Georgian Bay Islands National Park, plan your trip between March to April or November for lower accommodation rates. Wednesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Take advantage of the park's free entry and explore nearby free attractions like Awenda Provincial Park. Use Expedia to find great deals by filtering prices from lowest to highest, and consider package deals to combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Georgian Bay Islands National Park are March to April and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Georgian Bay Islands National Park is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Georgian Bay Islands National Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's intuitive search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay at Georgian Bay Islands National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.