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Georgian Bay

A vast realm of blues and greens, Georgian Bay is a land of infinite dreaming. Summer breezes blow gently along sandy shores. Maples ignite in the fall and thick pines quiver at winter's frosty kiss. These ethereal landscapes inspired Canada's best-known painters and today the bay remains home to scores of thriving artistic communities.

In the bay's southern arc sits Wasaga Beach, the longest freshwater beach in the world. Neighboring Collingwood and Blue Mountain are home to the province's most popular winter skiing.

Heading north on its western shore from Owen Sound, the magnificent Bruce Peninsula is famed for its jagged limestone outcrops, shimmering cliffs and craggy beaches. It boasts tiny but impressive Tobermory and, beyond, Manitoulin Island. Linger here for a few days if you can.

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Georgian Bay.

  • See

    Bruce Peninsula National Park

    Much of the area just south of Tobermory is protected by this national park, flaunting some of Ontario's finest assets: the Niagara Escarpment, 1000-year-old cedars, rare orchids and crystal-clear, limestone-refracted waters. Spectacular sections of the famous Bruce Trail run the park's length and include the must-see Grotto, Indian Head Cove and Halfway Log Dump. Don't miss Singing Sands, across Hwy 6. Though the park remains quiet most of the year, be prepared to share the magic with tourist busloads in July and August.

  • See

    Huronia Museum

    Don't be fooled by the dated building or displays – this museum has an impressive collection of artifacts, many related to the region's maritime history as well as the Huron and Ojibwe peoples. There's also an art gallery featuring dozens of original works by members of the Group of Seven. Be sure to leave time to poke around the excellent replica 500-year-old Huron-Ouendat settlement – a fascinating peek into the 'pre-contact' past.

  • See

    Grey Roots Museum & Archives

    About 8km south of town, this interesting museum highlights the region's rich pioneering history through displays about early settlers and local heroes. Interactive presentations focus on natural resources, climate and topography. Past exhibits have explored themes as diverse as Albertan dinosaurs and the history of the toilet. Admission includes access to Moreston Heritage Village (May to October only), a collection of 19th century buildings – a log cabin, barn, schoolhouse, sawmill – where volunteers dressed in 19th-century garb recreate village life in pioneer days.

  • See

    Ste-Marie among the Hurons

    Costumed staff members dote on visitors to this reconstructed 17th-century Jesuit mission, offering stories about hardship and torture with a cheerful smile. The on-site museum offers detailed exhibits about the site. Self-guided audio tours also available.

  • See

    Fathom Five National Marine Park

    Established to protect the numerous shipwrecks, lighthouses and islands around Tobermory, this was the first park of its kind in Canada. Though the 22 wrecks in crystal-clear waters make for a diver's paradise, the park is best known for the much-loved Flowerpot Island with its top-heavy 'flowerpot' formations, eroded by waves over the centuries.

  • See

    Stockey Centre & Bobby Orr Hall of Fame

    For the uninitiated: local legend and hockey hero Bobby Orr forever changed the role of defensemen with his awesome offensive prowess. At his huge modern shrine, fans can pretend to be a sports announcer, strap on goalie gear and confront an automated puck-firing machine, or even shoot on digital NHL goalies and be heckled by the machine.

  • See

    Perivale Gallery

    This well-respected art gallery features works by a remarkable range of Canadian fine artists, sculptors and artisans. The gallery itself, a red farmhouse, sits on a forest lot facing Lake Kagawong – a peaceful and beautiful spot. Artistic workshops are also held throughout the season; check the website for current offerings.

  • See

    Providence Bay Beach

    Set on a long curving bay facing Lake Huron, this is arguably the best beach on the island. The sand is soft and tawny, the water calm, and it's backed by sand dunes, tall grasses and a well-maintained boardwalk trail. If you're yearning for beach time, this is the place to be.

  • See

    Ojibwe Cultural Foundation

    You're free to explore on your own, but guided tours of this insightful museum are highly recommended. Rotating exhibits reflect a rich history of legends and skilled craftwork. A small gift shop sells local art, literature and more.