If you are looking for a vacation spot in Ontario, Tobermory is the place for you!
There is so much to do and see in Tobermory. The small town on the Bruce Peninsula is known for it’s turquoise waters and starry night skies.
On the way…
One of our favourite stops on the way to Tobermory is Wiarton, Ontario.
With a fun visit to see the Wiarton Willie statue by the beautiful waters edge.
https://goo.gl/maps/ai9BkVtLcQxTNcEC9
I wonder if our groundhog friend will make an appearance and let us know if it will be an early spring or late winter.
Book this experience ahead of time
One of the most infamous spots to visit in Tobermory is The Grotto.
The short hike from the parking lot will take you right to the top of The Grotto. This unique rocky space surrounded by turquoise blue waters is the perfect spot for a swim.
If you continue to walk further you will end up at the cave where you will see many visitors swimming inside.
To reserve your spot visit here
https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/on/bruce/activ/emplacements-locations/parking
This attraction is one you need to explore
Flowerpot Island is just a short boat ride away. In addition to boat fees there is also a small fee to access the island. There are a few different companies you can schedule a visit with. Just visit the Tobermory Marina to find a company you like. Fees can also be paid with the company you choose to use.
The glass bottom boat rides are a lot of fun. They even take you past a shipwreck where the ship is visible by looking over the side of the boat or through the glass bottom portion of the boat.
The ride to Flowerpot island can be a little rocky but it is such a short ride you won’t even notice.
Flowerpot Island is known for their two flowerpot shaped rock pillars on the shores of the island. You can even hike down to them to take a photo provided the water levels are safe.
The island is great for a short hike. There is even a really fun cave you can explore. The cave may be closed due to covid restrictions.
Further down the island there is a lighthouse to explore. The lighthouse may be closed due to covid restrictions.
For up to date information please check with Parks Canada’s website
https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/amnc-nmca/on/fathomfive/activ/flowerpot
Another great boating experience
Because Tobermory has no light pollution the skies come alive at night with constellations. You can even see the Milky Way.
A really unique experience is taking a boat cruise under the stars. You can explore dinning under the Milky Way. It’s unforgettable.
For more information on all the cruise options use this link
If you really want to see the sky…
One really fun thing we stumbled on during our first trip to Tobermory was an amazing experience that I will never forget.
In the small town of Lion’s Head, located just 30 minutes south of Tobermory the town hosts Dark Sky Astronomy every Friday and Saturday from Canada’s Day to Labour Day.
This free event is hosted by some real astronomy enthusiasts who set up their own telescopes and help to guide visitors in seeing the sky while engaging in informative conversations.
https://visitlionshead.ca/mobile/profile/dark-sky-astronomy/2458/
You will want to get to Lion’s Head to visit the shoreline while the sun’s still out because the views are beautiful. They even have a nice lighthouse which is great for a photo.
Lion’s Head Harbour Lighthouse
https://goo.gl/maps/icNPKQJLNJG9P1y98
A lighthouse and a shipwreck but the drive there is one for the books.
A little further away (around 50 minutes) south of Tobermory is the very small town of Cabot Head, Ontario.
We think the drive there is completely worth it. The crystal blue waters make it all worth while.
The Cabot Head Lighthouse is a fun attraction. The Lighthouse Museum is a fun tour. You can even take the short hike to a shipwreck. Please check their website for up to date covid restrictions.
https://www.cabothead.ca/services.html
So many shipwrecks!
Tobermory is a well know destination for shipwrecks and attracts many scuba divers, and kayakers to the area. You can even rent your own Kayak to explore some of the over 20 shipwrecks in the area.
For information on rentals please visit this link
https://www.tobermorywave.com/
This map of all the shipwrecks in the area will be sure to draw anyones attention
For more information on the shipwrecks and which ones are accessible to you visit here
https://tobermory.com/do-see/outdoors-adventures/shipwrecks
Know before you go.
Tobermory is a very small town and there are few hotels to stay at. Reservations fill up fast and need to be booked in advance. Especially for accommodations nearby or in town.
There are many great options on Airbnb to stay, some even right in town.
There is NO Tim Hortons anywhere near Tobermory. The closest establishment is an hour south.
But don’t despair. Tobermory has a lot of great places to eat. We highly recommend this spot
The small town of Tobermory also offers shopping, ice cream, BeaverTails and even a grocery store to cover all of your needs.
