Tobermory is a hotspot for tourists throughout the summer months in Ontario! The town may be small, but there is so much to do in the heart of Tobermory and surrounding areas. Through my experience, let me help guide you on your stay at this Ontario paradise!
1. Go on the walk-on Flowerpot Island tour
Possibly the #1 reason why most tourists visit Tobermory is to go on the Flowerpot Island cruise to witness the natural spectacle. To enhance this experience, book the Tour! You will be dropped off and have the freedom to explore what you want for 3-4 hours! Make sure to reserve your spot in advance to avoid disappointment.
2. Go for a relaxing, photogenic walk around Little Tub Harbour
While in Tobermory, make sure to experience everything Little Tub Harbour has to offer! There is plenty of parking in downtown Tobermory so put on your walking shoes and explore the gift shops, ice cream parlours, and restaurants. There are so many little shops to visit while you tour the downtown area! As you walk around the boardwalk, take your time to relax and breathe in the beauty around you, and be sure to capture these moments on your phone or camera!
3. Weekend stay at Tobermory Village Campground
Are you looking for a weekend get-a-way but on a budget? Camping at the Tobermory Village Campground is your go-to place for individual or group stays with good rates (especially in peak tourist season). There are many amenities within the park such as splash pads, playgrounds, outdoor fitness and recreational areas (Volleyball and Basketball) to make your stay enjoyable!
4. Spend the day at the Grotto, Bruce Peninsula National Park
If Flowerpot Island isn’t #1 on the tourists to do list in Tobermory, the Grotto definitely is! The Grotto is a hidden paradise in Ontario although you might think you were in the Bahamas at first glance. The Grotto has beauty in every corner and the place will forever be engraved in your memories for life! There are plenty of hiking trails to explore as well as places to swim which will make your visit that much better! If you choose to swim, please keep water safety in mind such as no swimming in rough conditions and no cliff jumping. Be sure to read the water safety board and any other safety advertisements before starting your adventure.
5. Go swimming at the Big Tub Lighthouse
Wanting another option for a refreshing swim? Many tourists enjoy going for a quick dip at the Big Tub Lighthouse! There is plenty of room around the rock shore which is a reasonable distance away from boat traffic. Once again, it is important to follow water safety rules and have increased awareness of boat and canoe traffic in the area.
6. Checkout the shipwreck tour
Speaking of the Big Tub Lighthouse, there is a shipwreck in the Big Tub Harbour which incidentally is the first destination of the shipwreck tour! For tourists who love historical landmarks, take a dive into Tobermory’s famous shipwreck history. The shipwreck tour continues on after the Big Tub Harbour stop with the cruise lasting about 1.5 hours. Included in the cruise is a glass bottom which gives viewers a fantastic clear view of the lake bottom.
7. Have family/group fun at Little Cove Adventure!
Looking for a change of pace near Tobermory that is not a cruise or a recreational area? Bring the fam jam or group of friends for a thrill of a time at Little Cove Adventures! Navigate your way around tricky architecture and obstacles at various heights. Although this may not be suitable for the whole gang, many will still enjoy it!
8. Do your best to have a meal at most, if not, all local restaurants
There are plenty of options for any food lover in Tobermory. If you are able to, and the budget allows for it, do your best to have a meal at all restaurants during your stay! My personal favourites are Shipwreck Lee’s for the 2pc whitefish dinner and a bacon cheeseburger dinner at Tobermory Brewing Company and Grill! You might want to have an early dinner because both restaurants are crazy busy during peak season.
9. Hike at Fathom Five National Marine Park / Little Dunks Bay Lookout
Tobermory has endless beauty to offer, and it keeps going at Little Dunk’s Bay Lookout! For new travellers there is a visitor (Tourist) centre beside the main parking lot before entering the hiking trails. Any questions you have about Tobermory, they have an answer with friendly advice. Alongside the hiking trails and the rewarding sceneries at the end of the trails, there is a lookout tower near the beginning of the trail where you can get a great view of Tobermory’s amazing landscape! Don’t forget your camera!
10. Get a piece of history at St. Edmunds and Peninsula Museum
Within the same area as Tobermory Village Campground and Little Cove Adventures, there is a museum that showcases the history of the Peninsula and Tobermory that eventually shapes it to what the area is today! The employees of the museum have extensive knowledge and can help you with most questions. This is a must stop for tourists who admire the history of the destinations they visit!