Top 10 Things to do in Tobermory

Last Updated on November 3, 2019 by Jane

When I was a kid it wasn’t summer without a road trip up the Bruce Peninsula. We would stop at every flea market and antique store if it was a rainy day. Other times we would stop at Dyers Bay for a swim and laying out on the flat limestone rocks. Tobermory was the end of the line. Sometimes we would go all the way there to do touristy things, other times we would finish our road trip at the tip of the Bruce and make our way back down again back to our cottage for supper. This summer we took our kids up to Tobermory for their first visit and it brought back all the summer road trip memories. If you are wondering if it is worth the drive these are the Top 10 Things to do in Tobermory. 

Top 10 Things to Do in Tobermory

1. Eat at the Crowsnest Pub – right downtown Tobermory this pub has the largest outdoor patio. Not only that it is up above street level so you can look out over Tobermory while you have your lunch. This area is known for Whitefish. If you want Pirate theme fish and chips head to Shipwreak Lee’s across the street, but I prefer the view at the Crowsnest. 
2. Take a glass bottom boat tour – Tobermory is part of the Fathom Five National Marine park and there are over 20 historic wreaks to view in the area. Also the waters of Georgian Bay are super clear making viewing these shipwrecks. Take one of the glass bottom boat tours to see them all! Make sure to allow for time to line up and wait for the tour. There is a Bevertails stand right by the area where most of the tours run.
3. Go to Flower Pot Island – when I was a kid we took a zodiac boat over to flower pot island. It was so fun. We hiked around the island a bit before swimming in Georgian Bay. The flat limestone rocks make for fun swimming but make sure you are a good swimmer as it gets deep really fast. Flower Pot Island gets its name from the limestone rock formations that look like a giant flower pot. 
4. Walk around the marina – this option is totally free. Take in the sights of Little Tub Harbour. Check out the yachts that are often docked there. I find this area to be such a slice of Canadiana. 
5. Go for a swim in Georgian bay – Georgian Bay waters are known to be cold but sometimes that is exactly what you need on a hot summer day. Georgian Bay is unique due to its flat limestone rocks. But you can swim at the Beach too. Just outside of Tobermory is Dunks Bay and there is a small sand beach found in a small secluded bay. Perfect for swimming.
6. Take the Chi Cheeman – take the passenger and vehicle ferry over to Manitoulin Island. The ferry connects two parts of HWY 6. While you can take your car on the Chi Cheeman you can also just go for the view, some food and a round trip. 
7. Go on a hike – The Bruce trail goes all the way from Niagara and ends at Tobermory. Which means there are all sorts of great trails right in the area and the views are fantastic.
8. Watch out for snakes – The Bruce peninsula is home to the only venomous snake in Ontario, the Eastern Massasauga Rattler. Personally I have seen more water snakes rather than a rattler but make sure to keep your eyes peeled.
9. Look for Orchids and wildflowers – the Bruce Peninsula is the Orchid capital of Canada. You can also find a number of types of Lady Slipper. While you are out wandering in nature make sure to look for orchids in the wild. 
10. Go diving – I mentioned above that Tobermory is home to over 20 shipwrecks. This makes the area a great site for scuba diving and snorkling. Some of the wrecks date back to the 19th century. The ones in Big Tub Harbour are in 20 feet of water making them easy to see. Make sure to bring your warmest wet suit.

Read More: Top 5 Reasons to Visit the Great Lakes

Tobermory is such a beautiful area and there is so much to do! More than just the top 10 things to do in Tobermory. If you are not outdoorsy just spend some time eating on a patio and wandering the harbour. If you are more athletic get out the kayak and enjoy the views from the water. Or strap on some hiking shoes and hike the Bruce.

Tobermory is one of the places that deserves a road trip every summer.