Hop between South Bass, Kelleys, and Middle Bass at an easy pace
Take the Miller Ferry or Jet Express from Catawba or Port Clinton. Rent a golf cart on Delaware Ave — the standard way to get around. Check in, then walk the strip for dinner.
The 352-foot Doric column commemorates Oliver Hazard Perry's 1813 victory. Elevator to the observation deck has sweeping lake views. Worth 45 minutes.
Miller Ferry fills up fast on July and August weekends. Book online. If you miss the last ferry you are spending the night — which is not the worst outcome.
The Kelleys Island Ferry from Marblehead runs year-round. Rent bikes on the island — it covers 4 square miles easily. More relaxed and local than South Bass.
The largest accessible glacial grooves in the world — 400 feet long, carved 18,000 years ago. Free. Takes 20 minutes but is genuinely stunning up close.
The Sonny S ferry connects South Bass to Middle Bass. Smaller and quieter — mostly cottages and the old Mon Ami winery grounds. Good cycling loop.
The historic Lonz Winery collapsed in 2000 — the grounds are open and the views over Lake Erie are worth the ferry trip alone. Bring a cooler.
One last morning before the ferry back. Crystal Cave (feldspar crystals, oddly beautiful) opens early and is a short walk from the dock.
Several outfitters on Delaware Ave offer morning kayak rentals. The coastline around the south end of South Bass has calm water and limestone formations.
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