Arrive by ferry
The only road connection is the Amherst Island ferry from Millhaven. Check the sailing schedule and allow time for a lineup.
Ferry guide →Before you board
Visit Amherst Island
A good island visit begins with a little preparation and leaves room for discovery. The pace is slower, the distances are longer than they first appear, and many of the best experiences are simple ones.
Fuel before crossing
There is no gas station on Amherst Island. Arrive with enough fuel for the day and the trip back to the mainland.
Expect gravel
Many roads are gravel, shoulders can be narrow, and farm vehicles use the same routes. Drive and cycle accordingly.
Do not plan to camp
Camping is prohibited on all public land on Amherst Island. If you plan to stay overnight, browse island accommodations before crossing.
Things to do
Let the island set the itinerary
Walk or cycle
Quiet roads, shoreline views, stone walls, and long horizons reward an unhurried pace. Most island roads are gravel; bring suitable footwear, tyres, water, and sun protection.
Watch birds & wildlife
Wetlands, fields, woods, and open water make the island an important birding destination. Owl Woods, Sand Beach, and the Martin Edwards Reserve each require especially careful behaviour.
Spend time by the water
Public waterfronts include Sand Beach, Lane’s End, Back Beach during its permitted season, Ferry Dock Park, and Stella Bay Park. Beaches are unsupervised.
Fish or paddle
Stella Bay Park and Public Dock has a canoe and kayak launch. Fishing is possible from public access points where permitted; Ontario fishing rules and licensing still apply.
Follow the island’s history
The Neilson Store Museum, historic churches, the blacksmith shop, dry stone walls, and old farm buildings carry the island’s story into the present.
Join island life
Markets, concerts, meals, church gatherings, studio visits, farm experiences, and community events are often the best way to encounter Amherst Island as more than scenery.
Food, supplies & local stops
Check what is open
The General Store provides groceries and everyday supplies in Stella. The Back Kitchen operates seasonally, and other island studios, farm shops, services, and accommodation have their own hours or appointment requirements.
Check directly before travelling for a particular business. Island opening hours can change with the season, weather, staffing, and ferry conditions.
Browse the island directory →A few island courtesies
Be a good temporary Islander
Most of this is common sense. On an island, common sense simply has fewer places to hide.
Wave back
People wave when they pass one another here. You are not being mistaken for someone else; return the wave.
Respect private property
Open-looking fields, shorelines, woodlots, lanes, and stone walls may be privately owned. Ask before entering.
Share the road
Slow down for walkers, cyclists, livestock, wildlife, farm machinery, dust, and loose gravel. Do not stop in the travelled portion of a road for a photograph.
Control dogs
Keep dogs leashed in public parks, away from livestock, and under close control near wildlife and sensitive habitats.
Leave no trace
Bring water and supplies, use designated washrooms where available, and carry out your waste. Public facilities are limited.
Know your location
Cell reception can be unreliable. Notice the nearest green grid-address marker so you can give emergency services a precise location if needed.