Before you board
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.
The only road connection is the Amherst Island ferry from Millhaven. Pedestrians travel free, and Loyalist Link Route 90B serves the Millhaven terminal during its operating hours. Check the ferry and transit schedules before travelling.
Ferry and mainland transit guide →There is no gas station on Amherst Island. Arrive with enough fuel for the day and the trip back to the mainland.
Many roads are gravel, shoulders can be narrow, and farm vehicles use the same routes. Drive and cycle accordingly.
Camping is prohibited on all public land on Amherst Island. If you plan to stay overnight, browse island accommodations before crossing.
Things to do
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.
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.
Public waterfronts include Sand Beach, Lane’s End, Back Beach during its permitted season, Ferry Dock Park, and Stella Bay Park. Beaches are unsupervised.
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.
The Neilson Store Museum, historic churches, the blacksmith shop, dry stone walls, and old farm buildings carry the island’s story into the present.
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
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
Most of this is common sense. On an island, common sense simply has fewer places to hide.
People wave when they pass one another here. You are not being mistaken for someone else; return the wave.
Open-looking fields, shorelines, woodlots, lanes, and stone walls may be privately owned. Ask before entering.
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.
Keep dogs leashed in public parks, away from livestock, and under close control near wildlife and sensitive habitats.
Bring water and supplies, use designated washrooms where available, and carry out your waste. Public facilities are limited.
Cell reception can be unreliable. Notice the nearest green grid-address marker so you can give emergency services a precise location if needed.