Tobermory

Explore the stunning rock formations of Flowerpot Island in Tobermory, Ontario, surrounded by lush forest and clear blue waters.
Yajun Dong, Pexels

Tobermory, located at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, is a prime destination known for its clear turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and rich natural landscapes. It draws visitors seeking outdoor adventures such as hiking in national parks, exploring unique rock formations like Flowerpot Island, and freshwater scuba diving among historic shipwrecks.

The village offers opportunities for social interaction around Little Tub Harbour, which is home to local shops and restaurants, providing a charming small-town atmosphere.

Top 6 Things to do in Tobermory

Visitors to Tobermory can engage in a range of outdoor adventures, including boat tours to unique islands and shipwrecks, extensive hiking through national parks, and exploring underwater marine life.

1. Boat Tour to Flowerpot Island & Shipwrecks

Embarking on a glass-bottom boat tour offers a distinct view of Tobermory's submerged shipwrecks within Fathom Five National Marine Park. Following this, the tour typically includes a stop at Flowerpot Island, allowing time to explore the island's iconic rock formations, natural caves, and a historic light station by hiking its trails. Booking tours in advance is advisable, especially during peak season, with morning departures often providing the best visibility for underwater viewing. Consider wearing sturdy footwear suitable for island trails.

Cost: A round-trip tour to Flowerpot Island with a drop-off, including shipwreck views, costs approximately CAD $45-65 for adults (2025 prices). A Parks Canada pass for Flowerpot Island is also required and is a separate fee. Alternatively, a stay-aboard scenic cruise to view shipwrecks is around CAD $52.21 plus HST (2025 prices). For a more exclusive experience, private boat tours accommodating up to eight passengers are available starting from approximately CAD $670.48.

Transport: Boat tours depart directly from Little Tub Harbour in Tobermory.

2. Explore Bruce Peninsula National Park (The Grotto & Indian Head Cove)

Hiking within Bruce Peninsula National Park leads to the famous Grotto, a stunning sea cave, and Indian Head Cove, known for its clear turquoise waters. The Grotto is a popular spot where visitors can swim in the cool, clear waters or relax on the surrounding limestone rocks. The park offers various trails, including routes to Halfway Log Dump and the Grotto, catering to different hiking levels. The Visitor Centre features a lookout tower providing panoramic views of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron. Timed parking permits are essential for accessing popular areas like the Grotto and Halfway Log Dump, particularly from late April to October; these should be reserved well in advance.

Cost: Parking fees for areas like the Grotto are approximately CAD $12.25 per vehicle (2022 price, subject to change). While youth admission to Parks Canada sites is free, adult admission to the National Park is around CAD $9.00-17.50 for a day pass.

Transport: Access to the park is primarily by car, with parking reservations required at key entry points. For those without a vehicle, a Parkbus service from Toronto to Tobermory provides transportation to the park during the summer season.

3. Scuba Diving & Snorkelling in Fathom Five National Marine Park

As Canada's freshwater scuba diving capital, Tobermory offers exceptional opportunities to explore over 20 well-preserved historic shipwrecks and unique underwater geological formations within Fathom Five National Marine Park. The clear, cold waters provide excellent visibility for certified divers to explore sites such as the Sweepstakes, and for snorkelers to view shallower wrecks. Individuals interested in diving must be licensed, with advanced certification and cold water experience recommended for deeper dives. All divers are required to register and purchase a dive pass before entering the water.

Cost: A two-tank boat dive charter typically costs around CAD $110 plus HST, with additional costs for equipment rentals (approximately CAD $100 plus HST for a full gear package). Snorkel tours are available from CAD $40-65 plus HST. For those looking to get certified, an Open Water Scuba Diver course starts from CAD $949 plus HST.

Transport: Dive charters and snorkel tours generally depart from the main harbour area in Tobermory.

4. Stroll and Shop at Little Tub Harbour

Little Tub Harbour is the vibrant heart of Tobermory, characterized by its picturesque setting and bustling activity. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, browse a variety of local shops offering souvenirs and artisanal goods, and sample fresh local cuisine at the many restaurants, including classic fish and chips. This area serves as a central hub for tour boat departures and provides a charming atmosphere for relaxation and engaging with local culture.

Cost: Costs vary depending on individual shopping and dining preferences.

Transport: Little Tub Harbour is centrally located and easily walkable from most accommodations within Tobermory.

5. Visit Big Tub Lighthouse

The Big Tub Lighthouse is an iconic landmark that has guided ships into Tobermory's harbour since 1885. This historic, six-sided wooden lighthouse stands tall against the backdrop of Georgian Bay, offering a picturesque setting and views of the harbour. It serves as a testament to the area's rich maritime history and is a popular spot for photography.

Cost: There is no cost to visit Big Tub Lighthouse.

Transport: The lighthouse is accessible by car and is a short 5-10 minute walk from the Bruce Anchor cruise boarding area near Little Tub Harbour.

6. Relax at Singing Sands Beach

Located on the Lake Huron side of the Bruce Peninsula National Park, Singing Sands Beach offers a contrasting experience to the rocky Georgian Bay shores. This long, shallow, sandy beach is ideal for families and offers a tranquil environment for swimming or simply enjoying the sunset. A short boardwalk trail also allows for admiration of the unique plant life in the Singing Sands Fen habitat.

Cost: Access to Singing Sands Beach is typically covered by the Bruce Peninsula National Park fees or parking permits, if applicable to the park access point used.

Transport: Singing Sands Beach is accessible by car within Bruce Peninsula National Park. Parking facilities are available, though they can fill quickly, especially during busy periods.

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