Tobermory is truly the Caribbean of Ontario. I honestly couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the turquoise, crystal-clear water. Tobermory is located at the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula with its north shores on Georgian Bay and south shores on Lake Huron. My friends and I went on a fall hiking trip to Tobermory in mid-October. Unfortunately, it was only when we arrived in Tobermory that we found out most of the town’s businesses close after Thanksgiving weekend. Nonetheless, we had a fantastic time visiting Tobermory in the fall and I would highly recommend it for those wanting to avoid the large crowds. I definitely want to visit Tobermory in the summer to experience the infamous glass-bottom cruises and diving amongst the shipwrecks. I hope you enjoy my guide to Tobermory in the fall!
WHERE TO STAY
Accomodations in Tobermory can be limited, especially during high season, so make sure you book well in advance. Luckily, we found a perfect Airbnb right on Highway 6, close to town and to Bruce Peninsula National Park. Susan’s Airbnb is a great space for up to 4 people and she is a wonderful host. The house was sparkling clean and she even added personal touches. As a bonus, there is a porch with a BBQ and a large backyard with a fire pit. I highly recommend staying at Susan’s Airbnb when visiting Tobermory!
If you’re interested in booking Susan’s Airbnb in Tobermory, click here.
For more accommodation options in Tobermory, click here.
NOTE: As previously mentioned, most of Tobermory’s businesses are closed after Thanksgiving Weekend, and that includes restaurants. If you are visiting Tobermory in the fall, I highly recommend booking accommodation with access to a kitchen so that you can make your own meals and do not have to rely on restaurants.
WHAT TO DO
Downtown
The downtown of Tobermory really reminds me of Eastern Canada. I loved walking around the quaint harbour, admiring the boats and the cute restaurants. During high season, you can take a cruise from the harbour to see the famous shipwrecks and various islands.
Bruce Peninsula National Park
Bruce Peninsula National Park is one of the main attractions in Tobermory. Here you can hike the Bruce Trail, visit the famous “Grotto” and enjoy absolutely amazing views of Tobermory’s turquoise waters.
Fathom Five National Marine Park
Fathom Five National Marine Park has another section of Tobermory’s Bruce Trail and it is here where the Bruce Trail begins! Park at the Parks Canada Visitor Centre and make sure to visit Tobermory’s Lookout Tower. Hike the Burn Point Loop for beautiful views of Little Dunks Bay.
Little Cove
Little Cove is a beach area that you can drive up to with more stunning views. You can also park here to hike the Bruce Trail.
Mermaid’s Cove
Mermaid’s Cove is another viewpoint and swimming area. I really enjoyed the short walk from the parking lot to the cove – it was beautiful in the fall!
Big Tub Lighthouse
Big Tub Lighthouse is an active lighthouse in Tobermory that was first lit in 1885. I loved visiting this famous lighthouse!
Dyer’s Bay
Dyer’s Bay is a short drive south of Tobermory and it has a nice beach and pier area. There are also hiking trails from the parking lot that you can explore.
I hope you enjoyed my guide to Tobermory, Ontario in the fall!
To read my blog post, “A Guide to Prince Edward County, Ontario,” click here.
To read my blog post, “10 Great Hiking Spots in Southern Ontario,” click here.
