Discover One Of Canada's Best Coastlines And Swim, Camp, And Hike On An Island National Park

Untouched wilderness, rugged landscapes, and a diverse ecosystem — Canada's vast territory is the perfect match for outdoor lovers and nature enthusiasts hoping to dive headfirst into adventure. From budget-friendly destinations that adventure seekers will love to hidden islands that are perfect for wildlife spotting, and underrated cities that everyone should visit at least once, the country's penchant for all things natural beauty and outdoor recreation help it stand out as a premier travel destination no matter what you're into.

However, in between popular destinations like Banff National Park and Niagara Falls, there's a hidden gem that's well-deserving of its time in the spotlight: Georgian Bay Islands National Park. A picturesque cluster of islands in Ontario — located roughly two hours north of Toronto — this national park is part of the largest freshwater archipelago in the world. Made up of 63 windswept islands and islets, the park's many hiking trails and secluded beaches are the perfect way to soak up some peace and quiet. Plus, considering it's accessible only via boat, it's safe to say that the park offers a truly immersive escape into nature marked by pine forests, crystal-clear waters, and rocky shorelines.

Spanning a whopping 3,459 acres, there's no doubt that Georgian Bay Islands National Park has a little something for every type and skill level of outdoor enthusiast. For starters, over on Beausoleil Island — the park's main and largest island — avid hikers can hit up a network of 11 marked trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes. These include the 1.5-mile Dossyonshing Trail boasting views of Long Bay; the 1.5-mile Fairy Trail Loop on the northern side of the island; and the 4.3-mile Georgian Trail and 0.9-mile Christian Trail on the southern side, both of which are open to hikers and cyclists alike.

During the warmer months, swimming is also a popular activity among visitors to the park. With several beaches and swimming spots dotted around, you'll be spoiled for choice as to where to cool down after your hike. As a pro tip, however, make sure you don't miss a stop by the Cedar Spring Campground and Honeymoon Bay Campgrounds for two of the best swimming experiences in the Georgian Bay Islands.

Loving your visit and don't want to leave the end of the day? You're in luck. With over 100 campsites and a handful of cabins to choose from located on Beausoleil Island, guests are more than welcome to spend a night or two under the stars. To book your spot, simply head over to the official Parks Canada website, select your dates and campground, pick your site, and voilà!  

A great way to get your bearings and make the most of your trip — all without missing any highlights — is to download a handy personal audio guide directly onto your phone to assist during the longer drives. The Parry Sound and Toronto Audio Driving Tour was designed by local tour operator Tripvia Tours, and is available on Viator for just $5. It is brimming with information about all of the hidden gems and must-see sights (58, to be exact) that sit on the 150-mile drive between the two. Better yet, the guide also includes details about Georgian Bay Islands National Park, which makes it a great option for helping you break up the drive and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

If you're hoping to check out Georgian Bay Islands National Park during your next visit to Ontario, it's important to note that the islands are only accessible via ferry and you must secure a reservation in advance in order to guarantee a spot on the boat. As for transportation, the DayTripper ferry service runs from Honey Harbour — located just off Highway 400 — directly into Beausoleil Island on a 15-minute scenic sail.

This service is only available for half-day park visitors — which means that overnight campers and full-day guests are expected to book a private water taxi or use their own boat for the crossing. Price-wise, daytripper tickets will set you back around $18 per person, while admission to the park will cost roughly around $4. Overnight camping fees vary depending on the site and type of accommodation you choose.