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Kelleys Island
Boating in Sandusky, Ohio
Kelleys Island
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920 Division St
Kelleys Island, OH 43438
419-746-2546
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Kelleys Island Description
The largest American island on Lake Erie, Kelleys is a beautiful, family-friendly retreat. Quiet most of the year (it's surrounded by ice in winter), things get busy in the summer, when the island's population quadruples. Outdoor activities are the name of the game -- go hiking, biking, sailing, scuba diving, sea kayaking, fishing, swimming, or just hang out at the beach. Overnight options are plentiful, from fancy B&Bs to a yurt (a big circular tent) in the state park.
Boating
Kid Tips
Babies: Strap on a baby backpack and head for a hike. It's easy-going even with the extra baggage.
Toddlers & Pre-K: The state park, with its small sandy beaches and a playground, will keep them happy.
School-Age Kids: For kids interested in Native American history, Inscription Rock -- a limestone slab decorated with prehistoric Indian pictographs -- is a must-see. And if you've got kids into geology, stop by the Glacial Grooves (left by a glacier scouring the island more than 400 million years ago), which look like an enormous racetrack for the likes of Fred Flintstone.
Planning Notes
- Pack snacks. Once you're away from the tiny downtown there aren't many places to grab a bag of pretzels.
- Wear layers. It can be a bit cooler on the island than on the mainland.
- Watch the time. You'll be at the mercy of the ferry schedule to get back to the mainland.
Just the Facts
Hours: Kelley's Island has a summer tourist season, so call ahead for restaurant times and golf cart availability if you're planning to tour.
Fees: Free
Recommended Time: Half day
Reviews of Kelleys Island
Boring!
By Mrad56 June 10, 2010
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age Kids
Pre-Teens & Teens
What we didn't love:
Nothing there
I took my 2 sons ages 8 and 11 to Kelley's Island and what a major disappointment that was. The island seemed secluded. There was nothing to do except ride around in a golf cart. It's a shame that Lake Erie has these island and we fail to develop them. My recommendation is don't waste your time or money going here! Read More
What's Nearby?
- Maritime Museum of Sandusky 125 Meigs St
Sandusky, OH 44870
419-624-0274 41.46026277777778 -82.70286 - Lakeside Heritage Society 324 W 3rd St
Lakeside Marblhd, OH 43440
419-798-5519 41.54400388888889 -82.75092388888889
