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Key Features & Attractions:

• MS Chi-Cheemaun Ferry: This “big canoe” (Ojibwe for Chi-Cheemaun) is the lifeline for many visitors to Manitoulin Island. The ferry operates seasonally, offering a scenic 1 hour and 45 minute journey. Watching the ferry arrive and depart is an attraction in itself, especially from the waterfront park.
• Little Schoolhouse & Museum: This historical site offers a glimpse into the past, preserving Manitoulin’s only remaining one-room schoolhouse and featuring exhibits on the community’s early fishing days, farming, and military heritage. You can see artifacts from the former ferry, the S.S. Norisle, here as well.
• South Baymouth Range Lighthouses: These iconic white square structures with orange vertical stripes are visible as you approach by ferry. Built in 1898, they served as crucial navigational aids for mariners entering South Bay. You can access the front range light via a boardwalk near the marina.
• South Baymouth Marina: A busy public marina south of the ferry terminal, it’s a popular spot for both private boats and chartered fishing excursions. South Bay itself is known for its excellent fishing, including bass, perch, pike, and walleye.
• John Budd Memorial Park & Beach: A pleasant park offering a relaxing spot to enjoy the waterfront, with a nearby swimming beach suitable for children.
• Bowerman Trails: These easy to moderate hiking trails offer a delightful detour for visitors waiting for the ferry or looking to explore the natural beauty surrounding the community. The trail winds through a beautiful cedar forest.
• Local Shops & Restaurants: As a major entry point to the island, South Baymouth has a small but vibrant business center catering to tourists, offering dining options, souvenir shops, and local art galleries.

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Historical Significance:

South Baymouth’s history is deeply intertwined with its strategic location at “the outlet” (the traditional Ojibwe name for the area, Sagradawawong) of South Bay into Lake Huron. It developed in the late 1870s as an important commercial fishing station and south shore port, with early settlers moving from nearby Walker’s Point. The first public building was a union church built in 1891 that later served as a one-room school until 1962. Regular ferry service between South Baymouth and Tobermory began in 1932, significantly boosting the village’s role as a gateway to Manitoulin Island and transitioning it into a popular tourist destination.

Activities:

• Ferry Dock & Waterfront: A popular spot to relax, watch the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry come and go, and enjoy the views of Lake Huron.
• Little Schoolhouse & Museum: Step back in time at this preserved one-room schoolhouse, which also features exhibits on the community’s fishing and military history.
• South Baymouth Range Lighthouses: These historic lighthouses are a scenic spot to visit, accessible via a boardwalk near the marina.
• John Budd Memorial Park & Beach: A pleasant park with a swimming beach, ideal for families.
• South Baymouth Marina: This is a hub for boating and fishing. You can watch local birds and wildlife, and it’s a starting point for those looking to fish in Lake Huron for salmon, rainbow trout, and lake trout.
• Bowerman Trails: Enjoy a leisurely hike through a beautiful cedar forest on these easy to moderate trails.
• Fishing Charters: Companies like Screamin Reels Sportfishing Charters offer guided fishing experiences on Lake Huron.
• Shopping: Explore local souvenir shops and art galleries in the community’s business centre.
• Horse Riding: Kicking Mule Riding Stables offer 1 hour & 2 hour rides, 4 hour rides with lunch and a swim or overnight camping.
• Garden Centre: JD’s Garden Centre on Beautiful Manitoulin has an array of visual interests to amaze! Offering multiple plants and attractions for any type of gardener.

Food:

You’ll find several dining options in South Baymouth and nearby:

• Pierside Restaurant: Known for its waterfront location and diner classics, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They also have a pet-friendly patio.
• RC’s Diner: A great spot for a quick bite, offering fresh sandwiches, fish and chips, and pies in a warming atmosphere.
• South Baymouth Marina Take-Out: Offers casual food options.
• The Wigwam Gift Shoppe & Motel: In addition to souvenirs, they sell snacks and homemade fudge.
• South Bay Resort & Campground: This resort has amenities and is located next to South Baymouth Beach.
• Garden Gate: Farm to table dining and garden side take out.

Dining is not included

For more information about the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry schedule and bookings, you can visit the Owen Sound Transportation Company website.

Need a ride to or from the Chi-Cheemaun?

We have you covered.

Group-based pricing

One way $125 no stops

Anywhere on the island