Off the Grid on Georgian Bay - Anchoring at the Limestone Islands
- BoatBlurb Contributor
- Aug 5
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 6
By: Julian David Calderon
Tucked away off the beaten path in the rugged waters of Georgian Bay you can find two little gorgeous pieces of land -- the North and South Limestone Islands. Located approximately 14 nautical miles (26 km) west of Parry Sound, these islands make up the Limestone Islands Provincial Park and showcase unparalleled peacefulness, wildlife, and natural beauty for boaters.
The Limestone Islands don’t have the typical granite landscapes renowned in Georgian Bay, but instead have a limestone bedrock, a unique features that sets them apart from the nearby landscape. These islands are surrounded by plenty of open water and are entirely undeveloped. They also form a protected bird habitat, and for much of the year they see few visits from transient traffic. From May 1st to August 1st, day use is restricted and only allowed within specific areas to permit nesting season for resident bird populations. If you can organize a late summer visit, that's your best bet.
Reaching the Limestone Islands by boat is relatively straightforward for those with experience. Most boaters leave from marinas near Parry Sound, such as Georgian Bay Marina or Glenn Burney Marina. From there, it’s a 12 to 14 nautical mile (22-26 km) journey across open water. It’s important to keep an eye out using Canadian Hydrographic Chart #2202, as the route includes exposed shoals and certain wind conditions. But for boaters equipped properly and confident on the water, this trip is well worth it.
Once you arrive, the first thing you’ll notice is the silence and tranquility. There are no cottages or docks. South Limestone Island is slightly larger, with natural clearings and shoreline ledges that make for easy anchoring in calm weather. You’ll often find yourself alone, in your own environment where you can unwind in solitude. A big change from the busy locations and popular anchorages in the area, it allows you to experience boating on Georgian Bay from a different perspective.
The islands are part of Ontario’s network of nature reserves, meaning they are protected under provincial park legislation. That also means visitors need to be self-sufficient and must leave everything as they found it. Boaters should be mindful to leave with everything they brought in and be careful when anchoring to not harm the lakebed. The public access point to the island is located on the eastern side of South Limestone island. You'll want to doublecheck the map and your chart to ensure a smooth arrival. If you're looking to explore extensively around the island chain once you're off the boat, there are maps available that highlight all the terrestrial features.
Wildlife is, without question, one of the major reasons to visit. The islands are home to multiple nesting species, including herring gulls, cormorants, and terns. The area is recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) due to the variety and density of bird populations that use them as seasonal nesting grounds. Boaters may also be lucky enough to spot ospreys and bald eagles overhead, not to mention curious mink or otters along the shoreline.
Where most of Georgian Bay typically showcases the iconic pink granite of the Canadian Shield, the Limestone Islands are lighter in appearance and provide a noticeably different aesthetic than the surrounding terrain. On a sunny day, the white limestone glows in the turquoise bay, creating scenery that stands out noticeably from most Ontario waterways.
If you’re a boater who wants to avoid heavy traffic, a the trip to the Limestone Islands makes for a perfect anchor location or picnic launch point. The area has few of the distractions of popular Georgian Bay hotspots — no bustling docks, no waterfront patios, and no crowds, so prepare accordingly. Just sky, water, wind, and stone. Parks Canada provides extensive information for boaters regarding mooring and anchoring throughout Georgian Bay. Limestone Islands Provincial Park also lists all its amenities and services for those who may require some resources they don't have onboard.
Those who enjoy photography or sketching, the Limestone Islands offer incredible scenery that inspires many. Whether you're documenting birds in flight or capturing the stillness of the horizon, it is the kind of place that encourages boaters to bring a sketch pad and their art supplies. You won't have to sit long before you find a backdrop of some wildlife that's worthy of a sketch, a photo, or a painting. Sitting on the deck of your boat with a camera is all you need to find inspiration.
Although this trip requires more planning and preparation, the destination is well worth the effort. It’s not a destination one stumbles upon — it’s one you must seek out intentionally. For cruisers who love the journey as much as the destination, the Limestone Islands provide great anchorage for those exploring the larger North Channel. And you won't find a better spot for a day trip on land.
Even if you don't own a boat, you can also consider a guided boat trip through the larger Georgian Bay Islands National Park. It won't allow for an anchorage, but it will inspire you nonetheless.
In a region full of popular boating hotspots, the Limestone Islands stand apart — not because they’re flashy, but because they remain untouched.
So, plot your route, prepare accordingly, and discover one of Georgian Bay’s most authentic off-the-grid destinations. #destinations #georgianbay
There is lot's of limestone if you go the west side of Georgian Bay in the Bruce Peninsula.