Wolfe Island
Wolfe Island, located where the St. Lawrence River meets Lake Ontario, is the largest of the Thousand Islands. The island is 29 kilometres long and forms part of Frontenac County and the Township of Frontenac Islands. The island’s largest community is the town of Marysville, known for its main street lined with cafes, bakeries, restaurants and independent shops.
Visitors seeking outdoor activities will find plenty to keep themselves occupied on the island. Cycle on one of the four island routes, swim at Wolfe Island Beach, or paddle at Big Sandy Bay.
Wolfe Island, Frontenac Islands
How to get to Wolfe Island
Location: Frontenac Islands, Ontario
By ferry in Canada: Wolfe Island can be reached year-round via the Wolfe Islander III ferry with service from the city of Kingston. The Wolfe Island Ferry takes about 20 minutes to cross and holds approximately 55 cars per trip.
By ferry from the U.S.: American visitors can travel to the island via Horne’s Ferry, leaving daily from Cape Vincent, NY.
Know before you go
The best way to explore Wolfe Island is by bicycle, as the shops and restaurants are located in Marysville, about 4.5 kilometres from the ferry dock. If you want to bring your car on the ferry, be sure to arrive early. There are no taxis or public transit available on the island.
If you’re arriving in the summer, take advantage of a free shuttle bus that runs from the dock to Marysville.
Things to do at Wolfe Island
Discover more activities and experiences.
Go birding
Bring your binoculars and watch for hawks, owls and songbirds on Wolfe Island’s fields and shores. In particular, keep an eye out for Great Blue Herons at Big Sandy Bay Beach.
Shop Main Street
Marysville has a friendly small-town vibe. Find delicious options to eat and drink as you stroll down Main Street or check out the Wolfe Island Gallery on the west side of the village.
Stay overnight
Create the perfect getaway to Wolfe Island by staying at a charming hotel or B&B in Marysville. With their convenient locations, you’ll be surrounded by plenty of fun things to do.
Ride around the island
Cycling is very popular on Wolfe Island. The island features four main cycling routes, each taking you on a different adventure—from farmland to the lakeshore.
Relax on a beach
Bring your towel and a bathing suit, then settle in at Big Sandy Bay Beach. This private expanse of shoreline awaits you, offering the perfect setting for a day of tranquil relaxation.
Articles and itineraries
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Interesting facts about Wolfe Island
Wolfe Island was part of the traditional hunting lands of the Tyendinaga Mohawk people, who called the island “Kawehnóhkwes tsi kawè:note” (meaning “Long Island Standing”). The French called the island “Grand Île” (Grand Island). In 1972, the island was renamed to Wolfe Island, in honour of British General James Wolfe.
The Wolfe Islander III ferry travels from Kingston to Wolfe Island, along a route that includes an underwater air bubbler system to prevent ice from building up in the winter.
Wolfe Island was once known for its dairy farming and was the site of multiple cheese factories.
Last updated: April 3, 2024