Paddle in a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve

With over 30,000 islands, Georgian Bay has some of the best sea kayak touring in the world.  

Paddle through the rugged windswept beauty that inspired the famous landscape paintings by the Group of Seven. Explore a mosaic of open water, sheltered bays and coastal wetlands. Camp on smooth Canadian Shield and enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets.   

In 2004, UNESCO designated 347,000 hectares along Georgian Bay’s eastern coast as a World Biosphere Reserve. The unique geography and geology of the area creates more than 1,000 distinct habitat types that support a variety of rare plant, mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibian species.

TRY THIS …

Do-it-yourself, get fully outfitted (boats, paddles, gear and food) or take a guided adventure where everything is taken care of.

If You Have 1 Day

Learn to kayak, upgrade your skills or get Paddle Canada certified at White Squall Paddling Centre or Ontario Sea Kayak Centre, both near Parry Sound.  

If You Have 3 to 5+ Days  

Choose from guided trips to Southern Isles, Churchill Islands, McCoy Isles, Franklin Island or the Mink Islands. Enjoy spectacular paddling, amazing sunsets and learn about the special flora and fauna in the Bay. 

Explore the stunning beauty of Georgian Bay on a 3 to 5 day guided wilderness paddling adventure. Transportation from Toronto can be included. 

Relax and rejuvenate with a kayak and yoga trip. Share great food and stories with your friends. Or take a women's only trip. 

Escape on a fully outfitted, self-guided trip to the Bustard Islands or enjoy a fully guided trip. These 600 isolated islands feature stunning landscapes. See amazing sunsets. Paddle from the Lower French River to the Bustards. 

Explore the North Channel on a guided sea kayaking expedition or let local experts help you plan your self-guided adventure to Phillip Edward Island.  

ADVENTURE PROVIDERS 

Black Feather 

Killarney Outfitters 

Ontario Sea Kayak Centre 

White Squall Paddling Centre 

Wild Women Expeditions 

Wilderness Adventures 

FOOTNOTES

WHILE YOU’RE THERE

• Just an hour north of Parry Sound, the French River Visitor Centre tells the story of Canada’s first heritage river – a key travelling route for Aboriginals and early explorers.
• Fly, Hike & Dine with Georgian Bay Airways or other sightseeing flights
• Be sure to stop by the French River Trading Post for hand-crafted Canadian moccasins, carvings and other must haves.

TRAVEL INFO

The eastern Georgian Bay area is easily accessed by car or bus. 

For regional travel information, visit Explorer’s Edge and Northeastern Ontario. Learn more about the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve.