Recreational Boating:
Among Ohio’s estimated three million recreational boaters and the 415,000 registered boats, about one-third of the state’s recreational boating activity occurs on Lake Erie. The good news from Lake Erie is a recent report by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that stated Lake Erie water levels are up 16 inches from last winter and 13 inches above the long-term winter average. More water in the big lake means more boating activity and fewer navigational concerns. JANUARY 31, 2005 The Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Regional Airports:
Three major airports are less than 1.5 hours away: Toledo Express–60 minutes; Detroit Metropolitan 90 minutes; and Cleveland-Hopkins 75 minutes.

1. Port Clinton:
Located along the Southern Shore of Lake Erie, Port Clinton is a small town that serves as the gateway to the many recreation options in Ottawa County and is also a popular departure point to the Lake Erie Islands.

2. Erie-Ottawa-Sandusky Regional Airport:
The largest airport between Toledo and Cleveland. With a 5,400 foot runway, the airport can handle virtually any type of aircraft.

3. Lake Erie Islands Regional Welcome Center:
A starting point for the region where visitors can purchase tickets for area attractions and learn more about recreation opportunities.

4. Catawba Island Club:
Private Yachtsman Country Club Located on the shores of Lake Erie features a renovated 18 hole Authur Hills/ Steve Forester Designed golf course scheduled to open in the Fall of 2006 and condominium communities starting at around $335,000.

5. East Harbor State Park:
Located along the shores of Lake Erie, the park features a marina, a 1500’ beach, and a diverse selection of activities including boating, fishing, hiking, swimming and camping.

6. Marblehead Lighthouse:
The oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes, has guided sailors safely along the rocky shores of Marblehead Penninsula since 1822 and is now opperated as a State Park.

7. Johnson Island:
This former Confederate prison still features a Confederate Cemetery; However, parts of the island have been converted from a quarry into a waterfront community featuring single family homes with dockage.

8. Sandusky:
This city, founded in 1818, was recently rated America’s 6th best small town and features over 22 miles of shore line within its city limits. The city is noted for its beautifully landscaped parks, historic architecture, and bayfront corridor.

9. Cedar Point:
The largest amusement ride park in the world is also the second oldest. The park features 16 roller coasters and is visited by over 3 million people annually.

10. Putt-In-Bay on South Bass Island:
A variety of attractions beckon families, including two caves, a winery, a wildlife museum and a local history museum. South Bass Island State Park offers waterfront camping, fishing, and a beach.

11. Kelleys Island:
Named as a “Top 10 Undiscovered Place” by “Vacations” magazine, Kelleys Island’s reputation remains the same today. It is an island paradise for travelers and locals alike.