Amherst Island

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Amherst Island is truly a gem in Loyalist Township

To get to the island, hop on the ferry in Millhaven and travel 15 minutes where you’ll dock in the quaint village of Stella.

If you’re a nature lover, a history buff or just want to spend some time exploring something completely unique, this island is a great place to visit. Settled by Irish immigrants in the 1800’s you’ll see the legacy left behind by the abundance of dry stone walls as you travel the country roads.

Birding – Amherst Island is known internationally as a great place for birding, specifically to see large groups of wintering owls and raptors. Visit our Birding page to learn more and see the best birding hotspots.
Stone Wallers – Take a self-guided tour and see the historic dry stone walls on Amherst Island. With the largest known collection of them in Canada, you won’t have any trouble spotting them as you drive through the island.
Topsy Farms – Release your inner hippie and come visit the happy sheep on this inviting farm! While here there’s plenty to do, including: hiking, workshops, or visit the wool shed for some pretty unique products.
Scuba Diving – With a number of shipwrecks and ideal diving conditions, Amherst Island is a paradise for divers. In fact, the area south of the island is known as the Amherst Island Graveyard because of its many wrecks.
Sand Beach Wetlands Conservation Area – For beautiful lakeside views head to the scenic shoreline of Sand Beach Wetlands. This 54-acre conservation area is a protected and unspoiled series of lush wetlands and natural sand beaches.
Neilson Store Museum – Once a general store, the Neilson Store Museum is now a trip back in time. This is a great place to learn more about the island and it’s first settlers in 1789 and see many artifacts from that period. You can also stop at the Weasel and Easel Fine Arts and Craft Store, housed in the museum.
The Back Kitchen – This unique eatery is entirely run by volunteers and is a not-for-profit restaurant. They support local growers to serve up some pretty tasty dishes.
Fishing – The waters in Lake Ontario are a wonderful place to fish for Bass, Musky, Pike, and Walleye. We also have world class Salmon and Trout fishing in the waters around Amherst Island.

0 kms

from the mainland to the island

people call the island home

Amherst Island Ferry Service

The Amherst ferry, aptly named the Frontenac II is a delightful way to get to and from the island. From the mainland you’ll board at the Millhaven Ferry Dock and travel approximately 15-minutes to arrive island-side at the Stella Ferry Dock. Tickets are purchased on the ferry after you have boarded for a small fee. For times, prices and more, click the link below.