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Kelley's Island
This island which is located about 12 miles away from Sandusky, Ohio has some of the best fishing, and some of the most beautiful scenery. This is the biggest island within the US borders on Lake Erie. When visiting this island you'll find that there is a lot of natural history here. This island was created during the ice age when glaciers moved across the north. You can find large glacial grooves all over this island. There is one place where there are 400 foot by 35 foot wide grooves that are always being studied to learn more about what went on during the glacial period.
This island is also the rest stop for migratory birds. This island has all kinds of wild birds and is the ideal place for birdwatchers to visit.
Kelley's island also offers some of the best fishing. People come here from all over to fish for Walleye, perch bass and other game fish. The way to get to this island is either by plane, boat or ferry. For a fee you can bring your car over. There are hotels and campgrounds for visitors to stay. You don't even really need to bring your car. There are cabs, carts and bicycle rentals right on the island and everything is within walking distance. There are also restaurants and gift shops on the island.
South Bass Island
This island is another great attraction on Lake Erie. Put-in Bay is located here. Getting there is half the fun. To get there most people use the ferries. They are the Miller Boat lines, which provide service for passengers and vehicles from Catawba Island. It gets you to the island in just under 20 minutes.
For those who aren't bringing their car, and want to be taken directly to Downtown Put-In Bay, there's Jet Express. This boat line is known as "the fastest ferry boats in North America". They make the trip to the northern part of the island in just over 20 minutes. You can catch this ferry from Downtown Port Clinton, Ohio.
Once you arrive, there are many places to visit and so much to do, and it's all within walking distance, but a lot of people enjoy renting bicycles, golf carts or taking the tour train. If none of this sounds appealing, there's also a Classic Car rental, where you can rent historical cars. South Bass Island is one of the best places for fishing year round.
One of the historical attractions is the Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, which is a monument that was erected in honor of Commodore Oliver Perry. Inside the structure is an elevator which takes visitors to an open-air observation deck 317 feet up. The view is spectacular!
South Bass Island is known for its vineyards and its underground caves. When on the island be sure to visit "Heinemann's Winery" and Crystal Cave. Established in 1888, the winery is still operated by the Heinemann family. You can take a tour of the place, then afterward sample the wine, but be warned the stuff is delicious and somewhat potent. I would highly recommend a designated driver! Directly across from the Heinemann Winery is Perry's Cave. This cave is a historical site.
The island is loaded with accommodations. On the island there are hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, cottages and condos that can be rented by the week or longer.
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