Georgian Bay Islands National Park: A Brand New Day Trip Destination
So, here's the thing about Georgian Bay Islands National Park. You can only reach it by boat.
It sits in the world's largest freshwater archipelago - the famous 30,000 Islands - where windswept white pines cling to exposed Canadian Shield granite. The water is impossibly clear and the sunsets are the kind that made the Group of Seven pick up their paintbrushes.
Most Torontonians have never been, because getting there seems... complicated. That's where we come in.
We handle the logistics. You handle the adventure.
Parkbus gets you from downtown Toronto to and onto the water to Beausoleil Island without a car, without the Highway 400 stress, and without figuring out water taxi schedules. Just show up, hop on, and by the time you've made friends with the person in the next seat, you'll be stepping off a boat onto one of Ontario's most beautiful islands.
What's waiting for you on Beausoleil Island
This is an island where two worlds collide. The southern end is lush hardwood forest with sugar maples, basswood, and soft soil underfoot. Head north and you're walking on ancient, exposed granite of the Canadian Shield through landscapes that feel wild and untouched. That shift happens in a single hike, and it's unlike anything else this close to Toronto.
This is a guided trip!
Your ticket includes round trip coach transportation, your ferry ride and your admissions to the park.
Pickup Locations
34 Asquith Avenue
Pick up at 34 Asquith Ave, just north of the Yonge and Bloor Subway stop. We recommend getting there 15 minutes early to make sure you have enough time for the bus.
Departure Time
8:00 AM
Return Time
8:00 PM
Georgian Bay Islands National Park
Estimated arrival
11:00 AM
Departure
2:45 PM
How do I get to the island? Do I need to arrange my own boat?
Nope, that's the beauty of Parkbus. We handle your transportation from Toronto all the way to Beausoleil Island, including the boat transfer from Honey Harbour. No car needed and no water taxi to coordinate. Just book your Parkbus ticket and you're sorted.
How far is it from Toronto?
Honey Harbour is about 2 to 2.5 hours north of Toronto by road. From there, it's a short, scenic boat ride to Beausoleil Island. You'll be on the island before you know it.
What about food and water?
Bring all your own food and drinking water, or bring a water filter or purification system to treat water from Georgian Bay. There are no stores or restaurants on the island, so plan your meals in advance and don't forget a camp stove since campfires may be subject to fire bans depending on conditions. All food and anything with a scent must be stored in the bear-proof food lockers provided at campsites.
Wait, bears?
Black bears do visit Beausoleil Island, which is why food lockers are provided and food storage rules are strictly enforced. This is standard practice at most Ontario camping destinations. Keep a clean campsite, store your food properly, and you'll be just fine.
What about the rattlesnakes I've heard about?
The Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake is a shy, non-aggressive species found primarily in the northern part of the island. They're a threatened species and an important part of the park's ecosystem. Stick to marked trails, watch where you step (especially on warm rocks), and give any snake you encounter plenty of space. Encounters are uncommon and bites are extremely rare.
Is this trip good for beginners?
Absolutely. The trails on Beausoleil Island range from flat, easy loops to moderate scrambles, so there's something for every fitness level. Island camping also has a nice advantage in that the sites are well-established, you're never truly remote, and the Parks Canada staff are on-island if you need anything. If you've been curious about camping but haven't taken the plunge, this is one of the most approachable ways to start.
Is there cell service on the island?
Cell service is limited and unreliable on Beausoleil Island. Consider this a feature, not a bug. Download the Parks Canada app before you leave Toronto for offline trail maps and self-guided tour content.
What if it rains?
Our trips run rain or shine.
How many people will be on this trip?
A limited 24 spots for this pilot run!
