5 Tips For Visiting Kelleys Island, Ohio
Did you know that Ohio has islands?
Kelleys Island is one of those places you quickly fall in love with. It was several years ago when I first set foot on this beautiful Ohio island. Yes, you read that correctly, an island in Ohio. Here are five tips you need to know for an epic experience.
Book Your Ferry Ticket
Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line
510 W. Main St.
Marblehead, Ohio 43440
419-798-9763
https://kelleysislandferry.com
Kelleys Island is an island; therefore, you need to book a ticket on the ferry to get to the island. Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line is the only passenger/vehicle ferry service between Kelleys Island and Marblehead, Ohio. If you choose to park your car at the Marblehead Dock, there is a fee. The hours vary throughout the year, and ferry service runs year-round, weather permitting. You don’t want to arrive at the ferry dock and be told, “Sold Out!”
Rent A Golf Cart
Caddy Shack Square Bike and Cart Rentals
115 Division St.
Kelleys Island, Ohio 43440
419-202-7360
https://caddyshackrental.com
You can drive your car around Kelleys Island. For an EPIC island experience, rent a golf cart for your visit.
I would suggest reserving your gas golf cart ahead of time. If you visit on a busy day, there’s the possibility that you may not be able to grab one after docking on the island. If you want to ride a bicycle around the island, you can also rent a bicycle from here. Most importantly, enjoy your ride around the island!
Visit Kelleys Island State Park
Kelleys Island State Park
920 Division St.
Kelleys Island, OH 43438
866-644-6727
https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/kelleys-island-state-park
Did you know that Ohio State Parks are free to visit? A short drive on your golf cart rental will take you to Kelleys Island State Park. Kelleys Island is home to one of Ohio’s beautiful state parks. You can enjoy the beach, camping, hiking, boating, fishing, and dark skies. Allow time to explore this state park, as you will quickly learn why it’s a popular state park. If you packed a picnic lunch, this is a fantastic area on Kelleys Island to enjoy your lunch.
Explore the Charles Herndon Galleries and Sculpture Garden
Charles Herndon Galleries and Sculpture Garden
110 Laylin Ln.
Kelleys Island, Ohio 43438
419-746-2249
http://www.charlesherndon.com
A 10-acre sculpture garden and gallery await you on Kelleys Island. This attraction is one of the most unique attractions I have visited. His art will make you think, and you will quickly learn to appreciate all types of art. Charles Herndon’s passion for Kelleys Island shines through his sculpture garden and art. I had the opportunity to meet Charles on a visit in June of 2025. He commented that he creates what he knows, and then he quickly learns what he does not know. His sculpture work and painting is on display in the gallery and outdoors throughout the gardens. Park your golf cart and let Charles Herndon’s work inspire you!
Glass blowing demonstrations are also available on Thursdays during the season.
The gardens are open from dusk to dawn, 365 days of the year.
The galleries are open from 11 am -4 pm Thursday- Monday. Othere times can be arranged by appointment.
View The Glacial Grooves
Glacial Grooves Geological Preserve
739 Division St.
Kelleys Island, Ohio 43438
419-746-2546
https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/kelleys-island-state-park
The Glacial Grooves Geological Preserve sits on the north side of Kelleys Island. They are known as the largest easily accessible grooves like this in the world. This National Natural Landmark, known as the Glacial Grooves Geological Preserve on Kelleys Island is quite a sight for the eye. The large grooves are 400 feet long, 35 feet wide, and up to 10 feet deep. Fossils can be found here that are 350 to 400 million years old. These fossils were set into the solid limestone bedrock about 18,000 years ago by the Ice Age that covered North America. The grooves are visible from a walkway that surrounds them and 80% of the walkway is handicap accessible.
Your visit to the island will offer you insight as to why you should return. With several wineries, hiking trails, and incredible views of Lake Erie, you will find yourself planning a return visit. The island offers a calming effect if you embrace nature. You can choose to have a relaxing or busy day on the island. Make the best of your day on Kelleys Island and learn why many people experience paradise when they visit.
Love those islands!