Flowerpot Island
Fathom Five National Marine Park
The Marl Bed trail on Flowerpot Island is permanently closed to prioritize ecological protection and visitor safety.
Surrounded by the cold, clear waters of Georgian Bay, Flowerpot Island is one of the signature destinations in Fathom Five National Marine Park. Accessible only by water, the island is reached by booking a trip with a private tour boat operator from the town of Tobermory.
Flowerpot Island is renowned for its striking “flowerpot” rock pillars, caves, rare plants, and historic lightstation operated by the Friends of Bruce District Parks. Most visitors spend a half or full day exploring the trails and taking in the island’s unique scenery.
Notice
- Please contact local tour boat operators to reserve your space.
- There are no garbage facilities, visitors must take all garbage and recycling with them when they leave!
- During summer, drinks & snacks may be available at the lightstation tuck shop, subject to volunteer availability. It is strongly recommended to bring your own water and food.
- Pets must remain on a leash at all times.
- Drones are not permitted to take off or land within the park.
- Please observe directional signs and warnings.
Things to keep in mind
Respect
- Respect nature: leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but pictures.
- Graffiti, writing on rocks or altering the environment damages the natural area and may result in a fine.
- Don't miss the boat - coordinate with the private tour boat companies to ensure on time arrival and departure.
Island camping
Experience the unique opportunity to camp on Flowerpot Island—one of the most memorable ways to enjoy Fathom Five National Marine Park. Six designated campsites are located near Beachy Cove.
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Island map
Map of Flowerpot island facilities
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Island trails
Most visitors spend about a half day exploring Flowerpot Island. Start at Beachy Cove and follow the trail to the flowerpots and cave, then continue to the historic lightstation. Many return to the dock by the same route, while those seeking a more challenging hike can complete the full loop, which includes rocky terrain and steep stairs.
Flowerpot trail
- 30 mins, 1.3 km
- Easy. 1.5 m wide. Packed stone chip, 2 sets of stairs. Some exposed rocks and roots. Access to Flowerpot is a scramble across natural rocky shoreline. Museum at end of trail. Tuck shop open subject to volunteer availability.
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Lightstation lookout trail
- 10 mins, 250 m one way
- Moderate. 80 cm wide concrete, uneven in sections, overhead hazards. Narrow catwalk with steep sections and stairs.
Mountain trail
- 40 mins, 1.4 km one way
- Difficult. 70 cm wide. Natural, very rugged trail, lots of exposed roots and rocks, with very steep sections and stairs.
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How much does it cost?
Check the fees page for daily admission fees. Admission fees are included in private cruise operator's rates.
Valid for the same day as your cruise, the fee includes entry to the Parks Canada Visitor Centre in Tobermory.
Note: Tour boats are privately operated; fees apply.
What should you bring?
This list is not exhaustive! Need help knowing what to bring? Download the Parks Canada App where you can edit and save your own packing checklist.
- sturdy footwear (hiking shoes or boots)
- sunscreen & hat
- carry water; no tap water is available
- during summer, drinks & snacks may be available at the lightstation tuck shop subject to volunteer availability.
How to get there
Flowerpot Island is located 6.5 km from the Tobermory harbour and is accessible only by boat (not accessible by foot or car). Two private tour boat operators offer return trips from mid May to mid October, weather permitting.
Check with them for schedules and rates:
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