Kelleys Island Ferry - Marblehead Dock - Image 1
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Kelleys Island Ferry Marblehead Dock

4.6
·3k reviews·Lakeside Marblehead, United States

A charming island accessible by ferry, offering natural wonders like glacial grooves and a relaxed atmosphere with dining and recreation.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Off-season weekends

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Kelleys Island Ferry - Marblehead Dock - Image 1

Kelleys Island Ferry Marblehead Dock

Best Time

Off-season weekends

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming island accessible by ferry, offering natural wonders like glacial grooves and a relaxed atmosphere with dining and recreation.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"A fun time for everyone, with beautiful views and plenty to see and do on the island."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Book Ferry Early

Secure your spot on the ferry, especially if bringing a vehicle, to avoid long waits. :car:

⛳ Rent a Golf Cart

The best way to explore the island! Reserve yours in advance to guarantee availability. :golf_cart:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Glacial Grooves State Memorial

Glacial Grooves State Memorial

North side of the island

Witness massive, ancient glacial grooves carved into the limestone bedrock. A truly awe-inspiring natural wonder.

Reddit
Kelleys Island Wine Co.

Kelleys Island Wine Co.

Island winery

Enjoy local wines and outdoor activities. A great spot to relax and soak in the island atmosphere.

Reddit
Beaches and Lake Erie Views

Beaches and Lake Erie Views

Various locations

Discover beautiful beaches and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Lake Erie and surrounding islands.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ferry Tickets in Advance

To avoid long queues, especially during peak season, consider booking your Kelleys Island ferry tickets online ahead of time. This is crucial for both passengers and vehicles to ensure a smooth departure and arrival. Reddit

Island Transportation: Golf Carts

Once on Kelleys Island, renting a golf cart is the most popular way to explore. Book these in advance if possible, as they can sell out quickly, especially during busy weekends. Reddit

Best Times

When
Off-season weekends
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Shorter ferry lines, less busy
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Put in Bay to Kelleys

🚗 Book Ferry Early

Secure your spot on the ferry, especially if bringing a vehicle, to avoid long waits. Reddit :car:

⛳ Rent a Golf Cart

The best way to explore the island! Reserve yours in advance to guarantee availability. Reddit :golf_cart:

reddit.com

Family vacation- Marblehead or Kelley’s island?

reddit.com

What to do at Kelleys Island?

☀️ Pack for the Sun

Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable day on the water and island. :sunwithface:

🍔 Island Dining Options

Enjoy diverse restaurants, from casual tiki bars to eateries with great scenery. Reddit :hamburger:

reddit.com

Lake Erie vacation without alcohol

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Book Ferry Early

Secure your spot on the ferry, especially if bringing a vehicle, to avoid long waits. Reddit :car:

⛳ Rent a Golf Cart

The best way to explore the island! Reserve yours in advance to guarantee availability. Reddit :golf_cart:

☀️ Pack for the Sun

Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable day on the water and island. :sunwithface:

🍔 Island Dining Options

Enjoy diverse restaurants, from casual tiki bars to eateries with great scenery. Reddit :hamburger:

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

While golf carts are popular, many areas are walkable and offer beautiful lake views. :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise the Kelleys Island Ferry for its efficient operation and the scenic journey. The island itself is loved for its natural beauty, including the Glacial Grooves, and its relaxed, fun atmosphere with plenty of dining and recreational options. Some find the ferry pricing a bit high, and recommend arriving early to avoid queues.

"Visiting Kelly's island was great. I especially loved the ferry ride and all the beaches you could go to and things to see.. we rented a golf cart to drive around the island, plenty of restaurants to go to, and the views where all beautiful. It's best to go there off-season, it's not crowded... You can see surrounding Islands as you travel over on the ferry boat...Just a fun time for everyone..."

Country Girl

"Well run operation got us to Kelleys Island and back. Be aware, there's not many creature comforts for passengers. There are benches on an elevated deck that runs the length of the ship. We had a lovely time sitting up there during the twenty minutes journey. There's also a small interior cabin and there is a restroom.

The ferry is really designed for moving cars and trucks and people are allowed to tag along too. We rode to the island smelling an idling concrete truck's diesel exhaust. The cars get packed in right on the deck so it can be tricky to squeeze through to the restroom. But that stuff is OK to put up with for getting to and from the island... What else are you going to do? 🤷‍♂️

Recommend going early. We got back to Marblehead about 11:30 am and the people departure line was very long. I think lots of people were going to be standing on the way to the island."

John Molnar

"We went in October so off season. It was a lot of fun. We play mini golf, drank at the Tiki bar. It had lots of games in a fenced bar area so could relax and and have a drink while my kids played the yard games. The Villa eatery and bar had amazing food and great scenary. Also had yard games to entertain kids while waiting for food. The grooves and quarry trail was cool. Papa Ts had the best ice cream."

Michelle Walker

What People Like

Scenic ferry ride
Glacial Grooves
Relaxed island vibe

What People Dislike

Ferry price
Long departure lines

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Kelleys Island Ferry departs from the Marblehead Dock, offering a scenic 20-minute ride across Lake Erie. You can travel as a walk-on passenger or bring your vehicle. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, as departure lines can get long. Reddit

Ferry hours vary seasonally and can be affected by weather. It's best to check the official Kelleys Island Ferry schedule online for the most up-to-date departure times. TikTok

Generally, dogs are allowed on the Kelleys Island Ferry, but they must be leashed and may need to be secured in a carrier. Always confirm the latest pet policy with the ferry operator before your trip. :dog:

The ferry charges per person and per vehicle, which can make it a bit pricey. It's advisable to check their website for current pricing details before you go. Reddit

Yes, the Kelleys Island Ferry is equipped to transport vehicles, including cars and trucks. However, space can be limited, so booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel times. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While not always mandatory, purchasing ferry tickets in advance is strongly recommended, particularly for vehicles and during busy periods, to avoid long queues and ensure your spot. Reddit

Attraction hours on Kelleys Island can vary by season. For specific times, it's best to check the individual websites or social media pages of places like the Glacial Grooves or the winery. Reddit

The island itself does not have an entrance fee. However, individual attractions like the Glacial Grooves State Memorial may have small fees or require donations. Golf cart rentals and some activities will also incur costs. :moneywithwings:

It's highly recommended to book your golf cart rental in advance, as they are a popular mode of transport and can sell out quickly, especially on weekends and during summer. Reddit

Many establishments on Kelleys Island accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors, tips, or in case of any technical issues with card readers. :credit_card:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Kelleys Island offers a variety of activities including visiting the Glacial Grooves, exploring beaches, enjoying the winery, playing mini-golf, and dining at local restaurants. Renting a golf cart is a popular way to see the sights. Reddit

Yes, Kelleys Island is family-friendly with beaches, mini-golf, and restaurants that often have yard games for kids. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a fun destination for all ages. Reddit

Popular spots include North Beach and the public beach areas. Many visitors enjoy the scenic views from various points around the island. Reddit

While golf carts are the primary mode of transport for many, the island is also walkable, especially around the main village area. However, to reach attractions like the Glacial Grooves, a golf cart or bike is more practical. :walking:

The ferry has benches on an elevated deck for passengers, a small interior cabin, and a restroom. Be aware that cars are parked on the main deck, which can sometimes make access to the restroom a bit tight. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Kelleys Island features a range of dining options, from casual tiki bars with yard games to restaurants offering great scenery and food, like The Villa Eatery and Bar. Papa Ts is known for ice cream. Reddit

While specific menus vary, most restaurants on Kelleys Island will likely have some vegetarian options. It's always best to inquire directly with the restaurant about vegan choices. :leafy_green:

Restaurants on Kelleys Island are generally reasonably priced, offering good food without being overly expensive. Reddit

You can typically bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages for personal consumption on the island, especially for picnics. However, alcohol policies may vary, and it's best to check with specific venues. :pizza:

There are a few small convenience stores or markets on Kelleys Island where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and basic groceries. For a wider selection, it's advisable to stock up before you leave the mainland. :shopping_cart:

📸 📸 Photography

The Glacial Grooves offer dramatic geological formations for unique shots. The ferry ride itself provides great views of Lake Erie and the surrounding islands. Don't miss the scenic vistas from various points around the island. Reddit

Yes, Kelleys Island offers beautiful sunset views over Lake Erie. Find a spot along the western shore or from the ferry for memorable sunset photography. :city_sunset:

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the Glacial Grooves. Don't forget a waterproof bag if you plan on being near the water. :camerawithflash:

Generally, photography is allowed at most Kelleys Island attractions for personal use. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits, so it's wise to check with the specific site management. :iphone:

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the best natural light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but it's still great for capturing the vibrant blues of Lake Erie. :sunriseovermountains:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kelleys Island is a fantastic destination for families. The ferry ride itself is an adventure for children, offering views of the lake. Once on the island, renting a golf cart provides a fun way for kids to explore. Reddit Many restaurants, like The Villa Eatery and Bar, offer yard games and a relaxed atmosphere that keeps children entertained while waiting for food. Reddit Mini-golf is also a popular activity, and the beaches offer opportunities for sandcastle building and splashing in the water. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen and snacks for a comfortable family day out.

💰 Budget Travelers

While the ferry can add up, especially with a vehicle, Kelleys Island can still be enjoyed on a budget. Focus on the free natural attractions like the Glacial Grooves and public beaches. Reddit Pack your own picnic lunches and snacks to save on dining costs. Consider visiting during the off-season when accommodation and rental prices might be lower. Walking or biking around the main village can also save on golf cart rental fees for shorter distances. :money_bag:

couples

Kelleys Island offers a charming and relaxed getaway for couples. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride together, followed by exploring the island via golf cart. Reddit A visit to the Kelleys Island Wine Co. provides a romantic setting for wine tasting. Reddit Enjoy leisurely walks along the beaches, take in the beautiful lake views, and savor a nice dinner at one of the island's restaurants. The off-season can offer a particularly peaceful and intimate experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Kelleys Island Ferry

The Kelleys Island Ferry is your gateway to the island, operating from Marblehead Dock. It's designed to transport both passengers and vehicles, offering a 20-minute journey across Lake Erie. Visitors often note the efficiency of the crew in loading vehicles, though it can feel a bit tight with cars packed onto the deck. Reddit There are benches on an elevated deck for passengers to enjoy the views, along with a small interior cabin and a restroom. Arriving early is a common tip to avoid long departure lines, especially if you're bringing a car. Reddit

While the ferry is a functional necessity, some reviews mention the smell of diesel exhaust from idling vehicles. However, most travelers agree that this is a minor inconvenience for the convenience of reaching the island. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak season, to secure your spot and streamline your boarding process. TikTok

Exploring Kelleys Island: Golf Carts and Beyond

Once you disembark on Kelleys Island, the most popular and convenient way to get around is by renting a golf cart. These are readily available, but it's wise to book them in advance, especially for weekend visits, as they tend to sell out quickly. Reddit Golf carts allow you to easily access various points of interest, from the famous Glacial Grooves to the island's beaches and restaurants. Reddit

For those who prefer to explore on foot, the main village area is quite walkable. However, to reach attractions further afield, a golf cart or bicycle is more practical. The island offers a relaxed pace, encouraging visitors to take their time and enjoy the scenic beauty. Many restaurants also provide yard games, making them family-friendly spots to relax and dine. Reddit

Must-See Natural Wonders and Island Delights

Kelleys Island is home to the impressive Glacial Grooves State Memorial, a must-visit natural attraction. These massive grooves, carved into the limestone bedrock by ancient glaciers, are a testament to the powerful forces of nature. Reddit The island also boasts beautiful beaches perfect for relaxing and enjoying the views of Lake Erie and the surrounding islands. Reddit

Beyond its natural beauty, Kelleys Island offers a charming winery, the Kelleys Island Wine Co., where you can sample local wines and enjoy outdoor activities. Reddit For a taste of local flavor, explore the island's diverse restaurants, which range from casual tiki bars to establishments with great scenery and food. Reddit Don't forget to try the ice cream at Papa Ts for a sweet treat! Reddit

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