JOHNSON’S ISLAND

THE RICH HISTORY ON JOHNSON’S ISLAND off Marblehead on the Sandusky Bay began during the Civil War when it housed the Depot of Prisoners of War and about 10,000 men were processed into its stockade, most of them Confederate officers. Eventually, the island became home to a couple of resorts and a quarry operation. Today, the private residential island is accessible by a causeway with a $2 cash gate toll so you can visit the Confederate cemetery on site. However, this is the only area of the island that is open to the public.

and Tiki Bar (along with indoor seating) are an ideal spot to watch the water and passing boats. Across the street, longtime watering hole The Village Pump serves up its famous Brandy Alexanders and Lake Erie perch. Kids and adults gravitate to Caddy Shack for its pizza, cold drinks, miniature golf course and rentals (golf carts, bikes).

Dockers at Portside Marina is known for its relaxing vibe and homemade hand-pattied crab cakes. The restaurant offers a weekday dock and dine special — free dock with $15 food receipt. Before you leave, treat the kids to Snack Shack’s oldtime candies, caramel corn and cotton candy, located in the island square.

UP FOR ADVENTURE. Hike, bike or kayak the island with a guide and the equipment you need to explore. Kelleys Island AdvenTours offers two-hour biking/hiking tours that peel back the layers of Kelleys Island history, while learning about the island's unique and diverse habitats. The Treasure Tour takes you through nature preserves by kayak, and the Sunset Tour starts from the North Shore’s state park and ends at West Bay. (Kayakers get a ride back from the crew for this one-way trip.) Call about private group tours.