FAQ

Is there an ATM on the Island?

There used to be an ATM located at The Stonehouse 1891 Restaurant, but I do not believe that they have it any more, so if you like to pay cash it is best to bring everything you think you will need, plus a little extra just in case of emergencies.

When is the best time of the year to visit Pelee Island?

Pelee is a beautiful, serene place to visit at any time of the year but the best time for you may be dependent on what you’re looking to do.

In the early spring the island is a popular destination for birdwatchers, each year thousands of birds and butterflies stop at the island during their migration from south to north. This happens again in the fall when they are all heading back south for the winter. There is also a large birding event each May, traditionally on mothers day weekend, called Spring Song.

If you’re looking to spend some time on the lake, at the beach, fishing, or doing typical summer activities then any time from June - August is a good time to visit!

If you are a hunter, the annual Pelee Island Pheasant Hunts are held each year in late October through early November.

If you like things a bit quieter it is best to come before school is out for the year or after school has started back up for the season as many cottagers have to get back to their “normal” routine. Long holiday weekends (both Canadian and American holidays) typically see a much larger influx of visitors than other weekends throughout the season.

Do I need a passport to travel to Pelee Island?

If you are travelling from the USA then yes, passports are required to enter Canada, and therefore to get to Pelee Island. Pelee Island is an official port of entry to Canada so you can travel directly to the island from the USA via ferry, plane, or personal watercraft. For more information regarding documentation requirements when entering Canada please go to https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/td-dv-eng.html#s3

Is there cell phone service on the island?

Yes, there are two cell phone towers on the island, one for Bell and Telus is located on the west side of the island and one for Rogers is located at the northeast of the island. Depending on your carrier and location on the island, service may not always be reliable, or available.

It is important to note that when travelling along the south shore of the island, especially in the area of Fish Point your cell phone may begin roaming and picking up USA signals. You can avoid this by ensuring that your roaming is shut off and that your network selection is set to your carrier as opposed to “automatic”. If by chance your phone does roam and there are roaming charges on your next bill you can typically call your cell phone provider and tell them you never left Canada, they can get a bit grumpy about it sometimes but usually they’ll get rid of those charges.

Is there anywhere on the island with wifi?

For the most part no. There is no one that offers publicly accessible wifi at this time. Due to the fact that the island is located in the middle of a lake it has made internet access a bit more difficult. The only means of internet on the island at the moment is via satellite providers or by using cellular hotspots. Some cottages, B&B's, and other accommodations may have wifi available for guests.

Are there emergency services on the island?

Yes! In any emergent situation please call 911. This is something that a lot of people are unaware of but there is always a paramedic on the island and there are air ambulance/helicopters that are used to get people off of the island in extremely emergent situations. Police are also present on the island for much of the summer and are able to get to the island relatively quickly if they are not on the island but are required in emergency situations. The island also has a volunteer fire department.

Are there non-emergent medical services on the island?

Yes, there is a nursing station/clinic located on the west side of the island, behind the municipal offices. The clinic is open 5 days a week in the winter, and typically have extended hours including weekends in the summer. The address for the clinic is 1047 West Shore Road.

Is there a taxi service on the island?

No, thee are no taxi services on the island, this includes services such as Uber, Lyft, etc.

Is there a grocery store on the island?

While there is no true grocery store located on the island the Co-op does carry a small selection of staple grocery items such as milk, eggs, bread, fruits and vegetables, canned goods, etc. There are also a handful of roadside stands on the island throughout the summer season where you can purchase vegetables and eggs.

Will many businesses be open when I visit Pelee Island?

Most businesses are open for the season by the third weekend in May and typically close for the season, or start reducing hours sometime between Labour Day and Canadian Thanksgiving. If you want the guarantee you will have places to visit and restaurants to eat at, your best bet will be to visit the island sometime between late May and the end of August. Not all island businesses are open 7 days a week, and many may be closed on the same day of the week so to avoid disappointment it is recommended that you check with a few different businesses that you hope to visit before coming. Business that are typically open 7 days a week include The Pelee Shop (that’s us!), The Westview Tavern, The Pelee Island Heritage Centre, The Taco Shack (typically does not open until late June/early July, sometime weekends earlier in the season), The Filling Station, Scudder Marina, and East Park Campground, there may be more depending on if some business update or change their hours but these businesses listed are typically open 7 days a week during the summer months.

Do I need a reservation to get to the island?

Yes, reservations are required for all walk-on passengers, bicycles, and vehicles going to and from the island. You can learn more and make a reservation online at https://www.ontarioferries.com/pelee-island-ferries/

Do I need to make a reservation for bike rentals?

Reservations for our bicycles are not required but are highly encouraged. By reserving your rentals beforehand it guarantees that there will be equipment available for you to use. Additionally if you make a reservation we will do our best to ensure that your equipment has been set aside and is ready the second you walk into our store so all you have to do is sign your waivers and you’ll be on your way, allowing you to spend more time experiencing the island!

For more questions about bike rentals please visit our bike rental specific FAQ page at https://rentals.thepeleeshop.com/pages/rental-questions, email us at info@thepeleeshop.com, or call us at 519-724-2828.

What is your bike rental cancellation policy?

Cancellations are subject to a 3% cancellation fee. If a cancellation is made due to the cancellation of ferry transportation services to Pelee Island by the ferry transportation service provider there is no cancellation fee and you can be refunded the full amount of your reservation.

Cancellations must be made by 10:30 am on the day of your reservation or within one hour of the cancellation of ferry transportation services. If you do not cancel within these time frames you will not be eligible for a refund.

Is there anywhere to rent a car on the island?

No, there are no car rentals on the island. Pelee Island Adventures does have a few golf carts available for rent.

Is there anywhere to rent a boat on the island?

No, there are no boat rentals on Pelee Island.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions