Lion’s Head, Ontario is a stunning little town on the Bruce Peninsula. You’ll find Lion’s Head nestled on the shores of Isthmus Bay between Owen Sound and Tobermory. With Tobermory just over a half an hour away, Lion’s Head often takes a backseat, but this town is a must see stop while exploring Bruce County.
Lion’s Head is quiet, quaint and best known for its amazing turquoise waters and rugged limestone cliffs. The cliffs surround Lion’s Head and are visible from many spots in town. If you look extra hard, you may notice the head of a lion amongst the rugged cliffs. The contrast between the bay and cliffs makes you immediately question why this town hasn’t been on your radar before. Lion’s Head may be small, but this town offers some amazing things to see and do for nature lovers.
Outdoor enthusiasts will quickly fall in love with Lion’s Head. This town offers a lovely harbour to wander around, a sandy beach to lounge on, caves to explore, beautiful trails to hike and most notably, EPIC views. To sum it up, Lion’s Head is where you go to get some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors.
Visit the Harbour and Lighthouse
As you’ll find plenty of things to do here, the harbour is a great place to start your adventures. The harbour is an area concentrated with many great attractions. Around the harbour you’ll find the lighthouse, the marina, a rocky shore perfect for skipping rocks, an observation deck and a trail leading to the beach.
One of the my favourite things to do at the harbour is to simply take in the view. From here you get an amazing view of Isthmus Bay and the rugged cliffs off in the distance.
As you’re enjoying the scenery, take a stroll across the rocky shore and admire how crystal clear the water is. As you make your way down the shore, you will be greeted by the lighthouse which makes the harbour even more charming. Once you’re done at the lighthouse, swing around and take the boardwalk past the marina leading to the beach.
Lounge on the Beach
The beach is small, but it’s a great place to escape for an afternoon. The beach has lovely sand and plenty of shade to lounge under. The water generally stays calm here making it a great spot for swimming. From the beach, you’ll catch glimpses off the harbour and cliffs surrounding Isthmus Bay.
Hike Lion’s Head Provincial Park
One of the best thing to do in Lion’s Head is to hike the Bruce Trail. The Bruce Trail is marked with blue and white blazes that lead you through the forest to the edge of the towering escarpment. The main spots on the trail include stopping at the potholes and then heading towards the Lion’s Head Lookout.
As you hike closer to the escarpments edge, you’ll be greeted by glimpses of the most turquoise water around. From this vantage point, the water looks so amazing, that it often gets compared to the Caribbean. In all honesty, this view is unbelievable and arguably one of the best in Bruce County. If you’re visiting the area, add this hike to your itinerary!
Other Outdoorsy Things to Do In Lion’s Head
- Explore Black Creek Provincial Park
- Wander around Greig’s Caves
- Rock climb the cliffs around Lion’s Head
- Paddle the crystal waters
- Bird Watch
- Star Gaze
- Spend a night camping
Day Trips From Lion’s Head

Port Elgin, Ontario
After taking in some incredible outdoor time in Lion’s Head, you’ll come to realize just how beautiful this area is. If you’re still looking for more great outdoorsy things to do, you’re in luck. There are many amazing places to explore around Lion’s Head. The possibilities are endless in Bruce and Grey County, so make the most of your adventures. Click the links below to learn more about each of these amazing destinations!
- Wiarton – 25 minute drive
- Tobermory – 35 minute drive
- Flowerpot Island– 35 minute drive + ferry
- Sauble Beach – 35 minute drive
- Owen Sound Waterfalls – 45 minute drive
- City of Owen Sound – 45 minute drive
- Southampton – 50 minute drive
- Chantry Island – 50 minute drive + boat ride
- Port Elgin– 1 hour drive
- Meaford – 1 hour 20 minute drive
- Kincardine – 1 hour 30 minute drive
- Goderich – 2 hour drive
*All driving times are approximate
Pin It! Share on Pinterest!
Want to see more of my travel photos? Follow me on Instagram!
Want to stay connected? Join my Facebook Page!