Where to enjoy Ohio's Lake Erie Islands away from the crowds

Ohio's Lake Erie Islands - South Bass, Middle Bass and Kelleys - and the adjacent mainland make up the state's summer vacationland. The lake breezes offer a welcome relief from the summer heat, and the relaxed island pace is a nice change from city life. Put-in-Bay's marina and nightspots have been a summer mecca for generations, but these popular spots can sometimes get a little crowded. Here are a few places where you can enjoy this area without throngs of tourists.

East Harbor State Park on Catawba Island
1169 N. Buck Road in Marblehead
419-734-4424
www.EastHarborStatePark.org

Past the ferry piers, restaurants and tourist shops lies Catawba Island. Technically a peninsula rather than an island, the area features a long stretch of beach, East Harbor State Park for hiking and camping, and some of the best lake views on the north coast. The largely agricultural area also boasts orchards and a host of roadside produce stands in the summer and fall.

Lakeside
LakesideOhio.com

Located on the north end of the Marblehead Peninsula, Lakeside is Ohio's chautauqua (a summer retreat that combines learning, culture and physical activity). The village, founded in 1873 by the Methodist church, offers an 11-week summer learning program with classes, concerts, cultural events and lectures on a variety of subjects, as well as charming 19th-century architecture and stunning lake views. Visitors can sign up for the entire program or just visit for the day.

Heineman's Winery
978 Catawba St. in Put-in-Bay
419-285-2811
www.HeinemansWinery.com

Situated on the west end of South Bass Island, Heineman's has been crafting wine since 1888. The family company makes a variety of German-style wines as well as the Lake Erie specialty: ice wine. Heineman's wine garden and front lawn make a nice oasis from bustling Put-in-Bay, and visitors can sample the company's wine and grape juice or purchase bottles to share. You can even tour Crystal Cave, a natural rock formation located 40 feet below the winery.

Glacial Grooves at Kelleys Island
4049 E. Moores Dock Road in Port Clinton
419-797-4530
OHSWeb.ohiohistory.org/places/nw08

Long before the Lake Erie islands were a tourist mecca, the area was covered by glaciers. One of the world's best remnants of these - and the most accessible - is situated on the north end of Kelleys Island. This limestone trough measures 400 feet long, 35 feet wide and 10 feet deep. In addition, there are thousands of marine fossils embedded in the stone. A boardwalk and viewing platform make exploring the site easy.

Marblehead Lighthouse
110 Lighthouse Drive in Marblehead
www.MarbleheadLighthouseOhio.org

Located on Marblehead Peninsula is one of the best remaining examples of the lighthouses that once dotted the Great Lakes and guided ships safely to harbor. The Marblehead Lighthouse, built in 1821, is the oldest Great Lakes lighthouse in continuous operation. Visitors can climb to the top and savor the sweeping view of the lake and nearby islands and explore the adjacent museum.