Vacation Rentals by Owner

Overview of Thousand Islands Vacation Rentals

A Thousand Memories on the Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands region is a popular vacation destination that spans between upstate New York and southeastern Ontario, Canada. However, the name Thousand Islands really is not accurate at all. There are closer to 2,000 small and large islands comprising the region. The region is incredibly picturesque and memorable. The region attracts international tourism and encompasses communities along the St. Lawrence River as well as the eastern shores of Lake Ontario. The region’s name hales from the islands that dot the river and lake. When you consider Thousand Islands as your destination, make sure you book your travel for the region’s dry season, from March through August.

Places to Explore in the Thousand Islands

When planning your stay in Thousand Islands cabins, you are going to need to think about where you would like to explore. The name says it all. With a thousand possibilities, how can you possibly narrow it down? Each island really does have its own style, character, and charm. You could visit all of them and get a different experience each time. Alexandria Bay, Clayton, Massena, Ogdensburg, and Sackets Harbor are just some of the places you can spend the days.

Alexandria Bay lodging is in the heart of the region and perfect for your initial taste of the Thousand Islands. Be sure to visit Boldt Castle, located on Heart Island, as well as Wellesley Island which is particularly beautiful. Clayton was once a ship-building port and a great draw for people who love to fish and visit museums. Massena and Ogdensburg will give you a sense of the region’s history with some of the oldest buildings in the area. Sackets Harbor is a quaint little village that boasts historic buildings and plenty of outdoor fun.

Popular Activities in the Region

It does not matter which Thousand Islands vacation rentals you have chosen when it comes to having tons of family fun. There is so much to do, ranging from boating and fishing in the warmer months to cross country skiing and hiking in the cooler months. Ironically, the Thousand Islands do not have too many beach locations for vacationers but there are a few. Potter’s Beach on American Grindstone Island is a cute, sandy beach ideal for boaters. The Lake of the Isles is a great location for anchoring and swimming when the weather is warm enough. It is just cut off from the St. Lawrence River and has limited access. Though one of the most fun things to do is to take your time to really look at some of the tiny islands in the region. Perhaps you will come across “Just Big Enough Island” which only has room for a single house.

Transportation in and Around Thousand Islands

If you plan to fly into the Thousand Islands region, your best bet is probably Syracuse, New York. If you fly in, you will definitely need to rent a car, as the region is about 1.5 hours north, right off Interstate 81. If you have a boat, you can sail to the islands and dock at designated locations.

During your stay in Thousand Islands resorts, it is helpful to know that there is very little public transportation offered. There are small ferryboats that will take you back and forth from Cape Vincent, New York to Wolf Island, Ontario but you will ultimately need a car. Many of the attractions, including Boldt Castle and Singer Castle, require that you have access to your own private boat or a tour shuttle boat.

The Natural Side of Thousand Islands

With more than 144 species of fish, 17 species of coastal birds, and various other creatures, the Thousand Islands are an idyllic marine nature conservation area. The wealth of creatures that inhabit the area make it ideal for anyone wanting to get a closer look. Diving, snorkeling, and fishing are great ways to spend your days. If you prefer to stay on land, bird-watching and hiking are the ways to go. Of course, if you choose to come in the winter, many of the animals will be hard to detect but that will not eliminate the beauty of the area. The winter is also a beautiful time to visit.