The dozen or so golf courses that populate the region of Ohio known as Lake Erie Shores & Islands provide choices for golfers of all skill levels and budgets. Courses range from quick-play executive tracks to country club quality resort courses. You’ll find challenging layouts with captivating views and tremendous character, but the golf courses alone can’t take credit for making this area Ohio’s most visited destination. The fun and excitement continues long after your day on the links is done.
If you’re into seeking thrills and taking risks on the golf course you’ll absolutely love Sandusky’s Cedar Point. The 364-acre amusement park is the undisputed roller coaster capital of the world. Located on a slender peninsula extending into Lake Erie, Cedar Point has 17 different coasters and 58 other rides and has been voted “Best Amusement Park in the World” for twelve years in a row.
Within the confines of Cedar Point you’ll come across Soak City, a massive outdoor water park and one of many in the area. For year-round aquatic fun try Kalahari Resort’s indoor water park, the largest park of its kind in America, as well as Great Wolf Lodge, Castaway Bay and Rain water parks. The beautiful Sawmill Creek Resort in Huron offers not only wonderful lodging but also a scenic, private beach and 200-slip marina. To top it off, Sawmill Creek is home to an 18-hole championship golf course designed by world renowned architect Tom Fazio. It is the only Tom Fazio-designed, public course in Ohio.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find natural areas with hiking trails and some of the best bird watching in the country. Of course Lake Erie offers an abundance of fishing, boating and swimming opportunities. The area is also rich in historic sites that feature the area’s role in the Underground Railroad, the Civil War, maritime activities and winemaking.
Make sure to save a day for a trip to the Lake Erie Islands of South Bass, home of Put-in-Bay, Middle Bass and Kelleys. These islands offer great scenic views, marinas, unique shops and restaurants and nightlife filled with music and excitement similar to what one would find in the Florida Keys or the Caribbean. The islands are home to local wineries, historic landmarks such as Perry’s Monument, our nation’s third tallest national memorial, and Kelleys Island’s glacial grooves.
Lodging options throughout the region include hotels, cottages, bed & breakfasts, campgrounds and full-service resorts. For more information on area golf courses, lodging and all there is to see and do, please visit www.shoresandislands.com.