How Many Islands Are There in the Great Lakes?

Your Guide to the 35,000+ Islands Across the World’s Largest Freshwater System

The Great Lakes are not just vast inland seas – they’re home to tens of thousands of islands, ranging from tiny, tree-covered shoals to bustling, car-free resort destinations like Mackinac Island, home to The Inn at Stonecliffe.

In this complete guide, we’ll answer:

• How many islands are in the Great Lakes?

• Which Great Lake has the most islands?

• What are the most beautiful and famous Great Lakes islands?

• Can you visit these islands?

• Which islands are car-free, inhabited, or perfect for a summer escape?

And we’ll tie it all back to why The Inn at Stonecliffe on Mackinac Island offers one of the most serene, storybook-worthy home bases for exploring this vast freshwater archipelago.

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The Total Number: How Many Islands Are in the Great Lakes?

More than 35,000 islands are scattered across the five Great Lakes, making this one of the world’s most island-rich freshwater systems.

Fun Fact: Lake Huron alone contains over 80% of all Great Lakes islands, most of which are found in the North Channel and Georgian Bay.

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What Defines a Great Lakes Island?

To be considered a Great Lakes island, the landmass must:

• Be entirely surrounded by water

• Be located within one of the five Great Lakes

• Remain above water year-round (not submerged in spring floods)

These islands vary tremendously in:

• Size – from 0.1 acre to 1,068 square miles

• Geology – limestone cliffs, sandy shoals, forested ridges

• Inhabitance – remote wilderness to thriving resort communities

• Access – some have airports and ferries, others are kayak-only

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The Largest Island in the Great Lakes

Manitoulin Island – The Crown Jewel of Lake Huron

• Size: 1,068 square miles (larger than Rhode Island)

• Location: Northeastern Lake Huron, Ontario, Canada

• Fun Fact: It’s the largest freshwater island in the world

• Unique Feature: Contains over 100 smaller lakes within the island itself

While Manitoulin is in Canada, it exemplifies the diversity of the Great Lakes’ island system and draws thousands of summer visitors seeking lakes, forests, and Indigenous heritage.

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The Most Famous Great Lakes Islands to Visit

Below are the most well-known and accessible islands in the Great Lakes – some even have hotels, restaurants, beaches, and summer festivals.

Mackinac Island – A Car-Free Step Back in Time

• Location: Lake Huron, Michigan

• Famous For: Horse-drawn carriages, Victorian charm, historic forts, fudge shops

• Access: Ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace

• Best Stay: The Inn at Stonecliffe, a secluded, elegant estate surrounded by nature

The Inn at Stonecliffe offers the perfect vantage point to explore the magic of Mackinac and other surrounding islands during the open season (May through October).

Isle Royale – Remote Wilderness and Wildlife

• Location: Lake Superior, Michigan

• Type: National Park (accessible only by ferry or seaplane)

• Features: Wolves, moose, rugged hiking, no roads or cars

Note: Isle Royale is for the true wilderness seeker – not a casual day trip.

South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay)

• Location: Lake Erie, Ohio

• Type: Party island with historic monuments and beach vibes

• Access: Ferry from Port Clinton

Beaver Island – Solitude on Lake Michigan

• Location: Lake Michigan, Michigan

• Type: Quiet, remote, artsy island

• Fun Fact: Once home to America’s only “kingdom”

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By the Numbers – Comparing Great Lakes Islands

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Why Does Lake Huron Have the Most Islands?

Lake Huron is uniquely shaped with complex shorelines, especially in:

• Georgian Bay (Canada)

• North Channel

• Les Cheneaux Islands (Michigan)

The glacial history of this lake produced thousands of tiny, rocky, pine-covered islands, many no bigger than a backyard.

Mackinac Island, located between Lake Huron and Lake Michigan, remains the most iconic and accessible for travelers – especially from May to October when The Inn at Stonecliffe welcomes guests seeking historic elegance and natural seclusion.

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Can You Visit the Great Lakes Islands?

Yes – But Not All of Them

Out of 35,000+, only a small percentage are accessible to the public. Here's how:

Ferry-Accessible Islands

• Mackinac Island (MI)

• South Bass Island (OH)

• Kelleys Island (OH)

• Beaver Island (MI)

Air-Accessible Islands

• Beaver Island (flights from Charlevoix)

• Isle Royale (seaplane from Houghton)

Kayak or Private Boat Only

• Many Lake Huron islets

• Apostle Islands (Lake Superior)

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Most Scenic Islands in the Great Lakes

Whether you're seeking Instagram-worthy vistas or peaceful nature, these islands offer incredible views:

• Arch Rock – Mackinac Island: A natural stone arch perched 146 feet above Lake Huron

• Apostle Islands Sea Caves – Lake Superior: Dramatic red cliffs and hidden beach coves

• Sunsets from Stonecliffe’s Lawn – Mackinac Island: Golden hour over the Straits of Mackinac

Pro Tip: Mackinac sunsets from The Inn at Stonecliffe’s bluff-top lawn are among the most photographed on the island – and far removed from the downtown crowds.

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Best Time to Visit Great Lakes Islands

Reminder: The Inn at Stonecliffe is open May through October only – Mackinac Island shuts down for winter. Plan your island escape during the warmer months.

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Most Remote Great Lakes Islands

If your goal is off-the-grid solitude, consider:

• Isle Royale (Lake Superior) – Zero roads, limited visitors

• High Island (Lake Michigan) – Uninhabited, kayak-access only

• St. Joseph Island (Lake Huron, Canada) – Peaceful trails, little tourism

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FAQs About Great Lakes Islands

How many islands are in the Great Lakes total?
There are over 35,000 islands, most in Lake Huron.

What is the largest island?
Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron is the largest freshwater island in the world.

Which Great Lake has the most islands?
Lake Huron, with over 30,000 islands.

Are there inhabited islands?
Yes. Many Great Lakes islands have permanent or seasonal residents – Mackinac Island, South Bass Island, and Beaver Island are among the most populated.

Can you drive to any islands?
Yes – Manitoulin Island is accessible by bridge. However, Mackinac Island is famously car-free.

When is the best time to visit?
May through October is ideal. The winter months bring freezing conditions, and most island services shut down.

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Why Stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe – Mackinac Island's Hidden Gem

If you're planning to explore the Great Lakes’ most iconic island – Mackinac – make your home base at The Inn at Stonecliffe:

• Tucked away from downtown crowds

• Surrounded by peaceful woods and water views

• Historic mansion estate + modern Summer House suites

• Ideal for romantic escapes, family retreats, and weddings

• Easy access to all island landmarks, yet totally tranquil

No cars, no noise – just lake breezes, lilac-scented paths, and pure island magic.

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Final Thoughts: Discover the Depth of the Great Lakes – One Island at a Time

From the remote corners of Lake Superior to the carriage paths of Mackinac Island, the Great Lakes hold thousands of stories – and islands – waiting to be discovered.

Start your adventure where history meets nature, and timeless luxury meets car-free escape.

Book your island stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe – the best place to experience the heart of the Great Lakes island legacy.

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