Chatham-Kent is known for its beautiful access to both Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair, but the hidden gems are the multiple boat launches to both the Sydenham and Thames River. Keep reading for a few great ideas for the perfect day on the water in CK.
River Adventure
Spend the day fishing or exploring the Sydenham River, you can put your boat, kayak, or canoe in at the Dresden Boat Launch. If you are in need of a rental or looking for new fishing gear, visit the Crappie Store in Dresden. Head up the river towards the Wallaceburg Docks to explore Wallaceburg's downtown. After a leisurely paddle with Whimsies Paddle Rental, you can enjoy a delicious meal at The Stubby Goat, The Black Goose Grill, or James Street Eatery before heading back.
Gone Fishing
If you are looking to go fishing in CK, try a charter rental. It will be great day out with your friends and there are several local charters to choose from like Butcher Buoy Fishing Charter and Bass Haven. Another great place to try fishing is from the pier in the community of Erieau or just sit with a picnic lunch and cast the line behind Erieau's Fire Hall. If you are in Rondeau Park, behind the Park Store is a nice quiet spot to fish on the bay. You can stop for dinner at Rondeau Joe's or ice cream at the Bayview Market on your way home. At Parry Landing in Pain Court, you can launch your canoe and go fishing along the Thames River. End the day with a tasty meal at the Central Tavern.
The Bay Float
You and your friends can visit Shrewsbury to explore the Rondeau Bay Marches Conservation Area with kayaks rentals from Shrewsbury/ Rondeau Kayaks & Bait. You can also travel to Mitchell's Bay for an early dinner at Parkside Restaurant or Bob n' Buoys Bar & Boil. Enjoy a leisurely paddle along the waters of the bay, soaking in the final hours of a summer's day sunset.
Beach Days
If it's a day at one of CK's beaches you crave, there are plenty of options, from Clearville Park, Terrace Beach, Rondeau Provincial Park, Erieau, Mitchell's Bay to Wheatley. Erieau has a long and sandy beach, a mobility mat and fully accessible playground equipment. You can take a walk along the Boulevard Trail and stop in the cute shops like the Gift Cabin and Five Eau. Grab some ice cream at Mariners Cone and Shake and wrap up the day with a fresh perch dinner at Molly and OJ's Restaurant and Sandbar. Take a lovely scenic drive to Wheatley and spend the day at Getty's Beach, Pier Road Beach or Wheatley Provincial Park.
With so many ways to spend a day on the water in CK, you can plan several days of fun to fill your summer. Why not extend your stay and take advantage of one of our many hotels or bed and breakfast locations?
We've outlined just some of the things to do when you #VisitCK, but be sure to come and discover on your own. Follow #SeeYouinCK on Facebook and Instagram for more great places to visit and ways to spend your days in Chatham-Kent.
We can't wait to #SeeYouinCK!
