This part of Lake Erie is popular for birdwatching. It is recommended to paddle the calm waters of the crescent shaped lagoon. There are also hiking and biking trails in the area.

South Bass Island State Park offers quiet access to Lake Erie. The shoreline provides a unique habitat for water snake, other reptiles and amphibians. This is also one of the best birdwatching areas in the country. Hundreds of species have been identified and nest here.

Catawba Island State Park offers a launch ramp for paddling and access to Lake Erie. Paddling on this lake you will pass by dramatic rocky limestone cliffs. If you make the crossing to South Bass Island check the weather and remember winds can change very quickly and cause big waves along the cliffy shoreline.

This water trail was established in 2007. It offers a pleasant paddle in East Sandusky Bay. You will enjoy cultural history, scenic views and wildlife. Sandusky Bay is home to hundreds of different birds.

Launching from Sterling State Park, the only state park on Lake Erie, paddlers can enjoy paddling the shoreline of the lake in Brest Bay. The area provides lots of opportunity for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. Aside from the shoreline that is part of the state park, most of the property in the bay is private so rest stops are limited if exploring the lake outside of the state park. There are also some lagoons and marshes located right off the boat launch that are fun to paddle and are full of wildlife. The state park offers lots of amenities like camping, picnic areas, swimming beaches, and hiking and biking trails.

Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park provides access to Lake Erie with good paddling waters. There are walking paths, picnic tables, playground equipment and a place to rent kayaks.

Metzer Marsh is a remnant of the former Great Black Swamp which bordered most of the lake. It offers acces to Lake Erie. Fishing and birdwatching are the highlights here.

This paddling route begins at Main Street Beach in Vermilion on Lake Erie. It follows the shoreline to Lorain. There are a few emergency pull outs but the first next public access is located at Lakeview Park. From here you can continue on to Lakeside Landing Park but beware of the active port where powerboats and larger vessels pass through.

Showse Park is an access point along the Vermilion-Lorain Water Trail on Lake Erie. This is a carry in launch with a short dirt trail that descends down to the beach from the parking lot.

Gordon Park offers a boat ramp that gives access to paddling on Lake Erie. The park is a mix of open and partially shaded green space and picnic areas. The Cleveland Electric and Illuminating Company has warm water discharge that attracts fish and birds.