Port Clinton is the main launch point for the Lake Erie islands. The Miller Ferry and Jet Express both operate from the town's waterfront, running regular services to Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island and to Kelleys Island throughout the summer season (roughly May to October). The crossing to South Bass Island takes about 20 minutes by regular ferry, less on the faster Jet Express.
Put-in-Bay is worth a day trip: the island is known for Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial (a 96-metre column commemorating the Battle of Lake Erie in 1813), a handful of wineries, and the kind of lakeside resort atmosphere that draws Ohio families every summer. Kelleys Island is quieter and greener, with good bird-watching and Glacial Grooves State Memorial — a remarkable exposed rock surface left by Ice Age glaciers. Both islands are easy day trips from Port Clinton.