Port Clinton's tourist season runs from Memorial Day (late May) through Labor Day (early September). This is when the ferries run to full schedule, the charter boats are busy, and the waterfront restaurants are all open. Summer weekends fill up fast — book accommodation early if you're coming for fishing or the islands.
Spring (April–May) is worth considering for fishing enthusiasts. The walleye spawn run in spring and the fishing can be excellent before the summer crowds arrive. Water temperatures in April make it cool on the lake, so bring warm layers.
The National Matches at Camp Perry run for two to three weeks in July and August and draw large numbers of visitors who book up local accommodation in advance.
Outside the summer season, Port Clinton is quiet and somewhat closed down. The ferry services to the islands reduce to weekends-only in shoulder season and stop entirely in winter. Lake Erie can be genuinely hostile in winter — cold, stormy, and unforgiving.