South Bass Island / Put-In-Bay

South Bass Island is a small island in western Lake Erie, and a part of Ottawa County, Ohio, United States. It is the southernmost of the three Bass Islands and located 3 miles (4.6 km) from the south shore of Lake Erie. It is the third largest island in the Lake Erie Islands, and is part of Put-in-Bay Township. In the bay of South Bass is Gibraltar Island, home to the Ohio State University’s Stone Laboratory.

The island is a popular recreation spot and is often referred to as the “Key West of Lake Erie.” The village of Put-in-Bay is a popular tourist destination during the summer. It is served by ferry from nearby Port Clinton and Sandusky, both on the mainland. The island is the annual host of the Inter-Lake Yachting Association regatta, known as Bay Week.

Transportation to the island via car, bike, or walk-ons is provided by ferries from the Miller Boat Line (departing from the northern point of Catawba Island), and Jet Express (departing from Port Clinton, Sandusky, and Lorain, Ohio). Other boat access is provided by various charter boat companies in the area. The island also has a small airport. Golf carts are a popular method of transportation on the island.

The village is home to Put-in-Bay High School. Aside from South Bass Island, Put-In-Bay Local School District covers the Lake Erie Islands of Buckeye Island, Gibraltar Island, Green Island, Mouse Island, Rattlesnake Island, and Starve Island, even though most of these islands are uninhabited.