How to Spend a Perfect Summer Day in Muskoka – 2025 Edition

If you're dreaming of a quintessential Muskoka summer day—filled with lakefront views, fresh food, iconic attractions, and a little adventure—this one-day itinerary has you covered. Whether you're visiting from Toronto or staying at the cottage, here’s how to spend a perfect day in Muskoka in summer 2025.

Morning: Coffee on the Dock & Paddle Adventure

Start the day early with a sunrise coffee on the dock. If you're staying in or near Port Carling, swing by Bala Falls Coffee or Oliver’s Coffee in Port Carling for a locally roasted pick-me-up and fresh-baked pastry.

Next, head out onto the water. Rent a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or canoe from Liv Outside in Bracebridge or Muskoka Paddle Shack in Gravenhurst. Paddle across the still morning waters of Lake Rosseau or Lake Muskoka, taking in the peaceful scenery and luxury boathouses.

Late Morning: Cruise Lake Muskoka on the RMS Segwun

Take a step back in time with a sightseeing cruise on the RMS Segwun or Wenonah II, departing from Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst. These historic steamships offer stunning views of Lake Muskoka’s summer homes, rocky shorelines, and wind-swept pines.

Tours range from 1 to 3 hours—perfect for a relaxing late morning activity. Book in advance through realmuskoka.com.

Lunch: Dine Al Fresco at The Oar or Grab a Picnic

After your cruise, you’ve earned a great lunch. Head to The Oar & Paddle Restaurant in Gravenhurst for gourmet pub fare with Muskoka flair—try the fish tacos or steak frites.

Alternatively, create your own gourmet picnic with goodies from Field of Greens in Port Carling or Yummies in a Jar in Baysville. Then spread a blanket at Hanna Park in Port Carling or Gull Lake Rotary Park in Gravenhurst.

Afternoon: Explore a Muskoka Trail or Waterfall

Stretch your legs with a short hike or scenic lookout:

• Hardy Lake Provincial Park (near Torrance): An easy 3 km loop with boardwalks and forested lake views.

• Wilson’s Falls Trail (Bracebridge): A moderate walk leading to a cascading waterfall.

• Huckleberry Rock Lookout (Muskoka Lakes): A 1.5 km trail leading to one of the best panoramic views in Muskoka.

Don’t forget a hat, bug spray, and your camera.

Mid-Afternoon: Muskoka Brewery Stop

Cool down with a craft beer at Muskoka Brewery in Bracebridge. Sip their famous Cream Ale or Summerweiss on the patio or take a guided tasting tour.

Other great options:

• Lake of Bays Brewing Co. in Baysville

• Clear Lake Brewing Co. in Torrance

Many breweries now offer snacks or food trucks on-site during summer weekends.

Late Afternoon: Swim & Relax at the Beach

Now it’s time to unwind. Head to Port Sydney Beach or Dwight Beach on Lake of Bays for a refreshing swim, sandcastles, and people-watching. Or take a rental from SWS Boatworks and enjoy tubing or wakeboarding if you want more action.

Prefer something quiet? Echo Lake or Skeleton Lake Beach offer calmer waters and fewer crowds.

Early Evening: Ziplining at Treetop Trekking

For thrill seekers, book a sunset canopy adventure at Treetop Trekking Huntsville, just 25 minutes north of Bracebridge. Soar through the trees, cross swinging bridges, and enjoy Muskoka’s lush landscape from above.

Dinner: Upscale Dining or Casual Lakeside Patio

Make dinner an event with reservations at:

• Crossroads Restaurant in Rosseau: Upscale and romantic, with Muskoka-chic décor and fine wines.

• Tall Trees in Huntsville: An intimate, elevated dining experience in a century-old home.

• Turtle Jack’s Muskoka Wharf (Gravenhurst): Family-friendly with lake views and dockside drinks.

Want local and casual? Pie Wood Fired Pizza Joint in Port Carling hits the spot with crispy thin crust and Muskoka craft beer on tap.

After-Dinner: Stargazing at Torrance Barrens

Finish your perfect Muskoka day at Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve, just outside Bala. It’s one of the best places in Ontario to stargaze—bring a blanket, bug spray, and your curiosity. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way or a meteor shower.

Whether you’re a cottager or a visitor, a day in Muskoka offers the perfect blend of nature, luxury, and small-town charm. Paddle at sunrise, dine on fresh local fare, hike to a waterfall, sip a local brew, and stargaze under pristine skies. It’s no wonder Muskoka is Canada’s most beloved summer destination.

Planning to move or invest in Muskoka real estate? Reach out for insider listings, cottage tips, or a private showing—there’s never been a better time to buy your dream lakefront escape.