Lake Ontario is dotted with small lakeshore towns that capture the quintessential Americana of a bygone era. Sodus Point is one of these lovely towns where it seems like time has stood still. It is surprising how much is here for visitors to enjoy a quaint town of this size. Whether you are spending a hot summer day sailing on the Bay, enjoying one of the many incredible restaurants, or exploring the icy shores of Lake Ontario on a mild winter day. This quaint and picturesque town has something for everyone.
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Things to Do
Parks and Nature
Sodus Point Beach Park
Walk the pier or stroll the beach at this lovely town beach park. The sunrises and sunsets that can be witnessed at this pier are spectacular. Visit in the winter when the waves from Lake Ontario lash and sweep over the pier.
Beechwood State Park
This is one of the most interesting state parks in all of New York State. It ranges from a gorgeous view of Lake Ontario to the remains of an abandoned Girl Scout Camp. This park has a lot of stunning natural beauty.
Maxwell Creek
One of my favorite summer activities is creek hiking. It is a great way to cool off on a hot day, and my kids always have a fantastic time splashing in the water, looking for critters, and searching for interesting rocks. Maxwell Creek gave us a little bit of everything as we explored this creek listed as one of the top 10 Lake Ontario Tributaries.
Macyville Woods Nature Preserve
Explore this preserve that is hidden within the town. The 1-mile trail takes visitors through wood and alongside wetlands known as the “malt marshes.” Along the way, stroll past the Macy Tree, a 250-year-old oak tree. In the distance, you will see the old Sodus Point Malt House that once belonged to the Genesee Brewing Company.
Chimney Bluffs State Park
This is a natural wonder located on the southern shore of Lake Ontario in the town of Wolcott. Glaciers created these giant formations in the last ice age and have changed over time due to erosion from the weather. They are an impressive sight when viewed up close.
Wolcott Falls
This is a lovely spot located in the Town of Wolcott, just off Main St. This park is small and, at first glance, doesn’t look like anything special. However, as so often is the case, things aren’t always as they appear. This park has a glorious surprise for those who are willing to look beyond the parking lot.
East Bay
We love finding beaches to explore on Lake Ontario. The water always looks incredible, and you never know what you will find on the washed-up on the beach, such as cool rocks, treasures, beach glass, or interesting driftwood. This is a long stretch of beach so that you can take a nice long walk.
Cracker Box Palace
Cracker Box Palace Farm Animal Haven is a no-kill sanctuary for farm animals and the Wayne County large animal rescue. Animals are brought to this haven for various reasons, but they receive all of the love and attention they could desire at Cracker Box Palace. These animals are cared for by a dedicated team of volunteers who help them recover and thrive in their new surroundings.
Bentley Bonds Trail
This is a truly gorgeous trail with just about everything you could ever want in a hiking trail, a waterfall, beautiful and peaceful woods, wetlands, and breathtaking views of Sodus Bay.
Murals
There are 37 beautiful murals hidden in plain sight; several of them are here in Sodus Point. Take a few minutes to track down and enjoy these murals. Then, check out our fun mural scavenger hunt!
Museums
Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum
Visit this historic lighthouse with its beautifully manicured lawn and gardens that allow visitors to enjoy a stunning view of Sodus Bay and relax on the grounds. Take a tour of the lighthouse and enjoy learning about its history and importance to the area.
Sunshine Radio Museum
Sunshine Radio Museum is a museum that follows the history of radio from the turn of the century through the 1970s.
Seasonal
Summer Concerts
If you happen to be visiting Sodus Point on the weekend during the summer, grab some lawn chairs and head over to the Sodus Bay Lighthouse, and enjoy one of the concerts on the lawn of the lighthouse.
Apple Tasting Tour
Make the month of October memorable by celebrating the Wayne County apple harvest. Wayne County is the biggest apple producer in New York State. You can take a fun journey around the county to the different apple orchards and try all the delicious apples, apple ciders, pies, and other yummy delights that make this tour so popular.
Ice Skating at Willow Park
When you live in New York State, winter is inevitable. So we New Yorkers find fun ways to make those fridged months pass by. Ice skating is a favorite winter pastime and, of course, is immensely entertaining. Sodus Point has a great ice rink that will make you wish winter lasted all year long.
Shopping
If you visit the “downtown district” of Sodus Point, there are several small gift shops to purchase souvenirs.
Lukacs Pottery Studio – 7060 Route 14, Sodus Point
Buy handcrafted vases, animal pots, tableware, musical instruments, candleholders, lighting fixtures, decorative pots, etc.
The Point’s Mercantile – 8510 Greig St., Sodus Point
Purchase souvenirs to remind you of your time in Sodus Point.
Sodus Bay Outfitters – 8486 Greig St, Sodus Point
In addition to kayak, Canoe, Standup Paddleboard, and beach bike rental, purchase gifts and souvenirs.
Sodus Bay
Elevation : 247 feet
Area: 3,357 acres
Max Depth: 48 feet
Mean Depth: 18 feet
County & Town: Wayne County, Towns of Sodus and Huron
Boat Launch
Sodus Point Park Launch – 7308 Route 14, Sodus Point
This is the only large boat launch in the area. It gets very crowded, so arriving early in the day is recommended. There is a large parking lot across the street from the boat launch for parking vehicles and trailers. There is also a porta-potty on the premises as well.
There is a lovely park here with a bench to watch the sunrise if you visit early in the morning. This is a gorgeous place to take in the beauty of the Bay.
Sill Landing Canoe and Kayak Launch – Located at the end of Ontario St on Sodus Bay.
When using this boat launch, park in the Methodist Church parking lot or the Village Municipal lot. This is a handicap-accessible boat launch.
US Coast Guard Boat Launch – Located at Sodus Point Beach Park
Kayaking/Canoeing
This is a great place to kayak! The waters of Sodus Bay are excellent for canoeing and kayaking, especially as you paddle into the canals of reeds that run into the wetlands.
Paddling Bentley Bonds
This isn’t just a great place to hike; it is a great place to paddle as well. The reed-lined canals were beautiful, and all the wildlife was incredible. If you visit between late June and early July, you can see all the lily pads in full bloom.
Fishing
Sodus Bay is a popular fishing destination. There are a huge variety of fish species here, such as Longnose Gar, Bowfin, Northern Pike, Chain Pickerel, Channel Catfish, Brown Bullhead, White Perch, Rock Bass, Pumpkinseed, Bluegill, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Black Crappie, Walleye, Yellow Perch.
There are several places along the Bay where fishermen can fish from the shore.
Ice fishing is also prevalent on Sodus Bay, and if you drive around the Bay on a cold winter day after the Bay has frozen over, you will see the Bay covered in small tents.
If you are looking to learn to Fly Fish, check out Wild Water Flying Fishing. This is an excellent place to start if you are a novice to fly fishing or if you require fly fishing gear.
Boat Rentals
Krenzer Marine – Have or full-day rentals pontoon rentals. Take note – No dogs, grills, or fishing are allowed on their boats.
Sodus Bay Outfitters – Kayak, Canoe, Standup Paddleboard, and Beach Bike rentals (as well as accessories for these rentals)
Fishing Charters
Stingray Fishing Charter – Purchase half-day, full-day or tournament charters from 1-6 passengers.
Cohomotion Fishing Charter – Purchase half-day, full day or 2 day charters (comes with lodging.)
Where to Eat
One thing that stands out about Sodus Point is the number of excellent restaurants serving some of the best food in the area.
Captain Jack’s – 8505 Greig Street, Sodus Point
Captain Jack’s is renowned far and wide for the delicious food and incredible atmosphere. I can personally vouch for their lobster bisque, which is out of this world. Visit on your birthday and get as many chicken wings as you are old. Enjoy dining on the outdoor deck overlooking the water in the summer.
Bay Street Hotel Restaurant – 8427 Bay Street, Sodus Point
Seasonal ~ Serves amazing Cajun, creole, Caribbean food, and seafood.
El Rincon Mexicano – 6974 Ridge Road, Sodus
Authentic Mexican cuisine that uses local produce whenever possible.
Franklin House Tavern – 8184 Sentell Street, Sodus Point
This tavern serves Pizza, 19 varieties of chicken wings, burgers, fish fry, wraps, salads, pastas and more.
Hot Point – 8482 Greig Street, Sodus Point
Seasonal ~ A favorite summer ice cream spot that also serve hot dogs and hamburgers.
Rabino’s At The Point – 7448 Route 14, Sodus Point
Seasonal ~ Amazing Subs, soups and Pizza and outdoor dining.
Six50 Black Oven Cooking – 8489 Greig Street, Sodus Point
Seasonal ~This restaurant makes fabulous specialty pizzas that are a unique change from your typical pizza place. They also make delectable entrees to tempt every palate.
Steger Haus Restaurant – 7171 North Geneva Rd, Sodus
This restaurant has a Travel and Leisure recommendation. Enjoy German and American Cuisine.
The Saltbox Smokehouse – 6152 Barclay Rd., Sodus
Incredible cured and smoked meats are served in a variety of unique ways. Stop in for a meal or just grab something from the deli, like one of the 15 varieties of bacon.
Skipper’s Landing – 7061 Lake Bluff Rd., Wolcott
This is a very popular restaurant that has a marina for guests to come in for a bit to eat after a daily of sailing on the Bay. You can relish the sunshine in the restaurant’s outdoor seating next to the water in the warm weather.
Where to Stay
Turn your visit into an extended stay and spend the night at one of the many accommodations available in the area. Whether you prefer staying in a rental cottage, a bed & breakfast, or get back to nature while camping, there are so many options to choose from.
Inns and Hotels
Sodus Point Lodge – Located right on Greig St. in the heart of Sodus Point. Lots of places to visit within walking distance.
Bed & Breakfast
When it comes to B&B’s there are plenty to choose from in the area.
Carriage House Inn – 8375 Wickham Blvd., Sodus Point
Silver Waters Bed & Breakfast – 8420 Bay St., Sodus Point
The Cliffs at Sodus Point B&B – 7961 Lake Rd., Sodus Point
The Wickham House Inn – 8396 Wickham Blvd., Sodus Point
Cottage Rentals
If you want to stay as close to the water as possible, renting a cottage is the way to go. Airbnb has an extensive listing of cottages available for rent on the lake. You can adapt your search to include cottages that come with kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, a jacuzzi, and other amenities.
Camping
Holiday Harbor Resort/RV Park & Campground – 9415 Blind Sodus Bay Road, Red Creek
South Shore RV Park – 7867 Lake Rd, Sodus Point
Cherry Grove Campground – 12669 Ridge Road, Wolcott
Port Bay RV Park Campground – 8346 East Point Bay Rd, Wolcott
Lake Bluff Campground – 7150 Garner Rd., Wolcott