The Most Beautiful Islands in Minnesota
Although Minnesota, a midwestern U.S. state that borders Canada and Lake Superior, is referred to as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," there are exactly 11,842 lakes that exist there. With thousands of lakes, it is no surprise that some of the most picturesque islands surround them with clear waters, serene beaches, majestic forests, and gorgeous scenery. Getting to these tranquil islands is as easy as a short drive, but traveling by ferry, boat, or paddling is ideal for others. Each island offers something different. Some are resort destinations, while others are more known for their summer and winter recreational activities. No matter when you plan to visit, you will enjoy exploring the most beautiful islands within Minnesota's most famous lakes and rivers.
Oak Island
Oak Island is a three-mile-long island in Minnesota's Northwest Angle in the Lake of the Woods. It is home to Oak Island Resort, which offers incredible fishing opportunities on the beautiful waters of Minnesota and Ontario and other activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. The resort has many cabins with a cozy lodge and other amenities. Sunset Lodge, another place to stay in Oak Island, has fishing boats to rent, an on-site convenience store, and a restaurant and bar with daily happy hour and dinner specials. Sportsman's Oak Island Lodge is also an option with bayside condos and villas, hiking trails, and areas for wildlife watching.
Pike Island
Pike Island is a tranquil oasis at the convergence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers in the southwesternmost part of Saint Paul, the state's capital. Part of Fort Snelling State Park, the island and its surrounding area offer quite an adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Many hiking, biking, and ski trails exist, and canoe, kayak, and snowshoe rentals are available to explore other activities. The swimming beach and picnic area with a fire pit and pedestal grill make spending a day here worth it. Visitors must purchase a daily or annual vehicle pass to enter the state park.
Coney Island of the West
Located 30 miles southwest of Minneapolis is Coney Island of the West, a 34-acre island surrounding Lake Waconia. The historic island was developed as a vacation destination in the late 19th century, with multiple hotels, cottages, and boathouses. Today, the island is part of Lake Waconia Regional Park and has historic ruins, picnic grounds, hiking trails, boarding docks, a swimming beach, spacious green space, and an 80-foot sledding hill.
Malkerson Island
Malkerson Island, a 52-acre island within Bay Lake Township on Bay Lake, is surrounded by many commercial resorts and private cabins, making it an ideal vacation destination. Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort stands out as one of the top lake resorts in Minnesota, offering a unique blend of serene beauty and exciting activities. Enjoy everything from trivia and lawn games to a bonfire and a pontoon cruise during your stay. The resort also boasts restaurants, a bar, a spa, boutique shops, and golf courses with scenic views of Bay Lake. And, of course, the outdoor fun is unparalleled. Fishing, boating, and water skiing are perfect ways to explore the lake.
Nicollet Island
Nicollet Island, which sits on the Mississippi River near downtown Minneapolis and is easily accessed via the Hennepin Avenue Bridge, is one of the most beautiful islands to visit in Minnesota. It is a peaceful place with Victorian-era homes near the river's edge and a park with biking and walking trails, picnic areas, gardens, and an amphitheater. Within the island is the historic Nicollet Island Inn, one of the best places to stay in Minneapolis. Dine at the on-site upscale restaurant, enjoy afternoon tea service, grab a craft cocktail at the bar, or go on a river cruise with scenic views of the Mississippi River.
Raspberry Island
Raspberry Island, named for the many wild raspberries that grew on it, encompasses two acres on the Mississippi River. To get there, walk from downtown Saint Paul or Harriet Island. Part of the beautifully landscaped Raspberry Island Regional Park, the area has a walking path, river access, a plaza, a bandshell, and an event lawn. It is also home to the Minnesota Boat Club, the oldest athletic club in the state.
Latsch Island
Latsch Island, situated on the Mississippi River in Winona, has a unique charm. Its residents live in boathouses, a fascinating sight to behold. The boathouses float on water and are supported by a raft frame and plastic barrels, creating a living experience like no other. The island is also home to Aghaming Park, which has 1,950 acres of well-preserved floodplain forests. The beautiful park, nestled across from Winona's main channel, attracts visitors year-round with hiking, biking, and snowshoe trails.
Garden Island
Isolated and essentially underdeveloped, Garden Island is in the heart of the Garden Island State Recreation Area, part of the Minnesota State Park system. The difficulty of getting there is part of its allure, as it is about 20 miles distant and not visible on the horizon when leaving Lake of the Woods' south side. However, when you go there, you will see why it is such a beautiful hidden gem with its serene beaches and multiple boat docks. Along the water's edge is a walking path and picnic tables, a peaceful way to spend an afternoon. Fishing on Lake of the Woods is also a highlight. In winter, the island is famous for snowmobiling on the lake.
As you can see, Minnesota is home to many beautiful islands with popular resorts, distinct characteristics, and historical significance. Now that you have learned more about these islands in Minnesota's pristine lakes and rivers, you will be ready to plan a getaway to visit some of them. Sit and bask in the sun on a beach, have a scenic picnic in the park, go on a nature walk, or partake in outdoor fun with fishing, swimming, and snowshoeing opportunities. These Minnesota islands offer a bit of exploration for everyone.
