Island Club Homes & Put-in-Bay Condos Questions

Put-in-Bay’s most frequently asked questions (FAQ) may be found here along with respective answers. Put-in-Bay Ohio offers adults, families, and business groups many options for a relaxing vacation but someone always has a question. If your questions are not answered here, just e-mail us at our Put-in-Bay contact form.

Island Club Homes & Put-in-Bay Condos Questions

Where is the Island Club located?

The Island Club is located in the middle of South Bass Island between the airport and the state park about 3/4 of a mile or a 10- 15 minute walk from town. There are always taxis available for Island Club guests. Over 600 people every weekend stay at the Island Club. It’s fun just to meet everyone staying at Put-in-Bay’s Island Club. Please check our Property Maps page for a visual overview of the island and the Island Club community.

What is your deposit and cancellation policy?

A $255 refundable security deposit is required on weekends ($103 on weekdays) to secure your reservation for an Island Club Rental Home. A $500 refundable security deposit is required on weekends ($103 on weekdays) to secure your reservation for a Waterfront Condo. If you cancel 90 days or more in advance there is a $50 cancellation fee, 45-90 days is a $100 cancellation fee, and less than 45 days you would forfeit your deposit and all monies paid unless the unit can be re-rented on such short notice.

Do you charge a Resort Fee?

NO! Unlike most, if not all, hotels and resorts in Las Vegas and other big cities, we do NOT charge any resort fees for your stay. We are proud to provide you the complete package of amenities for your stay included within your rental rate. The only items that you would be charged extra is if you rent a golf cart, or order a late-night pizza. Thanks!

Do you allow pets?

Maybe! We love our pets as much as you do but we urge you to contact your family vet or a local boarding business to house your pet during your stay. Small dogs are allowed in some of the units midweek (please call us for specific units) by select homeowners. On weekends, unfortunately, the Island Club is NOT pet friendly due to safety and security concerns for the pet. Check with your local vet for boarding options. The downtown hotels and the Put-in-Bay Condos are completely pet-free. Thanks!

Do You Have a Pool?

Yes, opened in 2008, the long awaited Island Club Pool is finally here. With a huge deck for sunbathing now you can walk to your own pool. Also as a guest of the Island Club your welcome to visit every major pool on the island. Pool hours are from 10am until dusk, as there is no lifeguard. The pool is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather-permitting. The brand new Waterfront Condos have a brand new in-ground pool as well. Please call for more details.

Do I need to bring anything special?

You need to bring sheets and towels and good attitudes (we love fun guests). We provide pillows and comforters. In order to conserve water and not have to wash 400 bed sets and 600 towels every weekend we ask our guests to provide their own linens for the beds and bath towels. Bed sizes are provide in your confirmation package. We can provide linens and towels for your stay for $100.00-$200.00 depending on your unit. Some other items that we do provide for you, free of charge: Hi-Speed WiFi, Cable TV, Paper Towels, Toilet Paper, Garbage Bags, Dish Detergent, and All Purpose Cleaner. Please call or Contact Us with any questions.

How far are the Island Club Home Rentals from downtown Put-in-Bay where all the bars are?

If you haven’t been to the island before, Put-in-Bay is only about 1 mile by 2 miles long, so everything is within easy walking or golf cart distance. All Island Club homes are located in the Island Club community, halfway between the Miller Ferry and the Downtown. Half the fun of staying at the Island Club is meeting everyone in the houses around you and sharing a great $3 Island Club Taxi experience to and from downtown. Maps can always be viewed on our Property Maps page at https://www.islandclub.com/property-maps online. Thanks!

How far are the brand new Waterfront Condos from downtown Put-in-Bay where all the bars are?

If you haven’t been to the island before, Put-in-Bay is only about 1 mile by 2 miles long, so everything is within easy walking or golf cart distance. All Put in Bay Condos are located behind the airport on the water, halfway between the Miller Ferry and the Downtown. Half the fun of staying at the Condos is meeting everyone in the condos around you and sharing a great $3 Island Club Taxi experience to and from downtown. Maps can always be viewed on our Property Maps page at https://www.islandclub.com/property-maps online. Thanks!

What time is check-in and check-out?

We want you to have as much fun as possible on the island, in as clean a unit as possible, so we guarantee your check-in by 4pm on the day of your arrival in order to give the housekeeping staff the time needed to properly clean your unit after the previous renters depart. If you arrive early, feel free to park at the unit and explore the island! Check-out is at 11am on the day of departure and we have taxi service if you need to get back to the ferry. All of our policies can be viewed on our FAQ page at https://www.islandclub.com/faq and our Policies page at https://www.islandclub.com/policies online. Thanks!

What is the linen policy?

Due to the island having a very limited potable water system and facilities for mass cleaning, complimentary bed linens are only provided for rentals at the Peace & Quiet and the brand new Waterfront Condos. Please bring your own favorite Mickey Mouse, Batman, or plain white sheets, pillow cases and towels with you (bed sizes will be sent to you before you arrive so you can plan accordingly!). We provide pillows and comforters for all units. Alternately, these can be rented separately depending on the size of the rental property but average around $100 per stay (call for exact price based on your unit size). Some other items that we do provide for you, free of charge: Paper Towels, Toilet Paper, Garbage Bags, Dish Detergent, and All Purpose Cleaner. All this information can be found on our FAQ page at https://www.islandclub.com/faq online. Thanks!

Is there Wi-Fi?

All of our individual rental homes at the Island Club currently have individual Wi-Fi service, we worked hard to get it installed for summer 2019. Also, our management company does maintain a Wi-Fi access spot centered at the pool area for all of our guests to enjoy as they relax in the sun and to check up on their emails while on vacation. The Put-in-Bay Condos also offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property for registered guests. There are also a couple spots downtown that offer free Wi-Fi connectivity as well, such as Cameo Pizza. Thanks!

What is the cancellation policy?

If you cancel 90 days or more in advance there is a $50 cancellation fee, 45-90 days is a $100 cancellation fee, and less than 45 days you would forfeit your deposit and all monies paid unless the unit can be re-rented on such short notice. All of our policies can be viewed on our FAQ page at https://www.islandclub.com/faq and our Policies page at https://www.islandclub.com/policies online. Thanks!

How do we check in?

Your reservation balance is due 45 days in advance at that time we e-mail or mail you your confirmation. You will receive a combination code for the home all you have to do is dial it in after the 4pm check-in time and start your vacation.

Are Refundable Security deposits refundable?

Yes! The security deposit is separate from your rental payment and is to hold and secure your reservation. All refundable security deposits are fully refundable (assuming no damages to the rental unit) after you check out! Guests usually receive their deposit check 7-10 business days after they depart, provided the home was left in good order and nothing was broken or missing. The rental home/condo deposit/cancel policy can be viewed on our FAQ page at https://www.islandclub.com/faq online. Thanks!

Can we put 9 or 10 people in an 8-person house, or 12 people in a 10-person house?

As stated on the details, each unit has a maximum occupancy. The homeowners require us to follow all Ohio laws and fire codes, so we can not book more than 8 people in an 8-person home (or more than 10 in a 10-person home, etc.). There are some beautiful 10-person homes available that would comfortably accommodate your 9/10-person group, and some 12 and 16 person units for larger groups. These can be viewed by resetting your search parameters on our website (www.islandclub.com) to 9 or 10 (or 12 or 16) people and doing another search. Thanks!

Can we request a certain house?

Yes you can but we are usually 90% booked by March so get your reservations in early. Put in Bay has limited lodging so the earlier you book the best chances you will have of getting the home you want.

Can we bring our car or our boat to the Island Club?

Sure, you can bring up to two cars per house. You can even bring your boat if you like, although we can’t guarantee parking. Each Island Club home has a driveway for two vehicles. Each Condo has parking for ONE vehicle maximum. Some people think you can’t bring cars to Put-in-Bay but if you have accommodations it’s no problem.

How far in advance should I make lodging reservations?

It is suggested that you make you reservations very early in the year especially if your stay involves a weekend. Cottage Homes and hotel rooms are limited on the Island and booking early will help insure you get the dates you want. You may book on-line by visiting our reservation request page and selecting the hotel or home rental of your choice.

Do your homes have a minimum stay?

On weekends our Put in Bay vacation homes require a two-night minimum. On holiday weekends there is only a two-night minimum compared to many downtown hotels which require three. There is a two-night minimum stay requirement Sunday thru Thursday nights where Sundays are not on a holiday weekend. On occasion, we will allow a one-night weekend stay off-season, but please call to check availability.

Can I bring alcohol to my home or cottage?

Yes, all of the homes featured on www.islandclub.com permit you to bring your own beverages to the privacy of your own rental home, as long as you of legal drinking age in Ohio (21). You may not bring your alcoholic beverages into any of our bars or poolside bars as they are considered part of the liquor permit premises. There is no need to bother bringing beer and wine from the mainland as we have carryouts here on the Island with prices comparable with those on the mainland. There is no liquor store on the Island.

Do you have boat slips at the brand new Put-in-Bay Condos?

The Put-in-Bay Condos do not have a boat dock. We inherited a concrete pier on the lakeside of the units, but it does not accommodate boats. There are public docks located in the downtown Put-in-Bay area. Boating information can be found at https://www.putinbayonline.com/put-in-bay-services/services-boating-and-dockage/ online. Thanks!

Is there a beach at the Condos?

The South Bass Island State Park is located right up the street, less than a ten minute walk, and has the only “beach” on the island. There are also jet ski rentals and boat tours available there as well as a small dock. Due to the nature of the island (granite and limestone), it does not make sand like you would find in Florida or Hawaii. so guests make do and enjoy our pools where the water temperature is always just right! Thanks!

Can I bring drinks to the pool?

Yes and No! If you are staying downtown at a hotel, they do not allow this and you must purchase your drinks ast their pool bars. However, if you are staying at a rental home or condo, you are more than welcome to bring your small cooler with you (bottled water, soda pop, beer, drinks), or even drinks from your house/condo, and enjoy a nice afternoon poolside. Please refrain from bringing any glass bottles to the pool deck. Thanks!

Island Questions

What do I need to bring for my stay in a rental home?

Bring any personal items that you may need, such as: bed linens and bath towels (except the brand new Waterfront Condos, where they are provided), your favorite snacks, beverages, food to grill out, lawn games, pool towels, cornhole boards, etc. Bachelorette groups bring even more fun items to decorate their houses and condos!

What is your operating season?

Our season starts April 1st and our last big weekend is the Halloween weekend the last weekend in October. Off-season activities include walleye and perch ice fishing

How far are you from Cedar Point?

Both ferryboat lines can be reached from Cedar Point in about 20 minutes.

What is the weather like in Put in Bay?

The weather at Put in Bay is much like all of northern Ohio coastal communities. In spring and fall a light jacket our sweatshirt is recommend for evenings. Island dress is casual. Current weather and a 10-day forecast may be found in our current island weather section. Just remember, it NEVER rains in our great restaurants and bars!

Do I need a driver's license to rent a golf cart?

Yes! Golf Carts are treated as licensed motor vehicles on the Island. All traffic laws apply including open container laws as well as drinking and driving. We rent to licensed drivers over the age of 18 (the legal age to sign a contract in the State of Ohio). For those under 18 but holding a valid license, a parent or guardian may rent a golf cart for your use. We recommend Island Club Golf Cart Rentals at www.putinbayislandclubgolfcarts.com

How much is the golf cart rental?

There are various golf cart rental locations on the island, most of which offer only mid-day rentals (due back by dark). We rent our own golf carts at the Island Club and the Put-in-Bay Condos and if you reserve them before you arrive, we will have them waiting for you. Our weekend and midweek rates can be found at https://www.islandclub.com/explore-the-area/golf-cart-rentals online. Thanks!

What time do the Put-in-Bay bars close?

As a general rule, most downtown bars close around 1:30 to 2:00 am. There are many late night bars on the Island including The Brewery and Mr. Eds to name a few.

Where is the best place to eat in Put in Bay?

That is a tough one! There are a wide variety of great dining choices on Put in Bay Island that serve an even wider variety of food. While touring the Island, stop in and look over the menus to determine your choice! We recommend Cameo Pizza inside Mr. Ed’s Bar & Grille for sandwiches, wings, and pizzas during the day and a great late-night option is the brand new Swipe Right Pizza.

Can I walk from bar to bar with a drink in Put in Bay?

NO! As anywhere in Ohio, we have an open container law. No alcoholic beverages may leave a liquor permit establishment. This is strictly enforced on Put in Bay Island.

What if I miss the last ferry?

This is not recommended! Trying to find a last minute Put in Bay hotel late in the evening can be difficult if not impossible.

Do I need advance reservations for the ferryboats?

No! Our ferryboat services can transport as many as 350 people per trip and have numerous boats. Arrive early for your trip to Put-in-Bay!

What bands are playing in Put-in-Bay?

Check our Things to Do pages for your favorite entertainer!

Does Put in Bay have a school?

Yes! Put-in-Bay has a K-12 school that is located in the downtown area.

Is there a grocery and a place to buy beer and wine?

Yes! There is a full service grocery on the Island on Catawba Avenue. There is a drive thru with beer and wine located next to the Boathouse Bar and Grill on Hartford Avenue.

Getting to Put-in-Bay

How do I get to Put in Bay Island?

The Jet Express passenger-only ferry and the Miller Ferry for cars/passengers both run from the mainland to the island. They each have an evolving schedule based on the dates and season. Generally, the Jet runs the latest on weekends, and the Miller starts up earliest in the mornings. We offer full Put-in-Bay ferry information.

Do I need my car on Put in Bay Island?

We recommend you do NOT bring a car to the Island. Aside from the expense associated with transporting your vehicle, parking is very limited on the Island. Waits to get a car on or off Put in Bay Island can run as long as four hours. Golf Carts, Bicycles, Mopeds, and Taxis may be rented during your stay.

Can I bring more than 2 vehicles?

Each of our homeowners has enough parking at their rental home in the Island Club for two vehicles maximum (or one truck and a boat). Most people who come to the island leave their cars on the mainland anyway because they don’t want to pay the roughly $50 roundtrip car fee and the fact that there is barely any parking on the island (other than at rental homes) for non-golf-cart vehicles. We do, however, usually recommend that for large groups (usually bachelor/ettes) or longer term (ie non-weekend) family rentals, that our guests bring one vehicle packed with all their coolers and luggage and sheets/towels and food/bev and whatever else they may need so that they don’t have to lug it all onto the boat. Most guests meet on the mainland at one of the free or paid parking lots and stack and pack their biggest vehicle and then everyone but the driver walks onto the ferry boat. There is free and paid parking at both of the ferry docks, as well as free parking at the Miller Ferry dock on the island if you have to bring more than two cars across. Thanks!

How much is the Ferry Ride to Put-in-Bay?

There are two different ferry services to Put in Bay, the Jet Express and the Miller Ferry. The Jet Express is $34 Round Trip or $20 one way for adults traveling from Port Clinton to PIB. Youth between the ages of 6-11 is $15 and under 6 is $6 traveling from the same ports. The Miller Ferry is $14 Round Trip for adults. Youth 6-11 is $1.50 and children under 6 are Free. Also, the Miller Ferry transports vehicles. These rates vary based on size. Standard automobiles and trucks cost $16 one way.

Where do you get the ferry to Put-in-Bay?

There are two ferries that service the island: the Jet Express and Miller Ferry. The Jet Express has two mainland ferry terminals: Port Clinton and Sandusky, Ohio. The Port Clinton dock is located at 3 Monroe St., Port Clinton, Ohio, 43452. The Sandusky dock is located at 101 W Shoreline Dr., Sandusky, Ohio, 44870. The Miller Ferry has one mainland departure point at the end of Catawba Point in Port Clinton. The address is 5174 E Water Street; Port Clinton, Ohio 43452.

How long does it take to get to Put-in-Bay on the Ferry?

The trip on the Miller Ferry is approximately 18 minutes. While enjoying the relaxing transport, plan things to do in Put-in-Bay. The ride time is approximately 30 minutes on the Jet Express from the Port Clinton dock to Put-in-Bay.

How long does the Jet Express ferryboat take to get to Put-in-Bay?

The ride time is approximately 30 minutes on the Jet Express from the Port Clinton dock to Put-in-Bay.

How far is downtown Put-in-Bay from the ferry?

The vehicle/passenger ferry (Miller Ferry) lands on the South end of the island and is about 1.5 miles from the downtown strip, but is closer to the rental homes and condos. The passenger-only ferry (Jet Express) lands right in the middle of downtown, and is about 1 mile from the island rental homes and condos. Thanks!

History of Put-in-Bay

Why is it called Put-in-Bay?

Several theories give insights into the name Put-in-Bay. Native Americans were known to trade and transport through the area. Historians believe that the island had spiritual significance to these peoples. So, they would “put in at the bay” in a sort of ceremony. Another theory suggests that the island is shaped like a pudding sack. They speculate that the name Pudding Bay evolved into the present-day Put-in-Bay. Put-in-Bay History is very interesting.

Does Put in Bay have a school?

There is a K-12 school downtown that services all the local islands with graduating classes from 4 tp 10 students.

How many people live on the island year round?

There are about 180 to 250 full-time residents of Put in Bay.

How do you get to the island in the winter?

When the ferryboats aren’t running, there are several charter airlines that fly in and out of Put-in-Bay airport. In some winters, the ice is thick enough for snowmobiles, 4-wheelers, or modified cars to drive across the lake.

How big and long is Put-in-Bay?

The dimensions for Put-in-Bay is approximately 3.7 miles by 1.5 miles. Although it is not the biggest of the Lake Erie Islands, it is by far the most visited.

Put-in-Bay FAQ

Put-in-Bay Frequently Asked Questions