Presque Isle and the city of Erie.

Presque Isle Bay represents the best of both worlds from a boating perspective and is, in my opinion, the finest sailing spot anywhere on Lake Erie. The five mile long by two mile wide bay is well sheltered from lake squalls, allowing for safe use in almost any weather. On a mild day, it's a short trip out the single entrance channel to enjoy the almost ocean-like conditions of eastern Lake Erie. Offshore, you're on the deep end of the lake, with a complete absence of the many shoals and hazards that curse the western islands.

While still a major boating center, there are far fewer pleasure craft per square mile than many similarly desirable areas, resulting in correspondingly less congestion on the water. You will find sailing a more peaceful experience here, and put up with much less discomfort from powerboat wakes than on the western end of the lake.

Presque Isle itself is a state park, free and open to the public during the daylight hours. Disappointingly, the park does not host a campground, but there are a number of private campgrounds available within a relatively small radius where you can dock your boat on its trailer and visit the many shoreside attractions by car.

The city of Erie occupies the Southern shore of the bay and features an assortment of marinas and waterfront attractions which will be covered in detail below. The city plays host to a wide variety of special events throughout the boating season. A comprehensive list of events and attractions can be found in the online Erie, PA visitor's guide.