Where is Port Clinton, Ohio

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: August 5, 2026

Port Clinton is a city in northern Ohio and the county seat of Ottawa County. It sits on the shore of Lake Erie, about 45 miles southeast of Toledo and 45 miles east of Sandusky. The city is known for fishing, boating, island access, and its location near popular Lake Erie destinations such as Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island.

Location Map of Port Clinton, Ottawa County, Ohio

Where is Port Clinton Located in Ottawa County, Ohio

About Map: The map shows the location of Port Clinton in Ottawa County, in the U.S. state of Ohio.

Port Clinton Map, Ohio

About Port Clinton Map: The Google Map highlights the location of Port Clinton in Ottawa County, Ohio. Use the zoom, satellite, and street-view options to explore the city's neighborhoods, roads, and nearby places.

Where is Port Clinton Located?

Port Clinton is a city located in Ottawa County, Ohio, the United States. It lies along the western shore of Lake Erie, about 45 miles southeast of Toledo and roughly 45 miles east of Sandusky. Marblehead is around 10 miles southeast, while Fremont is about 25 miles southwest. Port Clinton is positioned near 41.512° North latitude and 82.937° West longitude. The 2020 Census recorded 6,056 residents. The city covers about 2.11 square miles, or 5.46 square kilometers. Port Clinton serves as the county seat of Ottawa County and has a long history tied to Lake Erie shipping, commercial fishing, tourism, and recreation. Its waterfront location makes it a popular base for fishing trips and boating excursions. The city is often called the "Walleye Capital of the World" because of the large walleye fishery in western Lake Erie. Port Clinton also provides ferry and boat access to nearby Lake Erie islands, including Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island and Kelleys Island. The area has important wetlands and coastal habitats that support migratory birds and other wildlife. A unique fact about Port Clinton is its strong connection to the Lake Erie walleye fishery, which attracts anglers from across the Midwest. The city was incorporated in 1828. US-6, OH-2, and OH-53 provide convenient transportation connections to Toledo, Sandusky, and other northern Ohio communities.

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Port Clinton City Facts

CityPort Clinton
StateOhio
CountyOttawa County
CountryUnited States
RegionNorthern Ohio and Lake Erie Shore
Incorporated1828
Founded1825
Total Area2.11 sq mi (5.46 sq km)
Land Area2.03 sq mi (5.26 sq km)
Water Area0.08 sq mi (0.21 sq km)
Elevation580 ft (177 m)
Population (2023 estimate)About 6,000
Population (2020 Census)6,056
Population Density2,983 people per sq mi
Time ZoneEastern Time (EST/EDT)
ZIP Codes43452
Area Code419 and 567
Major HighwaysUS-6, OH-2, OH-53, and OH-163
Public TransitOttawa County transportation services
Major AttractionsLake Erie, Port Clinton Lighthouse, African Safari Wildlife Park, and nearby Lake Erie islands
Official Websitehttps://www.portclinton.com/

Distance from Port Clinton, OH to Nearby Cities

  • Marblehead, OH – 10 miles (16 km)
  • Fremont, OH – 25 miles (40 km)
  • Sandusky, OH – 25 miles (40 km)
  • Toledo, OH – 45 miles (72 km)
  • Bowling Green, OH – 40 miles (64 km)
  • Norwalk, OH – 40 miles (64 km)
  • Findlay, OH – 55 miles (89 km)
  • Monroe, MI – 65 miles (105 km)
  • Ann Arbor, MI – 90 miles (145 km)
  • Detroit, MI – 100 miles (161 km)
  • Lima, OH – 90 miles (145 km)
  • Fort Wayne, IN – 125 miles (201 km)
  • Cleveland, OH – 100 miles (161 km)
  • Columbus, OH – 125 miles (201 km)
  • Akron, OH – 125 miles (201 km)
  • Dayton, OH – 150 miles (241 km)
  • Indianapolis, IN – 190 miles (306 km)
  • Cincinnati, OH – 200 miles (322 km)

Top Attractions in Port Clinton

  • Port Clinton Lighthouse – A historic Lake Erie lighthouse and one of the city's best-known waterfront landmarks.
  • Lake Erie – The lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, birdwatching, swimming, and scenic waterfront recreation.
  • Jet Express – A major ferry service providing seasonal connections from Port Clinton to Put-in-Bay and other Lake Erie destinations.
  • African Safari Wildlife Park – A nearby drive-through wildlife park where visitors can see animals in large open areas.
  • Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge – A major Lake Erie wetland refuge with trails, observation areas, and important habitat for migratory birds.
  • East Harbor State Park – A nearby state park on Lake Erie offering beaches, boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
  • Put-in-Bay – A popular Lake Erie island destination known for boating, historic sites, restaurants, caves, and summer tourism.
  • Kelleys Island – A nearby Lake Erie island known for glacial grooves, beaches, nature preserves, and historic attractions.

Airports Near Port Clinton, OH

  • Erie-Ottawa International Airport (PCW) – 5 miles
  • Toledo Express Airport (TOL) – 50 miles
  • Elyria Lorain County Airport (LPR) – 70 miles
  • Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) – 90 miles
  • Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) – 90 miles

Sources:

Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General city information referenced from the official Port Clinton city website and local government records.

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