Manitou has seen limited impact from human activity because of its remote location and the often-treacherous waters caused by a strong current at the peninsula's tip.

Commercial fisherman have used the island as a camping site in the past, staying overnight on the south beaches while setting their nets in the area.

[1] Efforts to investigate this unique habitat and its feathered residents are ongoing, in conjunction with the conservation activities of the Land Trust.

The new owners have announced plans to encourage public use of Manitou through camping, rock collecting, hiking, boating, kayaking, fishing, and sightseeing at the old light station, while preserving the island's unspoiled scenery and natural habitats.

Recently a local preservation society acquired the islet and its dilapidated light station, with a view to its ultimate restoration.