With the arrival of summer on the horizon, Ontario is already heating up, and it’s only going to get hotter.
And what better way to beat the heat and explore the province than by creating a bucket list of the best beaches to hit up this summer?
It might surprise you that Ontario is home to over 250,000 lakes and approximately 250 beaches, so we’ve done the legwork for you to curate a list of the top 10 beaches that have received rave reviews from frequent beach-goers and trusted travel sites.
These 10 Ontario beaches are known for their clear, warm waters, sprawling sandy beaches, and picturesque views.
1. Grand Bend Beach, Lambton Shores
Located in Grand Bend on the shores of Lake Huron in Southwestern Ontario, Grand Bend Beach is a popular summer attraction for its stunning sunsets, soft sand, and clear waters. Come for the day or stay for a full-blown vacation and experience the lively atmosphere complete with bustling restaurants, a shopping boardwalk, musical events, and beach parties.
2. Sandbanks Provincial Park Beach, Prince Edward County
On the northern shore of Lake Ontario in Prince Edward County, you’ll find one of the largest freshwater sand dune systems in the world, with stunning sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The beach is said to be possibly the best in Canada (!) because of its shallow and calm waters, and the area attracts a high number of beautiful monarch butterflies. Located nearby are excellent camping facilities, hiking trails, and bird-watching opportunities.
3. Wasaga Beach, Simcoe County
Stretching over 14 kilometres along the southern Georgian Bay, Wasaga Beach is the longest freshwater beach in the world. Boasting soft sand that will make you think you’re in the Caribbean, it's ideal for families and beach-goers of all ages. With restaurants and water-sports rentals galore, you can enjoy a little bit of action, relaxation, and indulgent eats.
4. Toronto Islands’ Beaches
Toronto Island is home to some of Ontario's dreamiest beaches. Hanlan's Point with its warm shallow waters offers both clothing-mandatory and clothing-optional sections where you can take in views of the striking Toronto skyline and watch a steady flow of luxury yachts coming and going. Centre Island is a hit with younger families with sandy shores, bike rentals, and the Centreville Amusement Park. And over on Ward's Island, you can enjoy some peace and quiet in nature with its serene ambience, walking trails, and quaint cottages (some of which are also available to rent!). There’s also a new unnamed beach located between Hanlan’s and Gibraltar Point that is an absolute must-see. Take the Tiki water taxi over for a fun and quick passage.
5. Sauble Beach, Bruce County
Sauble Beach is one of the most popular summer destinations for Ontarians, known for its iconic vintage red sign and wide sandy shoreline that stretches for over 11 kilometres. The beach has great swimming conditions with its gentle waves, and plenty of space for simply kicking back and relaxing and or playing beach games. When you’re all beached out, check out the area with its charming small-town vibe, studded with cottages, shops, and restaurants along the main street. If you’re a dog owner, note that dogs are not permitted on this beach.
6. Port Stanley Beach, Elgin County
Located on the north shore of Lake Erie, Port Stanley Beach is famous for its scenic views and relaxed vibe. It boasts an ultra-wide sandy beach, shallow waters, and a bustling harbour area with eateries, marinas, water sports rentals, and more. While in Port Stanley, be sure to stop by Broderick’s Ice Cream which sells over 40 different ice cream flavours and often has a lineup—but it’s totally worth it!
7. Pancake Beach, Pancake Bay Provincial Park
Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior in Ontario about an hour outside of Sault Ste. Marie, Pancake Beach is a hidden gem adored by nature lovers and beach-goers alike. With its flat rock formations that look like a stack of pancakes, spectacular crystal clear water, and super soft sand, this beach is ideal for day-trippers seeking a quiet beach escape with gorgeous nature views.
8. Pinery Provincial Park Beach, Lambton Shores
Another hot spot for sand dunes is Pinery Provincial Park Beach, located on Lake Huron. This beach is also a quieter option compared to Sauble Beach and Grand Bend and is actually part of a larger park with campgrounds with scenic walking trails, so you may consider staying a night or two.
9. Tobermory Beaches, Tobermory
Ontario’s Tobermory beaches attract visitors from all over thanks to its breathtaking beauty. Its pristine beaches Singing Sands and Dunks Bay are known for their crystal-clear turquoise waters and remarkable rock formations, setting the perfect summer backdrop for swimming and snorkelling. If you make the trip to Tobermory, be sure to stop by Indian Head Cove and The Grotto, arguably the most Instagrammable beach the province has to offer.
10. Port Dover Beach, Port Dover
Port Dover Beach in Ontario is a beach lover's paradise! With seasonal palm trees brought in and planted by a local restaurateur, you’ll feel like you’re in the tropics while you frolic on this beach. Its golden sands, refreshing waters, and vibrant atmosphere make it the perfect beach destination to enjoy water sports or lazily sunbathe. After a day of beach fun, head to waterfront hotspot The Beach House for some succulent seafood.
