Summer weekends were made for road trips, and where better to head to than the beach? Whether you prefer to lay out under the sun or take a dip in the water, there’s something here in Ontario for everybody. While we have a few beaches here in Toronto, if you’re looking to get out of the city, lucky for you, there are plenty of waterside escapes only a few hours from TO!
We know folks are itching to spend time outside after a long quarantine but make sure to keep a safe distance from other beach-goers.
here are the best beaches to visit this summer.
Kew-Balmy Beach
Just a stone’s throw away from Woodbine Beach is Kew-Balmy Beach and it’s much more secluded and private than it’s more famous neighbour. In addition to being quiet, it’s also closer to the water with areas that are perfect for lounging.
Darlington Provincial Park
This Bowmanville beach is just under an hour away from Toronto, but it’s quiet and secluded enough to make you feel like you’re in a whole new world. Bonus: the beach has an abundance of flat, black stones that are perfect for skipping.
Marie Curtis Park Beach
Known as being one of Toronto’s most underrated gems is Marie Curtis Beach Park. Though this beach doesn’t have a long stretch of sand, it’s definitely a change of pace from the busier beaches in the city.
Christie Lake
Enjoy hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, biking, or even stop to have a picnic. With gorgeous greenery all around, the view is breathtaking. Christie Lake is full of fun options for outdoor activities, now all you have to do is choose what you want to do.
Bluffer’s Park And Beach
Welcome to Bluffer’s Park And Beach where you can hang out at the base of the beautiful Scarborough Bluffs. Take your boat out for a ride or relax by the shore in the water. Trust us, you don’t want to miss out on this view.
Rock Point
This beach on the north shore of Lake Erie is made for picnics, with plenty of tables for a shoreside feast. The water is also quite warm, so once you’ve waited the appropriate amount of time, we highly suggest a swim.
Wasaga Beach
It’s practically a rite of passage for every Torontonian to visit Wasaga Beach at least once in their lives. While it can be a pretty popular destination in the summer months, it is also the longest freshwater beach in the world, meaning you’ll be sure to find a spot on the sand. Keep in mind that this beach is currently closed due to folks not following social distancing rules.
Crystal Beach
If you are a Fort Erie resident, taxpayer, or short-term rental operator you are in luck. At the moment Crystal Beach is now only available for the individuals stated above with a purchased season beach pass. So grab your pass and head to this white sandy beach and crystal clear water. Get a little taste of the Caribbean in Canada.
Port Burwell Provincial Park
If you’re more of a nature buff, this beach is the place for you. Complete with wild grass and driftwood, this place might be a little rougher around the edges but trust us, it’s worth the trek.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Named for the spectacular sandbanks that are quite rare for our part of the world, Sandbanks Provincial Park is perfect for that Instagram-obsessed friend in your group. But don’t worry, this beach isn’t just pretty to look at – hiking over to the dunes will add a touch of adventure to your day trip.
Lion’s Head Beach
This small sandy beach has gorgeous views of the Niagara Escarpment and even has a farmer’s market on Saturday mornings. If you can, we’d suggest checking out the nearby Tobermory Grotto as well – its turquoise waters are mind-blowingly gorgeous.
Port Stanley
Located on Lake Erie, this is one of the beaches near Toronto that you must check out. A beautiful village with small shops, yummy restaurants, and of course a gorgeous beach.
Rondeau Park
This beach may be narrow, but it’s also quite long, with around 11 kilometres of sandy beaches to explore. In short, you’ll be sure to find a nice, quiet spot away from other tourists.
Canatara Park
While a near three-hour drive is certainly not for the faint of heart, it’s certainly worth it to see one of the best beaches Ontario has to offer. Plus, if you stay for the night, you’ll have time to see the beautiful sunset over the lake.
Sauble Beach
Located northwest of Toronto near Owen Sound is where you’ll find Sauble Beach and while it’s about a 3-hour drive, you’ll see it’s worth it. Relax on the white sandy beach and take in the breathtaking views.
Kelso Conservation Area
Enjoy a summer fun day at Kelso Lake. It’s part of a 35-hectare lake that has a great beach area to set up lounge chairs or even play some volleyball. You can also stroll along the boardwalk, rent a boat, or even go fishing.
Ipperwash Beach
Located on Lambton Shores, Ipperwash Beach is one of the longest freshwater beaches in Ontario. It’s also close to the Grand Bend beach, so you can make a day trip and check out two areas!
Grand Bend Beach
Grand Bend Beach consists of about 20 acres of a stunning sandy beach. It has dozens of restaurants and shops around the area, to which you can grab a yummy meal for lunch. It’s also a Blue Flag beach, which means it meets strict water quality and safety criteria, which is always great to know if you’re exploring new spots!
Port Burwell Beach
Situated at Wilson Lane in Port Burwell, this beach is an amazing space on the northern shore of Lake Erie. It also consists of an awesome family friendly campground with large level sites and a play area for kids.
Singing Sands Beach
This beautiful beach has a ton of fun things to explore! You’ll find sand dunes, wetlands, dolostone barrens, and a cedar swamp. There’s even a handful of hiking trails and prime bird-watching spots to check out.
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