Best Ontario Beaches; 20 Spots for a Beautiful Beach Day

The summer season in Canada means backyard barbeques, boating, and days at the beach. With access to four of the five Great Lakes, Ontario has beautiful beaches in every region of the province. Whether you’re looking for a secluded sand spit, a spot for sandcastles and surf, or a beach buzzing with activity, Ontario has a beach for you.

Lake Ontario Beaches

Sandbanks Provincial Park – Prince Edward County, ON

Known for its long white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water and rolling sand dunes, Sandbanks Provincial Park is home to some of the most spectacular stretches of sand in Ontario. With three expansive beaches; Outlet Beach, Dunes Beach and Sandbanks Beach, and the world’s largest bay mouth barrier dune formation, Sandbanks is the ultimate beach destination.

• Facilities: Washrooms, no lifeguards, park store, picnic tables, reservable picnic shelters, all-terrain wheelchair and one floating wheelchair available to borrow

• Access, parking and fees: Day use permit for Sandbanks Provincial Park required (reservable 5 days in advance)

Toronto Islands – Toronto, ON

Just a quick boat ride away from the bustling Toronto waterfront are the beautiful Toronto Islands. There are three main beaches to choose from, all with their own unique vibe. Head to Centre Island Beach for a lively family-friendly beach day, Gibraltar Point Beach for a secluded spot to read your book, Ward’s Island to tan with the locals, and Hanlan's Point Beach (Ontario’s only clothing optional beach) for a full body tan.

Each beach (except Hanlan’s Point) has received the Blue Flag designation for top water quality and safety, making them the perfect spots to take a dip during the summer months.

• Facilities: Lifeguards are present at all official beaches from June-August, and washrooms and picnic tables are available around the Island. Each beach has a different set of facilities available, including change rooms, drinking fountains, volleyball courts, splash pads, firepits and concession stands

• Access, parking and fees: All Toronto Island beaches are free to use. To access the Island you’ll need to take a Toronto Island ferry or private water taxi from the Toronto waterfront

North Beach Provincial Park - Prince Edward County, ON

The lesser-known neighbour of Sandbanks Provincial Park, North Beach is a day-use only Provincial Park located in beautiful Prince Edward County. With over 2 km of white sandy beach separated into two sections; lake side and bay side, the beach is protected by an offshore 1 km ribbon of sand, making it an ideal spot to go for a summer swim.

• Facilities: Washrooms, canteen, picnic tables, no lifeguards

• Access, parking and fees: Day use permit for North Beach Provincial Park required (reservable 5 days in advance)

Woodbine Beach – Toronto, ON

Located in the beautiful neighbourhood fondly known by local Torontonians as “The Beach”, Woodbine Beach has a vibrant and energetic vibe, and is one of the most popular beaches in Toronto. With 3 km of sandy Lake Ontario waterfront, Woodbine Beach is a diverse beach ideal for both families with kids, and groups of friends looking to tan to tunes. It’s also the hotspot for beach volleyball in the city, and a great place to either watch a game or brush up on your spikes.

• Facilities: Lifeguards, washrooms, picnic shelters, beach volleyball courts, outdoor fitness equipment, playground, full-service restaurant and beach snack bar. A beach wheelchair can be rented for free by calling 311 and picked-up at the Donald D. Summerville Outdoor Pool

• Access, parking and fees: Beach access is free. Paid parking is located in a lot at Ashbridges Bay Park, as well as on nearby side streets and private paid lots. The beach is easily reachable by bus and streetcar, and bike-in access is easy and convenient

Presqu’ile Provincial Park – Brighton, ON

A favourite spot for migratory birds each year, the 2.5 km of sandy beach at Presqu’ile Provincial Park is also popular with non-winged beachgoers each summer. Lay your towel on a section of white sandy beach on Sand Beach in the western section of the park, or pick a scenic spot along the rocky shores of Rocky Beach in the south to beachcomb or read by the water. Presquile’s beaches are popular among kite surfers and you’ll often see a buzz of activity on days with a good gale.

• Facilities: Washrooms, picnic tables, park store with food and drink, no lifeguards, Mobi-Chair beach wheelchair available to borrow from the park's Main Gate

• Access, parking and fees: Day use permit for Presquile Provincial Park required (reservable 5 days in advance)

Lake Huron Beaches

Wasaga Beach Provincial Park– Wasaga Beach, ON

Boasting the title of the longest freshwater beach in the world, Wasaga Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Canada, and welcomes millions of visitors from around the world every year. Located along the shores of Georgian Bay, Wasaga Beach has a whopping 14 km of pristine white sandy beach, and is home to one of Ontario’s most unique coastal dune systems.

The area is made up of eight designated beach areas; Beach Areas 1-6 as well as Allenwood Beach and New Wasaga Beach. Beach Areas 1 and 2 are the liveliest sections of beach, close to shops, restaurants and bars, while beach area 4-6 have a more relaxed vibe. Bringing your four-legged beach buddy? Head to Beach Area 3 which is the only dog-friendly stretch of sand.

• Facilities: Washrooms, picnic tables, picnic areas, restaurants and shops near Beach Area 1 and 2, no lifeguards, boardwalks, pet-friendly area

• Access, parking and fees: Day use permit for Wasaga Beach Provincial Park required (reservable 5 days in advance). There is also paid municipal lots close to beach area 1

Sauble Beach – Sauble Beach, ON

Taking second place for longest freshwater beach in the world is the 11 km stretch of amazing white sand at Sauble Beach. With a cool, relaxed and laid-back vibe, the beach is hot spot for families in the summer months, and is popular among anyone looking to bronze on the beach.

The main strip features a great selection of restaurants, bars, and quick service restaurants, and some cool beachy shops to pick up beach toys, inflatables, swimwear, clothes and souvenirs.

• Facilities: Washrooms, change rooms, restaurants and shops near main beach area, no lifeguards

• Access, parking and fees: Beach access is free, paid parking lots are located along the beach

Grand Bend Beach – Grand Bend, ON

If you’re looking for a beach with an energetic and cool vibe, perfect for people watching and meeting new friends, then Grand Bend is your spot. Grand Bend Beach has been designated a Blue Flag Beach for over 10 years, making it one of the top beach destinations in Ontario, and great place to take a dip.

While the beautiful sandy shores are ideal for sunbathing and sandcastles during the day, the heat ramps up in the evening with numerous bars and restaurants on the town’s main strip, and a vibrant nightlife scene after dark.

• Facilities: Washrooms, lifeguards, restaurants and shops nearby, splashpad, boardwalk, picnic areas

• Access, parking and fees: Beach access is free, paid parking is available on the street and at many municipal lots

Providence Bay Beach - Manitoulin Island, ON

As one of the most stunning beaches in Ontario, Providence Bay Beach on Manitoulin Island is a true hidden gem. The sand dune system bordering this beautiful 2 km stretch of white sand supports a unique ecosystem of plants which have adapted to the harsh coastal climate on the island.

Providence Bay Beach is rarely over-crowded, and is perfect for anyone looking to relax and unwind. Take a walk at sunset on the epic boardwalk, grab a snack or scoop at the beachside snack shack, and enjoy this little piece of beach paradise in Ontario.

• Facilities: Washrooms, no lifeguards, restaurant, wheelchair accessible boardwalk, playground, picnic area

• Access, parking and fees: Beach access is free, free parking is available in a small lot as well as in areas surrounding the beach

Pinery Provincial Park – Grand Bend, ON

One of the busiest and well-known spots for beach lovers in Ontario, Pinery Provincial Park is one Ontario beach you won’t want to miss. Pinery is known for its beautiful 10 km stretch of white sandy beach and clear aquamarine waters. The park is also famous for its spectacular sunsets, being ranked as one of the “Top 10 Best in the World” by National Geographic.

The park surrounding the beach has a uniquely significant ecosystem. Located next to the rare and fragile Oak Savanna and Coastal Dune Ecosystems, the park is home to hundreds of vascular plants and numerous species of birds.

• Facilities: Washrooms, no lifeguards, park store with small restaurant and ice cream, two designated dog beaches in the park

• Access, parking and fees: Day use permit for Pinery Provincial Park required (reservable 5 days in advance)

Canatara Beach - Sarnia, ON

Only minutes from downtown Sarnia, Canatara Beach is a cool urban beach near the mouth of the St. Clair River on Lake Huron. The beach has been designated a Blue Flag beach, and is one of the best beaches for families. Keep the kids busy with sandcastles, playgrounds, mini train rides, a BMX bike track and even an animal farm!

• Facilities: Washrooms, lifeguards late June to late August, playgrounds, animal farm, BMX track, picnic areas

• Access, parking and fees: Beach access free, free parking available onsite

Lake Erie Beaches

Port Stanley Beach – Port Stanley, ON

The highlight of any trip to the charming small town of Port Stanley is a day at the beach. Located on the north shore of Lake Erie, Port Stanley’s Main Beach is one of the best and well-known beaches in Southwestern Ontario, and is popular with families because of its gradual drop off, sandy bottom, and warm waters.

The beach has a Blue Flag designation, and is popular for kitesurfing and windsurfing when the wind picks up. When you decide to shake off your towel, be sure to take a stroll and explore Port Stanley’s nearby quaint downtown.

• Facilities: Washrooms, change rooms, lifeguards late June to early September, boardwalk, beach volleyball, restaurants and shopping nearby

• Access, parking and fees: Beach access free, free parking available onsite

Point Pelee National Park - Leamington, ON

Sunbathe on the southernmost beach on the Canadian mainland at Point Pelee National Park. Pick a spot at one of several beach areas dotting the 20 km of sand; the longest continuous natural beach in Essex County. Point Pelee National Park is also a migratory point for monarch butterflies, and you may some fluttering by your towel in late summer.

*While there is great swimming at the official beach areas, it is essential to be aware of water conditions, as the park can receive large waves surges creating dangerous undercurrents. It is also important to follow signage and do not swim beyond the marked areas, especially “The TIP”.

• Facilities: Washrooms, change rooms, no lifeguards, picnic areas, park store, playground

• Access, parking and fees: Admission fee required for day use of the park

Port Burwell Provincial Park - Port Burwell, ON

Often referred to the jewel of Lake Erie’s north shore, Port Burwell Provincial Park is home to 2.5 km of beautiful white sandy beach, lined by an extensive dune system. With its Blue Flag designation, the beach is popular with families and day trippers in the summer months, and a fun spot to spend a day catching rays.

• Facilities: Washrooms, no lifeguards, dog-friendly zone, picnic areas, park store with snacks and ice cream

• Access, parking and fees: Day use permit for Port Burwell Provincial Park required (reservable 5 days in advance)

Bay Beach (Crystal Beach) – Fort Erie, ON

Beautiful clear waters and soft inviting sand are what make Bay Beach one of the most popular beaches in the Niagara region. Often reaching capacity during peak periods, Bay Beach is a fun and lively beach perfect for families, groups of friend and anyone looking to catch some rays. With great modern facilities, and a bustling downtown nearby, this gem in Fort Erie has it all.  

• Facilities: Washrooms, changerooms, lockers, water bottle filling station, no lifeguards, shops and restaurants nearby, playground, picnic areas

• Access, Parking and fees: Beach pass required and can be purchased online or onsite, paid parking available at municipal lots and on street

Lake Superior Beaches

Pancake Bay Provincial Park - Batchawana Bay, ON

Sheltered from the open waters of Lake Superior, Pancake Bay is a beautiful 3.2 km stretch of beach, with pristine sand and crystal-clear waters. With a gradual drop-off, the beach is perfect for families with children, however exercising caution during wavy conditions is a must. As a west facing beach, Pancake Bay is also known for spectacular sunsets; a must-see after before you hit the road.

• Facilities: Washrooms, no lifeguards, picnic areas, dog friendly area, SUP, canoe and kayak rentals

• Access, parking and fees: Day use permit for Pancake Bay Provincial Park required (reservable 5 days in advance)

Agawa Bay Beach, Lake Superior Provincial Park - Algoma, ON

In the heart of Lake Superior Provincial lays the stunning Agawa Bay Beach, a beautiful 3 km sand and pebble beach, just a 1.5-hr drive from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Bookended by pristine wilderness on one side, and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior on the other, there are endless scenic spots to lay your towel.

While waters can be chilly at times and occasionally turbulent, this beach is a stunner, and should not to be missed while passing through one of Ontario’s best Provincial Parks.

• Facilities: Washrooms, no lifeguards, picnic area, park store

• Access, parking and fees: Day use permit for Lake Superior Provincial Park required (reservable 5 days in advance)

Old Woman Bay Beach, Lake Superior Provincial Park - Algoma, ON

Known for its giant rock formation said to resemble an old woman, Old Woman Bay Beach is one of the most scenic beaches in the region. Take a stroll on the 3 km stretch of sand and admire views of the mighty Lake Superior bordered by 400-ft cliffs and pristine forest. Located just off the highway, this is a great place to stop for a picnic on the beach, quick snack or stroll at sunset.

• Facilities: Washrooms, no lifeguards, picnic area

• Access, parking and fees: Day use permit for Lake Superior Provincial Park required (reservable 5 days in advance)

Sandy Beach - Wawa, ON

A short drive north of Lake Superior Provincial Park on the Michipicoten First Nation, Sandy Beach is a hidden gem worth pulling off the highway. The beach is rarely crowded and there is plenty of room along its 1 km of soft silky sand to find a perfect spot to park your beach bag.

The beach is especially significant as it’s the location where Group of Seven painter A.Y. Jackson painted his famous piece, Shoreline, Wawa, Lake Superior. You’ll find a short boardwalk along the rolling dunes, as well as interpretive panels giving you details on the history of the area.

• Facilities: Washrooms, no lifeguards, boardwalk

• Access, parking and fees: Beach access is free, free parking available onsite

Wild Goose Beach - Shuniah, ON

Only a short drive from Thunder Bay, Ontario, Wild Goose Beach is a golden sand beach, popular with locals, and a cool hidden gem in Northwestern Ontario. With 120 m of beach surrounded by grassy hills and a spectacular view of the iconic Sleeping Giant, Wild Goose Beach is a great spot for sandcastles, sun and the refreshing waters of Lake Superior.

• Facilities: Washrooms, no lifeguards, playground

• Access, Parking and fees: Beach access free, free parking available onsite