Ontario is home to some of the most breathtaking freshwater shorelines in the world, and the beaches in Ontario Canada offer a perfect escape for locals and tourists alike. From the sandy stretches of Wasaga Beach—the longest freshwater beach in the world—to the scenic dunes of Sandbanks Provincial Park, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to explore. Whether you’re planning a relaxing family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a fun day trip with friends, the beaches in Ontario Canada cater to every kind of traveler.
Best Beaches in Ontario Canada
What makes the beaches in Ontario Canada truly special is their variety. You can experience calm, shallow waters ideal for children at family-friendly spots like Port Stanley, or catch epic sunsets at Sauble Beach. Many of the top beaches in Ontario Canada are located in provincial parks, offering not only swimming but also hiking, camping, and picnicking opportunities. These parks are well-maintained and monitored regularly, ensuring clean water and safe environments for all visitors.
For those looking to avoid crowds, there are also hidden gems and lesser-known beaches in Ontario Canada waiting to be discovered. These off-the-beaten-path locations provide peaceful retreats surrounded by nature. Accessibility and facilities also vary, but many of the more popular beaches in Ontario Canada now offer amenities like washrooms, changing areas, food vendors, and even accessible walkways.
In short, the beaches in Ontario Canada are a must-visit during the summer months. With so many unique spots to explore, each visit offers a new adventure along the shores of Ontario’s stunning lakes.
01. Southwestern Ontario Beaches: Grand Bend Beach
Grand Bend Beach is one of 27 Blue Flag beaches in Ontario, a global eco-certification for beaches that meet strict standards for water quality, safety, environmental management, and more. Grand Bend is a vibrant beach town and home to one of Ontario’s most popular beaches.
While you’ll find that the town’s main beach is quite lush, this sandy beach is quite wide. If you go a little further down, you’ll have no trouble finding a quiet spot. Grand Bend Beach also has mats to make it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. This beach is famous for its sunsets. Be sure to visit to see them all.
It’s possible to participate in water sports from the beach, such as parasailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. Learn more about how to plan your trip to Grand Bend (including Grand Bend Beach, Piney Beach, and Canatara Beach).
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
02. Best beach for sunset: Piney Provincial Park Beach
Piney Provincial Park is a unique ecosystem located in southwestern Ontario, located on a vast expanse of land between Highway 21 and Lake Huron. It is the largest remaining piece of oak savanna and is one of the longest freshwater coastal dune ecosystems in the province.
Piney Provincial Park also has a stunning, white sandy beach. There are several beach areas in Piney along the same beautiful stretch of sand. Although it’s just down the road from the city of Grand Bend, you’ll find this beach a bit quieter because it’s part of protected provincial park land.
While Pinery Beach is most popular in the summer, I also visited in the middle of winter. Check out how you can plan a winter trip to Pinery Provincial Park for a whole new experience.
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
03. Southwestern Ontario Beaches: Canatara Park Beach in Sarnia
Canatara Park Beach is another Blue Flag beach on Ontario’s Blue Coast with crystal clear waters. This beach is a bit more rocky than other beaches on Lake Huron, but it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Ontario. If you enjoy a bit of solitude, Canatara Beach is perfect because it’s a bit quieter than the other beaches on this list.
There is about a kilometer of sandy beach, and on a sunny day the water is a deep blue and turquoise. There is a park near Canatara Beach, ample free parking, a taco food truck, and water sports rentals (kayaks and stand-up paddle boards).
Distance from Toronto: 3 hours
04. Best Beach in Southern Ontario: Bayfield Pier Beach
Bayfield Pier Beach, also known as Bayfield’s Main Beach, is one of the best beaches in southwestern Ontario. It’s another Blue Flag beach in the region, so you know the water will be clean and clear. This beach is right next to the marina, so you can combine your beach trip with a walk on the pier.
This Lake Huron beach is made up of soft sand, perfect for relaxing or building sandcastles. The beach is right on the edge of the historic village of Bayfield. You’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
If you’re looking to hit the beach, Bayfield has two other beaches: Howard Beach (just south of Bayfield’s main beach) and Houston Heights Beach (south of Bayfield, at the end of Pavilion Road).
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
05. Blue Flag Beaches in Ontario: Port Stanley Beach
Port Stanley Beach is located on the north shore of Lake Erie and is one of the best beaches in Ontario. It also has Blue Flag status and is a large beach with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy. Port Stanley Beach is perfect for families, with a shallow sandy bottom and warm waters. It’s one of the best beaches near London, Ontario.
This beach is also popular with water sports and sailors because it gets plenty of offshore winds. Port Stanley Beach is located right in the middle of Port Stanley. You can walk to the town’s restaurants, cafes, and shops. I love this little beach town and I’m sure you will too! Here are more of the best things to do in Port Stanley to help you plan your trip.
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
06. Quiet Ontario Beaches: Little Beach (Near Port Stanley)
Looking for something a little quieter than Port Stanley Beach? Little Beach is just around the corner. It’s a small, sandy beach that’s protected by a small cove. This means the waters are always pretty calm, making it suitable for people of all ages.
Between Port Stanley Beach and Little Beach, it’s easy to visit both of these beautiful Lake Erie beaches in one trip. You’ll likely avoid the crowds at Little Beach because it’s a little more secluded and away from it all. Since you’re right in Port Stanley, why not spend some time in town too?
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
07. Lake Erie Beaches: Turkey Point Beach
Turkey Point Beach is a beautiful 2-kilometer stretch of beach on the shores of Lake Erie, located in the village of Turkey Point. You can also visit nearby Turkey Point Provincial Park for hiking and biking, as well as restaurants, a marina, wineries, breweries, and ziplining near Turkey Point.
I recommend staying at Turkey Point Beach Bungalows, a beautiful rental unit located right across from the beach. Spend one day at the beach, and then visit the winery and brewery the next. You may also want to take a trip to nearby Long Point Eco Adventures for ziplining and kayaking.
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
08. Beach near London Ontario: Port Burwell Beach
There’s plenty to do in Port Burwell, even if you haven’t heard of this beautiful Ontario town before. You’ll find hiking trails, a provincial park, camping, a historic lighthouse, a maritime museum, and even a Cold War-era submarine.
Port Burwell also has a beautiful Blue Flag certified beach. Port Burwell Beach is one of the best beaches in Ontario. It is less likely to be as busy as other beaches because it is still a bit of a hidden gem. Check out Port Burwell Beach this summer!
If you are planning a beach trip in Ontario, it is easy to combine it with some nearby beaches: Port Stanley Beach, Little Beach and Turkey Point Beach. These are all great Lake Erie beaches.
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
09. Beautiful Beaches in Ontario: Crystal Beach (Bay Beach)
Here is another amazing beach on Lake Erie - Crystal Beach! It is also known as Bay Beach, but almost everyone calls it Crystal Beach. There is a small entrance fee to visit Bay Beach / Crystal Beach, but it is worth it. This beach is so well maintained, there are toilets on site and it is incredibly clean.
Crystal Beach is a small community within Fort Erie, and it was named Crystal Beach for its crystal clear waters. It is one of the most popular beaches in Ontario, but don’t let that put you off. The beach has limited capacity, so I would get there early to make sure you and your beach blanket are on the beach.
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
10. Ontario’s Palm Tree Beaches: Port Dover Beach
I used to visit Port Dover Beach all the time as a kid, and I go there as often as I can. It is one of the most popular beaches in Ontario, but it has a great atmosphere. First of all, it is the only place in Ontario where you can see palm trees! A local businessman brings palm trees in every summer.
The beach is located right on the edge of the town of Port Dover. There are many restaurants, cafes, and beach shops where you can find inflatable beach toys and clothing. I also have fond memories of playing mini golf here. Enjoy the turquoise water and a small lighthouse from Port Dover Beach. I’m sure this will be one of your favorite Ontario beaches.
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
11. Popular Ontario Beaches: Elora Quarry
Elora Quarry has a large sandy beach, but the water and views are the main reasons Elora Quarry is such a beautiful place. It’s an old quarry that has been converted into a swimming hole. When you swim here, you’ll be surrounded by 40-foot-high limestone cliffs.
You’ll need to purchase a day pass online in advance to visit Elora Quarry. There are currently no walk-up tours allowed, so make sure you plan accordingly. Please note that cliff jumping is prohibited here, as are any watercraft. And since Elora is such a beautiful town to visit, there are plenty of other things to do in Elora while you’re there.
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
12. Best Beaches in Toronto: Sugar Beach
Sugar Beach is an urban beach park located in the middle of downtown Toronto. It’s one of the best beaches on Lake Ontario and is conveniently located in the city. You can recognize Sugar Beach by its iconic pink beach umbrellas.
Unlike the other beaches featured in this blog post, Sugar Beach isn’t really for swimming. It’s more of a place to sunbathe, play in the sand, and relax. It gives you that beach feeling without leaving Toronto. Here are some more places to visit in Toronto to make your beach day even better.
13. Bluffers Park Beach (Scarborough Bluffs)
Scarborough Bluffs is a great place to explore, walk, and enjoy the beach. Bluffers Park Beach is one of the best beaches in Ontario and is a Blue Flag beach on Lake Ontario. If you enjoy walking the waterfront trail and taking in the dramatic mountain views, you'll love Bluffer's Park Beach.
There's a long sandy beach, picnic areas, and restrooms. Even though Scarborough Bluffs is located within the city of Toronto, you'll feel like you're getting away from it all. It's even accessible by TTC.
14. Toronto Island Beaches
Toronto Island is a great getaway from the city, and it's just a short ferry ride from Toronto. You can enjoy views of the impressive city skyline on the ferry to and from the other side of Toronto Island. The islands have three beaches: Hanlan's Point Beach, Ward's Island Beach, and Centre Island Beach.
Hanlan's Point Beach and Ward's Island Beach both have Blue Flag designations. One unique aspect of Hanlan's Point Beach is that part of it is "clothing optional." If you want to keep your swimsuit on, don’t worry – there’s plenty of space between the two parts of the beach.
Hanlan’s Point Beach is a little less crowded than the other beaches. Centre Island Beach has gardens, picnic areas, lockers, changing rooms and a fast food outlet, all just a short walk away. Wards Island Beach is just a 5-minute walk from the Wards Island Ferry Dock, and there are also many great walking trails from the beach. Book a bike tour of the islands while you’re there!
15. Ontario’s Best Sandy Beach: Sauble Beach
Sauble Beach is one of Ontario’s best beaches, and it’s been a favorite of mine since I was a kid. I still go here often these days! You’ll recognize Sauble Beach by its iconic sign at the entrance to the main beach area.
It’s the second longest freshwater beach in the world (Wasauga Beach is the longest). There are seven miles of beach in total. Sauble Beach is located on the shores of Lake Huron. It’s easy to get to Sauble Beach by connecting with a trip to the Bruce Peninsula and Tobermory.
Sauble Beach is consistently rated as one of the best beaches in Canada, so you’ll want to get there early to secure a spot on the sand. You’re also in one of the most beautiful beach towns with lively shops, attractions, and restaurants.
Distance from Toronto: 3 hours
16. Off the Beaten Path Beaches in Ontario: Southampton Beach
Looking for a quiet beach near the city of Southampton? Southampton has a beautiful beach on the edge of town. Justin and my family are in Southampton, and it’s always a favorite place for our trips. Southampton is a beautiful city with shops, restaurants, and even a brewery on Main Street.
Southampton Beach is a little more rocky and rough than Sauble Beach, but you’ll find places where the sand is just as soft. I especially like walking along Southampton Beach to catch glimpses of the small lighthouse and Chantry Island in the distance. Both Sauble Beach and Southampton offer incredible sunsets.
Distance from Toronto: 3 hours
17. Ontario Beaches: McGregor Point Provincial Park
While there is a great sandy beach in Port Elgin (right next to town), I recommend heading to nearby McGregor Point Provincial Park. Located on the edge of Port Elgin, there is a stunning sandy beach that is only accessible to park-goers, so it’s definitely a more peaceful place to relax and swim.
McGregor Point Provincial Park also has excellent trails where you can see migratory birds and interesting plants. The park is a delight for bird lovers and the trails vary from short boardwalk trails to longer treks around wetlands.
Distance from Toronto: 3 hours
18. Indian Head Cove / The Grotto in Tobermory
Located in the Bruce Peninsula National Park, the waters of Indian Head Cove and The Grotto are not your typical beach. You won’t find any large expanses of sand on the Bruce Peninsula. However, many visitors choose to swim in the waters of Georgian Bay at this famous and highly touristed spot. This is one of the best things to do in Tobermory.
You’ll be surrounded by rocky cliffs and interesting formations, and you can spread your towel across the flat rocks here. For an extra adventure, some people choose to swim in the Grotto, but the water here can be quite rough so it’s only for experienced swimmers. The national park is best known for its amazing hiking trails with beautiful scenery, so be sure to hike while you’re here.
Distance from Toronto: 4 hours
19. Longest Freshwater Beach: Wasaga Beach
Wasauga Beach is the longest freshwater beach in the world with 14 kilometers of sandy shore. And Wasaga Beach Provincial Park is the first Canadian provincial park to receive Blue Flag certification. It is one of the best beaches to visit from Toronto and is one of the most popular beaches in Ontario.
Wasaga Beach has warm, shallow water and you can walk quite a bit with your body above the water. It is great for families and groups of friends. I have visited Wasaga Beach for many years and I always have a great time. The sunsets here are also quite spectacular.
In addition to the beach, you can walk around this charming little beach town. There are restaurants and shops during the day and Wasaga Beach also has a nightlife scene. Wasaga Beach is the starting point for the Ganarska Trail and is also a protected wildlife habitat for nesting birds.
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
20. Balm Beach (Tiny Beach)
Balm Beach (in Tiny Beaches) is located a short distance up the coastline from Wasaga Beach along Georgian Bay. It is a great alternative to visiting Wasaga Beach. Tiny Township has 70 kilometres of coastline, and Balm Beach is one of the best beaches in Ontario. Other beaches in Tiny Township include Bluewater Beach, Woodland Beach, Jackson Park, and LaFontaine Beach Park.
Balm Beach is a little slice of paradise, and I love how secluded this beach is. Even though it is a small beach, it still has many amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, a playground, accessible beach access, and a convenient store and restaurant nearby. It’s been a while since I’ve visited Balm Beach, but I’m excited to go again!
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
21. Sibbald Point Provincial Park Beach
Sibbald Point Provincial Park is one of the few beaches that isn’t located on one of the Great Lakes. You’ll find this sandy beach on the south shore of Lake Simcoe. There’s also a grassy area for picnics, and you can also go camping at Sibbald Point Provincial Park.
Like Turkey Point Provincial Park (and a few other provincial parks on this list), this summer you’ll need to reserve your spot by booking a day pass online in advance. While there are a few hiking trails nearby, people mostly head to Sibbald Point Provincial Park for the beach. Soak up the sun and enjoy!
Distance from Toronto: 1 hour
22. Darlington Provincial Park Beach
Darlington Provincial Park is a long sandy beach on the shores of Lake Ontario. You can go camping, picnicking, hiking the trails, and even do some snowshoeing in the winter. However, we won’t focus on winter right now. Darlington Provincial Park is one of the top beaches in Ontario.
Be sure to visit the Ontario Parks website to book your day pass in advance to avoid disappointment. Before long, you’ll be hearing the gentle sound of Lake Ontario’s waves lapping against this sandy shore. Darlington is so close to the city of Pi that you can easily visit for the day, or take a vacation here and explore the entire region.
Distance from Toronto: ~1 hour
23. Best Beaches in Ontario: Coburg Beach
Coburg Beach, also known as Victoria Park Beach, is a stunning Lake Ontario beach with a wide sandy beach that stretches out like a sparkling lagoon. There are restroom facilities, a splash pad, a playground, a picnic area, and a canteen. It’s perfect for families with young children or groups of beach-loving friends.
If you head west of Victoria Park, you’ll find West Beach. It’s more natural than the main beach, with pebbles mixed with sand, a natural garden, and a boardwalk.
Distance from Toronto: 1.5 hours
24. Sandbanks Provincial Park Dunes Beach
Sandbanks Provincial Park has some of the most beautiful beaches in Ontario. In fact, Sandbanks has three sandy beaches: Outlet Beach, Lakeshore Beach, and Dunes Beach. Sandbanks is home to the world’s largest baymouth barrier dune formation. And Sandbanks’ beaches are ranked among the best in Canada!
Some other activities at Sandbanks Provincial Park include walking trails around the dunes, bird watching (it’s a bird migration hotspot), canoeing and kayaking, and camping. As with other provincial park beaches, you’ll need to book a day pass in advance for Sandbanks Provincial Park.
From Sandbanks PP, you’re right in the middle of Prince Edward County. Cycle through the county, go wine tasting, or take an art crawl to see the work of local artists. The beaches at Sandbanks are just the beginning of a memorable trip.
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
25. Prince Edward County Beaches: North Beach Provincial Park
Looking for an alternative to Sandbanks Provincial Park? North Beach Provincial Park is another park in Prince Edward County that has a long beach on Lake Ontario. It has 1 km of lovely sandy beach and you can swim in the sheltered bay. You will need to book a day pass in advance at this park.
Distance from Toronto: 2.5 hours
26. Presque Isle Provincial Park Beach
Presque Isle Provincial Park is home to some of the best beaches in Ontario. You can explore several beach areas when visiting this provincial park in Brighton, located in southeastern Ontario. Enjoy a long, safe, sandy beach with calm waters that are perfect for families with young children.
Beach Area 2 has a large swimming area and Beach Area 1 has a bit of a surf break, so you can go kiteboarding and boardsailing here. Anytime after September 10, it’s possible to walk through the water from Wayne Point to Gull Island for an extra adventure, while the water is still nice and warm.
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
27. Lesser-Known Beach in Ontario: Bonechair Provincial Park
For those living in eastern and southeastern Ontario, Bonechair Provincial Park is an absolute gem of a park and beach. Located near Killaloe and Barry’s Bay, Bonechair Provincial Park offers great camping, cabin rentals, and a long stretch of well-maintained, sandy beach.
This secluded little park has small hiking trails and canoeing opportunities. Bonechair Beach is also wheelchair accessible. You can stay within the park or take a day trip from Pembroke, Ottawa, and more.
Distance from Toronto: 4 hours
28. Northern Ontario Beaches: Pancake Bay Provincial Park Beach
Now that we’ve fully explored all of Southern Ontario’s beaches, let’s move on to the lesser-visited, often overlooked Northern Ontario beaches. Pancake Bay Provincial Park Beach has 3 km of sand and Caribbean blue waters. You can camp here, whether it’s car camping, RVing, or staying in a yurt.
Pancake Bay Provincial Park is also located along the historic Voyageurs’ Paddling Route. When you think of the best beaches in Ontario, I’m not sure any beach along Lake Superior naturally comes to mind. You have to add Pancake Bay Provincial Park Beach to your list of places to enjoy the beaches of Lake Superior.
Distance from Toronto: 8 hours
29. Best Ontario Beach: Agawa Bay
Agawa Bay Beach is located in Lake Superior Provincial Park near Wawa and Sault Ste. Marie. This 3 km long beach is simply stunning and is surrounded by rocky cliffs of the Canadian Shield. There are three campsites on every 1 km of the beach, so it’s easy to add it to your summer travel plans.
Although the water at Agawa Bay Beach is quite cold compared to Ontario beaches to the south, it still deserves a place on the list of the best beaches in Ontario. You can participate in water activities here, such as paddling and body surfing.
While you’re in Lake Superior Provincial Park and Agawa Bay, check out the insightful visitor center for information about the wildlife and the area. Also, the Agawa Rock Pictographs, located north of Agawa Bay, are not to be missed as they are one of the finest examples of Aboriginal art in Canada.
Distance from Toronto: 8.5 hours
30. Old Woman Bay Beach
Located in Lake Superior Provincial Park, Old Woman Bay Beach offers a mix of sand and pebbles in a picturesque setting. With views of green hills and turquoise waters, you might think you’re somewhere else in the world. From Old Woman Bay Beach, you can access the Nokomis Hiking Trail, which will remind you that you’re in the quiet forests of Ontario.
The water of Lake Superior can be quite cold even in the middle of summer. The shallow bay here warms up on hot days, making Old Woman Bay Beach one of the best beaches in Ontario. Lake Superior Provincial Park is also home to one of Ontario’s best dark sky reserves. Be sure to stay a while to enjoy all its natural beauty, both during the day and at night.
Distance from Toronto: 9 hours
🌊 Beaches in Ontario, Canada – FAQ
1. Are there beaches in Ontario?
Yes! Ontario is home to many beautiful freshwater beaches, thanks to its location along the Great Lakes and many inland lakes. Popular beaches include Wasaga Beach, Sauble Beach, Sandbanks, and Grand Bend.
2. What are the best beaches in Ontario?
Some of the top-rated beaches in Ontario include:
- Wasaga Beach – World’s longest freshwater beach.
- Sauble Beach – Famous for its soft sand and sunsets.
- Sandbanks Provincial Park – Known for sand dunes and shallow waters.
- Grand Bend – Popular with families and party-goers alike.
- Port Stanley – A Blue Flag beach on Lake Erie.
3. Are Ontario beaches safe for swimming?
Yes, most public beaches are safe for swimming. Water quality is regularly monitored, and local authorities post advisories if there are any health concerns.
4. Are pets allowed on Ontario beaches?
Many beaches do not allow dogs on the main beach area during peak season (usually May–September). However, some have designated pet-friendly zones. Always check specific beach rules before visiting.
5. Is there an entrance fee for beaches in Ontario?
- Public beaches: Usually free, especially those in towns or cities.
- Provincial parks: Often charge a day-use fee (e.g., Sandbanks, Pinery, etc.). Fees vary by park and season.
6. Can you camp on or near Ontario beaches?
Yes, many provincial parks with beaches offer camping. For example:
- Sandbanks Provincial Park
- Pinery Provincial Park
- Awenda Provincial Park
7. When is the best time to visit Ontario beaches?
The best time is late June to early September. July and August offer warmest water temperatures and full amenities, but also bigger crowds.
8. Can I have a BBQ or campfire on the beach?
Most beaches do not allow open fires. However, some parks offer BBQ or fire pits in designated areas. Always check local regulations.
9. Are Ontario beaches crowded?
Some can be very busy, especially on weekends in July and August. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning, on weekdays, or explore lesser-known beaches.
10. Are Ontario beaches accessible for people with disabilities?
Many public and provincial park beaches now offer accessible paths, beach mats, and even water wheelchairs. Accessibility varies by location.
🌅 Conclusion
Ontario offers a diverse and beautiful selection of beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, family outings, and nature getaways. Whether you're looking for a lively beach town, a peaceful park setting, or a pet-friendly shore, there's something for everyone. Before heading out, always check the local beach rules, weather conditions, and water safety updates to ensure a fun and relaxing experience. With its stunning freshwater coastlines and well-maintained parks, Ontario is truly a summer paradise for beach lovers.