Top Beaches in Ontario, by Region

Attention, all of you sun-worshipping water babies: these are our picks for the top beaches in Ontario.

Disclaimer: Ontario has many, many, MANY outstanding beaches. We know yours might not have made our list. It doesn’t mean your favourite beach isn’t awesome – it is! Believe us, it was HARD selecting our top picks for the best beaches in Ontario (hey, it’s a tough job, but we’re happy to do it!).

So what criteria did we use to select our favourite beaches? Amenities, ease of parking, clear swimmable water, accessibility for paddlers, nearby attractions and overall beauty were our top considerations.

Here are our top picks for Ontario beaches, by region:

Southwest Ontario

If you’re looking to recreate the experience of visiting the tropics, head over Port Dover Beach to lounge by the palm trees. Yes, you read that correctly – palm trees! Each year, 15ft palms are planted and grow happily outdoors for five months (when the summer season is over, the palm trees are transported to spend winter in a greenhouse). Lake Erie is the second-smallest of the Great Lakes, and its shallow waters are warm and inviting. Anglers can fish off the pier or charter a boat and head out on the open waters. The town of Port Dover itself is as charming as it gets. Just be mindful of visiting on a Friday the 13th: this town is known for hosting large biker rallies on that conspicuous date.

Niagara Region

Sunset Beach in St. Catherines is a peaceful spot, situated on the southern shore of Lake Ontario. The 1200 ft beach is sandy and well-groomed, an inviting spot for swimmers, sunbathers and paddlers alike. There’s a playground for kids, paved trails for bikes and rollerblades, a boat launch, picnic area and public washrooms. Sunset Beach is also close to the Welland Canals Parkway Trail, a 45 km paved trail that is ideal for cycling.

Hamilton, Halton and Brant

The wee town of Winona is home to the Fifty Point Conservation Area, a massive, eighty-hectare park loaded with activities and amenities for nature lovers. The beach is clean and warm, making it an ideal spot for swimming. There are 340 docking spaces for boats, making this a great location for anglers. The surrounding parkland is known as a “hotspot” for birding, so bring your binoculars with you. Pack a lunch and come for the day or, if you’d like a longer stay, reserve one of their well-serviced, accessible campsites.

Huron, Perth, Waterloo & Wellington

In a region best known for farmland, the only beaches to be found here are on the shores of Lake Huron, and most of those are rocky. There is, however, a treasure of a sandy beach at Point Clark. Aside from blue waters and sand, one of the cardinal traits about this site is the Point Clark Lighthouse and Museum. Climb the 114 steps of the limestone lighthouse (built in the 1850s) and take in the spectacular view! The beach itself also has a large boat launch for those hoping to spend some time in nearby open waters.

GTA

Stuck in the city this summer? No worries, you can still have the sun and swim time you crave at Toronto’s Cherry Beach. Here you’ll find a surprising beach oasis in the city, with swimmable waters, a food truck and a great, big dog park if you’d like to bring your furry four-legged friend. You don’t need to bring your car, either! Cherry Beach is accessible by TTC (take the 121 bus from Union Station).

York, Durham and Headwaters

Sibbald Point Beach juts out into the waters of Lake Simcoe and is just a short, one-hour drive from Toronto. Here you’ll find many a family out for a day trip to splish-splash in the shallow, warm lake. Sibbald Point is another of Ontario’s provincial parks, which means it’s equipped with the usual amenities for changing, washrooms, and facilities for campers. When you’re ready for a break from the beach, explore the park’s museum (it was the original Sibbald Estate home), historic cabin, an 1870s Anglican church and churchyard, where you’ll find the resting place of famed Canadian author, Stephen Leacock.

More sandy shores and beaches near you or worth the drive here in Ontario 

Bruce Peninsula

Okay, this was a tough toss-up between Tobermory and Sauble – both are outstanding choices for a day at the beach. However, for us, the scales tipped in favour of Sauble Beach. The 11+ km of public beach is soft and sandy, and the shores of Lake Huron are warm and shallow, making it a perfect spot for families seeking fun by the water. One of our favourite features: Sauble Beach is westward-facing, so the views of summer sunsets are quite spectacular. There’s plenty of other activities to be had too if you’d like to mix up your beach day with some golf, hiking or shopping.

Southern Georgian Bay

Can we call this one a tie? Because we really can’t choose between the following two candidates:

Wasaga Beach is, reportedly, the longest freshwater beach in the world. Wasaga is a non-stop beach party; this is a community built for summer fun. There’s a colourful, touristy boardwalk filled with beach apparel, concession stands, bars and restaurants. If you’re looking to live out your full Frankie-and-Annette beach party dream, this is the right spot for you.

Alternately, if you’re looking for a beach experience that connects you to nature, we can’t think of a better spot than Awenda Provincial Park. Awenda – the second-largest provincial park in Ontario – has five beautiful mixed sand/stone beaches to for swimming and sun-worshipping. The drive into the park through protected forest is astonishingly beautiful, and there’s plenty of woods for hiking for those looking to commune with nature. There are campsites at Awenda for those of you who’d like more than a one-day getaway, but book early – spots fill up quickly.

Lake Simcoe – Couchiching Beach Park

Couchiching Beach Park is an excellent place for families to play for the day. Here you’ll find a playground, picnic areas, gardens, a boat launch, and washrooms/changing facilities. Couchiching Beach Park is home to many summer events, and you’ll often catch live music playing in the bandshell. When you visit, bring your bike or roller blades – there’s an excellent paved trail along the waterfront.

Kawarthas Northumberland

It’s a hard call, but we’re going to put our money on Coburg Beach as our top pick for the Kawarthas Northumberland region. A beautiful, well-groomed beach and amenities include a splash pad for kids, canteen, picnic area and basketball court. If you can, try and visit during the first weekend in August when the annual Coburg Beach Sandcastle Contest takes place. This is when master artists descend on the beach to create some pretty remarkable sand sculptures (bring your camera!).

Southeastern Ontario

The largest sand beach on the St. Lawrence Corridor is beautiful and has a spooky twist. Milles Roches Beach is on the largest of eleven islands on the St. Lawrence River, but the islands are – wait for it – the tops of underwater ghost towns! In the 1950s, ten communities were permanently submerged to create the St. Lawrence Seaway. Around 6500 people were displaced as a result of the intentional flooding.

Today, this area of the St. Lawrence is popular with scuba divers who explore the remains of the underwater ghost towns. For those who’d prefer a more traditional beach experience, Milles Roches Beach is surrounded by a canopy of trees, and is popular with swimmers and water sports lovers alike.

Ottawa and Countryside

Alas, the Ottawa area isn’t well known as beach territory, but we do have an excellent suggestion for a secluded swimming hole. The pond at the Caldwell-Carver Conservation Area is very private, and made from what was a gravel and sand pit in the 1940s. Today, this little swimmer’s oasis sits nestled in among the trees. Head’s up: this is a quiet area with several restrictions (no dogs, no bikes, no noise), so this spot is best intended for those looking for a serene swim.

Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley

It is, perhaps, a bit overshadowed by the giant that is Algonquin Provincial Park, but nearby Bonnechere Provincial Park is a gem all on its own. Happily, this soft, sandy beach on Round Lake recently had an accessibility upgrade in the form of a wheelchair-friendly path from the park to the beach, and floating wheelchairs are available to sign out.

The water is shallow, making it kid-friendly, but please note there are no lifeguards on site. If you’re bringing a 4-legged friend, they are allowed to doggy-paddle off of the boat launch.

Algonquin Park, Almaguin Highlands, Muskoka and Parry Sound

Sorry, we just can’t commit to one “best” beach in this region. I mean, this so isn’t fair. How do you even pick in an area scattered with lakes and 100’s of kilometres of Georgian Bay shore? You can’t swing a stick in this part of Ontario without hitting a beautiful beach! Whether you’re visiting the aforementioned giant Algonquin Provincial Park or one of the many small cottage country towns (Gravenhurst, Honey Harbour, Parry Sound, Bala, Bracebridge to name a few) you will have ample options for beach fun.

Northeastern Ontario

The clean, fresh waters of Lake Nippissing are one of our personal faves, and can be enjoyed by anyone with a visit to Marathon Beach, North Bay. This small Ontario city has happily maintained its public, downtown beachfront. There’s a government dock for launching your watercraft and if you don’t have a boat to paddle, no worries – kayak rental is available. Surrounding the water, you’ll find a paved path for cyclists, beautifully maintained gardens, a playground and ice cream stand. Sounds like the makings for a perfect summer day, doesn’t it?

Sault-Ste.-Marie and Algoma

North of “the Soo” you’ll find Pancake Bay Provincial Park,  another gem of protected, natural beauty in Ontario. The sandy beach at Pancake Bay is 3 km long and is met by the crystal blue waters of Lake Superior. As with other Ontario provincial parks, there are amenities for camping (RVs welcome, yurt rentals are available), great trails for hiking and birding, and  a lake full of trout for anglers. While you’re there, check out the Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout and take in the view of the spot where that famous ship met its fate back in 1975, inspiring the now legendary song by Gordon Lightfoot.

Northwest Ontario

Chippewa Park Beach, beautiful, sandy beach, a view of the legendary Sleeping Giant, areas for volleyball and baseball, and amusement park rides are just a few of the features that catapulted Chippewa Park Beach to the top of our list. There are concession vendors for hungry day-trippers, or bring a picnic and eat in the park. One great perk: Chippewa Park Beach has lifeguards on duty during the summer months for extra peace-of-mind when swimming in Lake Superior.

Remember if you head out to a beach this summer to be courteous and stay safe. Keep social distancing and our favourite rules of thumb “Take only pictures and leave only footprints”. It’s just that easy. 

Looking for more summer fun? Check out the 11 Fun Things To Do This Summer in Ontario blog! And always check the weather before you go! Summer weather in Ontario can change quickly and you should always be prepared. 

12+ Places to experience the most romantic couples getaway in Ontario

At ToDoOntario we love kids.  However, we know that when you are planning a romantic getaway, the last thing you want to worry about is traveling with or around children. They can get a little loud. We know that can kill that serene vibe you came for. Lucky for you, there are many resorts and inns throughout Ontario that cater to adults only. They know that sometimes adults need adult-time. 

Firstly, we think adult-only resorts are fantastic and not just because they are kid-free. Their focus on adult hospitality gives them the upper edge on being able to cater to us vegetable eating, whisper capable, coffee drinking adults. With luxurious spas, gourmet dining and naturally serene landscapes, these grown-up ready resorts have what any couple will need to make for a romantic getaway.

Second, we want you to know that If you’re looking for something more upbeat and adventurous, you can find that too.

Check out this list of top Ontario adult only resorts. Start planning that perfect romantic getaway today. 

Make Every Day Like Valentine’s Day

There is no best time to express and celebrate love. However, if you’re looking specifically for Valentine’s Day you can find it here:

Valentine’s Day Events/Activities

Valentine’s Day Getaways

We can tell you the best romantic getaways are actually near you, right here in Ontario. Or if you do not live in Ontario, even though Canada did not make the Conde Nast list of romantic getaways, it’s still worth the trip. 

In the meantime, below are some ideas to inspire you to celebrate with your partner any time of year.

Orillia & Lake County

Glen Oro Farm Luxury Camping

Slow things down… enjoy the simple pleasures of life in the country and tap in to your deeper self. All of these glamping yurt accommodations feature a King sized bed and are designed for 1-2 people. Having a fire is something that Glen Oro Farm finds quintessential to camping in Canada, so outside of each accommodation is a private campfire pit for your careful use and enjoyment. Inside your unit you will find them heated by either an environmentally friendly wood-pellet stove or more traditional wood stove. They also have a cedar barrel sauna which is heated by a Finnish wood-stove – a sign-up board outside the sauna door allows guests to privately book their own sessions.

Couples Glamping Experiences: https://www.glenoro.com/glamping.

Picton

The Waring House

Romance at its finest. The Waring House invites you to experience genuine country inn hospitality, and everything Prince Edward County has to offer;  great local wine, artists and artisans, history, fabulous beaches, breathtaking scenery, delicious dining options, and so much more.

Join The Waring House for a ‘Wine Experience’ – this is a 1.5 hour wine tasting focusing on Prince Edward County wines. Guests will learn of the stories of the people and places that make this wine region so special. This tasting is the perfect experience to gain a broad understanding of the local wines within a global context. The experience includes 6 tastings of Prince Edward County wines, paired with a delicious charcuterie plate -followed by dinner in Amelia’s Garden Dining Room. This experience is hosted in the Parlour between5pm to 7pm on Friday evenings and is guided by local Sommelier Jay Whiteley.– Book Your Experience!

Packages include:

Just For Fun Package
Cookery School Package
Sip, Savour & Stay Package
Wine Experience Package

Couples Getaway Package: https://waringhouse.com/packages.php.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

White Oaks Resort & Spa

Located in the heart of Niagara wine country and minutes away from pristine golf courses, wineries, the Shaw Festival Theatre, Casinos and many more world class attractions, White Oaks Resort is the ultimate Niagara romantic escape destination for all!

COUPLES KICKBACK PACKAGE

Muskoka

JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka

Enjoy a romantic getaway to JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka for two.

Love is in the air and savings are in your future. Take a break with a couples escape. Relax, reconnect and feel the romance.

Algonquin Park

Couples Resort

Those of you who need to escape from the bustle will find Couples Resort to be rejuvenating. There are many ways to do nothing at all. On the other hand, unlimited activities will keep the adventurer active all year round. Ontario’s Natural Algonquin Park is ideal for the sport enthusiast or avid adventurer who will be delighted with the extraordinary activities available.

Romance Package Link: https://www.couplesresort.ca

Port Severn

Rawley Resort

At Rawley Resort, Spa & Marina, you will find a secret escape that welcomes you, revives you, lifts your spirits and soothes your soul. No lineups, no stress, no worries – just intimacy, serenity and relaxation. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a weekend of pampering or a restorative retreat – your experience will deliver the exclusivity and luxury that is Rawley.

Romance Package Link: https://www.rawleyresort.com/

Christie’s Mill Inn & Spa

A beautiful Muskoka lakeside Inn featuring upscale accommodations and a luxurious spa. This is the perfect location for a romantic retreat getaway. 

Romance Package Link: https://www.christiesmill.com/

Port Carling

Sherwood Inn

Nestled among towering century-old pines at the very edge of Muskoka’s sparkling Lake Joseph, Sherwood Inn is a retreat unlike any other. Each guestroom and cottage suite is decorated to reflect the traditional character of Muskoka, and is complete with every modern convenience. Many rooms feature cozy wood-burning fireplaces and private whirlpools. 

Romance Package Link: www.sherwoodinn.ca

Bancroft

Footprints Resort

Footprints resort caters to adults providing a romantic getaway experience you will never forget. We invite you to explore our private grounds, featuring a private lake and Beach.

Enjoy all that the resort has to offer. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, you will find it at Footprints. Our private, pristine lake is yours to enjoy with canoes, paddle boats & a private beach.

Romance Package Link: www.footprintsresort.com

Collingwood

Craigleith Manor Boutique Bed &Breakfast

NESTLED BETWEEN GEORGIAN BAY AND THE BLUE MOUNTAINS SITS THE CRAIGLEITH MANOR. This unique boutique bed and breakfast is the perfect retreat for adults to decompress and, reconnect with nature and each other. Many of our guests say we are more like a boutique hotel than any other B&B they have stayed at. We offer sophisticated luxury in a welcoming, distinctive and relaxing space for the discerning. With only three unique, modern, very private, elegantly appointed guest suites, you will feel like you are at home.

Romance Package Link: https://craigleithmanor.com/

Toronto & GTA

Hockley Valley Resort

Plan a getaway and enjoy a fantastic night’s sleep in one of 104 guestrooms, experience culinary genius in our on-site restaurants, play in an indoor and outdoor pools and relax and recharge in 8, 000 sq. ft. full-service spa. Have we mentioned the 18-hole championship golf course, 16 scenic ski/snowboard runs for all levels?

Romance Package Link: https://hockley.com/

Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel

Indulge in a luxurious stay in celebration of Sheraton Centre Toronto’s Golden 50th Anniversary! In celebration of their Anniversary, and recent transformation, Sheraton Centre Toronto invites you join them and create new memories to last another 50 years. Indulge in this luxurious stay at the newly transformed hotel and celebrate your own special occasion, or create one! Arrive in style with complimentary valet parking and a special welcome amenity. Then unwind over cocktails in 43 Down, our new mixology lounge. Indulge in some extra rest with late checkout.

Romance Package Link: https://www.marriott.com/

Haliburton

Heather Lodge

Heather Lodge is a four season resort that offers getaways for couples who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the Haliburton area.  Slow it all down with some lakeside solitude on 300 feet of waterfront on Twelve Mile Lake. 

Waterfront activities include canoes, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and a paddle boat as well as a safe swimming area. Heather Lodges’ dining room offers adults a relaxing contemporary dining experience.   

Heather Lodge is open in all seasons. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross country skiing, bonfires and inside coziness.

Romance Package Link: https://www.heatherlodge.com/

H2H Cottage Co.

Your next Haliburton cottage getaway starts here. Take your pick from two separate private waterfront cottages, one is on Kennisis Lake and one on Bitter Lake. At each cottage rental your host will provide guests with 2 Kayaks, 2 Stand-up Paddle Boards, linens, towels, and other basic amenities. Simply plan to bring along your food and luggage to settle in. Here you can finally exhale and relax into enjoying your Ontario romantic cottage holiday. 

Cottage Rental Link: https://h2hcottageco.com/

Georgian Bluffs

Evergreen Forest Getaways

The ULTIMATE Romantic Getaway Under the Stars!

INSIDE: In any season, the Constellation Suite is your romantic destination, with an enormous, 10-foot wide skylight right above the bed. You’ll feel like reaching up and touching the stars! Evenings are breathtaking when the lights go down, whatever the weather outside. A private ensuite washroom, satellite TV and walk-out deck are all standard features. Mornings are nice and bright under the skylight, and you’ll feel fresher and more rested.

OUTSIDE: The outdoor Gazebo is deep in the forest, surrounded by nature. On clear nights, snuggle up and enjoy the show as the heavens wheel above. Rainy nights are awesome too, as rivulets cascade down the CLEAR roof. It’s a little home in the wild, with a gazebo heater, privacy blinds and just a few steps to a private washroom. The fresh air is exhilarating under the trees, and like camping, morning comes crisp and cozy under the warm blankets.

And for something completely different and neat – Try the TreeTop Suite!

There’s nothing like a treehouse! Here’s your chance for a super romantic getaway to a natural place, far from the city, where only the gentle swaying of the treetops provides life’s rhythm. This TreeTop Suite rests high among the verdant trees in the Bruce Peninsula. The treehouse reacts just like a tree would, and has a living, vibrant feel.

Romance Package Link: https://evergreenforest.ca/

Kemble (Owen Sound)

Cobble Beach Resort

Do you want to book a trip to Cobble Beach this summer or fall, but your better half doesn’t golf? Take advantage of our Couples Retreat package for the perfect getaway for just the two of you or with another couple! Whether you’re looking to play a round of golf, explore our extensive trail system, savour a delicious meal, or simply unwind and pamper yourself, you can’t go wrong at Cobble Beach.

Romance Package Link: https://www.cobblebeach.com/Stay/Packages/Couples_Retreat

Most Romantic Places To Kiss

The most romantic places to kiss in Ontario can be anywhere. Sunrises or sunsets are a great time to go outside, and enjoy the view of a city skyline or shoreline. Ontario is rich with parklands or attractions – all them capable of creating that perfect kiss moment. 

To further help you plan a fun couples getaway in Ontario check out this list of Romantic Getaway Packages available in Ontario. A great package really does help easily plan something fun while saving money too.

Or you can also find  >> fun date ideas << and have a fun day trip or romantic outing near you.