Ontario is full of surprises. When most people think of Canadian beaches, they imagine ocean coastlines in the east or west. But Ontario? It’s a freshwater beach paradise that stretches from the southern shores of Lake Erie to the wild, untamed beauty of Lake Superior in the north. Whether you’re after long walks on soft sand, epic sunset views, or cool, calm waters for paddleboarding, this province delivers.
Here’s your ultimate 2025 guide to the Top 35 Must-Visit Beaches in Ontario, packed with insider details, real experiences, and hidden treasures.
1. Wasaga Beach – Georgian Bay
Stretching for an impressive 14 km, Wasaga Beach holds the title of the world’s longest freshwater beach and it lives up to the hype. Located on Georgian Bay, this beach is a summer magnet for sunseekers from Toronto and beyond.
The town of Wasaga has beach sections numbered 1 to 6, plus Beach Areas in Wasaga Beach Provincial Park. You can swim, tan, play volleyball, or grab some cotton candy and fries on the strip. Georgian Bay’s clear blue water is surprisingly warm by midsummer, and its gentle slope into the lake makes it super kid-friendly.
Wasaga isn’t just for lounging, it’s also a gateway to eco-adventures with the nearby Nottawasaga River and hiking trails like the Nancy Island Historic Site.
2. Sauble Beach – Lake Huron
Imagine a beach that stretches for 11 kilometers with soft sand, warm water, and an unforgettable Lake Huron sunset that’s Sauble Beach.
Popular but not overwhelming, Sauble has the energy of a small beach town with a cozy community vibe. You can shop for local ice cream, paddle in the shallow waves, or build sandcastles that last all afternoon. It’s great for families, teens, and even solo travelers just needing a breather from city life.
If you’re a fan of water sports, jet skiing, kayaking, and even windsurfing are on offer here. There’s also camping nearby and plenty of short-term rentals for a long weekend escape.
3. Sandbanks Provincial Park – Prince Edward County
Tucked in the heart of Prince Edward County, Sandbanks is one of Ontario’s most iconic beach destinations and for good reason. It boasts three major beach areas: Outlet Beach, Lakeshore Beach, and Dunes Beach.
The sand dunes here feel almost otherworldly. You’ll walk through golden mounds of sand that look like something out of a travel magazine. Outlet Beach is perfect for families with young kids thanks to its shallow entry. Lakeshore Beach offers longer stretches for walking, and Dunes Beach, as the name suggests, is bordered by towering sand formations ideal for exploring.
Camping at Sandbanks is a summer tradition for many Ontarians, and the surrounding wineries and artisanal food spots in PEC make it a dream weekend destination.
4. Grand Bend Beach – Lake Huron
A certified Blue Flag beach, Grand Bend is the definition of a beach town with a pulse. Located on the eastern shore of Lake Huron, it’s where golden sand meets vibrant boardwalk energy.
Here, you can dive into just about everything sunbathing, parasailing, beach volleyball, and grabbing a cone from the famous Dairy Dip. It’s a family spot by day and a lively hangout in the evening, complete with restaurants, bars, and live entertainment.
The beach is clean, well-maintained, and accessible for everyone. If you’re looking for a place that’s equal parts party and peaceful waves, Grand Bend should be high on your Ontario beach bucket list.
5. Port Stanley Beach – Lake Erie
Nestled along the north shore of Lake Erie, Port Stanley offers an ideal mix of classic beach vibes and small-town charm. The main beach is wide, sandy, and Blue Flag certified, making it one of the cleanest and safest swimming spots in the province.
Families love it here because the waves are gentle, the facilities are well-kept, and there’s a seasonal pier you can stroll along with an ice cream cone in hand. Beyond the beach, the town offers great local restaurants and boutique shops.
And here’s a fun fact: Port Stanley was once a key harbor during the 1800s shipping boom. Today, it’s all about beach days and relaxed afternoons.
6. Cobourg Beach – Lake Ontario
Located between Toronto and Kingston, Cobourg Beach is one of the most accessible and picturesque waterfronts on Lake Ontario. It’s especially known for its clean shoreline, scenic boardwalk, and summertime events like the Sandcastle Festival.
What makes this beach truly shine is the balance between natural beauty and town charm. The historic downtown is just steps away, so after a swim, you can grab lunch at a local café or browse artisan shops. The Victoria Park Beach area has wide open spaces, making it ideal for families, while the adjacent marina gives it a nautical backdrop that feels straight out of a coastal town.
7. Woodbine Beach – Toronto
Set right in the heart of Toronto’s east end, Woodbine Beach is the go-to summer hangout for city dwellers. With its massive sandy stretch, volleyball courts, paved bike paths, and snack stands, it’s not just a beach it’s a full-blown urban playground.
You can spend the morning jogging along the Martin Goodman Trail, then cool off with a dip in Lake Ontario before grabbing a smoothie from one of the nearby vendors. Whether you’re into beach sports or people-watching, Woodbine delivers that classic, easygoing Toronto summer vibe.
8. Cherry Beach – Toronto
A short drive from downtown, Cherry Beach feels like an escape without leaving the city. Nestled at the foot of Cherry Street, it’s quieter than Woodbine and a favorite among locals, dog lovers, and kite surfers.
What’s unique about Cherry Beach is its chill atmosphere. The surrounding trees give it a more natural feel, and the beach is one of the few in Toronto where off-leash dogs are welcome. Grab a blanket, pack a picnic, and soak in the view of sailboats and kayaks on the horizon.
9. Kew-Balmy Beach – Toronto
Located just east of Woodbine, Kew-Balmy Beach is a hidden gem in The Beaches neighbourhood. It’s less crowded, more serene, and bordered by lush parks and cozy residential streets.
Take a walk along the iconic Beaches Boardwalk, stretch out under the shade of mature trees, or dive into a book while the waves lap gently nearby. Locals come here for peace and reflection, it’s the kind of place where time slows down.
10. Centre Island Beach – Toronto Islands
To reach Centre Island Beach, you’ll need to hop on a ferry from downtown Toronto but it’s well worth the short ride across the water. Once on the island, a scenic walk or bike ride brings you to one of the most family-friendly beaches in the GTA.
Centre Island Beach has lifeguards on duty, clean facilities, and a gentle slope into the water, making it ideal for kids. Pack a lunch, rent a quad bike, or explore the nearby amusement park before heading to the beach for a relaxing swim.
11. Hanlan’s Point Beach – Toronto Islands
Further west on the islands is Hanlan’s Point Beach, known for its open-minded spirit and natural beauty. A portion of the beach is officially clothing-optional, one of only a few legal spots in Canada for nude sunbathing.
That said, it’s not all about the optional attire. Hanlan’s is also peaceful, uncrowded, and offers sweeping views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline. It’s a welcoming, judgment-free zone where everyone can enjoy the lake breeze and freedom of summer.
12. Bluffer’s Park Beach – Scarborough
Nestled at the base of the dramatic Scarborough Bluffs, Bluffer’s Park Beach feels like a natural amphitheatre carved into the coastline. Towering white cliffs rise above soft sand and aquamarine waters, creating one of the most photogenic spots in the province.
It’s a haven for photographers, couples seeking a quiet date spot, or families who want a beach with a bit of hiking adventure nearby. Arrive early on summer weekends, it fills up quickly thanks to its Instagrammable charm.
13. Northwinds Beach – Blue Mountains
Just outside Collingwood, Northwinds Beach offers a small but stunning stretch of shoreline on Georgian Bay. It’s a local favorite for water sports especially paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing thanks to calm waves and shallow entry points.
The views here are spectacular. Picture the towering Blue Mountains behind you, crisp clear water ahead, and a breeze that smells of pine and fresh lake air. It’s also a fantastic post-hike cool-off spot if you’re coming down from the nearby trails.
14. Balm Beach – Tiny Township
Located along the western Georgian Bay coastline, Balm Beach is all about golden-hour sunsets and warm, shallow water. It’s part of the Tiny Township shoreline, which includes several peaceful beach areas.
Families love Balm Beach for its safe swimming and amenities like snack stands and nearby ice cream parlors. The town is quiet, friendly, and feels like a step back in time to childhood vacations with pails and sandcastles. If you want calm over chaos, Balm delivers.
15. Crystal Beach – Fort Erie
On the southern tip of Niagara, Crystal Beach lives up to its name with soft, white sand and clear, blue-green water that looks more Caribbean than Canadian.
The town itself has had a major glow-up in recent years, with trendy eateries, food trucks, and lakeside patios popping up. It’s still family-friendly, but also great for couples and weekend explorers looking to combine beach time with a vibrant small-town scene.
Pro tip: Arrive early parking is limited, and this gem has gained serious popularity in recent years.
16. Turkey Point Beach – Lake Erie
Tucked along the shores of Lake Erie, Turkey Point Beach offers a peaceful escape with calm, shallow waters perfect for paddling and floating under the sun. Unlike some of the more crowded Lake Erie beaches, this one has a relaxed, small-town feel that makes you want to slow down and stay awhile.
The beach is wide and sandy, with nearby restaurants, a marina, and Turkey Point Provincial Park, which offers trails and camping options. It’s also a great launch spot for kayaking along the coast. If you enjoy quiet days on the water and less commercial development, Turkey Point will feel like a breath of fresh air.
17. Port Burwell Beach – Lake Erie
One of the cleanest beaches on the northern shore of Lake Erie, Port Burwell is a serene gem that offers soft sand, wide open views, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and couples alike. This Blue Flag beach is ideal for swimming, picnicking, or simply spreading out a towel and watching the clouds roll by.
The adjacent Port Burwell Provincial Park has campgrounds and nature trails, and history buffs will enjoy touring the HMCS Ojibwa a retired Cold War submarine docked in the area. If you want a quiet, educational, and scenic beach experience, Port Burwell is the one to pin on your summer map.
18. Pinery Provincial Park Beach – Grand Bend
Just south of Grand Bend lies one of Ontario’s most ecologically rich beaches: the one in Pinery Provincial Park. Stretching along 10 km of Lake Huron shoreline, this beach is hugged by rolling dunes and backdropped by a rare oak savanna forest.
The Pinery offers a raw, natural beach experience. No boardwalks or commercial distractions here just golden sand, tall grasses waving in the breeze, and hiking trails that lead to quiet lookouts. It’s also a top spot for sunset lovers Lake Huron sunsets are among the best in the world, and the Pinery is your front-row seat.
19. Ipperwash Beach – Lake Huron
Looking for something a little more off the radar? Ipperwash Beach is often overlooked in favor of nearby Grand Bend or the Pinery, but that’s part of its charm. It’s quieter, more spacious, and ideal if you’re seeking a laid-back, local feel.
The water here is shallow and warms up quickly in summer, making it ideal for small children. Nearby, you’ll find walking trails, and the soft sandy bottom makes swimming easy and comfortable. There’s free parking and plenty of room to spread outjust bring your towel, a book, and your favorite snacks.
20. Killbear Provincial Park Beach – Parry Sound
The rugged beauty of Killbear Provincial Park on Georgian Bay is something you need to see to believe. The beach itself is a mix of soft sand and ancient, smoothed-out Canadian Shield rock perfect for sunbathing or jumping off into cool, crystal-clear waters.
Killbear is a dream for nature lovers. Tall pine trees frame the shoreline, and you might spot deer or even a fox on your way to the beach. The park’s scenic lookouts, bike trails, and rock points make this more than just a beach, it’s a full-on wilderness experience with water access.
21. Awenda Provincial Park Beach – Georgian Bay
If your ideal beach day includes quiet, forest-framed seclusion, Awenda Provincial Park is calling your name. The beaches here are tucked into a protected part of Georgian Bay and offer a wilder, more peaceful experience.
Instead of loud music and packed sand, you’ll find the sounds of lapping water, birdsong, and the occasional whisper of wind through the trees. There are five beach areas to explore, including one pet-friendly section, all within a short hike from the park’s trails and campgrounds. It’s the perfect place to unplug and unwind.
22. Singing Sands Beach – Bruce Peninsula
Located within Bruce Peninsula National Park, Singing Sands is known for its shallow, warm waters and fine, tan-colored sand that “sings” beneath your feet. That’s right some visitors report a soft squeaking sound as they walk, especially when the sand is dry.
This is a great family beach with lots of space to explore, gentle waves for wading, and picnic spots just beyond the shoreline. The backdrop of the Niagara Escarpment adds dramatic beauty, and the nearby interpretive trails offer a peek into the area’s rare ecosystems, including orchid-rich wetlands.
23. The Grotto & Indian Head Cove – Bruce Peninsula
Arguably the most iconic swimming spot in Ontario, The Grotto and nearby Indian Head Cove are located within Bruce Peninsula National Park and offer an experience unlike any other. Here, turquoise waters meet limestone cliffs, creating a dramatic cove that looks like it belongs in the Mediterranean.
You’ll need to hike about 30 minutes to reach the Grotto from the parking lot (advance reservation required in summer), but the reward is huge clear, deep water for swimming and underwater caves for exploring. Just be cautious: the rocks can be slippery, and the water, while clear, is often cold.
Still, this spot is unforgettable. Bring your camera and your sense of adventure.
24. Pancake Bay Provincial Park Beach – Lake Superior
Now that we’ve fully explored southern Ontario’s beach scene, let’s head up north where the untamed wilds of Lake Superior offer a whole new kind of beach experience.
Pancake Bay is a hidden treasure along Lake Superior’s eastern shore, featuring over 3 km of golden sand and Caribbean-blue water. You can swim, relax, or camp right beside the lake.
This beach is part of the Voyageurs’ historic paddling route, and the park offers yurt stays, hiking trails with views of the lake, and interpretive panels about the area’s French-Canadian fur trade history. Whether you’re road-tripping through Algoma or planning a destination camping trip, Pancake Bay is a must.
25. Agawa Bay Beach – Lake Superior Provincial Park
Just a short drive north of Pancake Bay lies Agawa Bay, one of Lake Superior’s most dramatic and rugged beaches. Located within Lake Superior Provincial Park, this spot blends beach relaxation with geological wonder.
Long waves roll in off the massive lake, and the coastline is framed by smooth stones and windswept trees. You can walk the beach at sunset, then settle into your campsite listening to the sounds of the waves crashing something you don’t often associate with a lake.
Nearby, don’t miss the Agawa Rock Pictographs, where ancient Indigenous rock paintings are preserved on the cliff walls. It’s a powerful mix of natural and cultural history, all in one unforgettable beach setting.
26. Port Dover Beach – Lake Erie
Yes, you read that right Port Dover has palm trees. This Lake Erie gem feels more tropical than typical thanks to a few imported touches and a lively, resort-style atmosphere that makes it one of Ontario’s most unique beach towns.
The main beach area is wide, sandy, and perfect for lounging with a cold drink and people-watching. Port Dover has long been a biker-friendly destination (hello, Friday the 13th rallies!), but it’s just as welcoming to families, foodies, and sunset lovers. The quaint pier, charming downtown shops, and restaurants serving fresh perch and pickerel make this a full-day experience, not just a swim-and-go spot.
27. Providence Bay Beach – Manitoulin Island
If you’re seeking stillness and space, Providence Bay Beach on Manitoulin Island will capture your heart. Stretching for nearly 2 km along the southern edge of the island, it’s one of the longest freshwater beaches in northern Ontario and easily one of the most peaceful.
The golden sand is soft underfoot, the water is surprisingly warm by mid-summer, and the entire bay feels like a secret haven far from the tourist trail. A long wooden boardwalk runs parallel to the beach and is perfect for evening strolls, while the nearby town offers cozy accommodations and a friendly, small-town welcome.
28. Nickel Beach – Port Colborne
Tucked away on the southern edge of Port Colborne, Nickel Beach is a true local secret that’s gaining popularity fast. Known for its ultra-soft sand and calm, swimmable water, this Lake Erie beach is one of the few places in Ontario where you can drive your car right onto the sand (permit required).
Families love the convenience of setting up beach chairs next to their vehicle, and kids will love digging in the sand for hours. It’s also a great spot for floating on a tube, tossing a frisbee, or simply enjoying a laid-back summer day without the big crowds.
29. Jackson’s Point Beach – Lake Simcoe
Located in the town of Georgina, Jackson’s Point is one of the most charming spots along Lake Simcoe’s southern shore. The beach itself may be small, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character.
Locals come here for a quick afternoon swim or sunset paddle, while visitors often stay in nearby inns and cottages for a full weekend escape. With its calm waters, lake breeze, and friendly marina nearby, Jackson’s Point gives off strong “dockside summer nostalgia” vibes.
30. Darlington Provincial Park Beach – Clarington
Just east of Oshawa, Darlington Provincial Park offers a beautiful stretch of Lake Ontario shoreline that’s ideal for day-trippers looking to avoid the city’s busier beaches. It’s a sandy, family-friendly beach with picnic areas, shallow entry points, and gorgeous grassy areas for lounging.
You’ll also find easy walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and campsites within the park. It’s an accessible, well-kept park with the kind of low-key atmosphere that encourages you to bring a good book, a cooler, and no fixed schedule.
31. Garrow Park Beach – Kenora (Lake of the Woods)
Let’s journey west to Kenora, where Lake of the Woods offers a northern Ontario beach experience that’s both rugged and family-ready. Garrow Park Beach is a hidden gem, with soft sand, a shallow swimming area, and an excellent playground for kids.
There’s a mix of locals and tourists here, and you’ll feel the tight-knit community vibe. Whether you’re on a cross-province road trip or a Kenora resident just enjoying a sunny day, this beach has everything you need from volleyball courts to picnic tables under tall pines.
32. Anicinabe Park Beach – Kenora
Also on Lake of the Woods, Anicinabe Park Beach is another fantastic option for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The water is clean, calm, and surrounded by gentle slopes perfect for laying out a blanket or setting up a lawn chair.
The park features well-kept campgrounds, fire pits, and scenic walking trails. It’s a peaceful spot to recharge with the sound of waves lapping the shore, and it’s close to downtown Kenora if you want to grab a bite or check out the waterfront shops.
33. Norman Beach – Kenora
Just minutes from the town center, Norman Beach is small, sunny, and scenic ideal for travelers who want to take a quick dip with a view. You’re close to the famous Husky the Muskie statue, and the Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre is just a short walk away.
It’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon or a spontaneous swim. You’ll find benches, a few picnic spots, and clear water that’s refreshing without being icy cold especially in late July or August.
34. Batchawana Bay Beach – Lake Superior
Back on Lake Superior, Batchawana Bay is one of the warmest and most family-friendly beaches along the rugged northern coast. It’s just an hour from Sault Ste. Marie, making it an easy day trip or overnight stop for those exploring Algoma Country.
This beach has shallow entry, a long stretch of soft sand, and ample space to spread out. It’s often less crowded than Pancake Bay or Agawa, and the surrounding pine trees provide shade when you’ve had enough sun. Pack a picnic and enjoy the contrast between inland warmth and Lake Superior’s breeze.
35. Old Woman Bay Beach – Lake Superior Provincial Park
We finish our list with one of the most awe-inspiring beaches in Ontario: Old Woman Bay. With its towering cliffs, dramatic headlands, and moody Lake Superior waves, it feels like a postcard come to life.
Located within Lake Superior Provincial Park, this beach is all about scale and solitude. Walk along the stony shore and look up you’ll see the profile of a woman’s face etched into the rock, giving the bay its name. It’s haunting, beautiful, and absolutely unforgettable.
This is a beach for thinkers, artists, photographers, and anyone needing a break from the world. You won’t find food trucks or music here just wind, water, and wild nature at its most majestic.
Closing Thoughts
Ontario may not be famous for its beaches internationally, but for those in the know, it’s an underrated paradise. From the Caribbean hues of Crystal Beach to the untamed drama of Old Woman Bay, the province offers a beach for every mood, every traveler, and every kind of summer.
Whether you’re staying close to Toronto or making the trek north to the Lake Superior coast, these 35 beaches prove one thing: Ontario’s shoreline is as vast and vibrant as its spirit.
1. What is the best beach near Toronto?
Woodbine Beach and Centre Island Beach are among the top choices near downtown Toronto.
2. Which Ontario beaches are Blue Flag certified?
Beaches like Grand Bend, Port Stanley, and Cobourg Beach are Blue Flag certified for water quality and safety.
3. Are dogs allowed on Ontario beaches?
Some, like Cherry Beach and sections of Wasaga Beach, are dog-friendly. Always check signage or park websites.
What to Bring to the Beach in Ontario: 20 Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Swimsuit or swim trunks
- Beach towel or quick-dry blanket
- Beach umbrella or pop-up sun shelter
- Water bottle (preferably insulated)
- Snacks or packed lunch
- Cooler or insulated bag
- Flip-flops or water shoes
- Lightweight cover-up or rash guard
- Beach chair or portable seating
- Waterproof phone case or dry bag
- Frisbee, beach ball, or paddleball set
- Sand toys (for kids)
- Book, magazine, or e-reader
- Portable speaker or headphones
- Bug spray or insect repellent
- First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes)
- Trash bag (to pack out your garbage)
Final Tip:
Many Ontario beaches, especially provincial parks, have limited facilities, so planning ahead is a smart move. Check if the beach has washrooms, lifeguards, or parking before you go to avoid surprises.
Packing the right gear including some stylist accessories ensures your beach day is relaxing, fun, and memorable no matter which of Ontario’s spectacular shores you choose to explore!
