Summer may be ending soon, but it sure doesn’t feel like it. In this heat, the allure of sandy shores and crystal-clear waters is simply irresistible. If you’re longing for a trip to the best beach destinations in Ontario, you’re in for a treat!

From white sand coastlines to Caribbean-like waters, the province is home to so many magnificent beaches that will leave you in awe.

We’ve compiled a list of the 15 best beach destinations in Ontario that are guaranteed to make these final weeks of summer unforgettable.

Pancake Bay Provincial Park

According to Ontario Parks, Pancake Bay is home to “more than 3 km of beautiful sand beach and Caribbean blue water.”

This beach is actually the longest on Lake Superior. And on sunny days, the sand and turquoise water give it a tropical effect.

The shoreline spans 3.5 km, making it the perfect destination for a long stroll and privacy.

Where: 12729 Highway 17N, Batchawana Bay, Ontario

Crystal Beach/Bay Beach

Located in the town of Fort Erie, Crystal Beach (also known as Bay Beach), got its name from the crystal-clear quality of its waters when it was first discovered, according to Exploring Niagara.

The pristine sand and crystalline water of Crystal Beach has also been recognized on a global scale.

In 2018, it was named one of North America’s Top 50 Beaches, ranked by 1,200 travel experts around the world.

Where: 4155 Erie Road, Fort Erie
When: Monday to Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Darlington Provincial Park

If you’re craving a beach day, this is your sign to check out a lesser-known destination in Durham Region called Darlington Beach.

The long sandy beach is located in Darlington Provincial Park in the Clarington region, which is just east of Oshawa and a quick 45-minute drive from Toronto.

The provincial park describes itself as a “hidden gem,” and based on the gorgeous views, activities, and amenities, we’d have to agree.

Where: 1600 Darlington Park Road, Bowmanville

Turkey Point Provincial Park

With a beautiful, sandy shoreline and clear blue waters, Turkey Point Provincial Park offers an escape from reality at its beach.

The beach is located in the village, steps away from local restaurants and shops.

It has a 2 km shoreline, offering ample space for families to find a spot away from the hustle and bustle.

Where: 194 Turkey Point Road, Turkey Point

Port Dover Beach

Port Dover is a charming little town nestled on the shores of Lake Erie. It’s known for its picturesque beach with real palm trees, scenic pier, and lively main strip.

The beach in Port Dover feels like a tropical oasis. Picture soft sands, clear waters, and yes, even palm trees swaying gently in the breeze.

Note that as of May 30th, large areas of the Port Dover beach are closed to the public, reports the London Free Press.

Where: Port Dover, Ontario

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Pinery Provincial Park

Located on the shores of Lake Huron in Grand Bend, Pinery is described by Ontario Parks as a “breathtakingly beautiful park with 10 km of sand beach.”

Ontario Parks says that it contains “extremely rare and fragile” Oak Savanna and Coastal Dune Ecosystems that offer breathtaking views.

Speaking of views, the sunsets here were once ranked among the “Top 10 Best in the World” by National Geographic.

Where: 9526 Lakeshore Road, Grand Bend

Long Point Provincial Park

Located at Long Point Provincial Park in Ontario’s southwest, this 40-kilometre sandpit has gotten very special recognition.

Its natural landscape is so unique it’s been recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

The soft sand, warm and calm water temperatures, and massive camping area make Long Point a very popular spot to visit in the summer.

Where: 350 Erie Blvd, Port Rowan

Big Sandy Bay Conservation Area

Big Sandy Bay on Wolfe Island is one of the more unique beach destinations in Ontario and getting there is half the fun.

Your adventure begins in the Kingston area when you board the free ferry to Wolfe Island, located at the entrance of the St. Lawrence River — from there, you can bike or walk on the nature trail to the secluded beach!

Visit Kingston describes Big Sandy Bay as “a place so special that you won’t want to share it with anyone else” — well, lucky for you, you’re now in on the secret!

Where: Wolfe Island, Ontario
When: May through September, 9 am to 6 pm (weather dependent)

Tiny Township Beaches

Despite its name, this township is home to 70 km of gorgeous shoreline.

There are five beach parks in the area — Woodland Beach, Bluewater Beach, Jackson Park, Balm Beach, and Lafontaine Beach Park.

With their pristine sand and shallow water, these beaches are ideal for laying out and cooling off in the sun.

Take your pick of these beautiful destinations or visit them all in one day for the ultimate beach-hopping adventure.

Where: Township of Tiny, Ontario

North Beach Provincial Park

According to Ontario Parks, North Beach is a “beautiful sandbar” that is found on Lake Ontario and North Bay, two hours east of Toronto.

It’s a lesser-known beach therefore if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, this is the place to be.

North Beach actually has two beaches. There is also a sandy beach facing Lake Ontario which is slightly larger than the other beach on North Bay.

Where: 440 North Beach Rd, Consecon

Port Stanley Beach

You don’t have to travel to Malibu to walk past sprawling sandy beaches and colourful waterfront homes. In fact, you only have to drive 2.5 hours outside of Toronto to find it.

Port Stanley’s Main Beach stretches along the north shore of Lake Erie, and it’s one of 27 in Canada to earn Blue Flag status for its pristine water quality.

If you want to relax in the sand away from the crowds, the secluded Little Beach is located just down the road, where the water is shallow and perfect for a refreshing dip.

Where: 162 William Street, Port Stanley

Point Pelee National Park

This national park is the closest Ontario gets to Caribbean-like beaches, with 20 kilometres of pristine sand stretching along the southernmost point of the Canadian mainland.

This park is also known for its annual Monarch butterfly migration, where thousands of bright butterflies pass through the park each autumn.

Where: 1118 Point Pelee Dr, Leamington

Mikisew Provincial Park

This Ontario park is known for its sandy beaches and its leash-free dog parkland.

Cool off at one of three beautiful sand beaches found along the shoreline of Eagle Lake.

You can also let your best four-legged friend run wild at the leash-free dog park and fenced beach.

Where: 301 Park Road South, South River

Colchester Beach

Touted as one of the most attractive beaches in the region, Colchester Beach is a popular place to visit in the summer for its beautifully groomed sand, clear and serene water for swimming, beach volleyball courts, picnic areas, and more.

The nearby harbour also has plenty of amenities like an on-site concession stand and boater’s facilities.

Where: County of Essex

Fifty Point Conservation Area

This magnificent 80-hectare park in Stoney Creek has “one of the warmest and cleanest beaches on western Lake Ontario,” according to Conservation Hamilton.

The beach does tend to get busy on summer weekends, but there are plenty of secluded areas and a promenade to enjoy the scenery.

Where: 1479 Baseline Rd, Hamilton, Ontario

Curiocity Staff

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