8 Ontario swimming spots with crystal-blue water that feel like a trip to the Bahamas
It's beach time!
Clear blue water of Georgian Bay. Right: An Ontario beach.
Dreaming of a tropical getaway? There's no need to spend your savings on a pricey plane ticket. There are tons of gorgeous swimming spots in Ontario with crystal-clear water that will have you feeling like you're in the Bahamas.
From hidden coves to white sand beaches, these blue-water destinations come with major tropical vibes and are worth a summer road trip.
You can spend the day basking on soft sand shores, taking a dip in the sapphire waves and unwinding in the sunshine at these spots.
Here are eight Ontario beaches with crystal-clear water to visit this summer if you're craving a taste of the Bahamas.
Indian Head Cove
Price: $9
Address: The Grotto, Northern Bruce Peninsula, ON
Why You Need To Go: Indian Head Cove, located near the iconic Grotto, will have you feeling like you're in the tropics. With glass-like water and turquoise waves, this spot is a gorgeous summer destination. Don't expect the water to feel tropical — Georgian Bay is known for its chilly temperatures, so it's a good way to cool off on a hot day.
The cove is located in Bruce Peninsula National Park and reservations are required between April 30 and October 31. To reach this blue-water oasis, you'll have to hike for about a half-hour from Cyprus Lake.
It's a good idea to check out the swimming safety page before heading out.
Pinery Provincial Park
Price: Prices vary
Address: 9526 Lakeshore Rd., Grand Bend, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for sapphire water, silky sand shores and breathtaking sunsets, you'll want to head to this dreamy Ontario Provincial Park.
Nestled along the waters of Lake Huron, the park is home to a 10-kilometre stretch of white sand shores and a coastal dune ecosystem that will transport you to the Bahamas.
You can spend the day lounging on the soft sand, splashing through the crystal waters and exploring the trails through the area.
The park is renowned for its stunning sunsets so you'll want to stay late to witness the red and gold skies.
Little Cove
Price: $35.20 for Parks Canada Pass
When: May 15 to October 15, 2024
Address: Little Cove Beach, Tobermory, ON
Why You Need To Go: Another gorgeous beach along the Bruce Peninsula is Little Cove. This dreamy destination offers cobblestone shores and shimmering water where you can see right down to the bottom.
The turquoise hues and sparkling waves, this spot will whisk you away to another world. Other beautiful features include "barrens, scrub cliffs, palisade woodlands, and karst pavements," according to Visit Tobermory.
The cove has become a popular spot to visit and can get busy. In order to visit, a valid Parks Canada Pass must be visible on your dash. The passes can be purchased online.
North Beach Provincial Park
Price: Prices vary
Address: 440 North Beach Rd., Consecon, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're craving a beach day, you'll want to head to North Beach Provincial Park, a stunning beach paradise located just a few hours from Toronto in Consecon.
This destination boasts 1,200 meters of white sandy shores on Lake Ontario and another 800 meters along North Bay.
The gradual sand drop-off and shimmering, crystal-clear waves make it a dreamy spot for a swim. You can relax on the soft, powdery sand and take in the bright blue water views that will whisk you away to the Bahamas.
The beach is an idyllic place summer strolls and picnics as well.
Don't forget to book your day use permit in advance!
Katherine Cove
Price: $15.50 vehicle permit
Address: Katherine Cove, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located in Lake Superior Provincial Park, Katherine Cove is a hidden gem that boasts crystal waters and majestic views.
The cove has shallow, warm waters and a sandy beach to enjoy.
One of the highlights of the area is Bathtub Island. This natural wonder is located along the Lake Superior Coastal Trail, about half a kilometre from the Katherine Cove parking lot.
You'll discover a basin-shaped rock containing a crystal-clear pool of water where you can float the day away.
You'll need to purchase a daily vehicle permit in order to access the cove.
Cobourg Beach
Price: Free admission
Address: 138 Division St., Cobourg, ON
Why You Need To Go: There's no need to hop on a plane in order to experience a little taste of the tropics. This beach near Toronto will have you feeling like you're "sitting somewhere ocean-side in the Caribbean," according to the website.
The "beautiful white sand beach is one of Cobourg's hot spot locations in the summer months" and you can spend the day lounging on the shores and exploring the quaint small town.
The beach dotted with retro-style lifeguard stations and you can swim, kayak, canoe and more along the crystal waters of Lake Ontario.
Crystal Beach
Price: $5 + admission per person
Address: 4155 Erie Rd., Fort Erie, ON
Why You Need To Go: Crystal Beach, also known as Bay Beach, is a beautiful spot for a summer day trip and is located about an hour and a half away from Toronto.
You'll discover a "vast sandy area with beautiful clear water where locals and visitors can enjoy a relaxing day at the beach," according to Tourism Niagara.
The beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing as well as enjoying water sports and picnics. The surrounding town boasts local shops and eateries where you can spend some time exploring or cooling off with a drink.
You'll need to purchase a Day Pass in order to visit this beach if you aren't a resident.
Pancake Bay Provincial Park
Price: Prices vary
Address: 12729 Hwy. 17N, Batchawana Bay, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can discover gorgeous white beaches, shining blue water, and breathtaking views at this spot for the perfect summer road trip.
The park features "over 3 kilometres of beautiful sand beach and Caribbean-blue water" for you to enjoy.
It's "one of the finest beaches in North America" and is sheltered from the open lake by two protective bluffs that form the bay.
The park also has many trails to explore, including the Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout hiking trail, which offers panoramic views of Lake Superior and takes you through a beautiful forest.
It also leads past a section of Lake Superior called the “graveyard of the Great Lakes”
Splash the day away at these blue-water spots!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.