This coastal getaway in Ontario with waterside towns and crystal beaches is an underrated gem

It's home to a "freshwater sea."

A person sitting at a patio. Right: Two people sitting on a beach.

A cafe in Ontario. Right: A beach in Ontario.

Lead Writer, Travel

Sparkling blue waters, cozy villages and majestic views await at this coastal destination in Ontario. With its rustic charm and emerald lakes, it's an underrated summer paradise.

In a post on Narcity Canada's Facebook page, we asked readers to share Ontario destinations that were way better than they thought they would be, and this region was one of the places mentioned.

Lake Superior is a stunning destination with rugged shorelines, small towns, and breathtaking scenery. It's not only the biggest of the Great Lakes but also holds the title of the world's largest freshwater lake by surface area, which is why it's referred to as a "freshwater sea," according to the Great Lakes Guide.

The area is brimming with attractions, hiking trails, sandy beaches and more, making it a beautiful spot for a getaway.

During your travels, you can explore communities like the tiny village of Rossport or scenic Terrace Bay. Don't miss out on a visit to Wawa so you can snap a picture with the giant goose.

A highlight of the region is Lake Superior Provincial Park. The natural area boasts hidden crystal-water beaches, cascading rivers, stunning waterfalls, shining lakes and rugged hiking trails.

You can also head to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Pancake Bay Provincial Park and Pukaskwa National Park for more outdoor adventures.

Lake Superior is surrounded by endless natural wonders, such as Aguasabon Falls and Gorge, nearby Ouimet Canyon and the Agawa Rock Pictographs.

Bring your swimsuit because Lake Superior has over 20 dreamy beaches to enjoy. Some sandy destinations include Pancake Bay and Batchawana Bay Beach.

With outdoor adventures and dreamy beaches, this underrated destination is a magical spot to explore this summer.

Lake Superior Circle Tour website

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.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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