This charming harbour village with warm sandy beaches is 'Canada's Coney Island'

It has white sand shores and storybook streets.

Lead Writer, Travel

If you're craving a beachside getaway, this charming harbour village in Ontario is worth a road trip. With its warm waters, sandy shores, coastal charm and quaint streets, it's like a storybook come to life.

Perched along the shores of Lake Erie, the town is brimming with summer vibes and things to do. It's a magical spot to spend a day or weekend soaking up some sun, splashing through the water, and visiting the cute shops and eateries.

Port Stanley is a beautiful village surrounded by sparkling waters and sandy shores.

In the early 1900s, the town earned the nickname "Canada's Coney Island" for its lively attractions and bustling waterfront. While most of those original amusements are gone today, the village remains full of fun things to see and do.

During the summer months, you'll want to spend some time on Port Stanley's Main Beach, which is "one of the finest stretches of sandy beach on Lake Erie's north shore," according to Ontario's Southwest.

With its sparkling waves, fine sand shores and scenic views, it's a beautiful spot to spend an afternoon.

If you're looking for a quieter spot to relax, head to Port Stanley's Little Beach – a smaller, hidden stretch of shoreline that's ideal for families.

Downtown, you'll find cute local boutiques, patios with lake views, and more to enjoy. You can grab an ice cream cone and wander through the town, soaking up the beachy atmosphere.

You can also check out the Port Stanley Festival Theatre or ride the Port Stanley Terminal Rail, a historic train that runs through scenic countryside. A walk down the pier to the lighthouse offers peaceful lake views and a classic Port Stanley photo op.

With warm waters and sandy shores, "Canada's Coney Island" is worth a summer road trip.

Port Stanley 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.