These 7 Ontario summer beach towns with dreamy shores are among the best in Canada
White sand shores and sparkling waters await.
A beach town in Ontario.
With summer just around the bend, it's time to start planning some dreamy beach getaways. Ontario has so many gorgeous waterside destinations to visit, from quaint harbour villages to white sand beach towns.
To discover stunning beach destinations across the country, we asked readers on Narcity Canada's Facebook page to share the best summer beach towns in Canada. These Ontario spots were some of the places mentioned.
Boasting crystal waters and beachside shops, these summer gems are worth a road trip.
Here are seven summer beach towns in Ontario that locals say are among the best in Canada.
Picton
Why You Need To Go: If you're dreaming of spending your summer in the tropics, this quaint lakeside town is the place to be. Here you'll find storybook streets and silky sand shores that belong in the Caribbean.
Picton is a historic village located along the shores of Lake Ontario. It's a short drive from Sandbanks Provincial Park, a stunning destination with three soft sand beaches and the "world’s largest baymouth barrier dune formation," according to the park's website.
The turquoise waters and rolling white dunes will have you feeling like you've jetted off to the tropics. The park can get busy, so be sure to book a pass in advance.
While you're in the area, you can explore some of Picton's quaint shops and visit the surrounding wineries for a dreamy summer escape.
Bayfield
Why You Need To Go: You can step into a little scene from a Hallmark film at this hidden gem beach town. Located along the shining shores of Lake Huron, the Village of Bayfield is an enchanting destination with quaint streets and cute local shops.
According to its website, it's a "stress-free countryside road trip where you find one-of-a-kind boutique shopping, unique restaurants, wineries, breweries, hiking, accommodations, and more." From ice cream parlours to sun-filled patios, there's so much to enjoy throughout the town during the summer.
In addition to its cozy downtown, the town is situated next to three beautiful beaches with sparkling waters and picturesque shorelines.
Port Dover
Why You Need To Go: Located just an hour and a half away from Toronto, this tropical-like destination is the "ultimate Ontario resort town," according to Ontario's Southwest.
You can relax on the sandy shores, splash through the sparkling waves or take a scenic stroll along the dreamy pier. Only a small section of the beach is currently open to the public, but you can head to nearby spots like Turkey Point and Long Point if it's too busy.
The downtown is just a short walk from the beach and is dotted with local boutiques, restaurants and more where you can do some shopping or grab a bite to eat.
For some major summer vibes, head to the Beach House Restaurant, which serves up coastal cuisine with a side of water views.
Tobermory
Why You Need To Go: Locals love this little harbour village. Tobermory is a popular destination for summer getaways, known for its crystal-clear waters that look straight out of the Mediterranean.
The small but quaint downtown features cute local shops, sweet ice cream parlours and restaurants overlooking the water.
The area's highlights include its natural wonders, such as the Grotto and Flowerpot Island, as well as its two national parks and beaches like Little Cove.
The Grotto is an iconic spot to visit and boasts "crystal-clear waters, dramatic caves and limestone cliffs overlooking Georgian Bay," according to Explore the Bruce.
Sauble Beach
Why You Need To Go: This beach paradise has endless sandy shores, cute shops and summer magic.
Sauble is a quaint little beach town located on Lake Huron. The town is a waterfront paradise with 7 kilometres of white sand shores, perfect for sandcastles and lounging.
According to the website, it's "Canada’s #1 rated freshwater beach," so you can expect some beautiful summer vibes here.
There are lots of beachside shops to explore, ice cream parlours, patios and cafes. Sauble is also home to attractions like sand dunes, mini golf and more.
Port Elgin
Why You Need To Go: This dreamy beach town is a beautiful spot for a summer escape. Situated 3 hours away from Toronto, the quaint village boasts six white sand beaches along the scenic Lake Huron shoreline.
You can spend your days swimming in the warm, shallow waters and relaxing on the kilometres of soft sand.
The Main Beach has 3 kilometres of sand and is a great spot to witness one of Port Eglin's "world-famous sunsets."
The small but charming town has several cute cafes where you can grab an iced coffee, as well as local boutiques and patios.
Grand Bend
Why You Need To Go: Get ready for some major beach vibes. Grand Bend is a summer haven located on Lake Huron, about two and a half hours from Toronto.
It's "one of Canada's best beach towns," according to Lambton Shores, and offers beautiful sandy beaches, swimming opportunities and more.
You can head to the nearby Pinery Provincial Park, where you'll discover picturesque sand shores and beautiful hiking trails.
The town is home to many local shops, eateries, boutiques, and nightlife spots, so there's lots to enjoy in addition to swimming.
You'll want to stay late to see one of Grand Bend's iconic sunsets, which light up the sky with vibrant hues.
With beautiful sand shores, cute beach vibes and sparkling waves, these Ontario beach towns are some of the best in the country, according to locals. It's time to plan that summer escape!
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.