8 beautiful Ontario destinations to escape to if you want to spend all summer on the beach
These spots are summer paradises.
A beach destination in Ontario.
You don't need to book a plane ticket to enjoy gorgeous beach destinations. These Ontario beach towns offer dreamy sand shores, sparkling waters and coastal charm.
You can spend your summer days soaking up sun on white sand beaches, cooling off with ice cream cones and enjoying a drink on a picturesque patio.
If you're already dreaming of beach days, it's time to start planning a trip to some of these eight Ontario destinations.
Grand Bend
Address: Grand Bend, ON
Why You Need To Go: Pack your bathing suit! Grand Bend is a beach lover's paradise situated on the shore of Lake Huron, about two and a half hours from Toronto.
The popular summer destination is known as "one of Canada's best beach towns," according to Lambton Shores, and you can enjoy coastal vibes, beautiful sand shores and more.
The town is home to many restaurants, boutiques, and nightlife spots around the main strip, offering lots to do once you've had your beach fill.
Don't miss out on Grand Bend's iconic sunsets, which transform the sky with vibrant shades and add a touch of magic to the evenings.
Cobourg
Address: Cobourg, ON
Why You Need To Go: You don't need to get on a plane and travel to a far-off land to enjoy a bit of the tropics. This enchanting small town near Toronto has a beach that will make you feel like "you're sitting somewhere ocean-side in the Caribbean," according to the website.
Cobourg is a summer oasis and a dreamy place for a sun-filled getaway. You can lounge on a white sand beach and swim in sparkling waves all day long.
Downtown Cobourg has charming streets lined with local shops, eateries, sunny patios and more.
Other attractions include a farmers' market, galleries, and museums to enjoy.
Port Stanley
Address: Port Stanley, ON
Why You Need To Go: With East Coast charm and pristine beaches, Port Stanley is worth a summer road trip. Situated on the shores of Lake Erie, the beautiful harbour village has cozy small-town vibes and a beautiful shoreline with white sand.
The town's Main Beach is "one of the finest stretches of sandy beach on Lake Erie's north shore," according to the regional tourism organization, and offers warm, blue waters to swim in. It's a dreamy place to enjoy the sunshine and summer season.
After your beach adventures, you can head into town and treat yourself to an ice cream cone from Broderick's, check out the many local shops, and indulge in a meal on one of the scenic patios.
Fort Erie
Address: Fort Erie, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located in the scenic Niagara region, this charming beach town "offers a captivating journey through time with its rich heritage sites, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning landscapes," according to the website, making it an idyllic spot for a summer escape.
Fort Erie's white sand Bay Beach, also known as Crystal Beach, will have you feeling like you're on a tropical vacay. You'll need to purchase a Day Pass in order to access the beach, so be sure to plan ahead.
Aside from swimming and enjoying the white sand shores, you can check out some of Fort Erie's shops, restaurants, attractions, and historical sites.
Sauble Beach
Address: Sauble Beach, ON
Why You Need To Go: Sauble Beach is a majestic spot to visit this summer and has quaint beach town vibes.
The town boasts 7 kilometres of silky white sand shores, making it a haven for beachgoers.
According to the website, the destination is "Canada’s #1 rated freshwater beach " and has even been dubbed the "Daytona of the North," so you can expect some tropical vibes here.
The town has many cute local shops to explore, as well as charming cafes, ice creameries and restaurants. You can also enjoy attractions like mini golf and the arcade while in the area.
Wasaga Beach
Address: Wasaga, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can spend your summer days on "the longest freshwater beach in the world." Wasaga Beach has 14 kilometres of velvety shoreline, making it an incredible spot for a beach day.
You can lounge on the soft shores, take a dip in the sparkling waters and enjoy the stunning views of South Georgian Bay.
The town has several restaurants and beachside eateries where you can indulge in a meal or cool off with a beverage.
Picton
Address: Picton, ON
Why You Need To Go: This quaint small town has historic streets and cozy shops that are straight out of a storybook.
It's close to the beautiful Sandbanks Provincial Park, where you'll find three stunning white sand beaches as well as the "world’s largest baymouth barrier dune formation," according to the park's website.
You'll be transported to a Caribbean island as you wander across rolling dunes and swim in the turquoise waters.
The town is surrounded by wineries, making it a dreamy spot for a warm-weather escape.
Southampton
Why You Need To Go: This quaint beach town is a beautiful summer retreat. Located along the shores of Lake Huron, Southampton is a postcard-worthy destination with powdery shores and old-world charm.
According to Bruce County, "the town has a definite maritime feeling, with its old cottages, a fine sand beach and tasteful shops," so you'll feel like you're in a whole other land.
The town also boasts local shops, patios, and stunning sunsets that light up the sky.
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.