9 hidden gem beaches in Ontario you've probably never heard of but should definitely visit
These lesser-known beaches are worth a summer road trip.
A beach in Ontario. Right: An island shoreline in Ontario.
Ontario is home to some beautiful beaches, many of which become bustling summer hotspots filled with sun-soaked visitors. But if you're after a more peaceful escape, you might want to explore these dreamy, lesser-known stretches of sand where you'll find shimmering waters and sandy shores without the crowds.
These hidden gem destinations are magical spots to enjoy during the summer months, so pack your sunscreen and start planning that road trip.
Here are nine hidden gem beaches in Ontario you've probably never heard of, but are worth adding to your bucket list.
Providence Bay Beach
Address: Providence Bay, ON
Why You Need To Go: Tucked away on a majestic island, this hidden gem beach is worth exploring.
Providence Bay Beach is located on beautiful Manitoulin Island – the largest freshwater island in the world. It boasts a long stretch of soft white sand and sparkling waters that will make you feel like you're vacationing in the tropics.
The 2-kilometre beach is "never crowded," according to Central Manitoulin, and is known as "the nicest beach in Northern Ontario."
Katherine Cove
Price: $15.50 vehicle permit
Address: Katherine Cove, ON
Why You Need To Go: Tucked away in rugged Lake Superior Provincial Park, Katherine Cove is a beautiful, lesser-known destination to visit for a summer escape.
The hidden beach boasts a ribbon of golden sand and clear, shallow waters that are cool but refreshing.
You can also check out the nearby Bathtub Island, a natural wonder that features a basin-shaped rock filled with shimmering water. To reach this gem, you can hike along the Lake Superior Coastal Trail, about half a kilometre from the Katherine Cove parking lot.
Turkey Point Beach
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 194 Turkey Point Rd., Turkey Point, ON
Why You Need To Go: Tucked away in a provincial park, this lesser-known Lake Erie beach is a slice of summer paradise. Offering warm, shallow waters and a soft shoreline with dreamy sandbars, it's no wonder it was dubbed "Ontario’s Riviera."
You can spend a day lounging on the scenic shores, splashing through the sparkling waves, and enjoying the water spots the park has to offer.
Darlington Beach
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 1600 Darlington Park Rd., Bowmanville, ON
Why You Need To Go: There's no need to travel far to enjoy soft sand shores and blue waters. This beautiful beach, located just an hour east of Toronto, is a dreamy spot for a day trip.
Darlington Provincial Park offers all the ingredients for an idyllic beach day. According to the park's Instagram, it's a "hidden gem" and offers picturesque trails, picnic areas, and a sandy beach.
You can enjoy the smooth shoreline, build sandcastles, and take a dip in the shining waters for the ultimate lakeside escape.
Batchawana Bay Beach
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 12729 Hwy 17N P.0. Box 61, Batchawana Bay, ON
Why You Need To Go: Tucked along the northern shores of Lake Superior, just outside Sault Ste. Marie, this majestic beach offers a truly enchanting place to swim.
Hidden within Batchewana Bay Provincial Park, the lengthy beach offers soft, pale sand and glassy, shallow waters that reach out into the bay, making it look like a scene from a postcard.
The shoreline is surrounded by towering pines and tranquil, rugged beauty, allowing you to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet getaway.
North Beach
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 440 North Beach Rd., Consecon, ON
Why You Need To Go: You don't have to leave Ontario to enjoy some tropical vibes. North Beach Provincial Park is a dreamy destination in Prince Edward County, offering a silky-smooth sandbar that stretches into the sparkling waters of Lake Ontario.
You can wander along a 1,200-metre ribbon of velvety sand facing Lake Ontario, and enjoy an additional 800 metres of sand beach on North Bay. The lakeside features a gradual drop-off, making it ideal for swimming.
It's a lesser-known alternative to its neighbour, Sandbanks, which is renowned for its three breathtaking beaches and the world's largest baymouth barrier dune formation.
Sunset Beach
Price: Parking fee
Address: 1 Lombardy Ave., St. Catharines, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located a road trip from Toronto in St. Catharines, Sunset Beach is a gorgeous spot to spend a summer day.
The destination boasts 1,200 feet of golden sand shores and glistening waters to enjoy. It also offers a playground, picnic area, public washrooms and more.
As its name suggests, it is known for its stunning sunsets, so you'll want to stay late to soak up the colourful views.
Northwest Beach
Price: $9 admission per adult, free until September 2, 2025
Address: 1118 Point Pelee Dr., Leamington, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're craving a quiet beach escape, Northwest Beach is worth a visit. Located in the breathtaking Point Pelee National Park, the destination offers a smooth sand shoreline and sparkling waves without the crowds.
Another beach to visit in the park is West Beach, where you'll find more sandy shores and swimming opportunities.
The park is home to over 20 kilometres of silky sand shores in total, making it an idyllic spot for a summer trip.
Ashburton Bay Beach
Price: $12.25 for daily vehicle permit
Address: 1004 ON-17, Neys, ON
Why You Need To Go: A true hidden gem, Ashburton Bay Beach in Neys Provincial Park is home to stunning scenery and powdery shores that stretch into clear waters.
According to Ontario Parks, it's "one of the finest sand beaches on Lake Superior's north shore" and offers 2 kilometres of powdery shoreline.
While Lake Superior is known for its cold temperatures, the shallow waters of Ashburton Bay allow it to warm in the summer sun, making it a beautiful spot for a refreshing dip.
According to Superior County, the "sugar sand" beach is "so beautiful you'll want to spend the entire day exploring what it offers."
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.