This beautiful town is one of the best spots to live in Ontario and it's steps from 3 beaches
It's known as "Canada's prettiest town."
A small town in Ontario. Right: A shoreline in Ontario.
If sandy shores, quaint streets and small town charm sound like your ideal lifestyle, you might want to check out this beautiful Ontario village. Perched along the shores of a shimmering lake, the town offers serene beaches and cute shops that are straight out of a storybook.
We asked readers on Narcity Canada's Facebook page for their thoughts on the best places to live in Ontario. The post garnered hundreds of comments, with this enchanting beach town being among the spots mentioned.
Goderich is a cozy village located along the shores of Lake Huron. Dubbed "Canada's prettiest town," it's clear why so many people want to live here.
The cozy downtown boasts cute local shops, cafes, pubs, and more to enjoy. While it may not offer the same retail scene as a big city, you'll still find all the essentials—plus a more peaceful, laid-back atmosphere.
The main highlight of the town is its three beautiful beaches. As soon as summer arrives, you can spend your days lounging on the sandy shores, swimming in the blue waters of Lake Huron and soaking up the vibrant sunsets.
Winter is a different scene. This season brings lots of snow and chilly temperatures, but also adds to the coziness and charm of the area. With sparkling Christmas lights and warm drinks in cozy cafes, it's a magical place to embrace the slower pace of the season.
Goderich is home to several attractions, such as the Huron County Museum, Huron County Gaol, and the oldest Canadian light station on Lake Huron.
It also offers picturesque trails, such as the Menesetung Bridge, a restored railway bridge with stunning views of Lake Huron and the Maitland River.
According to the town's website, "Goderich is a growing community and the largest urban community in Huron County" and offers "quality childcare, healthcare, top-notch schools, state-of-the-art recreation, dozens of active community and sporting groups/service clubs, as well as government and community services" and more.
So, how much does it cost to own a home in this charming lakeside gem? According to Zolo's housing market report, the average house in Goderich costs $725,754 in August 2025.
This is quite a bit cheaper than real estate in Toronto, which has an average house price of $1,054,453 this month.
With its beautiful scenery and beachside charm, it's no surprise locals call Goderich one of Ontario's best places to live.
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.