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Summary

This Ontario town is a 'world-renowned jewel' surrounded by crystal waters and beaches

It's one of Ontario's best summer vacation spots, according to readers.

An island surrounded by turquoise waters. Right: A person sitting at a restaurant.

A coastal destination in Ontario. Right: A brewery in Ontario.

Lead Writer, Travel

You don't have to go far to enjoy a beautiful summer getaway. Ontario boasts a number of incredible vacation spots where you can soak up some sun and enjoy the warm weather to the fullest. This small town offers rustic charm and scenic landscapes, and readers say it's one of the best summer vacation spots in the province.

You can spend your days exploring hidden islands, relaxing on sandy shores and strolling down quaint streets while enjoying an ice cream cone.

Narcity readers say that Parry Sound is the place to be if you're craving a summer staycation.

The small town is perched on the sparkling waters of Georgian Bay and is the world's deepest natural freshwater port. It's about 2 hours from Toronto, making it a convenient spot for a weekend getaway or longer escape.

According to the website, the area has earned the title of the "world-renowned jewel of the 30,000 Islands on Georgian Bay" and is a popular cottage country destination. It's part of the UNESCO-designated Georgian Bay Biosphere, known for its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful, windswept pines.

There's a lot to enjoy while in the region. You can cruise around the 30,000 Islands — the world's largest freshwater archipelago. The Island Queen Cruise takes you through picturesque channels and past incredible natural wonders.

You can check out some of the nearby parks, such as Killbear Provincial Park and Massauga Provincial Park, which offer rugged trails and sandy beaches.

The town is also home to Waubuno Beach, a small, quiet beach with pristine sand shores.

The downtown is lined with shops and eateries that lead up from the waterfront, and you can spend all day perusing the boutiques and enjoying the local cuisine.

The town dock is a centrepiece of the waterfront. It offers public seating at the end where you can enjoy a picnic lunch or relax and watch the picturesque Parry Sound harbour.

Other attractions to check out in the area include the Strand Twin Theatre, the Museum and Fire Tower, the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame and the Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts.

If you're looking for an incredible summer vacation, readers say that Parry Sound is worth checking out.

Parry Sound Tourism 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.

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    • 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.

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