10 dreamy beach towns near Toronto with sandy shores and cute streets to visit this summer
Summer is in full swing and it isn't too late to plan a beach getaway. There are so many charming beach towns near Toronto that are idyllic spots to spend a day or more.
Boasting soft sandy shores, shining waters and cute streets, you can soak up some sun and enjoy some small town vibes at these places.
From dreamy harbour villages to vibrant lakeside communities, there are so many cute spots waiting to be discovered.
Here are 10 beautiful beach towns near Toronto to check out this summer.
Cobourg
Address: Cobourg, ON
Why You Need To Go: This charming beach town is just an hour away from Toronto and you can enjoy white sand shores and crystal waves.
According to Experience Cobourg, you'll feel like you're "sitting somewhere ocean-side in the Caribbean."
The town is home to a variety of shops where you can find clothing, home goods, thrifting, art, health and beauty and more. There are also many restaurants and eateries to check out, from bakeries to fast food and ice cream spots where you can cool off.
Fort Erie
Address: Fort Erie, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located an hour and a half from Toronto, this beach town "offers a captivating journey through time with its rich heritage sites, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning landscapes," according to the website.
Fort Erie is home to the white sand Bay Beach, also known as Crystal Beach. You'll need to purchase a Day Pass in order to access this dreamy spot.
While at the beach, you can explore the surrounding specialty shops, restaurants and attractions for some extra fun.
Sauble Beach
Address: Sauble Beach, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're up for a road trip, Sauble Beach is an incredible spot to visit during the summer months.
The town is about a two and a half hour drive from Toronto and offers 7 kilometres of dreamy white sand shores.
The destination is "Canada’s #1 rated freshwater beach," according to the website and has been nicknamed the "Daytona of the North."
Apart from lounging on the sandy beach, you can explore the cute local shops around the little town, indulge in food and ice cream and check out some of the attractions like mini golf and the arcade.
Goderich
Address: Goderich, ON
Why You Need To Go: Situated on the shores of Lake Huron, this destination is known as "Canada's prettiest town."
It's a two and a half hour drive from Toronto and is home to several dreamy beaches.
You can lounge on a crescent shaped shoreline at Rotary Cove Beach while enjoying a treat from the Beach Hut, or take in the views of international lake freighters at Main Beach.
The octagon-shaped downtown is lined with cute local shops, pubs and eateries to explore.
Port Elgin
Address: Port Elgin, ON
Why You Need To Go: This vacation town is worth a summer trip. Located two hours and 40 minutes from Toronto, the destination is home to six incredible white sand beaches which are "one of Ontario best kept vacation secrets," according to the website.
You can enjoy kilometres of fine sandy shores and take a dip in the sparkling waters of Lake Huron.
The town is full of charming local shops to explore as well as bakeries, cafes and restaurants. Don't miss out on the stunning sunsets!
Grand Bend
Address: Grand Bend, ON
Why You Need To Go: Situated on the shore of Lake Huron, this charming town is a two and a half hour road trip from Toronto.
Grand Bend is a popular beach destination and is known as "one of Canada's best beach towns," according to Lambton Shores.
There are may restaurants, shops, and nightlife spots along the town's main strip to enjoy after a day spent swimming in the crystal clear waters.
You'll want to stay late to take in Grand Bend's renowned sunsets, which paint the sky with vibrant hues of red, orange and pink.
Port Dover
Address: Port Dover, ON
Why You Need To Go: This beach town is an hour and a half away from Toronto and it's the "ultimate Ontario resort town," according to Ontario's Southwest.
You can take a stroll along the picturesque pier, lounge on the sandy shores and take a dip in the sparkling waters.
The downtown is just steps from the beach and features cute boutiques, restaurants and cafes where you can do some shopping or enjoy a bite to eat.
The Beach House Restaurant overlooks the water and offers coastal cuisine with scenic views.
Picton
Address: Picton, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located just over 2 hours from Toronto, this charming beach town is a gorgeous spot for a summer getaway.
One of the highlights of the town is Sandbanks Provincial Park, which is home to three gorgeous white sand beaches as well as the "world’s largest baymouth barrier dune formation," according to the park's website.
Aside from swimming and lounging on the shores, you can take a hike through some of the incredible surrounding scenery.
The town of Picton offers cute shops as well as many wineries where you can relax with a boozy drink.
Port Stanley
Address: Port Stanley, ON
Why You Need To Go: Port Stanley is located just over two hours from Toronto and it's a magical place to spend a summer day.
You'll feel like you've taken a trip to the east coast as you relax by the water and take in the quaint village views.
According to Ontario's Southwest, "Port Stanley's Main Beach is a long beach with one of the finest stretches of sandy beach on Lake Erie's north shore."
You can enjoy warm waters, soft sand and beautiful surroundings at this spot. The town is brimming with cute local shops and restaurants to enjoy.
Wasaga Beach
Address: Wasaga, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located about an hour and a half from Toronto, the town of Wasaga Beach is a beautiful spot for a summer day trip.
The area is home to "the longest freshwater beach in the world" as well as "one of Ontario’s most unique coastal dune ecosystems," according to the website.
You can enjoy 14 kilometres of velvety sand shores, take a dip in the shining waters and take in the panoramic views of South Georgian Bay.
There are many restaurants and beachside treats to enjoy during your visit.
Enjoy some warm weather adventures at these spots!
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.
This article has been updated since it was originally published on May 30, 2024.
