This majestic Ontario park has 20 km of silky sand beaches and it's like a trip to Costa Rica
Smooth sand beaches, lush green forests and sparkling blue waters might sound like something you would find in Costa Rica, but you can enjoy all this and more right here in Ontario.
This national park in Ontario is home to 20 kilometres of "smooth sand" as well as a "jungle-like forest" and open savannah.
It's a stunning spot to visit during the summer months, especially if you're looking for beautiful hikes and dreamy beaches.
Here's what to know about this gorgeous national park in Ontario.
Point Pelee National Park is located in Essex County in southwestern Ontario, about three and a half hours away from Toronto.
Situated on the shores of Lake Erie, the park is known for being the Southernmost point of mainland Canada. You can even hike to the very tip of mainland Canada by following the Tip Trail — a 1 kilometre loop that takes about half an hour to complete.
There are many other gorgeous hikes to enjoy, including the Tilden Woods Trail, which leads through a mature swamp forest and savannah, and the Marsh Boardwalk, where you can discover an observation tower and telescopes and "get lost in a world of cattail mats, turtles and lily pads," according to the website.
You'll find 20 kilometres of silky sand on both the west and east sides of the peninsula.
The most popular beaches in the park are Northwest Beach and West Beach, which offer change rooms, bathrooms and picnic facilities. Swimming at the Tip is not permitted.
You may want to stay late while visiting this spot, as the park was designated as a Dark Sky Preserve in 2006. According to the website, it's one of the "best places to explore the night sky in Canada."
Dark Sky Nights are held on select dates and allow you to stay later and experience the celestial magic above.
Other popular activities at the park include bird watching, cycling, camping and paddling.
It's a good idea to make a reservation in advance online before heading to to this stunning national park.
Point Pelee National Park
Price: $9 per adult
Address: 1118 Point Pelee Dr., Leamington, ON
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.
