9 Ontario provincial parks with the most stunning hidden gem beaches to swim at this summer
Beach weather is finally here, and Ontario has so many gorgeous shorelines where you can soak up some sun and take a dip in sparkling waters.
These provincial parks are home to beautiful beaches, from dune-filled shores to secret coves. You can find some dreamy hidden gems and quiet stretches of sand where you can swim and sunbathe all day long.
Here are nine Ontario provincial parks with stunning beaches to check out this summer.
Pinery Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 9526 Lakeshore Rd., Grand Bend, ON
Why You Need To Go: Perched along the shores of Lake Huron, Pinery is home to one of Ontario's most stunning beaches. Here you'll find soft sand dunes, sparkling shallow water, and breathtaking sunsets, making it an idyllic spot for a beach day.
The sandy shoreline stretches for 10 kilometres and will have you feeling like you're on a tropical vacation. The nearby town of Grand Bend offers additional beaches and small-town charm.
Darlington Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 1600 Darlington Park Rd., Bowmanville, ON
Why You Need To Go: You don't have to go far from the city to enjoy tranquil sandy shores. Situated just an hour east of Toronto, Darlington Provincial Park boasts a tranquil Lake Ontario beach that feels like a hidden gem.
You can spend a day lounging on the smooth shoreline and taking a dip in the blue waters. The park is also home to several scenic trails, so you'll want to bring your hiking shoes along for the adventure.
Neys Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 1004 ON-17, Neys, ON
Why You Need To Go: Nestled on the north shore of Lake Superior, Neys offers a 2-kilometre sandy beach with glassy water and beautiful island views.
It's a dreamy spot to escape the crowds and soak up some sun. According to Ontario Parks, "the bay is relatively shallow and sandy, so in the heat of the summer you are able to take a refreshing dip in the notoriously cold Lake Superior and actually enjoy the experience."
Wasaga Beach Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 1 Jenetta St, Wasaga Beach, ON
Why You Need To Go: Did you know that the world’s longest freshwater beach can be found right here in Ontario? Wasaga Beach is a popular summer destination due to its endless stretch of sandy shores and scenic swimming opportunities.
The beach offers over 14 kilometres of sand, with warm, shallow waters where you can take a dip. There are several different beach zones to visit, depending on the vibe you're looking for.
Lake Superior Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: Katherine Cove, Algoma, Unorganized, North Part, ON
Why You Need To Go: In Lake Superior Provincial Park, you'll find Katherine Cove, a hidden gem white sand beach with crystal waters.
These waters can be chilly, so it's best to visit on a hot summer day.
Just a short hike from Katherine Cove lies Bathtub Island, a natural wonder known for its unique basin shape. The rock is situated just offshore, and you can float around the turquoise pool that fills its centre.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 3004 County Rd. 12, Picton, ON
Why You Need To Go: This provincial park is a summer paradise. Sandbanks boasts three stunning beaches which, according to the website, "are among the best in Canada."
It's home to the world's largest baymouth barrier dune formation, and you'll feel like you're on a tropical island as you wander along the beautiful white sand dunes and gaze across the turquoise water.
Outlet and Lakeshore beaches have shallow entries, but Dunes Beach has a steep drop-off for more experienced swimmers.
Pancake Bay Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 12729 Hwy 17N, Batchawana Bay, ON
Why You Need To Go: You don't need to get on a plane to find velvety shores and tropical-like waters. This Ontario park has a breathtaking beach with "Caribbean-blue" water, and it's a slice of summer paradise.
Pancake Bay offers 3.2 kilometres of fine sand and beautiful turquoise waves. Even though Lake Superior is typically chilly, the shallows at Pancake Bay are warm, so it's an idyllic spot for a swim.
You can enjoy a day on the beach and hike along the surrounding trails for panoramic views of the bay.
Turkey Point Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 194 Turkey Point Rd., Turkey Point, ON
Why You Need To Go: This Lake Erie Beach is a summer oasis with warm, shallow waters and a soft shoreline so beautiful, it was dubbed "Ontario’s Riviera."
You can enjoy water sports or just relax in the sand and listen to the sound of waves against the shore.
Long Point Provincial Park
Price: $12.25 + for daily vehicle permit
Address: 350 Erie Blvd., Port Rowan, ON
Why You Need To Go: If a 40-kilometre sand spit and azure water sounds like your idea of the perfect beach day, you'll want to plan a trip to this dreamy spot.
Long Point offers 2 kilometres of silky shores and a unique sandspit that extends into the sparkling waves.
The day use beaches are located in the New Park as well as Cottonwood Campground in the Old Park.
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.
