Here are 5 beaches in Ontario that aren’t as packed as Sandbanks

It’s been a scorcher of a summer in Toronto already, and the season only just officially kicked off. According to the forecast from The Weather Network, we’re in for a gross and sticky summer here in Ontario. 

The prediction is for hot and humid conditions to blanket the region for much of the season, a change from the weather patterns we’ve seen in recent years. 

But if Toronto residents know one thing there’s best, it’s how to make the most of the few perfect-weather weeks we get each year. 

Locals also know a thing or two about summer lineups and overcrowding — something city-dwellers loathe but are certainly accustomed to, especially at popular beach spots like Woodbine Beach in the city’s Beaches neighbourhood or Sandbanks in Prince Edward County.

With summer heat at full blast, I’m craving a beach escape, but not one crowded with hundreds of other people. 

I want relaxation, nature, and a chance to explore small towns. So, I’ve been on the hunt for some fantastic Ontario beaches, a little farther away from the sticky sardine-tin that Toronto turns into in this beautiful weather. Here are a few that caught my eye:

 

Canatara Beach & Park

Located in Sarnia, Canatara Beach stretches nearly a kilometre along Lake Huron’s shore. This urban beach is perfect for families, with playgrounds, an animal farm, a swimming hold, a BMX bike track, and plenty of picnic areas.

It’s one of only 27 beaches in Canada to earn Blue Flag status for its water quality and safety. Bird watchers can spot warblers, sandpipers, and falcons, while motorcyclists and watersports enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy.

Agawa Bay Beach

At the southern end of Lake Superior Provincial Park lies Agawa Bay Beach, a stunning three-kilometre sandy beach framed by the Canadian Shield’s hills and cliffs.

Though the water might be chillier, the natural beauty is unparalleled. There are options for paddling, body surfing, and swimming, and the nearby Agawa Rock Pictographs are a must-see. 

Spruce Beach

Spruce Beach in Elliot Lake is a hidden gem. With beautiful white sand and a large play area, it’s a great destination for anyone looking for a beach vacation without leaving Ontario.

Lifeguards are on duty from June to August, and there’s a supervised swimming area and a large rock that acts as a makeshift diving board. A scenic walking trail connects Spruce Beach to Spine Beach and the Westview boat launch.

Pelee Island

Pelee Island, off the shores of Leamington, offers visitors a variety of beaches around the island. If you’re staying in the area for the weekend, Point Pelee National Park, the second smallest and most ecologically diverse national park, is a fantastic spot for camping.

Whether you’re into biking, swimming, exploring local shops, or enjoying the island’s food and drink, Pelee Island has it all. You can rent bikes and golf carts or bring your own car across on the ferry for a perfect mix of calm and exploration.

Cobourg Beach

Cobourg Beach is a perfect day trip spot with beautiful sandy shores and a charming boardwalk. While it gets pretty busy (not as busy as Bluffer’s Park Beach or tourist hotspot Wasaga), if you time your visit correctly, you stand a solid chance of getting that solitude you’re searching for.

The beach is divided into Victoria Park Beach and West Beach, each offering lovely swimming areas. Cobourg Beach hosts various events throughout the year, like volleyball tournaments, the Sandcastle Festival, and movie nights in the park.