This summer, why not visit Ontario’s Southwest to experience some of the best beaches Ontario has to offer?
If sand and surf aren’t up your alley, there’s plenty more for you to do in this area. From finding dinosaur fossils to eco-adventures, yoga on the water, and selfies with the world’s largest mudcat, Ontario’s Southwest is the perfect place for your next family vacation.
Port Stanley
Port Stanley's main beach features one of the finest stretches of sandy beach on Lake Erie's north shore. Your kids will love the warm water temperatures and sandy bottom. You’ll love that this is a Blue Flag beach that adheres to strict water quality and safety criteria.
Your kids will love the activities at Canatara Park like the Children’s Animal Farm, BMX bike track, and mini train. You’ll love how close it is to creature comforts and great local eats.
Grand Bend has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s best beach towns, but this town isn’t just about the beach. Once you’ve had enough of the surf and sand, you can get a bird’s eye view of Grand Bend when you go parasailing, or take your kids to see live theatre at the Huron Country Playhouse.
Only 2 hours from Toronto, Port Burwell is often referred to as the jewel of Lake Erie’s north shore. In addition to 2.5 kilometres of clean, sandy beach, you’ll find hiking trails, camping, a submarine, and a marine museum and historic lighthouse. Your kids will have so much fun they won’t even realize they’re learning.
You won’t be spending all day in traffic when you visit Port Dover. This ultimate Ontario resort town is only 1.5 hours away from Toronto. The small town charm and floating yoga class will appeal to the adults while the sandy beach and the water tours will appeal to kids of all ages.
Grab your dinosaur fans and get on over to Rock Point. Spend the morning with your budding paleontologist searching for exposed fossils in the ancient coral reef that are embedded in a limestone shelf along the beach. Then spend the afternoon snapping selfies with Muddy The Mudcat, the largest mudcat statue in the world, or grab an ice cream and play mini putt at the marina.
Rondeau is Ontario’s second oldest provincial park. The 11 kilometres of sandy beach means you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot to play the day away in the sand and surf. When the day is done, head on over to Greenview Aviaries Park and Zoo to play in the splash pad and marvel at the exotic animals.
Gobble up a day of fun in the sun at Turkey Point where the warm waters are perfect for little ones. The Cider Keg Farm Market features fresh local produce and sweet treats, and for the more adventurous family, take a swing on the wild side with Long Point Eco-Adventures.
Printer-friendly version