Agate Island Beach
Listed in 2013 among the seven natural wonders of the world's beaches, Agate Island Beach is conveniently located near Thunder Bay. If sandy shores are your preference, this is not the place for you, as here you will find metres of agate—beautiful stones resembling quartz or amethyst.
These little stones have an amazing natural pattern that makes walking along the shore in search of interesting designs truly fascinating. In addition, the island is known for the mysterious large Pukaskwa potholes, which are considered sacred by Indigenous people.
Address: Ontario, Agate Island.
Amherst Island
Peaceful sandy beaches, bicycle paths and stunning scenery—Amherst Island has it all. It is also home to one of the “cutest towns in Canada.” At least, that is what those who have visited call it. Perhaps it is your turn to form your own verdict.
Address: Amherst Island.
Balmy Beach Park
Treat yourself and your beloved pet to a beach day by heading to this location. Dogs can walk off-leash in a designated area along the waterfront.
Address: 1 Beech Ave., Toronto.
Big Sandy Bay
You can reach the hidden gem known as Big Sandy Bay by taking a ferry from Kingston to Wolfe Island. The beach is truly ideal for those who do not like crowds. You can walk to this secret spot or enjoy a short bike ride.
Address: Big Sandy Bay, Frontenac Islands.
Bruce Peninsula
One of Ontario's most interesting places is Bruce Peninsula National Park, located at the very edge of Georgian Bay. This location will definitely change your perception of the province with its crystal-blue waters and ancient trees. Its most remarkable beauty is revealed when visiting the local grotto.
To reach it, you will need to take a short hike, but it is well worth it! Incredibly beautiful, vivid blue water is surrounded by cliffs formed over thousands of years by the impact of powerful waves.
The Grotto is the most popular attraction in Bruce Peninsula National Park. There are no signs, lights or stairs here. But none of this stops those who want to relax away from the bustle of the city while enjoying the area's stunning views and pristine, refreshing water!
As for access, because of the grotto's immense popularity, it is recommended that you plan your trip carefully during the summer. During peak times, there may be no parking spots available nearby, and you may be denied access.
Address: The Bruce Peninsula National Park.
Cherry Beach
Another excellent option for a beach day with our four-legged friends. This location includes an off-leash dog area, a beach and picnic areas.
Address: 1 Cherry St., Toronto.
Darlington Provincial Park
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, this park boasts a massive sandy beach that is an ideal place for much-needed rest and complete relaxation.
Address: 1600 Darlington Park Rd., Bowmanville.
Elora Quarry
The drive to Elora takes only about an hour, which explains the fairly large number of visitors during the hot season. But there is no need to worry about that—there is enough fun and space here for everyone!
The view of the quarry is incredible. This is due to the perfect combination of natural forces that shaped the area and artificial changes made to it. The quarry itself covers two acres and is surrounded by sheer cliffs nearly 12 metres high. A forested park and picnic area are located nearby. Note that dogs are not allowed off-leash and alcohol consumption is prohibited within the park.
The spacious beach provides easy access to the water and a sandy area for children and sunbathers. Despite the temptation to test your courage by diving straight from the cliffs, such jumps are strictly prohibited. At the same time, there are several large rocks in the water where you can sunbathe away from the other visitors.
Water quality is checked weekly to ensure a safe experience for everyone. Speaking of safety, you can get a life jacket on-site completely free of charge if you wish (you only need to pay a small refundable deposit).
Address: 319 Wellington County Rd. 19, Elora.
Fifty Point Conservation Area
This location offers two beach areas open not only to people but also to dogs. However, pets must remain on-leash when they are not in the water.
Address: 1479 Baseline Rd., Winona.
Foy Provincial Park
Hidden from tourists' view, the beach in this provincial park attracts visitors not only because it is uncrowded but also because of its soft, clean sand. In addition, the beach is surrounded by dense forests, giving it a special charm.
Address: Red Rock Rd., Killaloe.
Georgian Bay Islands National Park
In this park, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a beach day in several locations, such as Cedar Spring Campground and Sandpiper. It is recommended that you bring protective footwear, as the beaches here are rocky.
Address: 2611 Honey Harbour Rd., Honey Harbour.
Grand Bend Beach
This quiet sandy beach is perfect for recreating the scene featuring the famous line, “If you're a bird, I'm a bird” from The Notebook. You can also enjoy your time here with a small beach picnic.
Address: Lambton Shores.
Kelso Conservation Area
Kelso Lake is a beautiful man-made reservoir covering 35 hectares, originally developed to prevent flooding near Sixteen Mile Creek. Today, thanks to its relatively small size, which keeps the water temperature fairly comfortable throughout the season, the area attracts many visitors.
One side of the lake has a specially equipped beach area and a picnic area. In addition, it is ideal for SUP (Stand Up Paddling) enthusiasts.
Of course, since this is an official beach, there are lifeguards on shore responsible for your safety. Children will also love the lake, where they can splash around in the shallow water. The availability of loungers will make your stay more comfortable, especially if you want to sunbathe.
Address: 5234 Kelso Rd, Milton.
Little Cove
If you dream of a tropical vacation, head to Little Cove Beach. This secret little cove surrounded by cliffs creates an incredible Caribbean atmosphere – here, you can relax in the clearest turquoise waters.
Admission is free. Address: 237 Little Cove Rd., Tobermory.
Long Point Beach
South of Toronto lies the world-famous Long Point Beach, officially recognized as a biosphere reserve. The reason for this international recognition and inclusion on this list is that this beach is one of the main refuges for migratory birds during their migration.
During certain periods (in spring and fall), you can see more than four hundred different species of birds here that have begun their long journey. Anyone interested can also attend lectures at the local observatory, where you will learn the most interesting facts about these remarkable birds.
Address: 350 Erie Blvd, Port Rowan.
Long Sault Parkway
Long Sault Parkway is ideal for a road trip through Ontario. One road connects 11 separate islands on the St. Lawrence River, and each one has its own attractions. You can expect more than 600 camping sites, numerous cycling paths, scenic hiking trails, public beaches, private picnic areas and much more.
Address: Ingleside.
Marmora Mine
The former mine, now an abandoned quarry called Marmora Mine, cannot boast any amenities; however, its stunning scenery and refreshing water continually attract true daredevils!
Despite its incredible beauty, this place remains a hidden gem, which means that when you visit Marmora Mine, you will not encounter crowds of tourists or parking problems. This is likely why the water here remains crystal clear. The quarry is located on the outskirts of the town of Marmora and consists of 85 acres of incomparable aquatic beauty, with a depth of more than 656 feet.
Address: 9 Matthew St. Marmora.
Old Woman Bay
Old Woman Bay is one of those rare places that truly inspire admiration for the beauty of nature. Incredible scenery, two-hundred-metre cliffs and an amazing view of the lake await you here. Many people come for the entire day to hike through such wonderful surroundings or simply relax on the white-sand beach.
Address: Old Woman Bay, Algoma.
Pelee Island
This stunning island offers a variety of leisure options. You can spend an entire day at a winery, stroll along the waterfront, relax on a sandy beach and visit a historic lighthouse. The island can be reached by ferry, which operates until the beginning of December.
Address: Pelee.
Port Burwell Provincial Park
Located along the shores of Lake Erie, this beautiful provincial park delights visitors with a dog beach and a separate area for dog training. Here, you can enjoy the summer sun with your favourite pet.
Address: 9 Wilson Ln., Port Burwell.
Presqu'ile Provincial Park
An excellent option for those who enjoy quiet walks in nature. As you stroll through this incredibly beautiful provincial park with a sandy beach, you can not only observe hundreds of different species of birds but also find a snow-white lighthouse on the shore, distinguished by its distinctive architectural minimalism.
Address: 328 Presqu'Ile Pkwy., Brighton.
Rock Point Provincial Park
In the case of this provincial park, the ancient coral reef deserves special attention. You can also play to your heart's content with your pet in the separate dog-training area, located on the western side of the beach.
Address: 215 Niece Rd., Dunnville.
St. Joseph Island
You can get here by car via a free bridge. This large island is home to a charming town whose streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll. You will also find beautiful beaches, gardens and attractions here. The island is also known for its delicious maple syrup, so get ready for something sweet.
Address: St. Joseph Island.
St. Mary's Quarry
The former limestone quarry St. Mary's Quarry is now considered Canada's largest freshwater swimming pool. From 1930 to 1935, the quarry filled with water and was often used by locals as a swimming spot. Then, ten years later, the town purchased the property and combined it with another 50 acres of adjacent land.
Today, visitors can enjoy a spacious green area that serves as a beach. In addition, if you want to take a break from water activities and relax on land, you can join volleyball enthusiasts nearby.
A pleasant bonus is the presence of a snack bar nearby, where you can grab a bite before heading home or replenish your picnic supplies without leaving the beach. It is worth noting that the quarry's recreation sector continues to develop, and the list of interesting water activities grows every year.
Address: 317 James Street South, St. Marys.
Sandbanks Provincial Park
Sandbanks Provincial Park includes two dog-friendly beaches: one at Outlet Beach and the other at Lakeshore Beach. At the same time, dogs in these areas must remain on leash.
Sandbanks Provincial Park is especially popular among admirers of natural beauty. Here, you will want to climb to the top of the world's largest dune at the mouth of the bay and then go swimming at the nearby beach.
Address: 3004 County Rd. 12, Picton.
Sauble Beach
Sauble Beach boasts an impressive shoreline more than 11 kilometres long. It is the ideal place to spend the entire day playing in the water and relaxing on the sand (or vice versa).
Address: Sauble Beach.
Scarborough Bluffs
Head to Scarborough Bluffs to admire the stunning view. It has everything: hiking trails, a beach and a high cliff with unique scenery. You certainly will not have any trouble finding a spot for a photo shoot.
Address: Scarborough.
Sibbald Point Provincial Park
Located just an hour's drive from Toronto, this sandy park will delight you with two beaches where your pet can roam off leash. An ideal option for owners of active dogs.
Address: 26071 Park Rd., Jacksons Point.
Southampton Beach
This location combines the charm of a quiet town with a stunning beach. The beach lifestyle is what has made this place so popular among water-recreation enthusiasts. The sandy shore stretches for 4 kilometres here, and thanks to the shallow water, it warms up quickly in summer. You can also take a stroll along the historic wooden boardwalk, delight the kids with several playgrounds, and grab a bite at small local establishments.
Address: 49 High St, Southampton.
Sugar Beach
Treat yourself to a tropical getaway completely free of charge by relaxing under the pink umbrellas of this picturesque beach while enjoying the sound of the water and the sun's rays.
Address: 11 Dockside Dr., Toronto.
Toronto Islands
Most people head to the islands in summer, wanting to bask in the sun while visiting one of the many popular beaches. However, it is also incredibly beautiful here in autumn, and there are definitely fewer people than during the hot season.
Address: Toronto Islands.
Ward's Island
Unlike Centre Island, this island is considered quieter and more peaceful. It is a residential area with fewer tourists, boasting a tranquil beach and a boardwalk. Here, you can soak up the sun to your heart's content.
Address: Ward's Island, Toronto.
Wasaga Beach
Wasaga Beach is the longest freshwater beach in the world. Here, you will find magnificent white sandy shores and blue waters. Moreover, at Beach 3, you can relax with your pets.
Address: 11 22nd St. N., Wasaga Beach.
