Summer in Ontario often means hot, humid days, and sometimes, the only way to stay comfortable is to stay inside or head to the beach for a refreshing swim. To help you plan your summer bucket list, we’ve asked Ontarians to vote for the best lakes for swimming in Ontario. The people have spoken – here are the beaches and lakes you should prioritize when taking a dip this summer.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your swimming essentials, pack some ice-cold drinks in your coolers, and enjoy a hot summer day. Don’t forget to bring lots of sunscreen, as you’ll be spending the entire day enjoying these swimming holes!
Key Takeaways
- Sauble Beach, near Owen Sound, is a top-rated beach in Ontario, with over 11 kilometres of sandy shoreline to explore
- While some municipal beaches in Ontario provide lifeguards, they are typically not available at the majority of provincial park beaches
- Check your local public health unit or municipality’s website to ensure water quality is safe for swimming
Best Lakes in Ontario for Swimming
With over 250,000 lakes around Ontario, picking the best one is challenging. All of the lakes in Ontario are stunning in their own right and offer countless activities for the entire family, so it’s hard to choose. Fortunately, we asked the locals to help us rate the best lakes in Ontario. With their help, we created the list below.
Sauble Beach, near Owen Sound
The top-rated beach for swimming in Ontario is Sauble Beach, which has been a vacation destination for generations. You’ll love spending the day on the over 11 kilometres of soft golden sand on the shores of Lake Huron. Be sure to check out the fantastic sunsets with an evening walk on the beach.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (restaurants along the beach)
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Wasaga Beach, near Collingwood
Wasaga Beach Provincial Park offers over 14 kilometres of sandy shores, accessible from eight different beach areas. In addition to fantastic swimming, the park offers over 30 kilometres of hiking trails, fishing opportunities, canoeing and boating, and bird watching.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes (Beach areas 1 and 2)
Dunes Beach – Sandbanks Provincial Park, near Picton
If you live in or around the east side of Toronto, visiting Dunes Beach at the Sandbanks Provincial Park should be on top of your summer bucket list. The swimming area off Dunes Beach has a steeper drop-off than the other beaches within Sandbanks Provincial Park, and swimmers should take extra caution. Aside from swimming, Dunes Beach offers a playground, full washrooms and a snack bar!
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Outlet Beach – Sandbanks Provincial Park, near Picton
Outlet Beach, also within Sandbanks Provincial Park, is known for being family-friendly, with shallow waters and a gentle drop-off. There is a designated pet area on Outlet Beach, as well as covered picnic shelters and picnic tables.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Lakeshore Beach – Sandbanks Provincial Park, near Picton
The third gorgeous beach within Sandbanks Provincial Park is Lakeshore Beach. This beach tends to be less crowded than Outlet Beach and Dunes Beach. It also offers shallow waters with a gentle drop-off and a designated pet area.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Best Beaches in Toronto
For people who don’t have the time and resources to travel long hours within Ontario, fret not, because Toronto offers some of the best swimming spots in Southern Ontario.
Toronto Island Beaches, on Toronto Island
One of the most popular swimming spots in Toronto is the beaches on Toronto Island: Hanlan’s Point Beach, Centre Island Beach, and Ward’s Island Beach. These beaches are just 15 minutes from downtown Toronto. Centre Island Beach and Ward’s Island Beach are perfect for families, while the south part of Hanlan’s Beach is known for being clothing-optional.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (fast food outlets near Centre Island Beach)
- Lifeguard on Duty: Yes
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Woodbine Beach, The Beaches
Woodbine Beach in The Beaches neighbourhood of Toronto is part of a popular park on the edge of Lake Ontario. Not only is the sandy beach great for sunbathing and swimming, but you can also take advantage of the many amenities like a recently renovated bathing station, a playground, fitness equipment, and accessible washrooms. In addition, the Donald S. Summerville Outdoor Olympic Pool is nearby.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes
- Lifeguard on Duty: Yes
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Sugar Beach, East Bayfront
Once a parking lot, this beach was designed as a playful public space in urban Toronto. Sugar Beach is named for the nearby Redpath Sugar Refinery Museum. Although you can’t swim at Sugar Beach, you can relax on the sand or enjoy the splash pad.
- Public Restrooms: No
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Cherry Beach, South Riverdale
Located in Toronto’s South Riverdale community, Cherry Beach is lifeguard-supervised and accessible by public transportation. Sometimes called Clarke Beach, this area has a bike trail, food trucks and picnic spots, making it the perfect place to spend an active summer day.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (food trucks)
- Lifeguard on Duty: Yes
- Stroller-friendly Access: Some areas
Sunnyside Beach, High Park-Swansea
The beach at Sunnyside Park in the west end of Toronto is a popular spot for locals to cool off in the summer. Not only can you swim in the lake, but the Sunnyside Gus Ryder Pool is open seasonally. In addition, you can walk the waterfront boardwalk, cycle or walk the Martin Goodman Trail, or play at the playground.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes
- Lifeguard on Duty: Yes
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
The Best Swimming Spots Lake Huron
Lake Huron is one of the five Great Lakes of North America, and as such it is one of the favourite swimming spots among locals and tourists. Lake Huron offers several swimming holes, and Sauble Beach tops the list.
Sauble Beach, near Owen Sound
Sauble Beach has been a popular vacation destination for generations, and it’s easy to see why. As the second largest freshwater beach in the world, it has plenty of space to swim, build sand castles, play volleyball, and walk. Besides being a great swimming hole, surfing is popular with locals and tourists.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (restaurants along the beach)
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: No
Wasaga Beach, near Stayner
Also a local favourite, Wasaga Beach is the longest freshwater beach in the world and is perfect for adventure-seekers. Aside from being one of the best spots to swim and sunbathe, Wasaga Beach also offers jet skiing and windsurfing. When in the area, you can also enjoy hiking and biking trails, as well as wildlife activities such as deer and bird spotting.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller Friendly Access: Yes
Grand Bend – Main Beach, Grand Bend
Grand Bend has warmer temperatures than other swimming spots in the area. Aside from being family-friendly, the beach area offers an accessible splash pad, a playground, and a boardwalk. A free life-jacket lending program means you can stay safe while playing in the water!
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (restaurants along the beach)
- Lifeguard on Duty: Yes
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Grand Bend – South Beach, Grand Bend
Grand Bend South Beach is separated from the main beach by Parkhill Creek. It is known for being quieter than the main beach, but no lifeguards are on duty.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (restaurants along the beach)
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Southampton Beach, Southampton
Over four kilometres long, you’ll find plenty of room to enjoy a sunny day on Southampton Beach in the town of Southampton. However, the water deepens quickly, so this area is best for strong swimmers.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (restaurants along the beach)
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Best Swimming Around Georgian Bay
Georgian Bay is another great swimming spot characterized by white pine forests and rugged bedrock. Georgian Bay is located in the northeastern arm of Lake Huron and offers countless activities for everyone! Not only is it one of the best swimming lakes in Ontario, but you can also boat, fish, and explore many historic sites.
Killbear Provincial Park, west of Parry Sound
One of the best swimming spots near Georgian Bay is Killbear Provincial Park. This public park has a designated rocky and sandy beach and provides life jacket rentals. Be sure to stay for the famous Georgian Bay sunsets.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Indian Head Cove & The Grotto, Tobermory
Both Indian Head Cove and The Grotto are located within Bruce Peninsula National Park and are accessed by a 30-minute hike; reservations are required to visit. All of the work is worth it once you see The Grotto’s stunning, clear blue water.
- Public Restrooms: Yes (along trail)
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: No
Lion’s Head Beach, north of Owen Sound
Located in the small community of Lion’s Head, halfway between Owen Sound and Tobermory, this natural sand beach is a great place to relax on a hot summer day.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Best Swimming Lake Superior
As the largest lake in North America, you can expect that Lake Superior has many things to offer. Visiting this swimming hole this summer will keep you busy, so don’t forget to pack drinks and food for the entire day — more if you bring the kids!
Sandy Beach, Wawa
When visiting Lake Superior, head to Sandy Beach first. This dog-friendly beach is about a 30-minute drive from Lake Superior Provincial Park and features a boardwalk over the white sand dunes.
- Public Restrooms: No
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Agawa Bay, south of Wawa
If you are travelling on Ontario Highway 17 between Sault Ste. Marie and Wawa, Agawa Bay is the perfect place to stop and put your toes in the water, as it’s close to the highway. Located inside Lake Superior Provincial Park, the beach at Agawa Bay is excellent for walking and swimming, although the water is known to be quite cold, especially in early summer.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Pancake Bay Provincial Park, north of Sault Ste. Marie
Relax on the over three-kilometre sandy beach, and you’ll almost forget you are in Ontario while you gaze out over the Caribbean-blue water. You can also head out on the water in your canoe, bike the 14-kilometre Lookout Trail, or fish in the Pancake River inside Pancake Bay Provincial Park.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Bathtub Island, near Wawa
Within Lake Superior Provincial Park, Bathtub Island is a small island where Lake Superior waves fill a natural basin, creating a shallow, bathtub-like area where you can relax. To reach the island, you’ll need to follow the coastal trail from Katherine Cove for approximately half a kilometre and walk out to the island in the shallow water.
- Public Restrooms: Yes (within the park)
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: No
Katherine Cove, near Wawa
Finally, Katherine Cove, also within Lake Superior Provincial Park, is a popular sandy beach. The crystal-clear, shallow water is perfect for swimmers of all ages and abilities.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: No
The Best Swimming Lake Erie
As one of the Great Lakes and the eleventh largest lake globally, you can expect many things from Lake Erie. Lake Erie is an excellent location for families because it’s warm and has very shallow waters, perfect for kids to play in. As a result, it is one of the best lakes for swimming in Ontario.
Port Dover Beach, Port Dover
Spend the day on Port Dover Beach in the warm waters, and enjoy the palm trees (yes, palm trees!) that locals plant each year along the beach. Stroll the historic pier and enjoy the nearby shops and restaurants.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (restaurants along the beach)
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Long Point Provincial Park, Long Point
Do you want you and your kids to try other activities besides swimming? Fear not, because Long Point Beach has many things to offer. Aside from swimming, the entire family can also camp at one of the beach’s 253 campsites. You can also go bird watching or ride a motorcycle along the scenic shore of Long Point Beach.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Port Stanley Beach, Port Stanley
Port Stanley Beach is one of only 22 beaches in Canada that earned official Blue Flag status for meeting water quality and safety criteria. This beautiful beach boasts warm water temperatures, making it a great choice for families. In addition, good on-shore winds make the beach popular for windsurfers and sailors.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes
- Lifeguard on Duty: Yes
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Turkey Point Beach, Turkey Point
Turkey Point Beach, within Turkey Point Provincial Park, is a two-kilometre, kid-friendly beach with a designated buoyed swimming area. A nearby rental company offers canoes, kayaks, standup paddleboards, and more.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (restaurants along the beach)
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Sand Hill Park, Port Burwell
Sand Hill Park is more than a beach! It features camping sites, kids’ programs, a nature trail, a playground, and so much more. The sandy beach is at the foot of the Sand Hills tower, 350 feet above Lake Erie. Note that admission to Sand Hill Park is by reservation only.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: No
Best Beaches in Ontario for Families
Looking for a family-friendly beach or lake in Ontario for swimming? These beaches, as rated by locals, typically offer stroller-friendly access, safe swimming, and other amenities like playgrounds or splash pads.
Wasaga Beach, near Stayner
With over 14 kilometres of shoreline, you’re sure to find a spot to relax on Wasaga Beach! Wasaga Beach Provincial Park also boasts playgrounds, a boat launch area, over 50 kilometres of hiking trails, and more. It’s sure to be an excellent outing for the whole family.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: No
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller Friendly Access: Yes
Sandbanks Provincial Park, near Picton
Sandbanks Provincial Park creates a stunning backdrop for a beach day! Not only are there three beaches to choose from, but there is also a great surface to walk on, and dogs are allowed on leashes. The entire family can also hike or bike around the area.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Sauble Beach, near Owen Sound
Sauble Beach is one of Ontario’s best spots to swim. Nearby are many shops and cafes for the entire family. There are also several inns, hotels, and cabin parks near the beach, so you don’t have to worry about finding accommodation for a weekend trip.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (restaurants along the beach)
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: No
Woodbine Beach, Toronto
Woodbine Beach Park is a popular spot to spend a hot day with your family! There are three kilometres of sandy beach to explore, plus a recently renovated bathing station with accessible washrooms, water bottle filling stations, and a beach shower. You can also have fun on the playground, beach volleyball court, and picnic shelters.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes
- Lifeguard on Duty: Yes
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Cobourg Beach, Cobourg
Pack up the family on a hot summer’s day and head to Cobourg Beach. The main beach, sometimes called Victoria Park Beach, is a sandy freshwater beach. Kids will love the playgrounds and splash pads, and every August, you can participate in the annual Cobourg Sandcastle contest.
- Public Restrooms: Yes
- Canteen: Yes (food trucks)
- Lifeguard on Duty: No
- Stroller-friendly Access: Yes
Rating Methodology
The Best Swimming Holes in Ontario survey was conducted by Zolo on June 24, 2024. A sample of 100 Canadians aged 16 and over were interviewed. Each respondent was asked to rate popular swimming destinations.
Bottom Line
Ontario has over 250,000 lakes, many of which are great for swimming. Whether you are looking for a house in an affordable Ontario city or shopping for a lakefront cottage, Ontario has plenty to offer.
Ontario Swimming FAQ
What is the warmest lake in Ontario for Swimming?
Lake Erie is Ontario’s shallowest and most southern lake, leading to warmer waters. The average water temperature at Port Dover Beach in July, August and September is over 20 degrees, warmer than other famous swimming holes like Tobermory. Port Dover Beach even has palm trees, adding to the overall tropical feel.
What lakes in Ontario have clear water?
The Grotto and Indian Head Cove inside Bruce Peninsula National Park boasts beautiful turquoise waters. Topaz Lake inside Killarney Provincial Park is a hidden oasis; however, it is accessed by a 22.7km out-and-back hike on La Cloche Silhouette Trail, which is considered difficult. Lastly, Katherine Cove in Lake Superior Provincial Park features a natural pool, clear water, and white sand.
Is Lake Ontario clean enough to swim in?
Beaches on Lake Ontario, such as Cobourg Beach, Toronto Island Beaches, Sandbanks Provincial Park, and others, regularly test the water for elevated levels of bacteria, especially E. coli. When bacterial levels are high enough to pose a risk to human health, the beach will be posted as unsafe to swim. Elevated bacteria levels can typically occur after heavy rainfall, strong winds, and high waves.
What’s the weather like in Ontario in the summer?
In the summer, temperatures in Ontario tend to soar above 30°C. The days feel hot and humid, which is why many Ontarians and visitors head to the beach.
Which lakes are safe to swim in Ontario?
Many lakes in Ontario are safe for swimming. However, before you head to the beach for a refreshing swim, check local advisories to ensure the bacteria levels are low and the water is safe to swim in. Moreover, swimmers should avoid swimming at public beaches for 24 to 48 hours after heavy rainfall.
What’s the cleanest lake in Ontario?
Ontario’s Blue Flag Beaches meet the strictest standards in water quality, safety, and environmental education and services. There are over a dozen certified Blue Flag Beaches in Ontario, including Bluffer’s Park Beach, Cherry Beach, Grand Bend Beach, and Port Stanley Main Beach.
