Looking for a dreamy beach getaway this summer without having to hop on a flight?
Toronto may have some excellent city beaches to beat the summer heat at, but if you’re up for a road trip, Ontario is home to some of the most charming beach towns, perfect for summer day trips or weekend getaways.
Here are 10 lovely beach towns near Toronto that should be on your radar this summer:
1. Port Dover
Port Dover, a charming beach town perched on the shores of Lake Erie in Norfolk County, offers a surprising tropical escape just under two hours from Toronto. With golden sand, warm shallow waters, and real palm trees imported from Florida each summer, the beach delivers serious vacation vibes from May through October. Visitors can explore quaint shops, green spaces, a historic pier and lighthouse, and dine at beachfront restaurants like The Beach House, which is responsible for the town’s iconic palm-lined shoreline
2. Southampton
A quieter gem located along Lake Huron, Southampton offers stunning sunsets, peaceful vibes, and a more relaxed atmosphere than some of its busier counterparts. Just under three hours from Toronto, this beach town features a beautiful white sand shoreline and a charming downtown area with art galleries, independent shops, and delicious bakeries.
3. Wasaga Beach
Holding the title for the longest freshwater beach in the world, Wasaga Beach is just a two-hour drive from Toronto, and considers itself Ontario’s “summer playground”. Wasaga is the perfect beach getaway for those who enjoy water sports, beach volleyball, and a party town atmosphere. While the town is currently undergoing a major $38 million revitalization project, the beaches are still open this summer to enjoy.
4. Crystal Beach
Located about 1.5 hours from Toronto, Crystal Beach (also known as Bay Beach) is a popular summer destination in Fort Erie. Recently renovated, the beach features white sand, clear warm water, modern washroom and change facilities, a playground, accessible beach mats and ramps, and a festival square for events. Just steps from the water, the vibrant town offers a variety of restaurants, patios, ice cream shops, and boutique stores.
5. Sauble Beach
Sauble Beach stretches for over 11 kilometres of golden sand, making it the second longest freshwater beach in the world, just behind Ontario’s Wasaga Beach. Located about 3 hours northwest of Toronto, the town comes alive in the summers with live music, beach events, and festivals, but has a more laid-back vibe than nearby Wasaga.
6. Port Stanley
Located on Lake Erie around two hours from Toronto, Port Stanley boasts one of the finest Blue Flag-certified beaches in Ontario. Port Stanley’s Main Beach offers soft sand, shallow waters, and a family-friendly vibe. Beyond the beach, this laid-back town is full of character with its retro ice cream parlours, beachside bars, and the popular Port Stanley Festival Theatre.
7. Grand Bend
If you’re looking for a party beach town reminiscent of spring break in Florida (anyone remember Grand Benders?), Grand Bend is it! This summer hotspot is roughly 3 hours from Toronto, and is known for its bustling activities, Blue Flag-rated beach, and nightlife. Grand Bend’s downtown is packed with restaurants, patios, and entertainment options, making it a favourite for younger crowds.
8. Goderich
Often referred to as “the prettiest town in Canada,” Goderich is perched on the bluffs overlooking Lake Huron. About a three-hour drive from Toronto, this town offers three stunning beaches: Main Beach, St. Christopher’s Beach, and Rotary Cove. You’ll also find historic architecture, walking trails along the waterfront, and a picturesque downtown square filled with shops, cafes, and farmers’ markets.
9. Bayfield
Bayfield, just a short drive south of Goderich, is a charming village on Lake Huron, boasting sandy shores and striking turquoise water. Its historic downtown is full of heritage buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. The beach is a short walk from the town centre and offers spectacular views, particularly at sunset.
10. Picton
While Picton itself is more of a charming town in Prince Edward County, it serves as the gateway to Sandbanks Provincial Park, home to some of the most iconic beaches in Ontario. Roughly a 3-hour drive from Toronto, this gorgeous park has soft, white sand dunes and crystal-clear water that rivals Caribbean destinations. After the beach, explore Picton’s farm-to-table food and wine scene, local art galleries, and welcoming quaint little inns.