Rolling golden dunes, warm clear waters, and long stretches of soft sand right might not be that common here in Ontario – but they do exist! So when travel publication Travel and Tour World (TTW) officially released its rankings of Canada’s best beaches for 2026, it wasn’t a shock that Sandbanks Beaches earned a spot on the coveted top 10 list.
Upon stepping onto the sun-kissed shores in Prince Edward County, you might just forget you’re standing along Lake Ontario. Home to the largest freshwater baymouth sandbar and dune formation on the planet, Sandbanks Provincial Park offers a tropical-feeling getaway just a few hours from the GTA.
As for what makes Sandbanks one of Canada’s top beaches, the Sandbanks Provincial Park isn’t just a single stretch of shoreline; it’s home to three distinct beaches, each offering its own unique appeal.
Outlet Beach is a huge hit for families, famous for its gradual slope, gentle drop-offs, and shallow waters that warm up like a giant bathtub in the summer sun. Over at Dunes Beach, impressive 25-metre-high shifting sand ridges tower over the bay, creating a backdrop for exploring and catching sunsets.
Plus, don’t miss the park’s scenic boardwalk trails that wind through delicate wetland ecosystems, discover craft wineries, farm-to-table dining, and cozy boutique shops dotted across Prince Edward County, and keep an eye out during spring and fall, when the park transforms into a globally recognized hotspot for migrating birds.
Because Sandbanks is easily one of the most sought-after summer spots in the province, planning ahead is an absolute must to beat the crowds. Daily vehicle permits for day-use access generally run around $12.25 to $15.50 per car, depending on the day. To save yourself from getting turned away at the gate on high-demand weekends, visitors can reserve their daily vehicle permit up to five days in advance through the Ontario Parks reservation system.
If you’re eager to turn your day trip into a full weekend getaway, you can pitch a tent at the park campgrounds or look into booking one of the on-site historic cottages; just make sure to book early.
You can learn more about Sandbanks Provincial Park and reserve your visit here.
