Top 5 Ontario Beach Towns
It’s summer. Vacation season. Normally a time for sun, fun and carefree living. But if like everything else these days, COVID have messed up your well laid vacay plans, and you’re just not feeling it. No need to stress. A trip to a local beach town is still totally doable and just might be the fix that you need.
Here are Just Edward's Top 5 Ontario beach towns that we are crushing on these days. And although social distancing and other precautionary measures are in place, summer blasts await. All are within a 3-hour drive of Toronto--meaning, depending on where you live, you can make it a day trip. However, to really defog and destress we recommend staying overnight at a local Airbnb rental, cabin or motel. Links are provided below.
Wasaga Beach
Located in Simcoe county on Georgian Bay, this classic is about 2 hours north of the city. Wasaga is not a beach for quiet solitude and reflection because it’s very popular. However, the warm waters, soft sand great restaurants and shop are lots to love.
Port Stanley
On Lake Erie, about 2 hours west of Toronto. The wide sandy beach and historical glimpse of the past makes it well worth the trip. Restaurant choices are limited, so best pack a picnic.
Sauble Beach
Located on the Bruce Peninsula along the eastern shores of Lake Huron. Sauble Beach is about 3 hours west of Toronto. This is a nostalgic beach town with a rich summer vacation history.
Grand Bend
Located in Lambton Ontario just 2 ½ hours west of Toronto, Grand Bend is a gorgeous spot to visit anytime of year. In summer however, the area is especially gorgeous.
There are two main beaches to choose from Pinery and Main(Grand Bend) beach. The sand is soft; water is warm and crystal clear. The main drag has plenty of shops, cafes, and bars. There is even a splash pad and a playground nearby for kids. Parking can be dicey so get there early
Picton and surrounding beaches
Our number one pick of Ontario beach towns is Picton and the towns of Prince Edward county. Just 2 ½ hours east of Toronto, 3 ½ hours from Montreal and 2 ½ hours from Ottawa; the area is blessed with idyllic white sandy beaches-- Dunes, Outlet, North and Wellington beach are just a few. The main streets in the surrounding towns of Picton, Bloomfield and Wellington are teaming with restaurants, shops and cafes. To top it off, the area is in the heart of wine country. So, on one side, you look out at rolling waves, blue waters and soft sand. On the other, you are gazing over serene acres of vineyards as you enjoy splendid cuisine.
A summer trip to Outlet Beach is the inspiration behind the Just Edward sand candle. Outlet, like other beaches have a magical ability to make us focus for a moment and forget about all our worries. So, pack up the car, punch in the GPS and head out on your road trip to the beach.
Links
https://www.vrbo.com/en-ca/vacation-rentals/canada/prince-edward
https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/sandbanks
http://wasagabeachtourism.com/home
