14 Best Beaches In Canada

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

When it comes to finding the best beaches in Canada, you don't have to travel far and wide. As a beach lover myself, I've explored the coastlines of this beautiful country and discovered some hidden gems that rival any tropical paradise.

From the rugged shores of Newfoundland to the sandy stretches of British Columbia, Canada is home to an incredible array of beaches that will leave you breathless. So grab your sunscreen and get ready for a virtual tour as we dive into the 14 best beaches across this vast land.

1. Parlee Beach, New Brunswick

I have visited many Canadian beaches, but Parlee Beach in New Brunswick stands out as one of the best. Located in the beach town of Shediac, Parlee Beach is a popular destination for families and beachgoers looking for a relaxing day in the sun.

One of the main attractions of Parlee Beach is its warm saltwater swimming experience. This Canadian beach boasts some of the warmest saltwater north of Florida, making it an ideal spot for swimming and water activities. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and exploring the underwater world.

Parlee Beach Provincial Park, which includes the beach, offers a range of amenities for visitors. There are several picnic areas, playgrounds, and changing facilities available, making it easy for families to spend the whole day at the beach. The park also has a boardwalk that runs along the beach, providing stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands.

The beach itself is a long stretch of fine, powdery sand that's perfect for building sandcastles and sunbathing. The water is shallow near the shore, making it safe for children to swim and play in. Lifeguards are on duty during the spring and summer months, adding an extra layer of safety for visitors.

2. Grand Beach Provincial Park, Manitoba

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipeg, Grand Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

One of the main attractions of Grand Beach is its powdery white sand, which stretches for three kilometers. The water is shallow and warm, making it an ideal spot for swimming. In addition to swimming, visitors can also enjoy other water activities such as windsurfing and kayaking.

Grand Beach Provincial Park is not just a great place to swim, but it also offers excellent hiking trails. Two self-guided walks, the Spirit Rock Trail and the Ancient Beach Trail, are perfect for those who want to explore the park's natural beauty. The park also features a campground, picnic shelters, and a restaurant, making it a great place for a day trip or a longer stay.

If you are looking for a quieter experience, I recommend visiting Grand Beach during the week to avoid the crowds. The east side of the beach is less busy than the west side, which is where most of the amenities are located.

3. Wasaga Beach, Ontario

Wasaga Beach in Ontario is one of the most impressive ones I have seen. Situated on the southern end of Georgian Bay, Wasaga Beach boasts 14 kilometers of pristine freshwater beach, making it the longest freshwater beach in the world.

The beach is divided into eight areas, each with its own unique features. For example, Area 1 is the busiest part of the beach, with plenty of amenities like restaurants, shops, and water sports rentals. On the other hand, Area 6 is more secluded and ideal for a quieter day at the beach.

One of the things that make Wasaga Beach so special is the clear and shallow water, perfect for swimming and wading. The beach is also home to a unique coastal dune ecosystem, which provides a habitat for rare plants and animals.

If you're looking for a beach that offers more than just sun and sand, Wasaga Beach has plenty of activities to keep you entertained. You can go hiking or biking on the nearby trails, rent a canoe or kayak to explore the calm waters of the Nottawasaga River, or take a scenic flight over the beach and the surrounding area.

4. Ingonish Beach, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Ingonish Beach, located in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia. This sandy paradise is nestled within the park, where the rugged cliffs meet the endless ocean, offering amazing views of the South Bay and Keltic Lodge.

One of the reasons why Ingonish Beach is so popular is its warm water, which is surprising for a beach located in Canada. The beach is easily accessible by car and has plenty of parking spaces available. The sand is clean and soft, making it perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and playing beach sports.

Swimming in the ocean at Ingonish Beach is a must-do activity. The water is clear and calm, making it perfect for a refreshing dip. However, it's important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty, so visitors should be cautious and aware of their surroundings.

In addition to swimming, there are many other activities to enjoy at Ingonish Beach. Visitors can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply take a stroll along the beach. The beach is also a great spot for picnics and barbecues, with plenty of picnic tables and grills available.

5. Long Beach, Tofino, British Columbia

Long Beach in Tofino, is one of the top beaches in Canada. It is a part of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and the beach stretches over 16 kilometers (10 miles) along the west coast of Vancouver Island. The beach is known for its stunning natural beauty, clear blue waters, and soft sand.

Long Beach is a popular destination for swimming, surfing, and kayaking. The waves are perfect for surfing, and surfers from all over the world come to experience the thrill of riding the waves. The beach is also home to a variety of marine life, including grey whales, which can be seen swimming offshore during their annual migration.

One of the unique features of Long Beach is that it is accessible by bike. Visitors can rent bikes and ride along the beach, taking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The beach is also a great place for a picnic, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a meal.

Cox Bay, located nearby, is another popular spot for surfing and swimming. It offers a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere, with fewer crowds than Long Beach. Visitors can also take a walk along the beach and explore the tidal pools, which are home to a variety of marine life.

6. Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver, BC

I have been fortunate enough to visit Kitsilano Beach in Vancouver, and it is definitely one of the best Canada beaches.

One of the most notable features of Kits Beach is the fanatstic view it offers of downtown Vancouver, Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore Mountains. It is a perfect place to spend a day relaxing and soaking up the sun while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Kits Beach is also an ideal spot for swimming, as the waters are usually calm and this gorgeous beach is equipped with Canada's longest pool, Kitsilano Pool. Additionally, every summer, visitors can participate in free outdoor yoga sessions near the pool, which is a unique and enjoyable experience.

For those who enjoy beach volleyball, Kits Beach has several courts available for use. Visitors can also take advantage of the beach's extended park, which is surrounded by parkland, restaurants, and beautiful people.

7. Sauble Beach, ON

Sauble Beach is a popular beach destination along the shores of Lake Huron. It is known for its seven kilometers of white sand and shallow, warm waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing.

As one of the premier beach destinations in Ontario, Sauble Beach attracts visitors from all over the world. The beach has been named Canada's #1 rated freshwater beach, and for good reason. The sand is soft and clean, and the water is crystal clear.

Aside from the beach itself, Sauble Beach offers a wide range of activities and facilities for visitors. The downtown area has numerous shops, restaurants, and food stands, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or pick up some souvenirs. There are also several parks and nature reserves nearby, including Sauble Falls Provincial Park, which is home to a beautiful waterfall and hiking trails.

If you're looking for a place to stay, Sauble Beach has plenty of options. Travelers can choose from motels, cottages, and campgrounds, depending on their preference and budget. The Carsons Camp is a popular choice, offering a range of accommodations and amenities.

8. Brackley Beach, PEI National Park

Brackley Beach in Prince Edward Island National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a beautiful and pristine beach experience. Located on the Green Gables Shore, Brackley Beach is a popular beach destination with majestic dunes, clear water, and miles of pristine sand stretching from Rustico Harbour.

The beach has washroom and change room facilities, and it is accessible with mobility mats, designated parking, and beach wheelchairs available. The beach is supervised, and there are lifeguards on duty during the summer season. The swimming area is roped off, making it safe for families with children to enjoy the water.

One thing that stood out to me about Brackley Beach is its fine sand, which is perfect for building sandcastles or taking a leisurely walk. The sand dunes are quite breathtaking, and they provide a picturesque backdrop for photos.

If you are looking for a quieter beach experience, Brackley Beach has many lovely smaller beaches, which often do not see nearly as much traffic as the larger ones. The region is also known for its proximity to Charlottetown, making it an easy day trip for those staying in the city.

9. Chesterman Beach, BC

Last year I went to visit Chesterman Beach in British Columbia, and it quickly became one of my favorite beaches in the country. Located on Vancouver Island, within the Pacific Rim National Park, Chesterman Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline that offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages.

One of the main draws of Chesterman Beach is its natural beauty. The beach is known for its long stretches of pristine sand, crystal-clear waters, and incredible views of the surrounding mountains.

In addition to its natural beauty, Chesterman Beach is also home to a variety of wildlife. Tourists can often spot grey whales swimming offshore, as well as a range of other marine life such as sea otters, seals, and sea lions. The beach is also a popular spot for bird watching, with a variety of species calling the area home.

For those looking for more adventure, Chesterman Beach is also a popular spot for surfing. The beach offers a range of waves suitable for surfers of all skill levels, making it a great place to learn or improve on your skills.

10. Crystal Crescent Beach, Nova Scotia

Located in Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park, this beach is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique coastal experience.

Crystal Crescent Beach is a white sand beach that is crescent-shaped, hence the name. The beach is surrounded by crystal-clear water that is perfect to swim, sunbath, and relax. The beach is also known for its stunning rock formations that provide guests with a great photo opportunity.

One of the best things about Crystal Crescent is that it is not overcrowded, even during the peak season. This makes it a great place to visit if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.

The beach is surrounded by hiking trails that offer visitors a chance to explore the surrounding area. There are also picnic areas and BBQ facilities available for those who want to have a beachside meal.

11. Cavendish Beach, Prince Edward Island

Cavendish Beach is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches on Prince Edward Island. It is located in the PEI National Park and offers miles of white-gold sand and crystal-clear water.

As a frequent visitor to this beach, I can confidently say that it is an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The water is generally calm and safe for swimming, making it ideal for families with children.

Aside from swimming, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Cavendish Beach. Visitors can take a stroll along the boardwalk, have a picnic in the park, or explore the nearby attractions such as Green Gables House.

One of the unique features of Cavendish Beach is its stunning sand dunes. These dunes provide a natural barrier between the beach and the surrounding area, creating a sense of seclusion and privacy.

12. Woodbine Beach, Toronto

As a beach lover, I can confidently say that Woodbine Beach is one of the best Canadian beaches to visit.

One of the highlights of Woodbine Beach is its location on the shores of Lake Ontario. The water is clean and clear, making it perfect to go for a swim. Whether you're looking to take a dip or just lounge on the sandy beach, this spot has got you covered.

In addition to swimming, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Woodbine Beach. This urban beach has a volleyball court, so you can get a game going with friends. There's also a boardwalk that runs along the beach, perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

If you're looking to take a break from the sun, there are plenty of shaded areas to relax in. The beach has a number of picnic tables and sheltered areas where you can enjoy a meal or take a nap.

13. Okanagan Beach, Penticton, BC

Being known as a beach enthusiast, I have to say that Okanagan Beach in Penticton, is one of my favorite beaches in Canada. Situated on the northern side of the city, Okanagan Beach is a 1km long stretch of sand that offers a perfect spot to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Okanagan Lake.

Apart from swimming, Okanagan Beach is also an excellent spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, and other water sports. If you don't have your equipment, you can rent it from one of the many rental shops located nearby.

Another thing that I love about Okanagan Beach is the elevated promenade that runs along the full length of the beach. The promenade offers a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll while enjoying the stunning views of the lake and the mountains.

In terms of amenities, there are public washrooms, showers, and changing rooms, as well as plenty of parking spots. If you get hungry, there are also several food vendors and restaurants located nearby.

14. Sandy Hook Beach, Îles de la Madeleine, Quebec

Sandy Hook Beach is located on the Îles de la Madeleine archipelago in Quebec. It is a beautiful beach with crystal clear water and soft sand that stretches for 12 kilometers. The beach is situated on the Gulf of St. Lawrence, which provides a stunning backdrop to swim and relax.

the beach is never too crowded, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful day by the water. It is also well-maintained, with clean facilities and a friendly staff.

One of the unique features of Sandy Hook Beach is the wind. The beach is known for its constant breeze, which makes it a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. However, it is important to note that the winds can be quite strong, so it is recommended that only experienced surfers attempt these activities.