Summer in Prince Edward County is meant for swimming and sunning on one of several Lake Ontario beaches. There are many options to choose from. Here are some of the best.

Sandbanks Provincial Park

Sandbanks Provincial Park is undoubtedly the main event in Prince Edward County, home to what is the best beach on either side of Lake Ontario. Stretching for kilometers, the wide sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing and playing after a dip in the diamond-clear, shallow water. The setting is always in fine shape – super clean, safe, and carefully managed. And it’s eye-wateringly beautiful, with gorgeous views out across the lake on one side and spectacular high dunes (unique in the province) on the other. The only drawback is that Sandbanks rivals the notoriously busy Wasaga Beach for crowds, especially on summer weekend.

North Beach Provincial Park

Much smaller and less popular than Sandbanks to the south, North Beach is something of a hidden gem. North Beach actually boasts two distinctive ribbons of golden, sun-kissed sand along a finger that juts out into Lake Ontario. There are 1,200 metres of beach facing Lake Ontario, where the water gradually drops off while you gaze out onto a horizon where sky meets lake. Saying it’s picturesque doesn’t do the scene justice. Note, however, that there can be an undertow on Lake Ontario during windy days. Another 800 metres of sand is found on the sheltered waters of North Bay. No worry about undertow here, but the water drops off steeply.

Wellington Rotary Public Beach [1 Beach Street, Wellington]

Wellington Beach offers a unique experience. This sandy strop is located just a quick stroll from the downtown core of charming Wellington, allowing you to explore the charming village for a few hours before heading to the beach for a picnic and dip in the water. The beach is smaller than the others mentioned and with fewer facilities (limited to washrooms and picnic tables), but is secluded, rarely crowded and the water drops off slowly. Make sure to take a few moments to view and pose for a selfie or two by the lighthouse.

Presqu’ile Provincial Park

Summer at Presqu’ile Provincial Park is meant for swimming and sunning on one of Lake Ontario’s longest and most picturesque beaches. But if you’re the kind who wants a destination that offers more than sunning and swimming, this should be your choice. Explore Owen Point, a gravel sand spit that sticks out into Lake Ontario and offers splendid views. Enjoy a picnic in the calf pasture, which is generally quiet and therefore a nice escape from the crowds. Don’t forget to set aside a few minutes to visit the Presqu’ile Lighthouse. Built in 1840, it’s the second oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the north shore of Lake Ontario.