Canada’s vast landscape is blessed with thousands of serene lakes, each offering its own kind of peaceful escape. From shimmering alpine waters to forest-fringed retreats, the country’s lakeside destinations are where nature, comfort, and magic meet. Whether you’re looking for rustic cabins, luxury lodges, or hidden gems perfect for a quiet canoe paddle, these spots deliver unforgettable getaways. Here are 26 Canadian Lakeside Getaways That Feel Like a Dream.
Lake Louise, Alberta
Situated in the heart of Banff National Park, Lake Louise is world-famous for its turquoise waters and glacier-studded peaks. Staying at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise feels like being in a dream, with sunrise views that seem painted by hand. Canoeing here is a surreal experience, surrounded by mountains that mirror perfectly in the glassy surface. Even in winter, the frozen lake offers skating and snowshoeing with jaw-dropping scenery.
Lake Memphremagog, Quebec
Stretching across the Canada–U.S. border, Lake Memphremagog is a peaceful hideaway in the Eastern Townships. The lakeside town of Magog offers cozy inns, local markets, and easy access to trails and spas. The lake itself is perfect for kayaking or just enjoying wine on a dock as the sun sets behind the Appalachian hills.
Muskoka Lakes, Ontario
The Muskoka region is the crown jewel of Ontario cottage country, with endless shimmering lakes like Rosseau, Joseph, and Muskoka itself. Classic wooden boathouses, quiet bays, and upscale resorts like JW Marriott The Rosseau make it a perfect summer retreat. You can boat from one lake to another, hop off for ice cream, or cozy up in a dockside hammock with a book.
Shuswap Lake, British Columbia
Located in the sunny interior of B.C., Shuswap Lake is a sprawling, warm-water haven for houseboats and kayaks. Surrounded by gentle mountains and quaint towns like Salmon Arm and Sicamous, it’s a hotspot for summer fun. Stay in a waterfront cabin or cruise the lake on a floating cottage with all the comforts of home and enjoy sunsets that stretch across the water in a palette of oranges and pinks.
Clear Lake, Manitoba
Tucked inside Riding Mountain National Park, Clear Lake offers a blend of prairie tranquility and boreal forest adventure. The town of Wasagaming has charming shops and bakeries, while the lake itself is known for its sparkling clarity. Swim, paddle, or hike the shoreline trails for peaceful views and chances to spot wildlife.
Kootenay Lake, British Columbia
Winding between rugged mountain ranges, Kootenay Lake is an awe-inspiring destination that stretches over 100 km. The lakeside town of Nelson provides artsy flair and great restaurants, while smaller hamlets like Kaslo offer quiet, rustic retreats. Paddle out into the early morning mist or soak in nearby Ainsworth Hot Springs so it feels like the kind of place where time slows and nature takes center stage.
Lac Beauvert, Alberta
Set within Jasper National Park, Lac Beauvert is a tiny emerald lake with huge appeal. The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge sits on its shores, offering lakeside cabins with direct access to paddleboarding and swimming. Wildlife frequently wanders past, elk, deer, and the occasional bear, adding to the feeling of being wrapped in nature. The tranquility here is unmatched, especially with the Rockies towering in the background.
Lake Nipissing, Ontario
Lake Nipissing, located near North Bay, is ideal for fishing enthusiasts and those seeking low-key relaxation. The lake’s broad open waters invite boating and paddling, and its beaches are surprisingly spacious and sandy. Cottage rentals here often come with firepits, docks, and that old-school Ontario summer vibe, making it a quiet destination that families return to year after year.
Lac Brome, Quebec
In the Eastern Townships, Lac Brome is a sophisticated yet down-to-earth getaway known for its charming village, Knowlton. With upscale B&Bs, bike trails, and wine routes nearby, the lake offers the perfect pairing of nature and culture. Paddleboarding in the morning mist or sipping local cider on the dock are daily rituals here as you immerse yourself in a gentle escape from busy city life.
Okanagan Lake, British Columbia
Okanagan Lake winds through wine country and sun-drenched hills, with destinations like Kelowna, Penticton, and Peachland lining its shores. Known for its warm water and long swimming season, the lake is dotted with beaches, vineyards, and luxury retreats. You can wakeboard in the afternoon and toast the sunset with local pinot gris, the perfect blend of lakeside leisure and west coast flavor.
Lake Windermere, British Columbia
In the Columbia Valley, Lake Windermere is flanked by both the Rockies and the Purcell Mountains. It’s a haven for paddleboarding, boating, and birdwatching in summer, and becomes home to the world’s longest skating trail in winter. Invermere, the nearby town, offers great local dining and artisan shops and is a year-round lake destination with something for everyone.
Cameron Lake, Alberta
Located in Waterton Lakes National Park, Cameron Lake is a peaceful alpine spot surrounded by cliffs and forest. Canoes and paddle boats are available for rent, and the calm waters make it ideal for a reflective float. Hikes around the lake lead to lookout points and hidden waterfalls. It feels tucked away from the world, perfect for couples and solitude seekers.
Kejimkujik Lake, Nova Scotia
Inside Kejimkujik National Park, this lake is part of a protected wilderness filled with Mi’kmaq history, forest trails, and dark sky preserves. Paddle among islands, discover ancient petroglyphs, and camp under a night sky ablaze with stars. The lake’s calm, undeveloped shoreline makes it feel truly wild, creating one of the most soulful and peaceful escapes in Atlantic Canada.
Lake Diefenbaker, Saskatchewan
This man-made reservoir surprises visitors with its sheer size and beauty. With over 800 km of shoreline, it offers sandy beaches, windsurfing, and excellent fishing. Cabins and campgrounds are tucked into coves and bluffs that overlook open prairie skies. It’s a lesser-known spot that delivers wide-open relaxation and unforgettable sunsets.
Lake Superior, Ontario
The north shore of Lake Superior feels raw and untamed, with dramatic cliffs, cold water, and hidden coves. Stay in cabins or lodges in places like Terrace Bay, Rossport, or Wawa, and fall asleep to the sound of waves. Trails like the Lake Superior Coastal Trail offer stunning hikes with panoramic views, making it the kind of place that stirs your soul.
Waskesiu Lake, Saskatchewan
Situated in Prince Albert National Park, Waskesiu Lake is a family-friendly destination with beautiful beaches and a walkable townsite. Canoe, kayak, or take a leisurely pontoon boat ride, then enjoy ice cream and mini-golf in town. The nearby trails offer wildlife sightings and forest solitude; a prairie jewel with a surprising amount of charm.
Lake O’Hara, British Columbia
Accessed only by reservation and shuttle, Lake O’Hara is one of the most pristine and exclusive alpine lakes in Canada. Surrounded by towering peaks and alpine meadows, it offers breathtaking hiking and peaceful solitude. Staying at Lake O’Hara Lodge or one of the simple alpine huts makes the experience even more magical, the definition of a once-in-a-lifetime lakeside escape.
Lac Saint-Jean, Quebec
This massive, round lake in central Quebec is ringed by beaches, trails, and quiet forest towns. Visit during summer to enjoy warm freshwater swimming, berry picking, and long, lazy days by the water. The lake is part of the popular “Véloroute des Bleuets,” a cycling trail that loops the entire shoreline, which is the perfect mix of activity and tranquility.
Kathleen Lake, Yukon
Set within Kluane National Park, Kathleen Lake offers wilderness beauty unlike anywhere else in the country. The water is cold, clear, and utterly peaceful, with hiking trails like King’s Throne providing epic views and camping here brings you closer to nature, with frequent sightings of grizzlies, eagles, and even the Northern Lights. It’s remote, raw, and absolutely unforgettable.
Lake Simcoe, Ontario
A longtime cottage destination just north of Toronto, Lake Simcoe offers sandy beaches, great fishing, and vibrant summer festivals. Towns like Orillia and Georgina provide easy access to rentals, boat launches, and waterfront dining. Whether tubing behind a speedboat or sipping coffee at sunrise on a dock, the lake has something for everyone, placing it as one of the classic escapes for families and couples alike.
Great Slave Lake, Northwest Territories
As Canada’s second-largest lake, Great Slave is both immense and intimate, especially near the town of Yellowknife. Houseboats float year-round in the bay, and in summer the sun barely sets, offering endless golden hours. The water is crisp and clear, perfect for paddling or just soaking in the views, meaning it’s one of the most unique and remote lake destinations in the country.
Lac La Ronge, Saskatchewan
Located in northern Saskatchewan, Lac La Ronge is surrounded by boreal forest and dotted with islands perfect for canoe camping. The nearby town offers access to rustic lodges and local Cree culture. Paddle through quiet coves or hike to ancient pictographs along the shore for a serene wilderness experience for those who want to get off the grid.
Lake Huron, Ontario
From the beaches of Sauble to the cliffs of Tobermory, Lake Huron offers crystal-clear water and stunning coastal beauty. The Bruce Peninsula is especially magical, with grottos, trails, and blue-green waters that feel almost tropical. Cottages, resorts, and campgrounds dot the shoreline, giving options for every travel style, creating a true summer paradise with a relaxed pace and incredible scenery.
Pine Lake, Alberta
Close to Red Deer, Pine Lake is a convenient and peaceful escape with calm waters and family-friendly beaches. It’s perfect for canoeing, fishing, or simply enjoying a sunset BBQ by the dock. Campgrounds and lakeside cabins offer a comfortable, affordable way to enjoy nature, making it an underrated gem with plenty of heart.
Christina Lake, British Columbia
Known for having some of the warmest water in Canada, Christina Lake is a sun-soaked escape in the Kootenay region. Surrounded by forest and trails, it’s ideal for hiking, biking, and lazy days floating on the water. Local shops and cafes give it a relaxed, welcoming vibe so it’s a dream for anyone looking to unwind in nature without sacrificing comfort.
Falcon Lake, Manitoba
Located in Whiteshell Provincial Park, Falcon Lake is a favorite for families and adventure seekers. With sandy beaches, golf, hiking, and canoeing all within reach, there’s something for everyone. Cabins line the shoreline, and cozy resorts offer everything from spa treatments to paddleboard rentals.
21 Products Canadians Should Stockpile Before Tariffs Hit
If trade tensions escalate between Canada and the U.S., everyday essentials can suddenly disappear or skyrocket in price. Products like pantry basics and tech must-haves that depend on are deeply tied to cross-border supply chains and are likely to face various kinds of disruptions
21 Products Canadians Should Stockpile Before Tariffs Hit
