Canada might be known for its winters, but when the sun comes out, its beaches shine just as brightly. From the Atlantic coast to the Pacific and the hidden gems along lakes and rivers, Canadians don’t have to go far to find sandy escapes. These spots aren’t just about swimming, as they offer hiking, surfing, kayaking, or simply relaxing with a view. Here are 17 Canadian beaches you’ll want to visit before summer ends:
Wasaga Beach, Ontario
Wasaga Beach holds the title of the world’s longest freshwater beach, stretching more than 14 kilometers along the shores of Georgian Bay. Its soft sands and shallow, warm waters make it a favorite for families, swimmers, and anyone looking for a relaxing summer day. The beach is divided into sections, so visitors can choose between quieter stretches or lively areas with volleyball courts and festivals. Beyond the shoreline, nearby trails and shops create a fun cottage-town atmosphere. With sunsets that rival tropical destinations, Wasaga remains one of Ontario’s most beloved summer escapes.
Long Beach, British Columbia
Part of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Long Beach lives up to its name with 16 kilometers of stunning coastline. Surfers from around the world come here to catch waves, while families stroll the soft sands and explore tide pools. Backed by rainforests and dramatic views, it’s a place where the Pacific feels wild and untamed, and even on cloudy days, the atmosphere is breathtaking. Whether you’re into adventure or quiet walks at sunset, Long Beach is a must-visit West Coast gem before summer winds down.
Parlee Beach, Prince Edward Island
Cavendish Beach is one of PEI’s most iconic stretches of sand, known for its striking red cliffs and dunes. Located inside Prince Edward Island National Park, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or exploring nearby trails. Families love the warm waters, while photographers flock here for the contrast between ocean blues and rust-colored cliffs. Cavendish is also steeped in literary history, being close to Anne of Green Gables country, and with gentle waves and a welcoming vibe, this beach feels like classic summer wrapped in natural beauty.
Grand Beach, Manitoba
On the shores of Lake Winnipeg, Grand Beach is often ranked among the best inland beaches in North America. Its powdery white sand stretches for miles, framed by dunes that feel almost ocean-like. Families and friends set up picnics, while swimmers and kiteboarders make the most of the warm freshwater. It’s also a birdwatcher’s haven, with pelicans frequently spotted along the shoreline, while summer festivals and food vendors add to the lively atmosphere. Grand Beach proves you don’t need saltwater to have a perfect Canadian beach getaway.
Parlee Beach, New Brunswick
Parlee Beach is a summer staple for Maritimers, thanks to its warm waters, the warmest north of Virginia, in fact. Located near Shediac, the “Lobster Capital of the World”, this beach combines fun in the sun with local seafood feasts. Families love the lifeguarded swimming areas, and events like sandcastle competitions bring extra energy. Shallow waters make it perfect for kids, while beachgoers of all ages enjoy volleyball, kite flying, or simply lounging on the soft sand.
Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia
Nestled on Cape Breton Island along the Cabot Trail, Ingonish Beach is truly unique. Here, you can swim in both saltwater and freshwater, with the ocean on one side and a warm freshwater lake on the other, separated by just a thin strip of sand. Surrounded by dramatic highlands, the scenery is as impressive as the beach itself, while the hiking trails nearby offer even more ways to enjoy the landscape. Whether you’re cooling off after a road trip or spending the day sunbathing, Ingonish feels unforgettable.
Sauble Beach, Ontario
Sauble Beach, along Lake Huron, is famous for its endless sunsets and shallow waters that stretch far out. Families love how safe and warm it feels for swimming, while the town itself offers a nostalgic cottage-country vibe with ice cream shops and arcades. The sandbanks are wide and inviting, perfect for long walks or beach games, while the summer events, from classic car shows to sandcastle contests, add to the buzz. It’s the kind of place where summer memories stick, carefree days, great food, and golden skies.
Chesterman Beach, British Columbia
Just south of Tofino, Chesterman Beach is beloved by surfers, beachcombers, and storm-watchers alike. Split into North and South Chesterman, it’s ideal for long walks, tide pool exploration, and even spotting starfish and crabs along the rocky edges. Families fly kites, couples stroll at sunset, and surfers paddle out to catch gentle waves, and with its rugged backdrop and West Coast charm, it’s a year-round destination, but summer is especially magical. Chesterman offers both serenity and adventure, making it one of B.C.’s most treasured beaches.
Singing Sands Beach, Prince Edward Island
True to its name, Singing Sands Beach “sings” when you walk across it, which is the result of quartz and silica in the sand. Located at Basin Head Provincial Park, it’s one of PEI’s most unique attractions. The warm waters and shallow shoreline make it a favorite for families, while adventurous swimmers love the tidal currents in the channel known locally as the “run”. Beyond swimming, the quirky charm of the sand adds to the magic, making it a place that captures PEI’s character, which is beautiful, fun, and unforgettable.
Shallow Bay Beach, Newfoundland and Labrador
Part of Gros Morne National Park, Shallow Bay Beach offers one of Newfoundland’s longest stretches of sand. Known for its calm waters and golden sunsets, it feels far removed from the rugged cliffs that dominate much of the province’s coast. Families appreciate its gentle waves, while nature lovers enjoy spotting seabirds and exploring nearby trails, and the area carries a quiet charm, offering space to unwind without crowds.
Agawa Bay, Ontario
Set within Lake Superior Provincial Park, Agawa Bay combines beach relaxation with wilderness adventure. Its 3-kilometer sandy shoreline is framed by rocky cliffs and dense forest, creating a striking backdrop that feels far from city life. The water here is cold but crystal clear, perfect for refreshing dips on hot days. Campgrounds line the beach, making it a favorite for overnight stays under star-filled skies. With hiking trails nearby and a peaceful atmosphere, Agawa Bay is ideal for those who want both relaxation and adventure rolled into one unforgettable stop.
Kouchibouguac National Park Beaches, New Brunswick
Kouchibouguac National Park offers a series of stunning beaches that feel untouched and natural. Its long sandbars and warm tidal lagoons make it perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just lying under the sun. Families love the safe, shallow water, while nature enthusiasts are drawn to the dunes, salt marshes, and wildlife like herons and seals. The park’s mix of coastal beauty and ecological richness makes it a must-visit. With fewer crowds than better-known spots, Kouchibouguac feels like a hidden treasure for summer relaxation in New Brunswick.
Crystal Crescent Beach, Nova Scotia
Just 30 minutes from Halifax, Crystal Crescent Beach offers three white-sand beaches and sparkling turquoise waters that feel almost tropical on sunny days. The first two beaches are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while the third is more remote and popular with hikers. A scenic trail leads to Pennant Point, giving visitors panoramic ocean views. Locals love it as a quick escape from city life, and travelers are often surprised at its Caribbean-like beauty. Crystal Crescent combines convenience with natural charm, making it a Nova Scotia favorite.
Lawrencetown Beach, Nova Scotia
Lawrencetown Beach, east of Halifax, is famous as one of Canada’s top surfing destinations. The Atlantic swells attract surfers year-round, while in summer, swimmers and sunbathers enjoy its pebbly sands and stunning coastal views. Lifeguards keep watch, making it safe for families, too. The rugged cliffs and ocean breeze give it a wild, untamed feel, perfect for those who prefer a less polished, more natural beach experience. Whether you’re catching waves or just soaking up the maritime atmosphere, Lawrencetown offers an authentic East Coast escape.
Martinique Beach, Nova Scotia
At five kilometers long, Martinique Beach is Nova Scotia’s longest sandy stretch and one of its most picturesque. The fine white sand and rolling surf attract swimmers, surfers, and beachcombers alike. Birdwatchers flock here, too, as the beach is part of a protected area for the piping plover. It feels wild yet welcoming, with plenty of space to spread out and find your own slice of paradise. Just an hour from Halifax, Martinique is a perfect day trip destination that captures the spirit of Nova Scotia’s coast.
Tribune Bay, British Columbia
Located on Hornby Island, Tribune Bay is often called the “Hawaii of the North” thanks to its warm, shallow waters and white sandy beach. During summer, the water temperature can rise enough for comfortable swimming, which is a rarity in B.C. Families love the gentle waves, while the wide beach is ideal for frisbee, soccer, or long walks. The surrounding island community adds a laid-back, artsy vibe, with cafes and galleries nearby. Tribune Bay’s beauty and charm make it a destination worth the ferry ride, especially before summer ends.
Pancake Bay Beach, Ontario
Nestled along Lake Superior, Pancake Bay Beach is known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The bay is sheltered, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere compared to the rugged lakefront nearby. Families enjoy swimming and camping, while history buffs appreciate that this area overlooks waters where the Edmund Fitzgerald famously sank. The surrounding provincial park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the lake. With its mix of natural beauty and cultural significance, Pancake Bay is a true northern Ontario treasure for summer travelers.
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