Discover the 12 Best Beaches in Canada with Breathtaking Landscapes-Unveiling the Hidden Gems (2024)

Canada, the Great White North, is home to breathtaking landscapes featuring snow-capped mountains and pristine wilderness. But do you know Canada also boasts over 15,000 miles (243,042 km) of coastline and has multiple stunning beaches?

The Beach isn’t the first thought that comes to mind when someone plans a trip to Canada. However, this country in North America boasts beaches that will leave you in awe. Beaches that act as adrenaline-pumping surfing spots and seek a sun-soaked oasis are scattered well throughout Canada. During harsh summers, beachgoers head either toward the warm water beaches of British Columbia or the vibrant beach towns of Ontario. While these can be some crowd-attracting options, the beaches on the calm inland lakes of Manitoba are serene.

Discover the 12 Best Beaches in Canada with Breathtaking Landscapes-Unveiling the Hidden Gems

Pack your beach wear and sunscreen and join us as we explore the 12 Best Beaches In Canada.

1. Grand Beach in Manitoba

Of all the popular beaches in Canada, Grand Beach in Manitoba is a gem. This refreshing Beach is nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Winnipeg. The shallow water, sprawling sand dunes, mesmerizing views, and vibrant atmosphere consistently make Grand Beach the best Beach in Canada. Grand Beach boasts a soft, golden-brown shoreline, and sandcastle building is a popular activity here. There’s also a wooden boardwalk lining the back of the Beach. The boardwalk is filled with concession stands offering to offer popcorn, hot snacks, and beverages. Grand Beach is a warm water beach and, thus, a haven for swimmers. Recreational sport like windsurfing is also popular here. Though instead of recreation, Manitoba’s Grand Beach is profound for a relaxing beach day out.

2. Long Beach in Tofino

Long Beach in Tofino is nestled within Vancouver Island’s breathtaking landscapes. This enchanting Beach boasts an impressive 16 km shoreline against the mighty Pacific Ocean. Long Beach has chilly water, and therefore swimming here can be dangerous. However, activities like surfboarding while donning wetsuits are popular here. Tofino being a surfing heaven, calls surfing enthusiasts, beginners, and experienced ones similar to Long Beach. The sandy bottoms and shallow areas make it an easily accessible and enjoyable spot for all. Besides surfing, Long Beach is also popular for leisurely strolls and exploration on bright sunny days. During low tide days, the Beach is also popular for beachcombing experiences.

3. Wasaga Beach in Ontario

Wasaga Beach in Ontario isn’t just another beach but a vibrant beach. Annually, it attracts over two million beachgoers and surfers. Wasaga Beach is a popular spot for relaxing, chatting, and getting bodies tanned. Often, families with children can be seen here splashing in the warm and shallow water of Wasaga. The Beach also claims to be the longest freshwater beach in the world. It has both bustling and secluded areas catering to different needs. Sections 1 and 2 are more lively and celebrative. Whereas Sections 3 through 6 have a more tranquil atmosphere. Section 3 allow dog owners to join their pet for swimming along.

4. Kitsilano Beach in Vancouver

Kitsilano Beach in Vancouver is classified as one of the best beaches in Canada. This popular summer beach destination is known for its idyllic setting. Kitsilano Beach is nestled along the picturesque English Bay, featuring a wide sandy shoreline with views of the North Shore Mountains on the backdrop. It is graced by a seawall that leads to the popular tourist attraction in Vancouver, Stanley Park. Kitsilano Beach attracts swimming enthusiasts during the months of summer. While the water may be cold, in the shallows, it gradually warms up. Besides swimming in Kitsilnao Beach, individuals can also take a dip in Kitsilnalo Pool, the colossal heated saltwater pool at the ocean’s edge. Further, there are picnic spaces, concession stands, and the esteemed Boathouse Restaurant nearby as well.

5. Pancake Bay in Ontario

Ontario is home to a number of exciting Canadian beaches, and Pancake Bay is one similar destination. It is nestled along the shores of Lake Superior and attracts visitors for its natural beauty and serene ambiance. Its unusual name is inspired by the flat, pancake-like rocks that dot the shoreline. With its soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters, it boasts an excellent sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing spot. Its vast shoreline also offers ample space for walks and picnicking. Adventurous enthusiasts can also explore the nearby hiking trails winding through the surrounding Pancake Bay Provincial Park. Pancake Bay is also popular for its mesmerizing sunsets, crackling bonfires, and peacefulness.

6. Sauble Beach in Ontario

Nestled on the scenic shores of Lake Huron, Sauble Beach is another popular beach in Canada. It isn’t just another in the list but captures an important place in the list of historic beach towns of Ontario. Back in the 1960s and 1970S, Sauble Beach experienced large gatherings of people and cars driving onto the sand. However, presently it is more of a tranquil beach where driving is still allowed in some sections. Over years of human usage, Sauble Beach still remains just as beautiful as it ever was. The sublime sunsets here are definitely to behold. During summer, visitors at Sauble can find burger joints, ice cream stands, and a lot of surf shops. The beach water becomes a hot spot for jet skiing, pleasure crafting, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming. Kiteboarding is also a popular activity here, given the winds are favorable.

7. Brackley Beach on Prince Edward Island

Brackley Beach is a captivating outdoor destination nestled on Prince Edward Island. Offering a delightful coastal experience, the Beach features pristine shores and breathtaking vistas. The soft golden sandy expanse, when backed by impressive sand dunes, gives the Beach a very attractive vibe. While swimmers can approach the ocean water, others can remain on the sand for a game of Football. Brackley Beach is right next to the Prince Edward Island National Park and Brackley Beach Provincial Park and thus has so much more to explore.

8. Woodbine Beach in Toronto

Woodbine Beach is another urban oasis nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario in Toronto. This vibrant destination features a wide stretch of sandy shoreline. The Beach has enough space for sunbathing, picnicking, and other recreational activities. Its’ shallow and calm waters are ideal for wading and swimming, thus attracting families with children particularly. The Beach also attracts casual players and competitive leagues for a game of volleyball. For added reaction, visitors can go walking, jogging, and cycling at the adjoining Martin Goodman Trail. The lively atmosphere, beachside cafes, and proximity to downtown Toronto make Woodbine Beach a favorite spot in Canada.

9. Parlee Beach in New Brunswick

Another beloved coastal gem in Canada is Parlee Beach in New Brunswick. It attracts beach lovers for its pristine shores and vibrant atmosphere. Parlee Beach is nestled on the shores of the Northumberland Strait and is extremely picturesque. It’s soft golden sand, and warm waters make it ideal for activities like sunbathing, swimming, and other water recreations. Parlee Beach Provincial Park offers amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails, enhancing the overall experience for families and nature enthusiasts. The Beach’s inviting waters and stunning vistas attract both locals and tourists alike, providing a serene escape and a chance to create lasting memories. Whether you’re building sandcastles, enjoying beach volleyball, or simply basking in the beauty of the surroundings, Parlee Beach offers a delightful coastal retreat for all to enjoy.

10. Dune Sandy Hook / Plage du Havre in Quebec

Dune Sandy Hook, which is also known as Plage du Havre, is another captivating coastal gem. This pristine Beach boasts an enchanting blend of golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and majestic sand dunes. The stunning natural landscape here draws visitors from near and far. The soft sandy shoreline here invites sunbathers, whereas the calming waters offer a refreshing retreat for swimming and wading. The sand dunes surrounding the Beach are known to be formed by years of natural erosion and wind patterns. They add a unique and striking backdrop giving an ideal spot for photography. Beyond serving as a beach, it is also a larger ecological reserve boasting diverse flora and fauna.

11. Okanagan Beach in Penticton

Another must-visit beach in Canada is Okanagan Beach in Penticton, British Columbia. The Beach combines stunning natural beauty with a vibrant atmosphere. It is on the shores of Okanagan Lake and is popular amongst tourists and locals alike. The soft sandy shoreline and clear turquoise waters make it popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It is also popular for activities like picnicking, volleyball games and has a promenade for added fun. What adds other elements here are the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards. Visitors can also check out the lively beachfront area and explore restaurants, cafes, and shops.

12. Devonshire Beach in the Widewater, Alberta

Last but not the least on our list is Devonshire Beach. This Canadian Beach is nestled within the scenic Widewater region of Alberta. It is basically a hidden gem known for offering a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts. Devonshire Beach sits on the shores of Lesser Slave Lake. It attracts visitors for its expansive sandy shoreline and panoramic views of the lake. The crystal-clear waters of Lesser Slave Lake make it a popular destination for activities like swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Not only that, but fishing enthusiasts can also try their luck with fishing. Lesser Slave Lake is renowned for its abundance of fish species. The area surrounding the Beach is also popular for hiking, bird-watching, and wildlife spotting. Visitors can also access picnic areas, playgrounds, and camping facilities.