Bask In The Best Beaches In Canada

Are you looking for an adventure to remember? Look no further than Canada's stunning beaches! Canada's beaches offer an unmatched combination of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. From the rugged coastlines of British Columbia to the crystal-clear waters of Prince Edward Island, Canada's beaches are a must-visit destination for any beach lover. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the best beaches in Canada that will leave you in awe of this incredible country's natural beauty.

Top Beaches In Canada For Your Next Summer Vacation

Perhaps the word "beach" doesn't immediately come to mind when you think about Canada. But from coast to coast, Canada boasts some of the most stunning, interesting, and just cool beaches. Whether you're a seasoned surfer, a beach bum, or simply looking for a place to unwind and soak up some sun, Canada has a beach for you. Get ready to pack your bags and experience the true beauty of the top beaches in Canada!

Long Beach, British Columbia

Surfers running out to catch some waves during sunset on Long Beach

Long Beach is located in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Vancouver Island. With its miles of soft, sandy shores and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, it's no surprise that Long Beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

But is there any other beach in Canada that can rival Long Beach's natural beauty? While there are certainly many beautiful beaches throughout Canada, Long Beach stands out for its vastness, accessibility, and stunning scenery.

Stretching for over 10 kilometers along the coast, Long Beach is the longest beach on Vancouver Island and one of the longest in Canada. There is so much space to explore that visitors can easily find a secluded spot to relax and enjoy the beach all to themselves.

Long Beach is not only sunbathing and relaxing but also a surfer's paradise, with some of the best waves in Canada. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a wave and ride the swells.

Read more: 6 Best Places To Surf In Canada If You Want to Have A Truly Trip

Grand Beach, Manitoba

Grand Beach, located in Manitoba known for its vast sand dunes, warm shallow waters, and lively ambiance, has consistently been recognized as among the top beaches in Canada. Only an hour or so from Winnipeg, it's an ideal location for a day trip, attracting large crowds of visitors every sunny weekend during the summer.

The beach extends for three kilometers in a gentle arc, located on the stunning Lake Winnipeg with clear, warm water. A wooden boardwalk runs along the beach's back, where concession stands to sell an assortment of hot snacks, cold beverages, and popcorn. The sand on the beach is soft, golden brown, making it an ideal location for building sandcastles. During the summer months, the water at Grand Beach can reach temperatures of up to 25°C, which is great for swimming, kayaking, games of touch football, or Frisbee. 

Wasaga Beach, Ontario 

Aerial view of Wasaga Beach, Canada

Ranked the longest freshwater beach in the world, Wasaga Beach is likely to dazzle visitors. Moreover, it is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Canada, and it's easy to see why.

Wasaga Beach is situated along Georgian Bay's shoreline and offers breathtaking sunsets. It is very beautiful because of the blue skies, the Niagara Escarpments' silhouette the clear water, perfect for swimming, boating, and other water activities.

Wasaga Beach is partitioned into six sections for easy navigation. Sections 1 and 2 are in town and where you'll find the liveliest scene, with volleyball courts and boardwalks. You may find a ton of entertaining activities in the town, which is right behind this region. The remaining sections are ideal for tourists seeking a quiet setting with fewer people.

Parlee Beach, New Brunswick

Known for being one of the most popular warm beaches in Canada, up to half a million people, including locals and tourists, flock to this beach during the treasured warm summer days of July and August.

Parlee Beach has a range of amenities and services, including a canteen, changing rooms, and showers. Visitors can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and other equipment to make their day at the beach more comfortable. There are also several picnic areas and a playground for children.

The nearby town of Shediac bills itself as the lobster capital of the world, and guests can go lobster fishing and view the world’s largest lobster sculpture.

Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia

A small cove at Ingonish Beach, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Located in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Ingonish Beach is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach that is surrounded by rugged cliffs and rolling hills. The beach is over a kilometer long and is wide enough to accommodate a variety of activities, including beach volleyball, frisbee, and picnics.

In addition to the beautiful sand, the water at Ingonish Beach is crystal clear and a beautiful shade of blue. The waves are gentle, making it a great spot for swimming and other water activities. There are also lifeguards on duty during the summer months to ensure the safety of all visitors.

For those looking to explore the ocean, there are a variety of water-based activities available at Ingonish Beach. Visitors can rent kayaks and explore the nearby coves and inlets, or take a guided boat tour to see whales and other marine life.

Kitsilano Beach, British Columbia

Last on our list of the top beaches in Canada is Kitsilano, which has everything for a perfect afternoon. Take a log, sit down, and enjoy the sunshine while you gaze out at the North Shore Mountains. Kitsilano Beach contains sizable parks where adults, children, and animals can relax or play.

Although the water can be cold, visitors can still enjoy swimming or taking a dip at the Kitsilano Pool, a massive 137-meter heated saltwater pool located on the edge of the ocean. For the more adventurous, a swimming platform is anchored offshore. Children can also enjoy the waterslides and water park, ensuring hours of fun in the sun.

Just back from the sand is a wide-open park area, perfect for a family picnic. Or, if you prefer to enjoy local dishes, concession stands, and the well-regarded Boathouse Restaurant serve up great food. The park also has an off-leash dog park, tennis and basketball courts, and a playground with all kinds of climbing structures.

Photo of a girl traveler at Kitsilano Beach in Vancouver, Canada

Planning Your Beach Vacation in Canada

When planning your beach vacation in Canada, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, the weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for all types of weather conditions. In general, the best time to visit beaches in Canada is between June and September, when temperatures are warm, and the water is swimmable. Temperatures can vary widely across Canada, so make sure to check the forecast for the area you will be visiting. Don't forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

It's also important to research the specific beach you plan to visit to make sure it has the amenities you need. Some beaches have changing rooms, showers, and concession stands, while others are more secluded and may require you to bring your own supplies.

Once you have identified the beaches you want to visit, make sure to plan your travel and accommodations in advance. Many popular beaches in Canada can get busy, especially during peak season, so it is essential to book early to ensure availability.

Finally, make sure to have all the necessary documents to enter Canada. Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter the country. The Canadian Immigration Services website offers an eVisa service that allows travelers to apply for an eTA quickly and easily online. By contacting our customer care service, you can save time and avoid any potential delays or issues at the border.