10 Best Beaches in Canada

The longest freshwater beach in the world, Ontario’s Wasaga is conveniently situated just 2 hours north of Toronto and draws over 2 million visitors annually. Here, you’ll enjoy 8.7 miles of unspoiled coastline where you can partake in an abundance of outdoor sports including hiking, fishing, surfing and jet skiing.

Boasting one of Canada’s most unique coastal ecosystems, Wasaga Beach also appeals to birdwatchers, so make sure you pack your binoculars so you can spot great blue herons and glossy ibis roaming amongst the dunes. Boating enthusiasts can canoe and kayak across South Georgian Bay while foodies can sample seafood at nearby Barcelos Restaurant.

Parlee Beach Provincial Park boasts powder-soft sands and panoramic views of the Northumberland Strait and the Gulf of St Lawrence. Long considered one of North America’s finest beaches, Parlee was awarded Blue Flag international eco-certification in 2019 for its commitment to the environment and tourism sustainability.

Campers can pitch their tents at over 210 designated sites while hikers can take in the scenic coastal landscapes as they venture to nearby beauty spots like Pointe-du-Chêne and Shediac. The Euston Park beer garden serves craft brews and bar bites on a buzzing al fresco patio. Try the tasty fish tacos with pico de gallo or the luxe lobster rolls that are slathered in lemon butter.

The largest and longest beach in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Long Beach is one of Vancouver Island’s most exquisite natural treasures. Surrounded by rainforest and delivering exceptional views of Wickaninnish Bay and the mountains beyond, one could easily spend a week in the wildest of spaces.

Long Beach is a surfing and windsurfing haven thanks to its blustery western exposure which draws adrenalin seekers from across the globe, looking to catch the perfect wave. The area is also a hotbed of hikers, sea kayakers and nature enthusiasts (watch out for black bears, otters and elusive grey whales).

Situated in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Îles de la Madeleine is an emerald-green archipelago encompassed by the softest white-sand beaches and dramatic burnt orange cliffs. While not your classic beach aesthetic, this dramatic locale is simply breath-taking with its sweeping expanse of rugged coastline and pretty lighthouses.

Each of the archipelago’s 7 inhabited islands has plenty to offer including Cap aux Meules’ coastal cycling paths, Pointe aux Loups’ epic windsurfing and Grosse Île’s golden beach. If you’re into freshly caught seafood, nothing beats a visit to one of the region’s gastronomic establishments such as Auberge La Salicorne or Cap Dauphin's Fish Shack.

While it’s not a coastal beach per se, Annette Lake in Alberta, Canada gives all those seaside haunts a serious run for their money. This off-the-beaten-track beauty spot boasts a cinematic setting that will simply take your breath away thanks to its blue-green water, golden sands and rugged snow-capped mountains that literally beg to be photographed.

Spend the day on the shoreline picnicking and grilling before unwinding on the lake’s red Adirondack chairs. Hikers will revel in an expedition along the scenic Annette Loop (a paved circular trail with stunningly gorgeous vistas).

One of Vancouver’s most popular beaches, Kitsilano (affectionately nicknamed “Kits”) is a hit with locals and visitors alike thanks to its proximity to the city and its dazzling skyline and mountain views. Facing English Bay, the beach is also home to the longest swimming pool in Canada – the sparkling salt-water Kitsilano Pool.

With its abundance of enviable facilities including washrooms, tennis courts, swimming rafts and a playground, Kits offers families a fabulous day out. When your belly is rumbling, grab a bite to eat at the waterfront Boathouse Restaurant which serves seared scallops, jumbo shrimp cocktail, fried calamari and coconut cod.

Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park boasts a trio of sugar-white coves (perfect for sunbathing and warm-weather swimming) and meandering wooden boardwalks. The park is the trailhead for an unforgettable 6-mile hike to scenic Pennant Point which delivers dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

This Halifax Harbour hotspot is famed for its oversized pebbles, abundance of surrounding greenery and glimpses of the Sambro Island Lighthouse – a candy-stiped beauty that dates back to 1759. Some of the beach’s more secluded areas do attract free-spirited nudists, but there’s plenty of space for everyone.

Grand Beach Provincial Park is located on spectacular Lake Winnipeg and is celebrated for its mammoth sand dunes, miles of unblemished shoreline, glittering bird-filled lagoon and water sports opportunities. A major highlight is the annual Sand Castle Contest which draws visitors from far and wide (previous sculptures have included dolphins, whales and giant turtles).

Hikers can venture along the picturesque Spirit Rock Trail which is famed for its glorious vista of Colpoy's Bay, historic ruins and local legends. The Park is near a few renowned eateries too, like the Grand Beach Diner and Yucatan Taco Man.

At the northern tip of Lake Superior Provincial Park, you’ll find the mysterious Old Woman Bay. This horseshoe-shaped beach is scattered with driftwood that’s been smoothed by wind and water and offers incredible views of the forested cliffs.

Enchanting visitors with its deep turquoise waters and densely treed landscapes, Old Woman is an ideal spot for coastal hikes and animal watching (keep your eyes peeled for moose, fox and deer). Tables scattered across the area offer a romantic setting for impromptu picnics, while sports enthusiasts can take to the lake for canoeing, kayaking and fishing.

Vancouver Island’s San Josef Bay is tucked away inside Cape Scott Provincial Park and must be seen to be believed. It’s widely considered one of the world’s best beaches thanks to its alluring turquoise waters, squeaky-clean sand and out-of-the-way location that mesmerises with its beauty.

A 45-minute hike through an old-growth forest will see you reaching this rugged coastal wilderness that’s ensconced behind heavily treed hills and craggy, unusual rock formations. Nature lovers can go in search of black-tailed deer and killer whales, while thrill-seekers can explore the beach’s mysterious sea cave network.