Craving a beach vacation but wanting to stay closer to home this year? You’re in luck, because Canada has the longest coastline in the world (measuring in at 202,080 kilometres!). The coastline is home to hundreds of beaches, some of which are considered the most beautiful in the world. Whether you’re craving for summer beach activities, or a place to recharge and reconnect with nature, read on for the very best beaches in Canada.
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Ingonish Beach, Cape Breton, NS
In need of a beach vacation complete with all the fresh seafood? Lining the northeastern shores of Cape Breton Island, Ingonish Beach is a gorgeous long, wide strip of sand that’s sheltered in a bay surrounded by green hills. It’s perfect for swimming and lounging on hot summer days (warning: the water stays brisk!), and you’ll find no shortage of restaurants offering fresh seafood nearby. A steaming bowl of fresh Acadian seafood chowder will be the cherry on top of your perfect East Coast beach day.
Maddox Cove Beach, Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove, NL
About ten kilometres south of St. John’s, you’ll find the absolutely charming town of Petty Harbour–Maddox Cove. This small, picturesque fishing village feels like something out of a novel. Maddox Cove Beach offers stunning scenic views and plenty of nearby hiking trails to explore.
Cavendish Beach, Cavendish, PEI
Easily one of the most unique beaches in Canada, Prince Edward Island’s Cavendish Beach features the iconic red sand dunes that the island is famous for. As part of PEI National Park, Cavendish Beach is preserved in its natural state. So you won’t find any tourist attractions here, just endless kilometres of soft red sand, warm water and crashing waves. This world-class beach is a must-visit for all Canadians.
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Plage de la Grande Échouerie, QC
Although technically in Quebec, this splendid 350-kilometre-long beach is geographically closer to the Maritimes. That explains why its seaside scenery might feel more similar to the East Coast than any Quebecois landscapes. The endless stretches of beaches mean you can walk for hours uninterrupted, making for a truly peaceful beach getaway that’s ideal for meditation and self reflection. Plus, the strong winds of the beach actually make it one of the best places in Canada for kite-surfing. And if that’s not your cup of tea, it’s also excellent for flying kites.
Sandbanks Dunes Beach, Prince Edward County, ON
Easily one of the best sandy beaches you’ll find in Ontario, Sandbanks Dunes Beach actually contains the largest bay-mouth barrier dune formation in the world! The beach resides in Prince Edward County, a short 2.5-hour drive from Toronto. You’ll find clean, calm waters alongside giant sand dunes featuring trees and bushes that rise from the shore. This unique beach is the perfect pit stop on a weekend spent exploring the county, where you’ll also find charming boutiques, beautiful wineries and some of the province’s best restaurants.
Grand Beach, Grand Marais, MB
Who says the Prairies don’t have stunning beaches? Grand Beach in Grand Marais Manitoba is proof. Here you’ll find striking sand dunes on a 3-kilometre stretch of warm, sandy beach. The gentle waves of the prairie sea are perfect for exploring the shallow water that features many sandbars for relaxing on. Just an hour drive outside Winnipeg, the west beach has concession stands and shops to explore, while the east beach is more secluded with a designated beach for dogs.
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Annette Lake, Jasper, AB
You won’t find any seaside beaches in landlocked Alberta, but what it lacks in seafronts it greatly makes up for with its stunning lakes. Located in Jasper National Park, Annette Lake is a sweet little gem of a beach that features a treelined shoreline, a stunning mountain backdrop and invigoratingly cold glacial water. The glacial lake is known for its beautiful turquoise waters. But if you’re not up for a swim, it’s also ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Be sure to pack some bear spray, because grizzlies are known to enjoy the lake, too (alongside elk and mule deer!).
Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver, BC
If you’re craving a city vacation with a little beach time sprinkled in, a trip to Vancouver and Kitsilano Beach is just the ticket. Known as Kits by the locals, this funky beach feels like a little slice of Southern California on Canadian soil. With cool cafes and endless boutiques to explore, it’s a truly unique beach destination unlike anywhere else in the country. While the water is perfect for a chilly dip, you can also find games of beach volleyball to join in on. Plus, the grassy lawns are perfect for tossing frisbees and footballs, too.
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