When the temperature heats up in Toronto, nothing's better than a quick escape to one of Ontario's outlying beach towns. Less than two hours from Toronto are a variety of picturesque towns known for both their amenities and relaxing sands that stretch along Ontario's pristine lakes. Whether you're looking to toss a ball with the kids, party the night away or have a grown-up weekend complete with wineries and fine dining, Toronto's nearby beaches deliver.
Wasaga Beach gets packed during the summer but then again, it's only 90 minutes from Toronto and sports shallow, temperate lake water that's ideal for families. The 9 miles of sand is perfect for volleyball, and you'll find trails along the sand dunes for strolling and the all-important patios for enjoying a refreshing drink. Or head into the nearby town to browse the outdoor marketplace and enjoy free concerts during the summer. You can also take the kids to Waterworld, stop in at the Nancy Island Historic Site or hike the nearby Blueberry Trails.
Sauble Beach is the second longest freshwater beach in the world, after Wasaga. The water is similarly temperate and shallow, making it a perfect place to take the kids. This busy place on Lake Huron also sports picture-perfect sunsets. Picnic areas, playgrounds, volleyball facilities and mini-golf are a stone's throw away. The nearby town of South Bruce Peninsula offers accommodations and fine dining plus shopping at its country stores. If the family's restless, take them to Bluewater Park for boating and play areas or hike the nearby Bruce Trail.
The Sandbanks in Prince Edward County make for a perfect adult escape, especially since it's less than two hours from Toronto. The beach stretches far into the horizon and picturesque sand dunes blanket its outer edges. It's shallow enough, but with enough waves to allow for windsurfing or sailing. Once you've had your fun in the sun, head into town for excellent restaurants and winery tours plus top-notch bed-and-breakfast accommodations. Art gallery tours, farmer's markets and antiquing are also typical activities, or the more active can try bike tours, golf or kayaking.
Grand Bend is a little farther outside Toronto at two and a half hours by car, but you'll discover plenty to do once you get there. The beach itself sports 30 miles of coastline, warm water and foot-friendly sandy bottoms. Families will love the camping facilities, beach volleyball, mini golf, kid splash pad, and water activities such as banana boating and parasailing. Teens will love the social atmosphere. Couples and seniors will enjoy the shopping on the main street, summer antique and farmer's markets and the variety of cute cabins to rent. The town even has a drive-in movie theater, the Starlite Drive-In, for cozy summer entertainment at a reasonable price.
