Beaches, Lakes and Reservoirs in Canada

Location:

Sylvan Lake, Alberta, Canada

Recommended For:

Families, water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a relaxing lakeside getaway.

What we Love:

The spacious beachfront, variety of water activities including swimming, boating, and fishing, and the convenient boat launches that make access to the lake easy for all visitors.

• Relax on the wide sandy and grassy shoreline, perfect for sunbathing and family fun.
• Swim or water-ski in the spring-fed lake with crystal-clear waters.
• Fish or boat on the lake with easy access from the boat launches at Sun Breaker Cove or the marina.
• Unwind with a picnic in one of the shaded grassy areas or enjoy a game of volleyball on the nets provided.
• Join in the community events, including volleyball tournaments and local celebrations held throughout the summer.

Cost:

Free to access the beach; fees may apply for parking and certain activities.

Best time to visit:

Summer months for events and warm weather. Spring and fall are also beautiful, though quieter.

Local tips:

Bring your own watercraft or rent one locally to explore the lake. Be sure to check out the community events for extra fun during your visit!

Distance:

Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Calgary by car.

How to Get to Sylvan Lake Provincial Park:

Drive west from Calgary on Highway 2 and take the exit for Sylvan Lake. Follow signs to the park, where parking is available near the lakefront and amenities.

Location:

Tofino, British Columbia, Canada

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, surfers, storm-watchers, whale-watchers, and anyone looking for a peaceful or adventurous beach experience in a stunning coastal setting.

What we Love:

The W-shaped beach, year-round activities like whale-watching and surfing, and the peaceful walks along the shore with unforgettable ocean views.

• Explore North, South, and Middle Chesterman Beach, each with its own unique charm and activities.
• Learn to surf with lessons available at South Chesterman Beach, great for beginners and pros alike.
• Discover tide pools at North Chesterman Beach during low tide—perfect for nature exploration.
• Enjoy year-round activities like storm-watching, whale sightings, kite flying, or simply enjoying peaceful beach walks.
• Stay or dine at the luxurious Wickaninnish Inn, a renowned Canadian coastal resort.

Cost:

Free beach access; fees for surf lessons, accommodations, and dining at the Wickaninnish Inn.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for a quieter experience, though the beach is popular year-round, especially for storm watching in the winter.

Local tips:

Don’t forget to check out the tide pools at North Chesterman Beach during low tide for a chance to see sea life up close. If you're a surfer, South Chesterman Beach is ideal for lessons and surf sessions!

Distance:

Roughly 15 minutes south of Tofino by car.

How to Get to Chesterman Beach:

Drive south along Pacific Rim Highway from Tofino. The beach is easily accessible with parking available at various points along the coast.

Location:

Ucluelet, British Columbia, Canada

Recommended For:

Surfers, beachcombers, nature lovers, and those seeking a beautiful and accessible destination along Vancouver Island's west coast.

What we Love:

The long sandy stretches, steady surf conditions for surfers, and the driftwood-strewn shoreline that adds to the beach’s charm.

• Surf at one of Canada’s first surfing hotspots, perfect for both beginner and seasoned surfers due to consistent waves.
• Explore the driftwood-strewn shoreline, especially during low tide when large logs and sandy stretches are exposed.
• Visit the tide-exposed “islands” formed by rocky formations—ideal for exploration at low tide (but be cautious of tides).
• Access the beach easily via multiple entry points along the Pacific Rim Highway, which runs alongside the coastline.
• Stay safe—avoid exploring the islands during high tide or in rough weather, as rip currents can be dangerous.

Cost:

Free beach access; some activities like surfing lessons or rentals may have fees.

Best time to visit:

Summer and fall for the best weather and surf conditions. Be cautious during winter months due to possible rough waves and strong currents.

Local tips:

If you're planning to explore the islands at low tide, be sure to check tide schedules and keep safety in mind. For surfers, the beach is famous for its consistent conditions, so it's great year-round!

Distance:

Approximately 25 minutes from Tofino by car along the Tofino-Ucluelet Highway.

How to Get to Long Beach:

Take the Tofino-Ucluelet Highway (Pacific Rim Highway) and follow signs to Long Beach. There are several access points along the highway for visitors.

For a Family Adventure:

Location:

Penticton, British Columbia, Canada

Recommended For:

Families, water sports enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fun, accessible beach with a variety of activities for all ages.

What we Love:

The family-friendly amenities like floating docks, water slides, and playgrounds, as well as the recreational extras like beach volleyball and a splash park.

• Enjoy the floating docks and water slides for family fun, along with a large playground for kids.
• Play beach volleyball, basketball, or join in on the action at the splash park and hockey ball court.
• Relax in one of the shaded picnic areas, with washrooms and food concessions nearby for convenience.
• Take part in windsurfing or kite surfing on breezy lake days, making it a popular spot for watersports.
• Check out the Skaha Solar Timepiece, an interactive sundial that tracks the sun’s position, making for a unique attraction.

Cost:

Free beach access; rentals and certain activities may have additional fees.

Best time to visit:

Summer for warm lake days and water activities, although the beach is great for family fun year-round.

Local tips:

Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and water toys for the kids. Be sure to check out the Skaha Solar Timepiece for a unique, interactive experience!

Distance:

Approximately 10 minutes from downtown Penticton by car.

How to Get to Skaha Beach:

Drive south along Skaha Lake Road from downtown Penticton. There’s plenty of parking near the beach and amenities.

Location:

Juan de Fuca, British Columbia, Canada

Recommended For:

Surfers, campers, hikers, and anyone looking for a rugged and scenic destination with wilderness camping and great surf.

What we Love:

The rugged beauty of the cobblestone beach, the easy trail access to the beach, and the wilderness camping options in a peaceful, natural setting.

• Access the beach via a short, well-marked trail from the Sombrio Beach Trailhead.
• Surf in consistent waves at this surf destination, attracting surfers from around the world.
• Camp in one of the designated wilderness camping zones—Main Sombrio, East Sombrio, or West Sombrio—each offering a unique experience.
• Hike along the trail segments on both the east and west ends of the beach for stunning views and nature exploration.
• Respect the hikers on the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail and be mindful of trail etiquette when visiting.

Cost:

Free beach access; camping fees apply in designated wilderness camping zones.

Best time to visit:

Summer for warm weather and active surf, though the beach is popular year-round for camping and hiking.

Local tips:

Bring your surf gear or camping supplies, as the beach is quite remote and back-to-nature. Be prepared for a short but scenic hike to the beach.

Distance:

About 30 minutes from Victoria by car along Highway 14.

How to Get to Sombrio Beach:

Drive west on Highway 14, and follow signs to the Sombrio Beach Trailhead. The trailhead leads to the beach, just a short hike away.

Location:

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Recommended For:

Naturists, beach lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for a laid-back, free-spirited atmosphere in a stunning natural setting.

What we Love:

The clothing-optional vibe, hippie-style atmosphere, and scenic hiking trails that lead down to this beautiful, free-spirited beach.

• Embrace the naturist-friendly atmosphere with a clothing-optional policy, where respect for all comfort levels is key.
• Enjoy the cultural vibe with live music, friendly vendors, and a relaxed, open-minded community.
• Shop at the unique beach bazaar, where you can buy everything from snacks to handmade jewelry and massages.
• Hike down to the beach on one of the scenic access trails that wind through lush coastal forest.
• Capture the beauty of Wreck Beach, a photogenic spot often featured in landscape photography.

Cost:

Free beach access; optional purchases at the bazaar and other services may have a fee.

Best time to visit:

Summer for the best weather and beach vibe, though the beach is great for sunbathing year-round.

Local tips:

Respect the laid-back vibe of the beach and follow the "no gawking" rule. Be sure to bring your own water and sun protection as services are limited.

Distance:

About 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver by car or public transit.

How to Get to Wreck Beach:

Drive or take public transit to UBC. From there, follow signs to the scenic access trails that lead down to the beach.

Romantic Lakes

Location:

Port Renfrew, British Columbia, Canada

Recommended For:

Families, nature lovers, photographers, and those looking for a peaceful, scenic beach experience along Vancouver Island's west coast.

What we Love:

The easy access trail leading through the forest, the hidden waterfall at the west end, and the peaceful forest-to-shore experience that makes China Beach such a serene and picturesque spot.

• Hike the family-friendly trail through towering Douglas-fir trees, leading directly to the beach.
• Build sandcastles or wade along the shore, making it ideal for families with young children.
• Discover a hidden waterfall at the west end of the beach, tucked away and perfect for exploration.
• Watch for migrating grey whales during the spring and fall months, as part of the seasonal whale watching experience.
• Enjoy a peaceful transition from lush rainforest to wide open coastline, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

Cost:

Free beach access; parking fees apply for day-use parking.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for whale watching; however, the beach is beautiful and tranquil year-round.

Local tips:

Don’t forget your camera for the stunning views from the wooden platform, especially if you're into landscape photography!

Distance:

About 1 hour and 30 minutes from Victoria by car along Highway 14.

How to Get to China Beach:

Drive west on Highway 14 from Victoria to Port Renfrew, and follow signs to China Beach day-use area. The beach is easily accessible via a well-maintained trail from the parking lot.

Location:

Vernon, British Columbia, Canada

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, beach-goers, and those seeking a peaceful getaway in a beautiful natural setting with diverse activities.

What we Love:

The color-changing waters of Kalamalka Lake, the expansive natural setting with wide grasslands and forest groves, and the variety of water activities available at the park's popular beaches.

• Witness the colorful waters of Kalamalka Lake, which change hues throughout the year, from deep indigo to bright cyan.
• Explore the park’s natural setting, including wide grasslands, forested groves, and scenic lakeside trails.
• Relax at Cosens Bay Beach or Kal Beach, offering easy access for swimming and sunbathing.
• Enjoy water recreation such as boating, waterskiing, and paddle sports on the vibrant Kalamalka Lake.
• Stay at nearby lakeside resorts, making this park an ideal and convenient getaway for a peaceful retreat.

Cost:

Free access to the park; fees for parking and water recreation may apply at some locations.

Best time to visit:

Summer for the best weather and access to the lake activities; however, the park is a great destination year-round.

Local tips:

Don’t miss the chance to photograph the lake’s ever-changing colors, especially during sunrise and sunset for the most vibrant views!

Distance:

About 5 minutes from downtown Vernon by car.

How to Get to Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park:

Drive south from Vernon along 39 Avenue and follow the signs to the park. The popular beaches are easily accessible from the parking areas.

Location:

Grand Marais, Manitoba, Canada

Recommended For:

Families, beach-goers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a relaxing beach getaway with plenty of space and scenic views.

What we Love:

The spacious white sand beach, the impressive sand dunes, and the variety of activities including swimming, kayaking, and hiking.

• Claim your spot with a beach blanket on the soft sand, especially on weekends when the beach gets busy.
• Walk the boardwalk to the west end for easy access to shops, snacks, and change rooms.
• Swim or kayak in the clear waters of Lake Winnipeg, perfect for cooling off on warm days.
• Explore the Wild Wings Trail, ideal for birdwatching and peaceful walks away from the sun.
• Find shelter near the tall dunes on breezy days for extra comfort while enjoying the view.

Cost:

Free beach access; parking fees may apply during peak season.

Best time to visit:

Summer for warm weather and water activities, though the beach is beautiful and relaxing year-round.

Local tips:

Bring your own beach gear, especially if you plan to relax by the dunes. The Wild Wings Trail is a great way to cool off and enjoy nature when the beach gets too hot!

Distance:

About 1 hour from Winnipeg by car.

How to Get to Grand Beach:

Drive northeast from Winnipeg along Highway 59 to Grand Marais, and follow signs to Grand Beach. The beach and boardwalk area are easily accessible from the parking lots.

Location:

Hopewell Cape, New Brunswick, Canada

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone eager to witness one of the world’s most unique tidal phenomena in the Bay of Fundy.

What we Love:

The massive sandstone formations at low tide, the chance to walk the ocean floor, and the opportunity to see the beach transform into a series of islands at high tide.

• Walk the ocean floor during low tide and explore the massive sandstone formations up close along the 1.25-mile beach.
• Watch the tide roll in and transform the formations into islands—don’t forget your camera for this magical moment!
• Try a kayaking tour during high tide for an unforgettable experience paddling around the rocks.
• Make a day of it by packing a lunch and enjoying the scenic picnic spots and well-maintained walking trails.
• Time it right by checking the tide schedule before your visit to see the rocks at both low and high tide for a full experience.

Cost:

Admission fee for the park; kayak tours are available for an additional cost.

Best time to visit:

Mid-May to mid-October for the best experience, though the tide schedule should be checked for specific times to visit.

Local tips:

Plan your visit around the tide schedule for the full experience—witnessing the rocks at both low and high tide is highly recommended for the best photo opportunities.

Distance:

Approximately 30 minutes from Moncton by car.

How to Get to Hopewell Rocks:

Take Highway 114 to Discovery Road. Follow the signs to Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, where parking is available close to the entrance.