Best Family-Friendly Toronto Beaches

Summer is here and that means we need a pocket guide to the best Toronto beaches an hour or two out of the city. Maybe we’re without cottages, or looking for a daytrip. Well, these beautiful spots have so much to offer. From fossils to trains, ice cream to perogies, these beach escapades will long be remembered for the swimming, sand castle competitions, walks along the beach, and glorious sunsets.

Hello, summer. We’re glad you’re here.

Best Family-Friendly Local Toronto Beaches

Balm Beach (near Wasaga Beach)

The Blue Mountains are in the distance, this Georgian Bay beach has glorious white sand and shallow water, and there is so much fun to be had! There’s an arcade, go-karts, and beach shops, if the kids are into that, but there’s also enough untouched nature for the more wild and free.

Distance from Toronto: about 2 hours

Muskoka Beach Park (near Gravenhurst)

This one is good for the sporty set, with baseball diamonds and tennis courts, as well as picnic tables and swimming. It makes a great setting for a family reunion (intergenerational baseball and tennis are super fun!). And make sure to visit The Bakery in Gravenhurst for Chelsea buns or butter tarts for a sweet beach day treat.

Distance from Toronto: about 2 hours

Kelvin Grove Park (near Bracebridge)

We love the historic walkway in this park-like beach, as well as the playground and boat launch. Pack a picnic for feasting at the picnic tables there, or pick up the entire picnic (amazing lattes and gourmet doughnuts included) from Oliver’s Coffee in Bracebridge or Gravenhurst.

Distance from Toronto: about 2 hours

Couchiching Beach Park (Orillia)

This lovely spot really has it all, from a sandy beach to band shell, flower garden, concessions, and a miniature steam railway! There’s enough space in this 14-acre park to walk, sit on the grass, or take a look at the Champlain monument (teachable moment of the history variety, right here). Fern (the ultimate Ontario family resort) is nearby if you decide to make a night (or two) of it.

Distance from Toronto: about 1.5 hours

Sandy Lake (Buckhorn)

The sheltered cove along Sandy Lake has a lovely sandy bottom. Its shallow depths and warmth are perfect for wading, splashing, and frolicking kiddos. It’s also a lovely spot to try out the kayaks or the paddleboards. We love how the water has a turquoise hue that makes us feel like we’ve landed in the Caribbean for the day.

Distance from Toronto: about 2 hours

Lakefield Beach (Lakefield, north of Peterborough)

Lakefield Beach on the Otonabee River is large, sandy, well-maintained, and wonderful for swimming. It’s across from a park and a marina and there are beach volleyball courts, too. Don’t miss Stuff’d in Lakefield for ice cream and other treats!

Distance from Toronto: about 1 hour, 40 minutes

 

Turkey Point (southwest of Brantford)

Turkey Point Beach is tailor made for young kids—two miles long, shallow and with loads of sand bars. Turkey Point Provincial Park has hiking trails and is the only provincial park with its own golf course, so the whole family can give the sport a try! There is zip lining at Long Point Eco Adventures nearby as well as a marina and lots of great restaurants.

Distance from Toronto: about 2 hours

Cobourg Beach (Cobourg)

Cobourg is known as one of the prettiest towns in Ontario, and Cobourg Beach is certainly one of the prettiest beaches, especially with that awesome boardwalk! This is a beach like the ones seen in the movies—white sand, long beach, yummy canteen refreshments, plus a waterfront festival on Canada Day, and yes, a splash pad. It’s also easy to walk into the town for some more delicious treats, like at the Buttermilk Café (best pancakes ever).

Distance from Toronto: just over an hour

Port Stanley (south of London)

There is so much going on in Port Stanley we may need to stay a night or two! Kids will love seeing the fishing boats returning, and the historic tourist train is certainly a hit! There’s also summer theatre and great hiking. The beach feels like a resort, with bars, concessions, water sport rentals and a harbour walkway. And yes, there is great ice cream too at Broderick’s, all decked out in ’50s malt shop style.

Distance from Toronto: just over 2 hours

Memorial Park Beach (Meaford)

This is a nice, quiet beach with more than 2,000 feet of shoreline. The kids love the playground and mini golf, and everyone loves the stunning nature and views afforded by Meaford. Make sure you schedule a visit to nearby Perogie Palace for lunch!

Distance from Toronto: about 2 hours