Northeastern Ontario may be known for vast forests, wild lakes, and remote trails, but don’t sleep on our beaches. From island hideaways to golden stretches along sparkling freshwater bays, this region knows how to do summer right. Whether you're road-tripping with the family, paddling into a hidden cove, or just chasing that perfect beach day, here are seven of our top beaches worth the sandy detour.
Why it makes the list: Providence Bay is the crown jewel of Manitoulin Island’s southern shore, and for good reason. Providence Bay Beach is one of the longest freshwater sand beaches in Ontario. Named Bebikodawangog in Anishinabemowin—where the sands curve around the bay—it has soft golden sand, swimmable waves, and epic sunsets over Lake Huron. It’s shallow enough for little kids, and if you brave the walk out past the many sandbars, when it finally, finally drops, the water is deep and cold.
There's a long boardwalk perfect for morning strolls with a coffee from Peace of Providence, plus beachside eats at Lake Huron Fish and Chips, ice cream, and a playground for kids with an accessible pathway down to the main area of the beach. It’s clean, uncrowded (though it can get busy by the parking area), and charming. Cap off your beach day with live tunes—Huron Island Time hosts a weekend sunset music series featuring a mix of local talent and touring musicians in July and August.
Why it makes the list: Just 20 minutes from downtown Sudbury, Moonlight Beach on Lake Ramsey feels like a hidden escape in plain sight. It’s a local fave for families thanks to its shallow water, picnic areas, and soft sand. The best part? You’re close to Sudbury's urban perks—hello Science North and cold craft beer—without giving up that peaceful, lakeside vibe. Feel like a coffee with your swim? Kuppajo Espresso Bar has great iced lattes and light snacks to go. Stop by Flurples for soft-serve vegan ice cream or a cold treat on the way.
Why it makes the list: A dream for nature lovers, this park is home to 22 spring-fed kettle lakes, many with secluded, sandy beaches. Slab Lake and Island Lake are top picks for swimming, easily accessed from the campgrounds. It’s peaceful, forest-framed, and offers great paddling, fishing, and even snorkeling. This is the kind of place where you share the shoreline with loons, not loud crowds.
While you're in the area, make time for a visit to Dream Acres Alpacas in Matheson, an adorable farm where you can feed, walk, and snap selfies with friendly alpacas. Or take a short drive to Timmins, about 45 minutes away, to explore the free Timmins Museum, where exhibits on mining, Indigenous culture, and local art offer a deeper look at the region’s roots. Explore some of the other great beaches in Timmins here.
Why it makes the list: While the park is best known for the Twin Bridges waterfall hike, there’s also a small but beautiful sandy beach tucked along the River aux Sables. It’s ideal for campers looking to cool off post-trail. The swimming hole at the base of the waterful is calm, tannin-stained, and flanked by granite rocks. Add in the sound of rushing water nearby, and you’ve got a refreshing, one-of-a-kind beach day. Please note: This is the only spot where swimming is allowed in the park, and there are no lifeguards.
While you're here, explore more of the charming Sables-Spanish Rivers area. From scenic cycling routes and quiet beaches like Mouth Park to local eats at Little Brew Café in Massey or fresh-caught fish and chips at Brii-Co Miijim on Serpent River First Nation, this stretch of Highway 17 is full of surprises. Don’t forget to pop into the Northwest Trading Company for handmade gifts and old-school ice cream before hitting the road again.
Why it makes the list: This hidden gem just 45 minutes northwest of Sudbury lives up to its name with refreshing breezes off Windy Lake and long stretches of golden sand. The shallow entry makes it ideal for families and waders, and the surrounding pines give the beach that cozy northern feel. There’s also a designated dog beach nearby, with an excellent stick lending library! Plus, there’s canoe rentals and great fishing right from the dock.
For winter warriors, Windy Lake is a top destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing too. Pick up a pizza at Fergie’s in Levack or swing by Beards Coffee Bar in Sudbury on your way. Here’s some more beach planning inspo.
Why it makes the list: You’ve never seen anything quite like this! Haileybury Beach features a massive, open-air swimming pool carved into the shoreline with a sandy bottom and treated water, totally separate from Lake Temiskaming. It’s free to the public and also includes a 150-foot waterslide, change rooms, and a playground, an absolute favourite for families and anyone looking for a worry-free swim.
After your swim, swing by Beach Bitez just steps from the sand for a flavourful bite—locals rave about their butter chicken, tandoor dishes, and crispy samosas served up with friendly vibes and killer views of Lake Temiskaming. They also have simple ice cream cones to go. Or, head across the road to 28 on the Lake for fresh eats and essential favourites on the waterfront patio.
Why it makes the list: This off-the-beaten-path park northeast of Kapuskasing boasts a beautiful sandy beach on Remi Lake that rarely feels crowded. The water is warm in summer, the swimming area is well maintained, and there’s even a floating swim platform for kids to cannonball off. Surrounded by tall pines and calm waters, it’s a peaceful spot that’s ideal for camping families and road-trippers alike. Fuel up with a classic roadside meal at Chez Lizette in Kapuskasing.
Why it makes the list: For adventurous souls, the Mattawa River offers a whole chain of hidden beaches you can only access by water. Launch from Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park and paddle east toward Pimisi Bay—you’ll find sandbars, granite cliffs, and remote sandy nooks to claim all to yourself. This historic fur trade route is one of Northeastern Ontario’s most scenic waterways, and the beaches are your reward for going the extra mile (or portage).
Adventurous visitors coming from Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park can head to Trout Lake by canoe or kayak with a bit of effort and planning. The trip is about 22 km one-way, following the Mattawa River west to where it empties into Trout Lake, then tracing the southern shoreline into Birchaven Cove. It's a solid day trip for experienced paddlers—expect several hours on the water, depending on your pace and stops along the way. (Bonus: you'll be retracing part of the historic fur trade route!)
Why it makes the list: Tucked into the eastern edge of North Bay, Trout Lake is a refreshing contrast to the city's better-known Lake Nipissing. Deep, cold, and surrounded by dense forest, Trout Lake is all winding bays, narrow inlets, and quiet coves, perfect for paddlers and swimmers who like a bit of solitude. The most beloved spot? Birchaven Cove. Known simply as “The Cove” to locals, this tucked-away beach is a true North Bay gem. It’s supervised by lifeguards during the day, with grassy picnic areas, washrooms, and calm, clear water. Thanks to its depth, Trout Lake stays chilly even in early summer, so July and August are the best times to enjoy a swim. Stop by the dock at The Green Store for an ice cream cone on the water, or crispy lakeside fries at TJ’s.
From wide-open sandy stretches to hidden river coves, Northeastern Ontario’s beaches offer up something special for every kind of summer soul. Whether you’re a beach napper, a paddleboarder, or a family of sandcastle pros, this region delivers sunshine with a side of wilderness magic. Here’s some more family beach inspo!
Pack the cooler, don’t forget your sunscreen, and go find your perfect patch of sand.
