Canadian beaches are where it’s at! Our customers rank Beaches and Costal Towns as their top Must-See places in our Canada 150 survey!

Adventure awaits in our own backyard! From surf-ready beaches and quaint coastal towns to adventure fuelling amusement parks and stately mountain ranges to large modern cities, we’re lucky to have it all. And according to our Canada 150 survey, these six beaches are top Canadian bucket-list destinations.

 

Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver, BC

Known to the locals as “Kits” Beach, this hotspot boasts sandy beaches and blue waters. Take the entire family, even Fido – there’s an off-lease park for him – and play some Frisbee, take a dip in the Pacific, or go boating.

If the ocean isn’t for you, the next best thing is the Kitsilano Pool. Located just off the beach on the west side, the heated salt-water pool features waterslides and stunning views of the surrounding parks and mountains.

After a day of fun you’ve probably worked up an appetite. Drop by Chewies, named one of the best oyster bars by VancityBuzz, for fresh seafood with a Creole twist and locally crafted beers.

 

Patricia Lake, Jasper, AB

Take in views of this emerald green natural wonder by hiking or horseback riding the surrounding trails. You might be lucky enough to see some of the local wildlife, including black bears, grizzly bears, elk, moose and various birds of prey. Head back to the clear waters for a dip before lunch. If you would prefer a watery adventure, grab some scuba gear and dive down to a World War II-era shipwreck code named Project Habbakuk.

Patricia Lake isn’t just for your summer adventures. Visit during the winter months to snowshoe, cross-country ski or skate in a winter wonderland!

Interesting fact: the lake was named after one of Queen Victoria’s daughters, Princess Patricia.

 

Wasaga Beach, ON

A popular getaway for people living in southern Ontario, the world’s longest freshwater beach has something for everyone! Plan a beach day with the family building sandcastles, swimming to your heart’s content or learning a watersport.

Wrap up your day of fun with dinner on the strip. You can enjoy a delicious meal at South Beach Resto and Bar while watching the sunset over Georgian Bay.

The beach town outside of Barrie is also home to a variety of annual events and attractions if you’re looking for a day of fun.

 

Singing Sands Beach, PEI

It isn’t a mermaid or magical sea creature that makes the sandy beach sing when you walk on it, but it’s still something you have to experience! Whether you enjoy reading the latest hit paperback under the shade of an umbrella, splashing in some of Canada’s warmest water or playing volleyball this beach is the place to do it.

Take a trip through history with a stop at the Basin Head Fisheries Museum. Find out what the inshore fishing industry was really like back in the day through displays, exhibits and dioramas.

 

Ingonish Beach, Cape Breton Island, NS

Visit this unique beach and have your choice of a swim in the Atlantic or in the neighbouring Freshwater Lake. Thanks to its location close to the Cabot Trail – stop for a hike with a view – and the warm water, this stop on our list is a hit with locals and tourists alike. Take a scenic cruise or a whale watching tour for amazing views of the water and hopefully some marine life, including whales, dolphins, seals, turtles and more!

After a day spent exploring head over to the Coastal Restaurant & Pub for their famous burger, The Coastal Ringer. The satisfying sandwich is so well known it’s even been featured on the Food Network Canada’s You Gotta Eat Here!

 

Havre-Aubert Beach, QC

Take the daily ferry from Souris, P.E.I. to this gold sand beach and you’ll find out why so many sand artists, tourists and relaxation seeking locals are drawn to this seaside community. Walk the beautiful beach if you would prefer to explore on foot, or for the water bound, a kayak, kite surfer or windsurfer.

If you visit in August, you’re in luck! Not only do you get to enjoy warm water, but you can also catch one of the world’s biggest and best sandcastle contests, Concours de Châteaux de Sable. You don’t want to forget your camera on this trip!

Other notable Canadian places that came close to stealing the top spot in our survey; Natural Wonders, like the Northern Lights, Niagara Falls, and The Rocky Mountains, came in a close second with Attractions, the CN Tower, West Edmonton Mall and Mega Parc, for example, rounding out the top three travel destinations.

Thanks to everyone who participated in our Canada 150 survey. The only question left … when does your next Canadian adventure begin?