🌊 Top 10 Beaches in Canada Voted by Canadians – And Why You Need to See Them Before You Die
Aaron BelyeaShare
Canada may be known for its rugged mountains, maple syrup, and polite people, but its beaches? Oh yes. They're some of the planet's most breathtaking, underrated coastal gems. From the Pacific to the Atlantic, and even inland lakes that look like Caribbean coastlines, these 10 beaches—voted by Canadians—offer unforgettable beauty, a dose of culture, and a slice of serenity. Whether you're a sunbather, surfer, sandcastle architect, or sunset chaser, there's a spot on this list with your name written in the sand.
1. Long Beach – Tofino, British Columbia
Why go?
This is Canada's surfing capital, and it's wrapped in the raw, mystical beauty of Pacific Rim National Park. With 16 km of sandy shoreline, driftwood-littered shores, and misty rainforest backdrops, Long Beach is a nature-lover's dream.
Unwritten rule:
Respect surf etiquette. Locals take wave pecking order seriously. Beginners: Stick to the designated beginner zones or take a lesson first. And don't forget to pack out what you pack in.
2. Singing Sands Beach – Basin Head, Prince Edward Island
Why go?
This beach literally sings! The high silica content in the sand causes a squeaky sound when you walk. Combine that with warm waters and red cliffs, and you have one of PEI's most magical spots.
Unwritten rule:
Keep it chill. Basin Head is a place for families and peaceful swims. Loud music and rowdy partying aren't part of the island vibe here.
3. Wasaga Beach – Ontario
Why go?
It's the longest freshwater beach in the world—14 km along Georgian Bay—a magnet for beach volleyball players, families, and paddleboarders alike.
Unwritten rule:
Respect the space. This beach is busy, so be mindful of noise, litter, and personal space. Also, open alcohol is a no-go—bylaw officers patrol regularly.
4. Ingonish Beach – Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
Why go?
Cape Breton Highlands National Park has the ocean on one side and a freshwater lake on the other. Rugged cliffs, whales offshore, and the famous Cabot Trail nearby? This is bucket list stuff.
Unwritten rule:
Pack for all weather. Locals know Cape Breton weather changes quickly. Be respectful of the environment and follow all National Park regulations.
5. Grand Beach – Manitoba
Why go?
This inland beach, on the edge of Lake Winnipeg, boasts soft, white sand dunes and warm, shallow water, perfect for wading and family-friendly swims.
Unwritten rule:
Arrive early if it's the weekend. Grand Beach fills up fast, and locals know the best spots are claimed before noon.
6. Parlee Beach – Shediac, New Brunswick
Why go?
Often cited as having the warmest salt water north of Virginia, Parlee Beach is beloved for its lively summer energy, soft sand, and fantastic food nearby (hello, lobster rolls!).
Unwritten rule:
Don't hog space. Bring your chairs and towels, sure—but don't block off an area for 12 when there are only 2 of you. It's a shared paradise.
7. Chesterman Beach – Tofino, British Columbia
Why go?
Yes, another Tofino entry—and deservedly so. Chesterman is a mecca for storm watchers, sunset lovers, and sea kayakers. Plus, it's ideal for long, romantic walks.
Unwritten rule:
Don't build massive fires. Small beach fires are permitted in some areas, but large bonfires can damage the ecosystem and annoy locals.
8. Crystal Crescent Beach – Nova Scotia
Why go?
Just 30 minutes from Halifax, this spot offers three stunning white sand beaches and hiking trails into rugged coastal wilderness. One of them is even clothing-optional if you're feeling brave.
Unwritten rule:
Bring out what you bring in. This area is pristine, and locals are proud of that. Littering will be side-eyed (or worse).
9. Lawrencetown Beach – Nova Scotia
Why go?
It is one of the top surf spots in Canada and is only 30 minutes from Halifax. It has powerful Atlantic waves and a rocky, photogenic shoreline that feels more Icelandic than the East Coast.
Unwritten rule:
Surf etiquette again matters. And keep off the dunes—they're protected! Locals take preservation seriously.
10. Devonshire Beach – Alberta
Why go?
Hidden in the heart of Alberta at Lesser Slave Lake, Devonshire Beach will shock you. Powdery sand, clear freshwater, and epic northern sunsets? It's the best-kept prairie secret.
Unwritten rule:
Don't bring your party playlist at full blast. Locals go here to escape and unwind. It's more of a meditative retreat than a beach rave.
🧳 Final Tips for Visiting Canadian Beaches
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Always check local signage. Weather, tides, and wildlife warnings are legit here.
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Leave no trace. What makes these places so special is how untouched they still feel. Help keep them that way.
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Respect local culture. Many beaches are near Indigenous lands or small communities. Be curious, kind, and respectful.
✨ In Closing
From coast to coast (to coast!), Canada's beaches aren't just stops on a map—they're living postcards. Whether surfing in Tofino, listening to the sands sing in PEI, or finding peace in prairie paradise, these places mark your soul. So go—dip your toes, watch the skies, breathe the salt air—and be part of the story.
Which of these have you been to—or which one's calling your name? 🌅