Living by a Great Lake is such a gift. Honestly, it’s one I think we sometimes take for granted.
The first time I took my kid to Burlington Beach, I remember sitting on a towel while he was making “sand cookies” thinking, how lucky are we? We could have a real beach afternoon just five minutes from home.
Sometimes, water quality can be hit or miss. The good news? You don’t need a cottage or a long road trip to enjoy a great day by the water. We in Halton are lucky to live within an hour or two’s drive to conservation area beaches, Lake Erie day-trip spots and, of course, splash pads aplenty when a beach day feels like too much effort.
Whether you’re looking for a quick cool-down or a full beach day, there are lots of options nearby. So pack the towels, sunscreen, snacks and a few sand toys, and head for the water.
NOTE: Always check halton.ca or the park’s website for an update on water quality. Avoid swimming for 24 to 48 hours after heavy rainfall.
Kelso Conservation Area, Milton
5234 Kelso Road, Milton
One of the best “spend the whole day” swim spots, Kelso Conservation Area offers a lifeguarded sandy beach, picnic areas, hiking trails, disc golf, fishing, and water equipment rentals including paddleboards, kayaks and canoes.
Kelso is also home to Kelso Cove, a floating inflatable waterpark that adds an element of adventure to your beach day.
New this year is L’il Lagoon, a smaller course with features designed for younger children ages 4 to 12.
Adults can also buy a chaperone pass for $10, which is helpful for staying close to the kiddos. Stay in the water or hang out on the lounge, which is just a couple metres away from the kids.
Christie Lake Conservation Area
1000 Highway 5 West, Dundas
With a large sandy beach, Christie Lake is a great option for a proper beach day, a short drive from home. But there’s so much more to do here than swim. Christie Lake has 10 km of hiking trails. You can also fish here, rent canoes and kayaks, or try your hand at disc golf.
Valens Lake Conservation Area
1691 Regional Road 97, Flamborough
Valens Lake is another good conservation-area option. Combine your beach time with a picnic, a short hike, or rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard. And the campsites are beautiful!
Elora Quarry Conservation Area
319 Wellington County Road 18, Elora
With turquoise quarry water and limestone cliffs, this is one of the most visually stunning beaches in the area. Take the time to explore the hiking trail and the picturesque Elora town. Reservations are required.
Turkey Point Provincial Park
194 Turkey Point Road, Turkey Point
Another great shallow water beach if you want to get further from town, Turkey Point has a sandy beach, shallow Lake Erie water perfect for young families, with trails and restaurants nearby.
Have a Splash!
Sometimes, all it takes is a quick splash to cool everyone down. Here are some of our finest local splash pads and wading pools:
Mountainside Pool & Splash Park, Burlington
2205 Mount Forest Drive, Burlington
Nelson Pool & Splash Park, Burlington
4235 New Street, Burlington
LaSalle Wading Pool & Splash Park, Burlington
50 North Shore Boulevard East, Burlington
Nautical Park, Oakville
4235 New Street, Burlington
Coronation Park, Oakville
1426 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville
Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park, Oakville
2340 Ontario Street, Oakville
Long Point Provincial Park
350 Erie Boulevard, Port Rowan
For a beach day that feels like a real getaway, Long Point is worth the two-hour drive from Burlington. Located on Lake Erie, Long Point has a long, world-class sandy beach, warmer water, and is a well-known haven for birdwatchers.
What About the Dog?
Most municipal beaches are designed for people, and dogs may be restricted on the sand or in swimming areas. Always check posted signs and local rules before assuming your dog can swim. Some provincial parks, including Long Point and Fifty Point (Winona), have designated dog beach areas.
Shell Park in Oakville has a rocky shoreline where dogs can splash on leash. The creek at Bronte Creek Provincial Park is great for a doggie dip. One hidden gem is a sandy cove along Beach Boulevard/Confederation Park in Hamilton. Park at the Go-Cart track, walk toward the water, veer left, and throw a stick into Lake Ontario.
By Lisa Evans
Comments are closed.