Beaches in Ontario are where you need to go when popular Toronto spots like Woodbine Beach are just not going to cut it. Outside the city, there are lots of options including the popular Sandbanks in Prince Edward County.

With summer heat at full blast, I'm craving a beach escape, but not one crowded with hundreds of other people. 

I want relaxation, nature, and a chance to explore small towns. So, I've been on the hunt for some fantastic Ontario beaches, a little farther away from the sticky sardine-tin that Toronto turns into in this beautiful weather.

Here are a few that caught my eye.

Cantara Beach & Park

Located in Sarnia, Canatara Beach stretches nearly a kilometre along Lake Huron's shore. This urban beach is perfect for families, with playgrounds, an animal farm, a swimming hold, a BMX bike track, and plenty of picnic areas.

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It's one of only 27 beaches in Canada to earn Blue Flag status for its water quality and safety. Bird watchers can spot warblers, sandpipers, and falcons, while motorcyclists and watersports enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy.

Agawa Bay Beach

At the southern end of Lake Superior Provincial Park lies Agawa Bay Beach, a stunning three-kilometre sandy beach framed by the Canadian Shield's hills and cliffs.

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Though the water might be chillier, the natural beauty is unparalleled. There are options for paddling, body surfing, and swimming, and the nearby Agawa Rock Pictographs are a must-see. 

Spruce Beach

Spruce Beach in Elliot Lake is a hidden gem. With beautiful white sand and a large play area, it's a great destination for anyone looking for a beach vacation without leaving Ontario.

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Lifeguards are on duty from June to August, and there's a supervised swimming area and a large rock that acts as a makeshift diving board. A scenic walking trail connects Spruce Beach to Spine Beach and the Westview boat launch.

Pelee Island

Pelee Island, off the shores of Leamington, offers visitors a variety of beaches around the island. If you're staying in the area for the weekend, Point Pelee National Park, the second smallest and most ecologically diverse national park, is a fantastic spot for camping.

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Whether you're into biking, swimming, exploring local shops, or enjoying the island's food and drink, Pelee Island has it all. You can rent bikes and golf carts or bring your own car across on the ferry for a perfect mix of calm and exploration.

Cobourg Beach

Cobourg Beach is a perfect day trip spot with beautiful sandy shores and a charming boardwalk. While it gets pretty busy (not as busy as Bluffer's Park Beach or tourist hotspot Wasaga), if you time your visit correctly, you stand a solid chance of getting that solitude you're searching for.

Hang out at this beach near Toronto 🏖 #Cobourg #CobourgBeach #Ontario pic.twitter.com/thGmkAgWeX

— blogTO (@blogTO) August 12, 2022

The beach is divided into Victoria Park Beach and West Beach, each offering lovely swimming areas. Cobourg Beach hosts various events throughout the year, like volleyball tournaments, the Sandcastle Festival, and movie nights in the park.