Sun, Sand, and Sea: Beaches Near Ottawa for Relaxation

When the hustle and bustle of the city become overwhelming, many people seek a serene destination to unwind. What better place could there be than a lovely beach with the trifecta of sun, sand, and sea? For those residing in or visiting the Canadian capital, Ottawa, a perfect beach getaway might seem like a distant dream as the city is generally known for its museums and political history. However, you will be surprised to learn that Ottawa boasts some of the best beaches, each within affordable traveling distances. So, whether you're an Ottawa resident desperate for a mini vacation or a tourist wide-eyed and ready to explore, we've got you covered! You can reach these havens of relaxation without the need for a passport or plane tickets.

Westboro Beach

Located on the banks of the Ottawa River, Westboro Beach offers a unique urban beach experience. You can enjoy unbeatable river views, rent a kayak, indulge in savory beachside bites from the seasonal café, or bask in the unique activities each season brings. In the summer, it's all about surfing, paddle-boarding, and picnics. Winter ushers in the fun of snowkiting. Check its location on the map.

Mooney’s Bay Beach

Popular with families and picnic enthusiasts, Mooney’s Bay Beach has impressive facilities including Baja Burgers Shack for food lovers and picnic tables. This area hosts annual summertime events such as the highly anticipated HOPE Beach Volleyball Tournament. You can also find the biggest playground in Canada here. Thanks to the diversity it offers, you won't run out of ways to enjoy Mooney's! Locate it here.

Petrie Island Beach

Petrie Island Beach is an experience out of reach of the city's chaos. This set of islands offers an impressive array of scenery and recreational options. You can hike on nature trails, fish, enjoy a picnic, or hit the sandy beach for a sunny retreat. Petrie Island Beach is perfect for the whole family and provides a larger area for your holiday fun. You can join the Petrie Island community for their popular summer festivals too. Find this hidden gem here.

While each of these beaches has various activities to enjoy, sometimes exploration can be tiring, and you might need a guide. That's where an experienced guide from Cityplanet comes in handy. They offer amazing excursions in Ottawa that you won't want to miss. Apart from recommending the best beaches, they also guide you through Ottawa's notable spots, sharing fascinating historical tidbits and other interesting facts about the city.

Canada’s Charm Beyond Ottawa

If you are venturing beyond Ottawa, the amazing Cityplanet excursion tours also cover other parts of Canada. From Niagara Falls to the majestic Rocky Mountains, Canada has marvels in abundance. With Cityplanet, you will experience the best of Canada’s natural beauty without the stress of planning the journey yourself.

The next time you crave a trip to the beach, don’t let the urban surroundings of Ottawa deter you. This charming city has numerous beach destinations for you to unwind and rejuvenate. So pack your SPF, swimsuits and towels, and gear up for an unforgettable beach adventure near Ottawa!