Posted 06 Aug, 2020
The Best Lake Simcoe Beaches
With August just around the corner, we’re officially in the dog days of summer! Now, more than ever, it’s important to get outside and enjoy a lazy afternoon lounging by the lake. When scorching temperatures finally arrive, you don’t have to travel far to dip your toes in the water and park your umbrella in the sand.
Lake Simcoe is the glistening, hidden treasure of the north — with its beautiful crystal clear waters perfect for swimming, endless horizon and golden beaches, it is the perfect getaway from the everyday. Not to mention, the shallow waters of Lake Simcoe are much warmer than the Great Lakes and the best part is, it's not too far from home. Here’s the only list you’ll ever need of the best and most popular beaches around Lake Simcoe.
Centennial Beach
Starting off this list along the shores of Kempenfelt Bay, you’ll find the beautiful Centennial Beach. Not only is Centennial known for it’s warm waters and sandy shores, there’s a ton of stuff to do in the area! Paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing are just some of the many options. Centennial also includes a decent sized playground for kids of all ages, a beach volleyball court, and shady areas ideal for picnics. Head on over to Centennial Beach now, before the summer ends.
Where it’s located: 65 Lakeshore Drive, Barrie
Minet's Point Park
This waterside retreat is popular for windsurfing and it’s sunset point. Go closer to the evening to catch a glimpse of the spectacular view of the summer sunset, sure to leave you in awe. A clean and well taken care of beach with a playground conveniently placed for your little ones. Be sure to keep your sandals on, or wear swim shoes as there are tiny little rocks along the beach.
Where it’s located: 10 Lismer Boulevard, Barrie
Johnson’s Beach
Conveniently located on the north side of Kempenfelt Bay, this quaint beach is a good place to have in mind while out near downtown Barrie. This private little beach is excellent for relaxing and taking a stroll along the shores around sunset. Don’t forget to bring your camera as there will be lots of picture-taking opportunities. The view of the city’s core is absolutely breathtaking.
Where it’s located: 2 Johnson Street, Barrie
Tyndale Beach Park
Tyndale Beach Park might not be as large or as popular as Centennial Beach or some of the other beaches on this list, but Tyndale’s atmosphere makes it worth mentioning. Not only does it have a sandy beach and playground, but it also has a great BBQ facility for your convenience. This beach seems to be a favourite among the locals who are looking to appreciate those hot summer weekends on the beach, without running into crowds. As there are few amenities, be sure to pack a lunch for you to enjoy!
Where it’s located: 45 Tyndale Road, Barrie
Wilkins Walk
Wilkins Walk made this list for the picturesque views of the lake along the trail. Perfect place to stretch your legs with the whole family, tons of trees and birds for your viewing pleasure. Don’t be shocked to find crowds here throughout the week in the summer, but closer to the end of the weekend it tends to get a bit quieter. At the end of your stroll, be rewarded with a small deck to get closer to the crystal clear water.
Where it’s located: Barrie, ON
Innisfil Beach Park
Innisfil Beach Park is a lovely lakeside retreat to visit during the summer. It’s never too crowded and is popular for jet skis and boats. Known for its retirement community, a peaceful and serene place with lots of space and BBQ areas and a little ice cream and snack shop. There is a green space you can sit and relax in and the water is shallow enough for you to comfortably play watersports.
Where it’s located: 676 Innisfil Beach Rd, Innisfil
Wasaga Beach
If you grew up in the GTA, you probably remember Wasaga Beach as a nostalgic place you visited sometime in your adolescence. This beautiful beach, that’s divided into 6 different beaches, is often the destination resort for lots of young people looking to celebrate their proms and just generally hang out. This has earned it the reputation of being a party beach. Most of the younger crowd hang out at beaches 1 and 2. For a quiet, more family-friendly experience, try choosing beaches 3-6. Most of the restaurants, patios and shops are located at beach 1, so it’s definitely worth a visit.
Where it’s located: 11-22nd St., North
Couchiching Beach Park
And finally, but certainly not least, Couchiching Beach Park. An extraordinary beautiful park to go walking at all times of the day. There's a nice boardwalk along the waterfront, and some sandy beaches for sitting and sunbathing. There’s a thoughtful cycle path that goes through the park and plenty of benches for sitting and watching people and the boats on the water. It's also well lit, for those of you who enjoy walking at night. As if all that wasn't enough, as an added bonus you will find a rotary train that runs all through the summer months.
Where it’s located: 140 Canice St, Orillia