Best Beaches Near Montreal: Your Ultimate Guide
Great summer weather, golden sandy beaches, brilliant sunshine, people frolicking under sun umbrellas… Could this be the Caribbean? Nope, it’s Montreal!
The beaches may be river beaches rather than the balmy Caribbean, but Montreal and the surrounding area offer blissful summer beaches at a fraction of the cost of a tropical getaway. While the beaches can be covered in ice through the winter, for a few months every summer, they transform into paradises. Wintery walks on the beaches also provide a refreshing experience, although it’s best to leave the bikini at home.
Verdun Beach
Imagine having a beach getaway right in the middle of Montreal! At Verdun Beach, you can enjoy this little slice of summer, easily accessible via the De l’Église metro station and two different bus routes. Depending on water conditions, swimming is possible thanks to a man-made rock dike by the golden sand. In cooler months, visit the lovely Bar Verdun Beach, a Parisian-inspired guinguette with a beachy vibe.
Jean-Doré Beach
Easily accessible on the Montreal metro, Jean-Doré Beach in Parc Jean-Doré boasts an enormous swimming area that is regularly cleaned, making it ideal for families and activity-loving adults. Swimming in 15,000 sq feet of calm water, playing beach volleyball, or renting a paddleboard or kayak are just a few options. Additionally, visitors can enjoy bouncing on the floating inflatable obstacle course at Aquazilla.
Clock Tower Beach
Located in the Old Port of Montreal, this easily reachable artificial beach is a welcome respite from the summer heat. Decorated with charming blue parasols, it’s the perfect spot to tan and escape with a novel without ever leaving the city center. While the water here may not be suitable for swimming, beachside restaurants and refreshment stands enhance the experience. This location also offers stunning views of Montreal’s regular firework shows and hosts exciting adults-only DJ nights, as well as calming morning yoga sessions.
Saint-Zotique Beach
Less than an hour from Montreal, the stunning Saint-Zotique Beach is dotted with straw umbrellas and serves as a haven for sunbathers and aquatic adventurers alike. This unexpected gem in Quebec allows visitors to bounce on the floating waterpark of Eau Défi, swim in the wading pool, or even rent a charcoal BBQ for a delightful post-sun dinner. In winter, families can participate in festive elf-hunting activities. Keep in mind that access to this beach requires a paid reservation, so plan your visit in advance.
Oka Beach
Located in the beautiful Parc National d’Oka, just a short drive from Montreal, Oka Beach offers a picturesque setting along the Ottawa River. The contrast of gray-blue waters, soft yellow sand, and a thick forest backdrop creates a stunning view in any season. During summer nights, enjoy bonfires and performances, along with various beach activities, including a popular floating water obstacle course.
Pointe-Calumet Beach
For those seeking excitement, Pointe-Calumet Beach provides swimming, waterslides, wakeboarding, and inflatable castles, reminiscent of an exciting beach in Miami, just a 45-minute drive from downtown Montreal. Additionally, the renowned Beachclub offers an incredible outdoor concert venue and multiple summer events where visitors can dance in and out of the water.
St Timothée Islands Regional Park Beach
Located majestically in the St Lawrence River, the St Timothée Islands are fewer than 60 minutes from Montreal. These beaches are remarkable not just for their soft sand and crystal clear waters, but also for the network of scenic hiking trails that surround them. After a morning of hiking, you can relax on the beach or take a refreshing swim. In winter, enjoy the covered outdoor ice rink.
Lac-Saint-Joseph Beach
Don’t pinch yourself! The coconut trees at Lac-Saint-Joseph Beach are real (though definitely imported). Located almost three hours southwest of Montreal, this large lake is ideal for family outings and promises a unique experience in Canada. If you’re too tired to drive back after a day of fun, numerous campgrounds are available for an overnight stay. Lifeguards are on duty, ensuring safety at the beach, although there is an entrance fee — $40 for a family pass, which drops to $15 or $6 per person after 5pm.
