A beach is the perfect escape when you want rest, relaxation and the beauty of nature. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing and strolling the shoreline.
The Blue Mountains and Collingwood have a plethora of beaches – enough for you to visit a different one every day you’re in this scenic locale. They offer exceptional views and make it easy to unwind and breathe in the fresh air while you watch for wildlife. Spend the rest of your time shopping, visiting spas, golfing, hiking and sampling local beer and wine. This guide can help you discover more about the beaches to add to your itinerary while you’re visiting the area.
Wasaga Beach Provincial Park
Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, which borders Georgian Bay, is just a short drive from The VanderMarck Boutique Hotel in downtown Collingwood. It’s the longest freshwater beach in the world and has eight distinctive beach areas, each with its own appealing features. Beach 3 is dog-friendly, while Beaches 2, 4 and 5 have playgrounds. Swimming is available at all the beach areas. Hourly and daily paid parking is available at each location, and snacks are just a short walk away.
If you’re in the mood for an adrenaline rush, check out Wasaga Watersports at Beach 1. You can head out on the water in a variety of ways, from a paddleboard to a jet car.
Craigleith Provincial Park
About 15 minutes from The VanderMarck in The Blue Mountains is Craigleith Provincial Park on the southern shore of Georgian Bay. As you’re walking along the shale shoreline, keep an eye out for ancient fossils in the fractured plates.
Enjoy various outdoor activities, including fishing, picnicking and windsurfing. You can also rent a bike from one of several local bike shops and explore the Georgian Trail. If you prefer hiking, you can tackle the Bruce Trail.
Sunset Point Beach
Sunset Point Beach is a 15-minute walk or a 4-minute drive from our front door. It has a rocky, pebbly shoreline along Georgian Bay. There’s ample picnic space and popular waterfront trails. Parking is available for a fee from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving, but it’s free in the off-season.
After working up an appetite, stop by The Chipper, a popular local restaurant that’s steps from the parking lot. Indulge in items like haddock, poutine and burgers. They also serve ice cream, including plant-based options.
Northwinds Beach
Down the road, about 15 minutes from Sunset Point Beach, is Northwinds Beach along the Georgian Bay. Have a picnic, relax in the sand or head over to the playground. It’s one of the most popular beaches in the area, so make sure to go early to grab a good spot. Paid parking is available.
Surf and Turf Blue Mountains is a deli just a two-minute drive down the road if you want to pick up snacks for your outing. If you prefer a sit-down meal, The Alphorn Restaurant is about three minutes away and serves German, Swiss and Austrian cuisine.
Little River Park
Little River Park, with its charming pebble beach, is about 25 minutes from The VanderMarck. Set on the Georgian Bay, it has a playground and picnic tables, making it a great option for families.
Love golf? The beach is only a four-minute drive from the 18-hole, par-3 Tomahawk Golf Course. It’s also within walking distance of multiple restaurants, making it easy to refuel with good food after a day out in the sun.
Get Out and Explore
At The VanderMarck, we love the incredible nature Collingwood has to offer, and we want you to experience as much of it as you can! That’s why we’ve partnered with several local businesses to offer special package deals to our guests.
Enjoy a sunset or dinner cruise with Collingwood Charters, where you can learn about the area while listening to music, sipping on a drink and taking in the beauty of the Georgian Bay. Book a guided private fishing charter for a peaceful day out on the water surrounded by nature. Catch processing and packaging services are available upon request. You can also choose a guided, private kayaking and wildlife tour package. Partake in early morning angling and bird watching, keeping an eye out for local birds such as great blue herons and mallards.
Start Your Beach Vacation with The VanderMarck
Start planning your beach vacation today with The VanderMarck. Reserve your stay through our website for a studio, one-bedroom or two-bedroom suite. If you have any questions or need trip recommendations, feel free to contact us for assistance.