When you’re planning to visit the Vandermarck Boutique Hotel, it is easy to focus on the mountains as they are so magnificent! However, did you know there are hundreds of miles of pristine beachfront – right on your doorstep?
Collingwood is situated on the southern shore of the South Georgian Bay and is a part of the larger Lake Huron. Our beautiful town is incredibly close to many recreational areas, such as the stunning lake, mountains, and hiking trails.
You pack your swimsuits and the buckets and spades, and we will take care of the rest! Here is a quick guide to some of the best beaches under an hour from the Vandermarck.
Sunset Point Park
Starting locally, Sunset Point Park is situated right in Collingwood. Now, what this waterfront area might lack in sand, it makes up for in ambiance and scenic views.
The Point has breathtaking views of the South Georgian Bay Area, especially at sunrise and sunset, where the view is incredibly stunning. The park offers the perfect vantage point to enjoy the natural beauty of the bay and the surrounding areas.
The waterfront does not feature golden sands; however, it is the perfect rocky surface for an amble around the water, a leisurely picnic or an area to sit and relax by the lake. Similarly, the park has many recreational facilities, such as volleyball courts, cultivated green spaces and fun playgrounds.
During the warmer months, the park hosts various festivals and functions – check the social calendar to ensure you don’t miss out! The park is very close to the downtown amenities, so it’s the perfect spot for an after-dinner stroll.
Wasaga Beach
Situated around thirty minutes east of Collingwood, Wasaga Beach is famous for being the home of the longest freshwater beach in the world! The beach is located on the southern shore of the Georgian Bay.
The infamous sand stretches over fourteen kilometres and is broken into six smaller sections, all seeming to emanate their own vibe – beach 1 being the most famous. All of the beach is within the parameters of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, which is one of the most prominent features of the small town.
The beach itself is neatly kept, and it was recently designated the Blue Flag Award, which recognizes the town’s efforts for water safety management and the general cleanliness of the beach.
Outside of the stunning beaches and beautiful shallow waters, there are many reasons to visit the park, including recreational activities like bird watching, hiking and picnics. The area is excellent for hiking and mountain biking and winter activities such as snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in the winter months.
In the summer and fall months, the Nottawasaga River runs close by, and it also provides activities such as fishing, boating and other fun water-based activities such as kayaking and canoeing.
Throughout the summer months, many festivals and events are hosted along the beach, so be sure to keep up with local social media channels before planning your visit to the beach!
Once you are ready for a break from the beach, Wasaga Beach has a variety of helpful amenities close to the water, including shops, restaurants, and essential beach goods to meet your needs.
Thornbury Harbour Beach
Thornbury Harbour Beach is a scenic and picturesque spot within the Southern Georgian Bay, nestled in the heart of the Blue Mountain region. The harbour is well-known for its crystalline blue water and Niagara Escarpment, making the location very appealing to photographers wishing to snap the beautiful rock formations.
As you would expect from a harbour, there are many options for water-based activities, such as boating, kayaking and canoeing. Helpfully, you do not need to have your own equipment; there are plenty of places where you can rent a canoe or kayak.
The beach is perfect for sunbathing, refreshing dip, or wandering along the stunning coastline. In the town nearby, there are some excellent cuisine options and great local shopping options.
Craigleith Provincial Park
A short ten-minute drive west along the Georgian Bay will bring you to Craigleith Provincial Park. This shoreline does not feature soft white sand for sunbathing, but this rocky beach is perfect for a nature walk.
The park is known for stunning views of the water and surrounding landscape. The rocky shores and clear blue water are incredibly peaceful and perfect for a break from the summer crowds. The park is also great for spotting geological features such as limestone cliffs and caves. The formations are interesting and perfect for photographers.
Due to the peaceful nature of the park, the area is perfect for hiking and birdwatching. There are well-marked trails that meander through the park – perfect for catching a glimpse of native species.
The water is also safe for swimming, frolicking or taking a quick and refreshing dip! This park is perfect for exercise, swimming if the weather is warm enough and then a cozy picnic on the shoreline to enjoy the park’s ambiance.
Blue Mountain Beach Club
For a slightly more curated experience featuring cabanas and a full beach bar, visit the Blue Mountain Beach Club. Access to this private beach club is included with a half or full-day ticket to the resort experiences.
The location is perfectly comfortable and includes a wide array of water activities. The beach club is also open in the evenings, so it’s perfect for relaxing after hiking the trails around the resort after a busy day.
Northwinds Beach
Northwinds Beach Park is one of the most popular beaches in the Blue Mountains, and it’s not hard to see why. Northwinds Beach is an excellent choice for active families. The large waterfront area is perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding, and you can rent non-motorized watercraft rentals onsite.
The beach has a playground, picnic tables, large sandy areas, and wash facilities. Plus, the Georgian Trail runs right next to the beach, so it’s an ideal place to end a long walk, run, or bike ride.
As you can see, so many beaches are within a short distance from Collingwood and the Vandermarck. This is just one of the many reasons to book a visit with us!