Located on Lake Huron between Goderich and Sarnia, Grand Bend is southern Ontario’s quintessential beach town. South Beach is the quieter, more family-friendly sibling of Grand Bend’s Main or North Beach, which tends to attract a younger, rowdier crowd focused on sunbathing and socializing. South Beach’s long, sandy stretches and warm water are perfect for strolling, sandcastle-building, and swimming.
More info: Grandbend.com
What’s nearby: Escape the sand and explore the town of Grand Bend, which features a completely wheelchair- and scooter-accessible downtown—right down to the beach. If you’re a history buff, take a self-guided walking tour and check out the oldest hotel in town and the remains of the Wondergrove Roller Rink. If you feel like a day trip, head north to Goderich and see whether the “prettiest town in Canada” lives up to its reputation.
How to get there: Take the 401 west to Highway 8. Turn right onto Huron Street, turn left onto County Road 130, turn right onto Perth Line 20, then turn left onto Ontario 21 south/Bluewater Highway.
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