Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. One of the best ways to enjoy the warm summer weather is by visiting the beaches. Fortunately, there are several free beaches in and around Ottawa that offer a perfect getaway for locals and tourists alike. In this article, we have compiled a list of eight free beaches in Ottawa or nearby areas that you can visit without breaking the bank. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and get ready for a fun-filled day at the beach!
- Westboro Beach – is located in the larger geographic neighbourhood of Westboro in the urban west end of the City of Ottawa.
- Britannia Beach – is located in Ottawa along the Ottawa River. There is also a canteen, picnic tables, barbecue pits, and play structures and fields. Parking is free, volleyball nets are available for rent and lifeguards are on duty daily during the summer.
- Petrie Island Beach – is located in Orleans along the Ottawa River. There are two large public beaches on the northeast corner of the island. One is the North Beach or River Beach, the other is the East Bay Beach, facing downriver. Public parking for 320 vehicles is provided (parking fee is $2 for 5 hours, 7:00-18:00, 7 days a week). The picnic area maintained by Friends of Petrie Island also has a supervised beach, in a more shaded area, with a play area for small children.
- Leamy Lake Beach – is located in the Hull sector of Gatineau, Quebec. The lake is located just to the south of the Gatineau River, and just west of the Ottawa River, and is linked to both of them flowing in from the Gatineau and exiting to the Ottawa.
- Philippe Lake Beaches – are located in Gatineau Park. Parent Beach is one of three beaches on Philippe Lake, located on the north side of Gatineau Park. Key services include lifeguards on duty from 10 am to 6 pm during the summer; universally accessible toilets, change rooms and picnic tables; and canoe, paddleboat and kayak rentals. Note that alcoholic beverages and pets are not permitted on the beach. The 2 other beaches are Breton Beach and Plage Smith
- Constance Bay Beach – is located approximately 40 km northwest of Ottawa. It is a family-friendly, broad, shallow, clean sandy beach several kilometres long located up the Ottawa River in the City of Ottawa’s quiet Constance Bay Village.
- Baxter Conservation Area Beach – is located approximately 50 km south of Ottawa in Kemptville, Ontario. There is a sandy beach with picnic tables, barbecues, washrooms and change huts. Note that there are never lifeguards on duty along the beach.
- Fitzroy Provincial Park Beach – is located approximately 60 km west of Ottawa on the Ottawa River. Great family camping park with large campsites; swim, hike or relax by the beach.
- Morris Island Conservation Area Beach – is located approximately 75 km east of Ottawa on the Ottawa River
Now that you know about these 9 amazing free beaches in and around Ottawa, it’s time to plan your next summer adventure. Whether you want to take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Ottawa River, sunbathe on the sandy shores of the St. Lawrence River, or explore the scenic beauty of Gatineau Park, these beaches offer something for everyone. So, pack your picnic basket, gather your friends and family, and make the most of these beautiful natural treasures. Don’t forget to follow the beach rules and respect the environment to keep these places clean and safe for everyone to enjoy. Have a great summer!
