Summer in Ottawa is a time to take advantage of the warm weather and enjoy the natural beauty the city has to offer. From sandy beaches to peaceful parks, Ottawa provides plenty of outdoor activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water, explore the trails, or take part in fun family-friendly activities, Ottawa has something for every type of adventurer. In this guide, we’ll explore the best beaches and outdoor spots to visit this summer in the capital—and some nearby destinations for those looking to expand their beach-hopping adventures. At Evans Family Wealth, we believe in enjoying life’s moments while also planning for a secure future.
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Parliament Hill Beach: A Scenic Escape by the Water
If you’re looking for a beach that’s central to Ottawa’s vibrant downtown, Parliament Hill Beach is the perfect spot. While not a typical beach, this riverside location offers great views of the city’s most iconic landmark—Parliament Hill. You can enjoy the Ottawa River, take a walk along the shoreline, or relax while enjoying the waterfront.
Why visit?
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- Ideal for photos with Parliament Hill as the backdrop
- Enjoy walking paths along the river
- Great for an afternoon picnic or leisurely stroll
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Britannia Beach: Ottawa’s Hidden Gem
For those looking for a true beach experience, Britannia Beach on the Ottawa River is a must-see. This popular spot offers not only a large sandy area but also great spots for picnicking and barbecuing. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy the scenery, Britannia Beach provides a great balance of relaxation and activity.
Why visit?
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- Popular for swimming and kayaking
- Perfect for family gatherings with its picnic and BBQ areas
- Beautiful views of the Ottawa River and surrounding nature
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Mooney’s Bay Beach: Family-Friendly Fun
Located along the Rideau River, Mooney’s Bay Beach is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Ottawa. With a large, sandy area and gentle water, it’s a great spot for kids to play and for families to enjoy a day of relaxation. There are also volleyball courts, a play area for children, and plenty of green space for picnics.
Why visit?
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- Perfect for kids with shallow water and safe swimming areas
- Volleyball courts and playgrounds available
- Beautiful parkland for picnics and relaxation
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Petrie Island: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
For nature enthusiasts, Petrie Island is a hidden treasure just a short drive from downtown Ottawa. It’s not only a beach but also a nature reserve, offering walking trails, bird watching, and peaceful natural surroundings. The beach is quieter compared to others, making it ideal for those seeking some solitude.
Why visit?
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- Ideal for nature lovers, with great trails and birdwatching opportunities
- Less crowded beach for a more relaxed experience
- Fantastic for kayaking and canoeing in the Ottawa River
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Rideau Canal & Queen Elizabeth Driveway: Waterfront Adventures
Though technically not a beach, the Rideau Canal offers a fantastic summer experience for those looking to get on the water. The canal is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and even stand-up paddleboarding. You can rent equipment nearby or bring your own for a fun day exploring the water.
In addition, Queen Elizabeth Driveway is great for cycling and walking along the canal, offering beautiful views and access to nearby attractions.
Why visit?
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- Ideal for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of the canal and surrounding parks
- Great for cycling, walking, or simply relaxing by the water
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The NCC River House: A Popular Waterfront Spot with Dining and Relaxation
The NCC River House, located along the Ottawa River, has quickly become one of the most popular spots in the area. Offering stunning views of the water, scenic walking trails, and plenty of green space, it’s a fantastic place to spend a day outdoors. The River House Café & Bistro adds to the charm, offering a relaxing atmosphere for grabbing a bite to eat with a view. Whether you’re enjoying a coffee on the terrace or indulging in a delicious meal, the café is the perfect spot to unwind after a walk along the river.
Why visit?
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- Scenic views of the Ottawa River and surrounding nature
- River House Café & Bistro for a relaxing meal or coffee by the water
- Popular for both locals and visitors seeking a mix of nature and vibrant outdoor spaces
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Dow’s Lake: Perfect for Boating and Picnicking
Dow’s Lake is another popular summer destination, offering a variety of outdoor activities. Located near the Central Experimental Farm, Dow’s Lake is great for boating, picnicking, and fishing. You can rent a canoe or paddleboat to enjoy the peaceful surroundings or relax by the water.
Why visit?
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- Rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboat to explore the lake
- Picnic areas with plenty of green space
- Ideal for a peaceful, scenic day out on the water
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Westboro Beach: The Place to Be for Volleyball
Westboro Beach is a lively spot that offers sand, water, and plenty of activities for all ages. Known for its volleyball courts and proximity to Westboro’s popular restaurants, this beach offers an energetic vibe with something for everyone.
Why visit?
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- Great for volleyball lovers and active families
- Close to trendy restaurants and cafes in Westboro
- Popular for sunbathing and socializing
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Sandbanks Provincial Park (Prince Edward County): A Beautiful Escape
For those willing to venture outside of Ottawa, Sandbanks Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s most stunning beaches. Located in Prince Edward County, about a 2.5-hour drive from Ottawa, Sandbanks boasts miles of pristine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s perfect for those who want to experience a great beach day in a more natural setting.
Why visit?
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- Known for its large sandy dunes and clear waters
- Ideal for beachgoers who want to escape the city and explore nature
- Great for swimming, boating, and camping
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Gatineau Park: Beaches and Outdoor Adventure
Just across the river from Ottawa, Gatineau Park offers several beaches and outdoor recreation areas. Meech Lake and Lac Philippe are two of the most popular beaches, offering sandy shorelines, clear waters, and plenty of activities like hiking, swimming, and canoeing.
Why visit?
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- Scenic lakes and beaches, perfect for relaxing or swimming
- Great for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Gatineau Hills
- Ideal for a peaceful escape just outside of Ottawa
Conclusion: Enjoy Ottawa’s Beaches and Outdoor Fun This Summer
Ottawa has no shortage of beautiful beaches and outdoor spaces to explore. Whether you’re looking for a lively, family-friendly spot like Mooney’s Bay, a quiet escape like Petrie Island, or the perfect place for water sports on the Rideau Canal, Ottawa’s beaches and parks provide the perfect way to spend a sunny summer day. And with nearby gems like Sandbanks Provincial Park and the Gatineau Park beaches, there’s always a new destination to discover.
At Evans Family Wealth, we help you plan for the future while you enjoy life today. Whether you’re focusing on your financial goals or simply soaking up the sun, our expert team is here to ensure your wealth is managed to grow, even through uncertain times.
Plan your next outdoor adventure, pack a picnic, and explore some of the best beaches and activities Ottawa and its surrounding areas have to offer. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the summer, these spots will provide the perfect backdrop for your next outdoor adventure!
Briana
