A visit to one—if not all—of the best beaches Ottawa has to offer is needed when temperatures become hot and sticky.
Whether you’re planning weekend getaways, a camping trip or just looking for ways to cool off or with friends, these beaches in Ottawa are a quick subway, ferry, or bus trip away.
If you have a car and want to venture further out, check out our guide to the best beaches Ontario has to offer.
Beaches in Ottawa Water Quality
Water quality is monitored daily by the City of Ottawa for coliform and e-Coli bacteria.
For water quality information, call 613-580-2424 ext. 13219 or visit the City of Ottawa website.
The information is updated at noon daily, based on the previous day’s water samples.
A no-swimming advisory will be issued if bacteria levels are over 200 E. coli per 100 ml of water tested or if they are over 100 E. coli per 100 ml of water tested on two or more consecutive days, or if there is 20 mm of rain.
Here are the best Beaches in Ottawa
1. Mooney's Bay Park and Beach
A popular summer destination for swimmers, rowers, and special events, including Dragon Boat Races and HOPE Volleyball.
It's shallow enough for younger kids, and there are lots of lifeguards. There are public BBQs everywhere for people to use conveniently located next to picnic tables.
- From May 21 to September 5, 2022, paid parking from 7 am to 6 pm
- Canteen
- Picnic tables
- BBQ pits in the park
- Play structures
- Volley-ball net rental
- Stand-up Paddleboard Rental (16+ years of age)
- Lifeguards
2. Petrie Island Beach
Petrie Island is one of the best spots in the Canadian national capital region that gathers family friendlessness and nature during the summer season.
A wonderful sandy beach with spectacular views across the Ottawa River. Great for picnics, a stroll, a swim, a game of volleyball, or watching the boats go by.
- From May 21 to September 5, 2022, paid parking from 7 am to 6 pm (seasonal passes available).
- Canteen
- Picnic tables
- Play structure
- Volley-ball net rental
- Stand-up Paddleboard Rental (16+ years of age)
- Lifeguards
3. Britannia Beach
Britannia Beach is a lovely small Cove away from the general public swimmers. The beach offers a great sunrise and sunset.
Known for beach volleyball, cycling, and chest-level backwaters to laze around during the cool summer sun.
- Free parking
- Canteen
- Picnic tables
- BBQ pits in the park
- Play structures
- Accessible washroom
- Volley-ball net rental
- Stand-up Paddleboard Rental (16+ years of age)
- Lifeguards
4. Shirleys Bay Park
Located at the western edge of Canada’s Capital Greenbelt, Shirleys Bay is an internationally significant conservation area on the Ottawa River.
The natural wetland features along the shore, as well as the inland wetlands, provide many benefits, including improved water quality and thriving wildlife habitats.
Shirleys Bay is great for outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, boating, cycling, birding, and picnicking.
5. Kitchissippi Lookout
A nice mini getaway along the river in Ottawa. You have the Westboro Beach for your swimming pleasure and a historical reference to the Nile Voyageurs nearby.
Along with the scenic lookout to enjoy views of the Ottawa River you have a nice little oasis. And you’re close to Richmond Street if you’re in need of a beverage or two to top off your day.
The following amenities are available for visitors:
- Westboro Beach Café (Cash Only)
- ATM Onsite
- Washrooms
- Change rooms
- Free Parking
- Water Sports
- Lifeguards
Best Beaches in Ottawa FAQs
Lake Erie is the shallowest of all the Great Lakes, making it the warmest. Crystal Beach by far the town of Fort Erie's biggest draw. Go for a swim, lounge on the white sand, sail around the bay, go fishing, try out the water-sports galore, or explore the quaint town of Fort Erie.
lakes are confined to smaller fetches which limit wave size, but the Great Lakes are large enough to produce frequent swells up to several meters.
While ocean waves are created by distant storm systems, waves on the Great Lakes are formed by localized winds
Generally, the water is clean and safe for swimming. However, to ensure public safety, the water is tested for contamination by bacteria. If problems are found, signs advising the public are posted at affected beaches.
