Discover Montreal's Best Beaches

Montreal's proximity to water means it's home to a diverse array of beaches, from sandy stretches along the Ottawa River at Oka to smaller urban beaches on the St. Lawrence River. These beaches cater to everyone, from families to those seeking lively music and fun. Accessible by car or public transit, some beaches are free in public parks, while others in provincial parks or private areas may charge an entry fee. Safety is a priority, with lifeguards and regular water testing at all locations. To explore the best beaches Montreal has to offer, visit here.

1. Oka Park Beach

Oka National Park's beach is a favorite, offering over a kilometer of soft, golden sand along the Ottawa River. It provides a mix of lively areas with music and quieter spots for relaxation. Rentals for water activities and the Aquazilla water course are available, with additional fees for some attractions. The park also features picnic areas and BBQs but requires payment for park and parking access.

2. RécréoParc (Recreo Park)

Stretching nine kilometers along the St. Lawrence River, RécréoParc boasts a manmade lake with sandy shores, perfect for families and swimmers of all levels. The park includes a fenced grassy area, little shade, and views of the river. Located on Île de Seigneur, it's accessible via a lift bridge over the canal.

Excursions in Montreal

3. Saint-Zotique

An hour from downtown Montreal, Saint-Zotique beach offers a calm stretch on the St. Lawrence River with amenities like pedal boats and a giant floating obstacle course. A boardwalk and picnic tables provide space for relaxation, and the beach includes a shallow pool and splash pad. Volleyball courts are also available, and an entry fee is charged.

4. Pointe-Calumet Beach Club

Pointe-Calumet Beach Club, on Lac des Sables, is a hotspot for the young crowd, featuring areas for adults with DJs and live bands, as well as a quieter beach section. The club offers a pool, lounges, and wakeboarding, with lifeguards on duty. Entry and VIP access come with a fee.

5. Super Aqua Club

Super Aqua Club is a family-oriented park with waterslides, a floating obstacle course, and a heated Wave Pool. The beach area has shallow waters ideal for children. Lifeguards are present, and entry fees are based on height. Visit the official site at https://superaquaclub.com/en/.

6. Cap Saint-Jacques

Cap Saint-Jacques beach, located in a cove on Lake of Two Mountains, offers golden sands and volleyball nets. The water's dark color may be off-putting to some, but it warms quickly in summer. Picnic areas and historic Chateau Gohier are nearby, and fees apply for park and parking access.

7. Jean-Doré Beach

Jean-Doré Beach in Parc Jean-Drapeau features a manmade lake with sandy beaches and grassy areas. Easily reached by public transport, it offers picnic tables, volleyball, and lifeguards. An admission fee is required.

8. Verdun Beach

Verdun Beach is a convenient option for those without cars, offering easy access by bus or metro. This small beach on the St. Lawrence river has clear waters, slides, and a climbing wall, with lifeguards on duty. Entry is free.

9. Clock Tower Beach

Clock Tower Beach offers a unique, non-swimming beach experience with sand, umbrellas, chairs, and city views. It's a great spot to relax with a book and is free to the public.

10. St. Timothée Islands Regional Park

Parc régional des Îles-de-Saint-Timothée features a small sandy beach on Ile Papineau with clear waters and lifeguards. Rentals for kayaks, paddleboards, and other equipment are available, along with a playground and grassy areas. An entry fee is charged.