Planning things to do this long weekend in Ontario often includes beach visits, cottage stays, outdoor adventures, local food experiences, and time near the water. Many travellers head to Prince Edward County because it combines scenic lake views, wineries, nature activities, and easy access to Sandbanks Provincial Park.
Ontario’s long weekend is also one of the best times to enjoy summer weather. Staying near East Lake gives families, couples, and groups convenient access to beaches, kayaking areas, cycling routes, hiking trails, and relaxing waterfront experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Prince Edward County is one of Ontario’s top long weekend destinations
- Sandbanks Provincial Park offers beaches, trails, and scenic waterfront views
- East Lake is ideal for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding
- Cottage stays provide easy access to wineries, beaches, and outdoor activities
- Booking accommodations early helps avoid limited holiday availability
Why Is Prince Edward County Popular for Things to Do This Long Weekend?
Prince Edward County is a favourite long weekend destination as it offers beaches, wineries, cycling routes, local food, and peaceful waterfront stays in one easy getaway. Visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and slower-paced experiences without needing to travel far between stops.
1. It Has Beautiful Beaches Near Sandbanks
Prince Edward County is close to Sandbanks Provincial Park, one of Ontario’s most popular beach destinations. Travellers can enjoy beach walks, swimming, picnics, and relaxing days by the water.
2. It Offers Relaxing Water Activities
The area is ideal for kayaking, paddle boating, fishing, and quiet time by the lake. Around East Lake, visitors can enjoy peaceful water views without needing a packed itinerary.
3. It Is Great for Cycling and Scenic Drives
Prince Edward County has open roads, rural views, and charming stops that make cycling and scenic drives enjoyable. Visitors can explore local routes, small towns, farms, and waterfront areas at a relaxed pace.
4. It Has Wineries, Local Food, and Markets
The County is known for its wineries, cideries, restaurants, and local markets. This gives travellers more ways to enjoy the long weekend beyond the beach.
5. It Suits Families, Couples, and Groups
Prince Edward County works well for different types of travellers. Families can enjoy beaches and outdoor space, couples can visit wineries and scenic spots, and groups can gather at a cottage near the water.
6. It Feels Peaceful but Still Has Plenty to Do
One reason Prince Edward County is popular is its balance. Visitors can explore during the day, then return to a quiet lakeside stay for sunset views, dinner, or a campfire by the water.
Things to Do on a Long Weekend Near Sandbanks Provincial Park
Many travellers choose Prince Edward County for long weekends as it brings nature, relaxation, and family-friendly activities together in one scenic area. From sandy beaches to calm lake days and local food stops, there are plenty of easy ways to enjoy long weekends near Sandbanks Provincial Park.
1. Visit Sandbanks Provincial Park
Sandbanks Provincial Park is one of the area’s main attractions, known for its sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and beautiful waterfront views. It is a great place to spend a relaxed afternoon outdoors, especially during warmer weekends.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Walking along the beach
- Taking in scenic dune views
- Birdwatching
- Picnicking near the water
- Swimming on warmer days
2. Explore East Lake by Kayak or Paddleboard
East Lake offers a peaceful setting for travellers who want time on the water without a busy schedule. Its calm shoreline makes it ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and quiet nature watching.
Popular lake activities include:
- Morning paddling
- Sunset kayaking
- Fishing near the shoreline
- Wildlife spotting
- Relaxing by the dock after a day out
3. Visit Local Wineries and Breweries
Prince Edward County is also known for its wineries, breweries, cideries, and relaxed tasting experiences. This makes it easy to pair outdoor plans with a slower afternoon of local flavours and countryside views.
Popular experiences include:
- Wine tastings
- Outdoor patios
- Local cheese pairings
- Farm-to-table dining
- Scenic countryside drives
4. Enjoy a Campfire by the Water
A long weekend near Sandbanks feels complete with a quiet evening by the lake. After a day of beach walks, paddling, or exploring local stops, visitors can slow down with a campfire, sunset views, and time together outdoors.
This is especially appealing for families, couples, and groups who want a simple way to end the day without leaving their cottage area.
Long Weekend Things to Do Ontario Travellers Often Enjoy
Prince Edward County combines outdoor recreation with relaxing waterfront experiences.
Stay at a Lakeside Cottage
Cottage stays remain one of the most popular things to do during weekends. Lakeside accommodations provide easier access to beaches, outdoor cooking, campfires, and water activities.
| Cottage Feature | Why Travellers Enjoy It |
| Waterfront views | Scenic sunsets and lake scenery |
| Full kitchen | Easier family meal preparation |
| Fire pits | Comfortable evening gatherings |
| Kayaks | Convenient lake access |
| Beach pass access | Easier Sandbanks visits |
Explore Local Farmers’ Markets
Farmers’ markets in Prince Edward County feature baked goods, local produce, maple products, and handmade crafts.
Go Cycling Through Prince Edward County
Prince Edward County offers scenic cycling routes with waterfront roads and countryside views.
Popular cycling highlights include:
- Winery routes
- Waterfront roads
- Picnic stops
- Rural landscapes
- Small-town cafés
Things to Do on a Long Weekend for Couples
Prince Edward County offers relaxing waterfront activities that work well for romantic escapes.
Watch the Sunset on East Lake
East Lake sunsets and waterfront walks are among the most popular evening activities during weekends.
Enjoy Outdoor Dining
Many restaurants and wineries reopen outdoor patios during, making dining more enjoyable.
Couples often enjoy:
- Waterfront dining
- Winery patios
- Artisan bakeries
- Small cafés
- Farm restaurants
Relax by a Campfire
Many lakeside cottages include private fire pits for relaxing evenings after exploring Prince Edward County.
Step-by-Step Tips for Planning the Things to Do for the Long Weekend Getaway
Planning helps travellers avoid limited holiday availability.
Step 1: Choose Your Destination Early
Popular Prince Edward County cottages near Sandbanks Provincial Park often book months in advance for the holiday weekend.
Step 2: Prioritize Outdoor Activities
Weather can change quickly in Ontario, so flexible outdoor plans usually work best.
Step 3: Pack for Variable Temperatures
Summer includes warm afternoons and cooler evenings.
Helpful items include:
- Light jackets
- Walking shoes
- Beach towels
- Reusable water bottles
- Bug spray
Step 4: Book Accommodations Before Peak Dates
Many waterfront cottages and vacation rentals sell out early for the long weekend. Booking early usually provides better options for waterfront locations and larger groups.
Why Lakeside Cottage Stays Are Popular During the Long Weekend
Many travellers now prefer nature-focused destinations that combine outdoor recreation with comfort and privacy.
Lakeside cottages near Prince Edward County remain popular because they provide:
- More space for families
- Easy outdoor access
- Flexible meal planning
- Pet-friendly options
- Waterfront relaxation
Travellers looking for peaceful Sandbanks cottage rentals often choose locations near East Lake for the combination of waterfront relaxation, outdoor activities, and convenient access to Sandbanks Provincial Park during the long weekend.
Relax and Recharge During Ontario’s Long Weekend
Beach visits, kayaking, cycling, winery tours, and lakeside evenings continue making Prince Edward County one of the best destinations for things to do this long weekend in Ontario.
Oasis of Sandbanks offers peaceful lakeside cottage rentals near Sandbanks Provincial Park with complimentary kayaks, beach passes, waterfront access, and comfortable accommodations for families, couples, and groups visiting Prince Edward County. Book your Ontario cottage getaway today by calling +1 416-278-3848 or emailing evie@oasisofsandbanks.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Prince Edward County good for things to do this long weekend?
Yes, Prince Edward County is one of Ontario’s most popular destinations because of its beaches, wineries, cycling routes, and waterfront cottages. Many travellers enjoy visiting before peak summer crowds arrive.
Can families find things to do on long weekend near Sandbanks?
Yes, families can enjoy beaches, kayaking, cycling, picnic areas, and local markets throughout Prince Edward County. Sandbanks Provincial Park is especially popular for family-friendly outdoor activities during weekends.
Does booking early help with long weekend things to do in Ontario trips?
Yes, many cottages and vacation rentals near Sandbanks Provincial Park book months ahead for holiday weekends. Early booking usually provides better waterfront options and improved availability for larger groups.
Can couples enjoy relaxing things to do in long weekend getaways?
Yes, couples often enjoy sunset walks, winery visits, waterfront dining, and campfires during Ontario long weekends. Prince Edward County’s slower pace makes it ideal for romantic escapes.
Is staying near East Lake better during the long weekend?
Yes, East Lake provides easier access to kayaking, beaches, wineries, cycling routes, and Sandbanks Provincial Park. Many visitors also prefer the quieter waterfront atmosphere compared to busier tourist areas.