Sandbanks, a provincial park located in Lake Ontario, is a first-choice family spot with its fair share of beautiful beaches, outdoor sports, and other attractive facilities. Popular beaches like Dunes Beach and Outlet Beach are places where one can find the most amazing experiences, from restaurants, hiking trails, and white sand beaches.
Why Visit Sandbanks Provincial Park with Kids?
“Sandbanks” is famous for its clear sea, peaceful places, and beautiful natural landscapes. The location is exceptional for kids due to the safety of the swimming zones, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the convenient location of the nearby interesting spots.
For a more tranquil beach experience, one could also go to North Beach Provincial Park. It is less crowded than Sandbanks Outlet Beach and is perfect for families as well. At Prince Edward County, you can find a great mix of attractions, such as antique shops, scenic parks, and vibrant wineries.
Best Beaches in Sandbanks for Families
Sandbanks Outlet Beach
This magnificent beach is a champion for families with soft sand, lifeguarded waters, and tons of room for kids to play. There are also public restrooms, a café, and beach equipment rentals for the visitors.
Dunes Beach
Dunes Beach by Sandbanks is a breathtaking stretch of soft, golden sand surrounded by towering dunes and shallow waters, creating a calm, peaceful setting. The gentle shoreline and warm, shallow waters make it perfect for families with young children, offering a safe place to wade and play.
Lakeshore Beach
Lakeshore Beach by Sandbanks is a stunning sandy beach along the shores of Lake Ontario, known for its wide shoreline and crystal-clear waters. With plenty of space for sandcastle building, picnics, and long walks along the water, it’s a perfect destination for a family day out.
Richardson’s Camp Beach
Located near the western side of Sandbanks Provincial Park, Richardson’s Camp Beach offers a quieter, more secluded experience. It’s a beautiful spot for swimming and sunbathing, with soft sand and gentle waves.
West Point Beach
West Point Beach is a hidden gem in Sandbanks. It’s a fantastic place for a beach walk to take in a breathtaking sunset over Lake Ontario. While it’s not as well-known as the other beaches, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Outdoor Adventures for Kids
1. Beach Fun & Sand Dune Climbing
The amazing soft sand at Dunes Beach is perfect for climbing and racing down at the bottom. Kids can get wet safely as East Lake has shallow and warm water.
2. Swimming & Wading
Outlet Beach and Lakeshore Beach are great for swimming as they have gentle waves and shallow water. Lifeguards are present for safety.
3. Hiking & Nature Trails
- Sandbanks Dunes Trail
- Cedar Sands Trail
- Woodlands Trail
4. Wildlife Watching
Kids can see turtles, frogs, birds, and white-tailed deer as they walk on trails and marsh areas.
5. Canoeing, Kayaking & Paddleboarding
East Lake or Outlet River is where families can rent canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards.
6. Biking
Biking paths in the park make it easy for kids to ride around safely while exploring campground roads.
7. Picnicking & BBQs
After being active all day long, families can sit down together at tables in picnic areas that also feature barbecue grills.
8. Camping Under the Stars
Kids love tents. Roasting marshmallows can be fun. Sandbanks has great campgrounds.
9. Fishing
East Lake and Outlet River are great places for kids to fish.
10. Exploring West Lake’s Sand Dunes by Boat
Ride in a boat to explore West Lakes Sand Dunes. It’s a unique way to see the park’s beauty.
Rainy Day Activities for Families
1. Explore Local Museums
- Macaulay Heritage Park in Picton features period rooms and historical exhibits.
- Wellington Heritage Museum – Showcases local history, including early Quaker settlers and the region’s agricultural roots.
2. Visit Art Galleries
- Oeno Gallery (Bloomfield) – A family-friendly art gallery with beautiful indoor exhibits and outdoor sculptures.
- Arts on Main Gallery (Picton) – Showcases local artists’ work and often features kid-friendly exhibitions.
3. Bookstores & Libraries
- Books & Company (Picton) – A charming bookstore with a cozy reading area.
- Picton Public Library – Offers a selection of children’s books, activities, and sometimes storytelling sessions.
4. Indoor Play Centers
- County Kids Read (Picton) – Hosts reading events and creative workshops for kids.
- Loch Sloy Business Park – Occasionally offers special events or indoor activities for families.
5. Enjoy a Family Movie
- Regent Theatre (Picton) – Catch a family-friendly movie or live performance at this historic theatre.
6. Local Cafés & Bakeries
- Miss Lily’s Café (Picton) – Enjoy hot chocolate and freshly baked goods while playing board games or reading.
- Slickers Ice Cream (Bloomfield) – Treat the family to delicious handmade ice cream, perfect for a sweet indoor treat.
7. Wine & Cider Tours (Kid-Friendly)
While parents sample good wines or ciders, kids can enjoy juice-tasting samples at places like Sandbanks Winery or The County Cider Company.
8. Indoor Workshops & Classes
- The Baxter Arts Centre (Bloomfield) – Offers art workshops suitable for kids and families.
- County Youth Collective (Picton) – Hosts various workshops, from crafting to storytelling, catering to different age groups.
9. Visit Birdhouse City
Located at Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area, it features over 100 miniature birdhouses, each resembling famous buildings.
10. Explore Local Markets & Shops
- Bloomfield Public House Market – Browse local products, crafts, and treats in a cozy indoor setting.
- Picton Armoury – Offers unique shops and sometimes indoor markets or events.
Where to Stay in Sandbanks with Kids
1. Family-Friendly Hotels
Sandbanks Hotel – The hotel has a kids’ club apart from family rooms.
Harbour Heights Hotel – With wonderful sea views, sizeable family suites, and much more.
2. Self-Catering Accommodations
Self-catering units at the beachfront, such as apartments and cottages, are the most flexible and affordable for rent.
3. Camping & Glamping
Nature lovers can stay in camps like Sandbanks Campground, which allows the cool experience of glamping and also gives you quick access to beaches.
Looking for a Place to Stay?
Escape to paradise! Luxurious Sandbanks cottage rentals with lake views & amenities. Book your unforgettable getaway now or call +1 416-278-3848.
Conclusion
Sandbanks is a true paradise for families. Whether you like to enjoy the lakeside, outdoor sports, and other fun activities for everyone, Sandbanks is the place for you. If you are craving a time out on the water, then take a trip to Sandbanks Provincial Park, where there are a lot of activities like hiking, swimming, and bird-watching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sandbanks Beach safe for kids?
Sandbanks Beach is safe for kids because there are lifeguard patrols, the water is shallow and clean, and the sand is soft and clean.
What is the best time of year to visit Sandbanks?
You can visit Sandbanks anytime from May to September as the temperature is warm and the sea becomes suitable for swimming.
Can I rent beach equipment at Sandbanks?
There are beach shops nearby where you can rent deck chairs and sunbeds and get water sports equipment.
What activities can toddlers enjoy in Sandbanks?
The youngest member of the group can go paddling, play in the sand, and visit attractions like going to the County Kids Read indoor play area.
Is Sandbanks good for a family holiday?
It offers not only safe beaches but also numerous outdoor adventures and is rich in family-friendly attractions.