By Gabriela (gabynocanada.com)
Take a Day Trip to Some of the Best Family-Friendly Beaches Near Sault Ste. Marie
Plan a day trip to some of the best family-friendly beaches near Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Located along the Lake Superior coast, these beaches offer sandy shorelines, swimming areas, and plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors. If you’re travelling with kids, be sure to check out our guide to planning a family stay in Sault Ste. Marie for more family-friendly activities and attractions.
Not all Lake Superior beaches are ideal for families. The beaches below are known for their sandy shores, easy access, and family-friendly setting:
Each offers a different experience, but all are worth considering if you’re looking for beaches near Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.
Harmony Beach
Harmony Beach is located in Haviland Bay and is the first beach you’ll reach when travelling north from Sault Ste. Marie along the Trans-Canada Highway and the Lake Superior shoreline. Just a 30-minute drive from the city, this public beach is a popular spot for swimming and relaxing by the water. With 3.2 km of sandy shoreline, it’s an easy choice for families looking to spend a day at the beach. View Harmony Beach on Google Maps before your visit.
Batchawana Bay Provincial Park
Batchawana Bay Provincial Park is a day-use park located about 50 minutes north of Sault Ste. Marie. While camping is not available, the park is well worth a visit thanks to its long sandy beach, shallow waters, and family-friendly amenities. Picnic tables and washrooms are available on-site, making it an easy stop for families spending the day outdoors. The beach stretches for nearly 5 km, and the shallow bay waters tend to be warmer than other areas of Lake Superior. Get directions to Batchawana Bay Provincial Park before your visit.
Pancake Bay Provincial Park
Pancake Bay Provincial Park is located about an hour north of Sault Ste. Marie and just 10 minutes from Batchawana Bay Provincial Park. Known for its long sandy beach, clear blue water, and scenic Lake Superior shoreline, it’s one of the region’s most popular summer destinations. The park is also home to the 3.5 km Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout Trail, which offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. With 476 campsites located close to the beach, Pancake Bay is an excellent choice for a weekend getaway.
- Explore Pancake Bay Provincial Park amenities and camping information
- Get directions to Pancake Bay Provincial Park before your visit.
The coastal Drive to or From Sault Ste Marie
The beaches are just one stop of many on the beautiful Lake Superior coastal drive.
The Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout Trail in Pancake Bay Provincial Park offers a beautiful view across a luscious maple forest all the way to the big lake. You may also see the final resting place of the Edmund Fitzgerald ship.
A little further north of Pancake Bay is the Lake Superior Provincial Park, which includes the Agawa Bay visitor centre. Read all about this area here!
Beautiful souvenirs and ice-cream treats are available at Agawa Crafts and the Canadian Carver further south and The Voyageur Lodge also has some great souvenirs and food options. Chippewa Falls, the famed halfway point on the trans-Canada highway is a great spot for a break. The falls are right beside parking lot, just off the highway. Check out another Group of Seven art easel while you are there.
After a day at the beach, discover even more ways to enjoy the season with our guide to summer activities in Sault Ste. Marie, from outdoor adventures and scenic drives to attractions, events, and local experiences.
Frequently asked questions
Harmony Beach, Batchawana Bay Provincial Park, and Pancake Bay Provincial Park are among the best family-friendly beaches near Sault Ste. Marie. These beaches offer sandy shorelines, swimming areas, and easy access for families looking to spend a day along the Lake Superior coast. For more beach recommendations, explore our guide to the best beaches near Sault Ste. Marie.
Yes. The region is home to several additional beaches and waterfront areas beyond those featured on this page. Browse our Parks and Beaches in Sault Ste. Marie guide to discover more places to swim, picnic, and enjoy the outdoors.
A beach day can easily be combined with hiking, camping, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities. Explore our Summer in the Soo guide for more ideas on how to make the most of your summer visit to Sault Ste. Marie.
Yes. From beaches and parks to hiking trails, attractions, and outdoor adventures, Sault Ste. Marie offers plenty of family-friendly experiences throughout the summer. Learn more in our guide to discovering Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.