Updated on May 15, 2024
Looking to cool off on a beach, river or water park this summer? Here are 10 swimming spots that will have you hoping for a heat wave.
By Nathalie Rivard
Located on the shore of the sprawling Lac Brompton, this beach boasts, among other things, excellent quality water. Make Camping du lac Mackenzie your home base to enjoy an array of activities in addition to swimming, including volleyball, lawn bowling and shuffleboard. You can also rent water sport equipment like kayaks and paddleboards.
Type: Organized. Family-friendly. Lifeguards on duty.
Cost: $ 10 per day for 16 years old and up | $ 5 per day for children
This popular spot is nestled in one of the region’s most beautiful villages, on the shores of Lac Brome. There is smooth sand and a beach volleyball court, as well as a grass-covered lounging area in the shade. You’ll also several picnic tables as well as a snack shack.
Type: Municipal beach. Family-friendly. Lifeguards on duty.
Cost: Daily rate for parking.
Calling all outdoor enthusiasts! You won’t find a big lake here but you can enjoy a calm, shallow waterway—an all-natural lazy river, if you will. The ride down the river takes about 30 minutes and you can enjoy it as many times as you like. Tubes are available for rent.
Type: Natural, but with planned activities. Family-friendly, except for very young children. No lifeguards on duty.
Cost: Tube and life jacket (for kids) rental for $ 15 for 2h..
Summer at BALNEA is synonymous with Lac Gale Beach Club. Translation? You can enjoy both the lake and the spa installations during the warmer months. Grab a lounge chair or outdoor daybed on lake’s shores for a luxurious day of R&R under the sunshine. You can also swim to a platform about ten metres from the main dock and enjoy the view. Come for the day or buy a season pass.
Type: Unsupervised, for adults only.
Cost: Contact Balnea directly.
Big beach, grassy shores, plus a gorgeous view on Mont Pinacle. This is the place to be if you’re looking to enjoy a swim, picnic, beach volleyball match, kayak ride or just a lazy afternoon in the sun.
Type: Municipal beach. Family-friendly. Lifeguards on duty.
Cost: Free
Lac Mégantic is arguably one of the most picturesque lakes in the entire province. With a calendar jam-packed with activities, including fiestas every Saturday, the entire family is sure to find something to love. There are play structures for kids and you can rent water sports equipment, grab a bite at the restaurant or have a picnic.
Type: Family-friendly. Lifeguards on duty.
Cost: Per vehicle.
The Amazoo Water Park offers a wild experience for the whole family. On the menu: palm trees, wave pool, beach and splash pad. Combined with a visit to the zoo, you’ll have a jam-packed day where kids young and old are sure to have a blast.
Type: Man made water park. Family-friendly. Lifeguards on duty.
Cost: Contact the AMAZOO Water Park for details.
Three of the Townships’ national parks offer excellent swimming holes. At Parc national du Mont-Orford, lakes Stukely and Fraser boast beautiful beaches in natural settings (complete with lifeguards). They are accessible to campers as well as visitors to the park. Parc national de la Yamaska also has a lifeguarded beach on the Réservoir Choinière. At Parc national de Frontenac the sandy shore of the Baie aux Rats-Musqués awaits you.
Type: Natural. Family-friendly. Lifeguards on duty at most beaches.
Cost: Free for children, but check with the parks directly for vehicle and adult rates.
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