Everybody knows about the beaches at Sandbanks Provincial Park, but in July and August, it can get pretty crowded. Some days, the queue to get into the park is backed up for miles, making the journey more difficult and stressful than it needs to be.
Getting to Sandbanks
Sandbanks Provincial Park can be accessed via County Road 11, or from Bloomfield via County Rd. 12. There are several beaches to choose from, some of which are day-use beaches that don’t require park admission to visit (just pay for parking and you’re good!). The main beach is the Outlet Beach; it’s a shallow inlet
While Sandbanks is considered to be the prime beach, it’s not the only place in the County to get some sun and sand. Let’s have a look at a couple of the ‘alternate’ beaches in the area, just in case you’re looking for something a little less crowded:
Wellington Beach
The beach in Wellington is a long stretch of sand & pebbles that can be accessed off of Highway 33: turn on Beach Street, and follow along to find plenty of free parking, a wooden boardwalk, a public boat launch, and a lovely view of a lighthouse, as well as the northernmost tip of the Sandbanks. Picnic tables, picnic shelter, change rooms and washrooms are all on site, and it’s super close to restaurants, galleries, and shops. A great place to cool off and picnic after the Wellington Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings!
North Beach Provincial Park
North Beach is a hidden gem, as its westward-facing aspect catches the sunsets beautifully. Just south of Consecon on the County’s far west side, its beaches offer 1200 metres of sandy shoreline, and it’s a perfect spot to soak up the sunshine, swim, kayak or canoe, or even go fishing for largemouth bass, perch or sunfish. It’s a day-use beach, but there is a canteen open for snacks and beverages as well as plenty of picnic and toilet facilities. The cost to park is $14.50, or you could choose to park on the nearby street for just $2.
Lakeshore Lodge, Dunes Beach
Dunes Beach is a day-use beach, and there is no need to pay park admission to access it (just pay for parking). There are picnic tables and washroom facilities, and it’s a favourite spot for kite surfers on breezy days.
A little further along, you’ll find the beach at Lakeshore Lodge. This is where many of the locals go, as it’s free to park on the road, and it is dog-friendly. Reach it via County Rd. 12 from Bloomfield: you’ll miss the big lineups at the park gate completely! Follow #12 down as far as you can take it, park on the side of the road (free) and walk in. While the beach this year is greatly reduced because of the high water line, it’s a lesser-traveled area that might afford you a moment away from the summer crowds. However, note that it is a “no frills” kind of beach, and while there are porta-potties near the trail head where you walk in, the closest washroom or change room is further down at Dunes Beach.
Other places to get some sun and water
Many locals will tell you … on a hot day, there’s nothing better than jumping off the Mill Bridge in Milford! In the town of Milford (10 minutes south of Picton on County Rd. 17), there is only one bridge. You’ll likely see a bunch of kids lining up to do the same, so by all means! Just don’t forget to bring a towel!
Point Petre is another spot where you can enjoy the water. There are plenty of flat rocks where you can perch and enjoy a picnic lunch, and though the shore is rocky, you likely won’t have any company at all. Water shoes are a must! Get to Point Petre via County Rd. 10 through Cherry Valley, then turn on County Road 24 and follow it until you see the water.
So get out there and enjoy some beach time, County-style! And even if it’s overcast, don’t forget the sunscreen!