Where to Cool Off in Prince Edward County This Summer

Summer in Prince Edward County was made for the water. Long, sun-soaked days unfold along sandy shores, where the lake stays shallow and warm and time seems to slow right down. Whether you’re stretched out at the dunes, floating through a quiet bay, or chasing that last golden-hour swim, this is where summer in The County really begins.

Beach days in Prince Edward County look a little different. Think shallow, warm water, long sandbars, and dunes that stretch for miles. It’s no surprise they’re a must-do in the summer, with some of Ontario’s most beautiful shorelines setting the scene. Pack your sunscreen, a towel, and a good book, and settle in for the day.

Known for its striking golden dunes and shallow waters, Sandbanks Provincial Park is perfect for a day of swimming and lounging in the sun. Skip the stress—lock in your day-use permit for Sandbanks to ensure your spot at this popular park. 

While Sandbanks Provincial Park is The County's marquee attraction, there are other beautiful provincial parks and conservation areas well worth a day trip, including North Beach Provincial Park, located between Consecon and Wellington, with the same soft, sandy beaches and clear, turquoise waters as Sandbanks. 

Wander the Resortwelcomes non-cabin guests to access their private beach when booking a Spa experience. Spa guests enjoy first-come, first-serve access to beach lounge chairs, included with the cost of the Thermal Escape Pass and available during and after your 4-hour Spa Time slot. Please note: early beach access prior to your time slot is not permitted. Learn more.

Not every perfect summer day needs a beach.

At Lakeside Motel, enjoy a Miami-inspired pool with stunning views of Lake Ontario-open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, fully serviced, and open to the public. Or hangout with friends or your special someone in a private lakeside cabana. Each comes with a stocked bar cart and bottle service. For outdoor fun, they also offer bike and canoe rentals (limited availability), making it easy to explore and enjoy the beauty of The County. When hunger strikes, head to their waterfront restaurant for cocktails, local wine, and lakeside dining from 11 am to 10 pm. Stay late for fires, nightcaps, and s’mores under the stars.

At The Royal Hotel,
 pool accessis available on a first-come, first-served basis in 2-hour time slots. With a $30 Day Pass, enjoy unlimited access to the pool, sauna, and gym from 6AM to 8PM. Book a lunch reservation and you’ve got yourself a full day of relaxation.

Beyond the shoreline, some of the best summer moments happen out on the water. Whether you're floating, paddling, or cruising, there are endless ways to make waves in PEC. 

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a dreamy way to spend a hot summer day. Glide across calm waters on East Lake, West Lake, Black River, or Lake on the Mountain. Prefer kayaking? Rent one from our Outdoor Activities page or the Parks Store at Sandbanks Provincial Park and North Beach Provincial Park. Black River, in particular, offers a peaceful, sheltered paddle — perfect for birdwatching, spotting blue herons, and soaking in the serene sounds of nature. At just six kilometres long, it’s a relaxed round-trip paddle ideal for beginners and casual adventurers. 

Book a sunset cruise or fishing charter with local companies like Happy Sailing or Dunes Boat Tours . PEC is a top spot for Lake Ontario fishing, with bass, pickerel, and pike aplenty.

However you spend it, on the sand, on a paddleboard, or drifting into a lakeside sunset, the water has a way of setting the pace. Slow, simple, and exactly what you came here for.

Planning your visit? Our Summer Hub is your go-to spot for trip planning tips, local insights, transportation options, and what’s happening across The County.