Beaches in Montreal: Discover Urban Oases for Your Summer Getaway

Montreal isn’t exactly known for its beaches—swim-friendly waterfronts are not as common as public swimming pools—but there is still a selection of sandy spots where you can enjoy a beach day. The advantage? Most of them are situated within city limits and three are easily reached by public transit, making it a convenient afternoon getaway to the shore on a sunny day. Although Montreal lacks numerous beaches, you’ll still have options ranging from urban oases to more secluded sandy stretches.

Plage Doré

Address: 151 Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montréal, QC H3C 1A9, Canada

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Phone: +1 514-872-0199

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Located on Île Notre-Dame, Plage Doré at Parc Jean-Drapeau is one of two man-made islands that compose Montreal’s versatile Parc Jean-Drapeau. This stretch of golden sand on the southern end of Île Notre-Dame is perfect for a hot and humid day. It’s among the easiest beaches to access in Montreal, being merely a 5-minute drive from downtown or a quick ride via subway or bike. Locals often flock to Plage Doré after a day filled with walking, picnics, dancing, rollercoaster rides, and sightseeing in the vibrant park. The spacious 15,000-square-meter swimming area also boasts a variety of waterfront activities, including beach volleyball, inflatable slides, kayak rentals, and stand-up paddleboarding.

The Clock Tower Beach

Opened in 2012, Clock Tower Beach offers 1.3 hectares (3.2 acres) of urban retreat in Old Montreal’s Old Port, making it a prime spot for both locals and visitors to cool off through misting stations while lounging under sunny skies or parasols in comfortable long chairs. This beach presents great views of Montreal’s skyline. Although swimming is prohibited here, it remains a fantastic place to sunbathe. During the summer months, entry costs $2, or $15 for a seasonal pass (available from June to September). If you’re planning to visit on fireworks nights at Montreal’s Old Port, the entry fee is $5 starting at 7 p.m.

Cap St. Jacques

Address: 20099 Boul Gouin O, Pierrefonds, QC H9K 1C6, Canada

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Phone: +1 514-280-6778

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Cap St. Jacques is Montreal’s largest park, an expansive 288 hectares (712 acres) filled with silver birch and maple trees, fields, and farmland, including a small stretch of beach. This area is often referred to as the other Montreal beach. Unlike many city beaches, Cap St. Jacques doesn’t feel urban at all, providing a much-needed escape for city dwellers without cars. However, prepare for a commute that might take between 45 minutes to an hour and a half on the subway and bus, plus an additional 20-minute walk along a dirt path to reach the beach. Weekdays are ideal for a visit, as weekends tend to attract larger crowds. Although the journey is lengthy, the tranquility that awaits is undoubtedly worth it.

Bois-de-l’Île-Bizard

Address: L’Ile-Bizard, 2115 Chem. du Bord-du-Lac, L’Île-Bizard-Sainte-Geneviève, QC H9C 1P3, Canada

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Phone: +1 514-280-6778

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Bois-de-l’Île-Bizard is a delightful haven and a local favorite in Montreal. However, traveling to this idyllic beach without your own vehicle requires considerable effort. Expect to spend around two hours using public transportation, followed by a 40-minute hike or bike ride before you even enter the park. Yet, once you find yourself on the boardwalk, surrounded by cattails and marshland, the tribulations of your trip fade. This beach’s natural beauty is an excellent remedy for those weary from urban life, making it a perfect staycation destination. Unfortunately, your visit must come to an end at sunset, as the park closes for the day.