As a sweltering heat-wave continues in parts of Canada this week, a few regions are facing some of the hottest temperatures on record.
In western Canada, Lytton BC, saw temperatures soar to an unbelievable 49.6°C on Tuesday, while Toronto has been under its own heat warning, with temperatures hitting 32.5°C on Tuesday. For many, this means it's time to cool off and go swimming.
To help Canadians beat the heat, Zolo has put together a Beach Report featuring the results of a series of surveys that polled locals across the country to find out the best swimming spots, including in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, and the East Coast.
Kawartha Lakes ranked highest in Ontario, while Brackley Beach, Cavendish Beach, and Greenwich beaches in PEI topped the list on the East Coast. In Alberta, respondents agreed that Sylvan Lake was the best swimming spot in the province, while in BC, Cultus Lake near Chilliwack came out on top.
READ: Does a Swimming Pool Add Value to Your Home (or Just to your Summer?)
With the long weekend looming and high temperatures in the forecast, these are the best swimming holes and lakes that you can visit around Ontario.
10 Best Lakes in Ontario for Swimming
Zolo
Rank | Location |
1 | Kawartha Lakes (Lindsay) |
2 | Sany Beach (Near Orillia) |
3 | Paradise Beach (Ajax) |
4 | Wasaga Beach (Near Collingwood) |
5 | Sauble Beach (Near Owen Sound) |
6 | Toronto Island Beaches -- Hanlan, Centre Island, Ward's Island (Toronto) |
7 | Grand Bend -- South Beach (Grand Bend) |
8 | Sandbanks Beach -- Sandbanks Provincial Park (Near Picton) |
9 | Willow Beach (Georgina) |
10 | Grand Bend -- Main Beach (Grand Bend) |
For those looking to stay closer to Toronto, fret not because the city also offers some of the world’s best swimming spots. The abundance of swimming options and sandy beaches to enjoy the sunshine in Toronto makes it very convenient for you to beat the summer heat if you live in or around the city.
Rank | Location |
1 | Toronto Island Beaches -- Hanlan, Centre Island, Ward's Island |
2 | Woodbine Beach |
3 | Sugar Beach |
4 | Rogue Beach |
5 | Bluffer's Park |
Don't live in Ontario? Zolo has also rounded up the top beaches and swimming spots in Alberta, British Columbia, and the East Coast.