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

LakesZolo

RankLocation
1Kawartha Lakes (Lindsay)
2Sany Beach (Near Orillia)
3Paradise Beach (Ajax)
4Wasaga Beach (Near Collingwood)
5Sauble Beach (Near Owen Sound)
6Toronto Island Beaches -- Hanlan, Centre Island, Ward's Island (Toronto)
7Grand Bend -- South Beach (Grand Bend)
8Sandbanks Beach -- Sandbanks Provincial Park (Near Picton)
9Willow Beach (Georgina)
10Grand 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.

RankLocation
1Toronto Island Beaches -- Hanlan, Centre Island, Ward's Island
2Woodbine Beach
3Sugar Beach
4Rogue Beach
5Bluffer'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.

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