Just a short drive from Toronto, you can find a dreamy summer resort town complete with sandy white beaches, turquoise-blue water and fiery shades of red, orange and pink streaking across the evening sky. Grand Bend is nestled on the shores of Lake Huron, about a 2.5-hour drive from Toronto. And while we’re all about unique getaways, sometimes classic summer escapes really are the best!
Start your visit at Grand Bend Beach. Stretch out on the sand before taking a dip in the water or wandering along the extensive boardwalk. The main beach is a bit busier, so head to South Beach if you want to escape some of the crowds.
Whatever you do, don’t leave too early. Grand Bend faces west over the lake, so sunset is one of the best parts of the day, with the waterfront becoming an epic spot to watch the sky light up over Lake Huron.
And Grand Bend offers much more than just the shoreline. Stop for a coffee at The Cottage Cafe on River Rd. The cute waterfront space overlooks the Ausable River and is the perfect place to grab an iced latte or a sandwich wrap with kettle chips. Highway Girl Café is another popular hangout for cold brew and baked goods, while FIX48 on Main Street is known for its sweet vanilla soft serve.
If you’re hungry, The Growling Gator is a classic nearby pick for burgers and drinks overlooking the beach, while The Lake Hound dishes out everything from traditional breakfast faves to local draft beer on tap.
Get your nature fix at Pinery Provincial Park: it’s just a 10-minute drive south of town and has 10 kilometres of Lake Huron shoreline, as well as hiking and biking trails. Head to the peaceful Old Ausable Channel and rent a canoe or stand-up paddleboard for an hour or two on the water.
Right across the highway, you can pop into Lambton Heritage Museum for a bit of local history. Its Bluewaterland exhibit runs until Oct. 18, and you can learn about some of Lake Huron’s most famous shipwrecks.
If you have time, head into the surrounding countryside, about a 20-minute drive from Grand Bend, for a tasting at Shale Ridge Estate Winery & Cidery. The family-owned spot produces small-batch wines and ciders from estate-grown fruit, with a tasting room and patio open throughout the summer.
Before you leave, pick up some local produce and souvenirs at the Grand Bend Village Market or Lambton Shores Farmers’ Market: both run on Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., while the Pinery Antique Flea Market takes place every Sunday until Oct. 11, where you can browse vintage finds and handmade goods.
After exploring Grand Bend, check out this charming beach town just a short drive from Toronto: it’s home to towering sand dunes!
