Ottawa summers can get sticky, and luckily the capital doesn't skimp on places to take a dip. From riverside stretches downtown to quieter spots on the city's edges, Ottawa's beach scene is more robust than a lot of visitors expect. Here's a rundown of the go-to sandy beaches locals rely on when the heat cranks up.
Mooney's Bay Beach
One of the most popular options in the city, Mooney's Bay sits along the Rideau River in the city's south end and is a longtime favourite for families. The beach has a large sandy stretch, is monitored by lifeguards during peak season, and sits right next to Hog's Back Falls and the Rideau Canal pathway system — making it an easy add-on to a bike ride or walk along the water.
Britannia Beach
Over on the western side of the city along the Ottawa River, Britannia Beach is another supervised swimming spot with a wide sandy shoreline. It's part of Britannia Park, which also has picnic areas, sports fields, and trail access, so it tends to draw a mixed crowd of swimmers, sunbathers, and people just passing through on a bike.
Westboro Beach
Westboro Beach is one of the more scenic riverside spots, tucked along the Ottawa River in the trendy Westboro neighbourhood. It's a shorter, quieter stretch of sand compared to Mooney's Bay or Britannia, but its location near Westboro's shops, cafés, and restaurants makes it easy to turn a beach visit into a full afternoon out.
Petrie Island
For something a little further from the downcore, Petrie Island in Orléans offers a more laid-back, nature-focused beach experience. It's part of a larger conservation area with boardwalks and wetlands, so it appeals to people who want a swim plus a bit of a nature walk in the same trip.
Why It Matters for Ottawa
With the Ottawa and Rideau rivers running straight through the city, Ottawa residents don't have to trek out of town for a beach day — a rarity for a capital city this size. The City of Ottawa typically monitors water quality at its major public beaches throughout the summer and posts advisories when conditions aren't safe for swimming, so it's worth checking current status before heading out, especially after heavy rain.
Whether it's a quick after-work dip at Westboro or a full family day at Mooney's Bay, Ottawa's beaches remain one of the city's most underrated summer perks.
Source: Ottawa Tourism, via Google News
