Ontario has thousands of kilometres of shoreline, and the opportunities to get out on the water or walk alongside it are nearly endless. Our recreation coverage is built for the people who actually use these waterways, whether you paddle, fish, hike, swim, or simply want to find a good spot to watch the sunset from a public pier.
We cover the practical side of waterfront recreation: where to launch a kayak on Georgian Bay, which waterfront trails are worth the drive, where to find uncrowded swimming beaches, and how to fish from shore without a boat. We also look at the issues that affect public access, from marina policies to seasonal closures to the ongoing tension between private property and the right to enjoy the water.
Whether you are a seasoned paddler looking for new routes or a family searching for the best waterfront camping, our guides and features are written by people who spend their time on the water. Explore our recreation coverage below.
Cold water kills faster than most paddlers realize. Before heading out on that first spring trip, here is what you need to know about hypothermia and preparation.
Ice fishing is a winter tradition in many Ontario communities. A guide for beginners covering gear, locations, and the culture of fishing on the hard water.
Ontario rivers offer gentle paddling routes perfect for beginners. We highlight routes with easy access, calm water, and scenic stretches worth exploring.
You do not need a boat to catch fish in Ontario. Dock fishing is accessible, relaxing, and surprisingly productive with the right approach and gear.
Some of Ontario's best waterfront green spaces are tucked along rivers rather than lakeshores. These parks deserve more attention than they get.
While mega-marinas expand, many small independent marinas across Ontario continue to offer charm, community, and affordable dock space for boaters.
Accessibility at the waterfront is improving but still inconsistent. We highlight the spots across Ontario that get it right for visitors with mobility challenges.
Ontario shorelines do not shut down when the snow falls. From ice walks to winter birding, there is plenty to do along the water in the cold months.
Small harbours run on unwritten rules and mutual respect. We cover the etiquette that keeps things running smoothly for everyone on the water.
Ontario has more swimmable beaches than most people realize. We share lesser-known spots with clean water, fewer crowds, and easy access.
There is nothing quite like a sunset over the water. We round up the best public viewpoints along Ontario shorelines for catching the evening show.
Ontario shorelines attract hundreds of bird species throughout the year. We profile the best spots for waterfowl, shorebirds, and raptors across the province.
Ontario has an impressive network of waterfront trails. These are the ones worth making a day trip or weekend for, from Lake Huron to the St. Lawrence.
Autumn brings salmon and steelhead into Great Lakes tributaries, creating some of the best fishing opportunities of the year for Ontario anglers.
You do not need a boat to catch fish in Ontario. We cover the best shore fishing spots, the species you can target, and the basics of getting started.
Camping right on the water is a quintessential Ontario experience. We cover the best waterfront campsites in provincial parks and lesser-known alternatives.
Georgian Bay offers some of the most spectacular kayaking in Ontario. We map out the best launch points for day trips and multi-day adventures.
Finding legal, public access to the water in Ontario can be surprisingly difficult. We compiled a guide to access points across the province.
Stand-up paddleboarding is booming in Ontario. We highlight the calmest, most scenic spots for beginners and experienced paddlers looking for a peaceful outing.
From quiet river runs to open-water crossings, Ontario has paddling routes for every skill level. These are the ones you probably have not tried yet.