Beach-goers don't have to go far to find a nice spot to kick back in the sand or take a dip in the lake. Two beaches in Georgina are among the top ranked in the York Durham Headwaters area.
Sibbald Point Provincial Park in Sutton is included in the ranking of the best beaches by the local tourism agency. It is known for the large sandy beach that sits along Lake Simcoe. It has shallow water and a sandy bottom and on shore there are picnic tables and trees for shade. Visitors can also stop by the park store by the beach, which serves a number of food options, including ice cream.
The beach isn't the only attractive feature of the park, which is open to both day visitors and overnight campers. Sibbald Point is also home to hiking trails, an Adventure Lab, kids programs and a museum.
A pass is required to visit and the park can be busy during the summer, so you are encourage to book in advance. Reservations can be made online.
Jackson's Point Beach, also on Lake Simcoe in Georgina, made the list. Jackson's Point is a resort harbour with a pier, lighthouse and beaches. Public can access a white sandy beach through Bonnie Park.
There are waterfront resorts in the area, too, including the Ramada or The Briars. Guests can enjoy the beach by day, dinner overlooking the lake, and a number of other activities.
Two beaches in Durham were also included in York Durham Headwaters' list.
Frenchman's Bay Beach is located just south of Pickering on Lake Ontario. The beach has a long sandy shoreline and good waves for kite boarding or surfing, thanks to the strong winds. It's near Pickering’s Nautical Village with shops and restaurants reminiscent of a southern beach town.
Further east, Darlington Provincial Park Beach, between Oshawa and Bowmanville, also made the list. The beach has crystal blue water and a bottom that's a mix of sand and pebbles. The park also has canoeing and other boating, four walking trails, children's programs, and overnight camping.
Visitors to any beaches in the York Durham Headwaters are encouraged to check for capacity or any other safety notices before heading out for a beach day.