Beaches in Ottawa
The city runs four public beaches, with lifeguards daily from about noon to 7 pm from mid-June to late August.
- Mooney's Bay, on the Rideau River: the biggest, with a huge playground and SUP rentals. Paid parking.
- Britannia, on the Ottawa River in the west end: reachable by bus, with a pier.
- Westboro Beach, at Kitchissippi Lookout: a pavilion restaurant and river views. Check status; supervision has been reduced in some years.
- Petrie Island, in Orléans: several beaches, nature trails, and canoe and kayak rentals. Paid parking.
The city tests water quality daily in season and posts swim advisories online, so check before you go. Beach wheelchairs are free at the city beaches.
Swimming spots near Ottawa
Gatineau Park's lakes are the clearest: Meech Lake (O'Brien Beach), Lac Philippe and Lac La Pêche, all with supervised beaches in season. In Wakefield, locals swim in the Gatineau River. See the Gatineau Park guide.
Splash pads
The City of Ottawa runs splash pads in parks across the city in summer, free and with no booking. A few close for repairs each year, so check the city's list before you head out.
Berry picking near Ottawa
Strawberries start in mid-to-late June, raspberries follow in July, and blueberries in August. Try Proulx Farm (Cumberland), Shouldice Berry Farm (Saint-Pascal-Baylon), Rideau Pines Farm, or Miller's Farm near Manotick. Call or check social media for picking conditions.
Canada Day tips
- Expect huge crowds downtown and road closures; take transit or walk.
- Arrive early for the main show and fireworks, and expect security checks: pack light, with no glass.
- Bring water, sunscreen and a meeting point for your group, since cell networks slow down in crowds.
- For a quieter celebration, try the community events in Orléans, Kanata or Gatineau.
- Book hotels months ahead. See where to stay.
More summer ideas
- Whitewater rafting and river cruises. See Ottawa tours.
- Ottawa Bluesfest in July at LeBreton Flats. Bluesfest tickets
- Outdoor movie nights in parks around the city: watch community listings and our newsletter.
- Redblacks and Atlético Ottawa games at TD Place. See the TD Place guide.
FAQ
What are the beaches in Ottawa?
The city's four public beaches are Mooney's Bay, Britannia, Westboro and Petrie Island. Gatineau Park also has lake beaches at Meech Lake, Lac Philippe and Lac La Pêche.
When are Ottawa beaches supervised?
Usually daily from about noon to 7 pm, from mid-June to late August. Check the city's site for water quality advisories.
When is berry picking season near Ottawa?
Strawberries from mid-to-late June, raspberries in July and blueberries in August.
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