There is nothing quite like a day at the beach, especially in Chatham-Kent! As one of Canada's sunny south destinations, Chatham-Kent features numerous clean, sandy beaches and offers plenty of fresh open water allowing fun for all ages. Chatham-Kent is home to 88 kilometres of shoreline along Lake Erie and 24 kilometres along Lake St. Clair. That leaves a lot of room for play along the beach and on the water. Be sure to practice social distancing and leave nothing behind but your footprints!
Clearville Park
At Clearville Park, you can spend time on the beach, take a dip in the water, soak up the sun, or enjoy the on-site playground and pavilion. Those more adventurous can enjoy fishing or a hike through the nearby wooded nature trails to experience the rich local flora and fauna.
Erieau
At Erieau, you can relax along the long stretches of white, sandy beach, enjoy a walk along the pier, play in the sand or the playground, and even take advantage of barbeque grills. Bring home memories with an iconic scenic pier photo at the lighthouse, or rent water sport equipment for a fun day on Lake Erie. Those with mobility issues will love the mobility mat that leads to the water, making the water and beach accessible to everyone. Water safety is your responsibility as there are no lifeguards on duty. Accommodations, restaurants, a craft brewery and ice cream are all available just a short walk away.
Mitchell's Bay
The warm and shallow waters of Mitchell's Bay on Lake St. Clair make it a popular beach destination for the whole family. Whether you choose to swim in the bay, cool off at the nearby splash pad (currently not in operation), relax under the trees with a picnic or take in a magnificent sunset, this is a spot for everyone! Water safety is your responsibility as there are no lifeguards on duty. Local restaurants are a short walk away from the beach, parking is plentiful and close by. Kids will love the playground (and ice cream), while those looking to extend their time can rent a cabin, campsite, cottage or motel nearby.
Rondeau Provincial Park
A day at the beach inside Ontario's second oldest provincial park offers you much more than just spectacular sand and sun. With a wide variety of beautiful trees, excellent bird watching, hiking trails and much more, a visit to Rondeau can easily become a full week! Boating, canoeing, kayaking, sail-boating, windsurfing and motor boating are all options to extend your time at the beach. You can take refuge from the sun in one of six unique hiking trails, or bike on one of three trails available. You can choose to swim, at your own risk, on the Rondeau Bay side, where sheltered and non sheltered picnic locations are available. The Lake Erie side of the park offers 11 kilometres of sandy beach - water safety is your responsibility as there are no lifeguards on duty. Along this side of the Rondeau peninsula, there are many species at risk including the endangered Fowler's Toad and Common Five-lined skink, so tread carefully and mind the driftwood where beach and dune habitats lie!
Wheatley Provincial Park
Located inside the park is Wheatley Beach, available to both campers and day-use visitors. If you are looking for a great day spent on the water swimming or paddling, this beach will fit the bill! The beach itself is a bit gravelly, but changes to sand once you get in a few feet into the water. The water itself is perfect for swimming, floating or playing catch, but can get deep quickly. There is canoe and kayak access to both Lake Erie and the park creeks at the furthest end of the road.
Common Beach FAQs
Are dogs allowed on public beaches in CK?
Yes! Dogs are allowed on public beaches, however they MUST be on a leash.
Are there washroom facilities at area beaches in CK?
Yes! You will find a variety of washroom facilities at public beaches, parks and open spaces within Chatham-Kent. At this time, they are all open. In areas where a permanent structure is not located, porta-johns have been placed for the summer season for your convenience.
Are there lifeguards at public beaches in CK?
No. There are no lifeguards at public beaches in CK, and swimmers are at their own risk when swimming in local waters.
Can we have a picnic on public beaches in CK?
Yes! This is a great option to support our local restaurants or bring your own picnic meal. Open alcohol however is NOT permitted.
