Ontario isn't exactly a destination for tropical beaches, but if you search close enough, there are a few locations in the province that can (almost) make you feel like you've been transported to far-off vacation getaways.
Tropical escapes sound far-fetched for a part of the world known for harsh winters, but it's true. In fact, just a few hours outside of Toronto, you can find picturesque beaches that boast serene views of crystal-blue waters and offer warm sandy landscapes that rival some destinations down south.
The best part is that you only need three things: transportation, your swimsuit, and probably some sunscreen.
So, if you're looking for a staycation getaway but don't want to stray far from home, consider some of these beaches for your next summer adventure.
Perhaps the most tropical of them all, the beachfront in Port Dover appears to have been imported straight from a Caribbean island. That's due in part to the beach's palm trees. Lined on the beach from spring to fall and removed during harsh winters, these palm trees are like nothing you've seen before in Ontario.
This southern Ontario beach also features soft sand and a charming beach town, making it perfect for strolling through after a day of swimming. Located on the north shore of Lake Erie, come spend the day here to get a tropical experience, around a two-hour drive from the city. 
The beachfront at Port Dover. Photo: fotofrysky
Did you know this park has one of the best sandy beaches in Ontario? It offers dreamy blue waters and rippling sand dunes, reminiscent of any tropical island beach.
Situated right in the heart of Prince Edward County, it's roughly a 45-minute drive from Toronto and caters to all your staycation needs, like swimming, basking in the sun or boating on the beautiful, crystal-clear water. 
The beach at Sandbanks has one of the best sandy beaches in Ontario. Photo: Alison Hancock/Shutterstock
An underrated gem of southwest Ontario, this beach is like no other. If you're looking for a hideaway that feels tropical, your search can end here: On the Georgian Bay shoreline sits an inlet, located on Bruce Peninsula National Park in Tobermory.
The water is so blue that it borders on turquoise, surrounded by cliffs that'll make any nature lover feel like they're on a vacation of a lifetime. Approximately a few hours away, this beach will be the ultimate hideaway experience for anyone looking to stay awhile. 
Indian Head Cove feels like a slice of paradise in Ontario. Photo: Gus Garcia/Shutterstock
Located at Point Pelee National Park, the southernmost point of mainland Canada, these beaches are situated on the shores of Lake Erie in Essex County.
That is where you'll find a little piece of paradise — plus you'll get two for the price of one: Northwest Beach and West Beach are the most popular beach access areas, with vast sunset views and 20 kilometres of smooth sand on the west and east sides of the peninsula.
It takes a little over four hours by car to get to from Toronto, but it is worth the drive. 
Point Pelee National Park boasts beaches with blue waters and sandy shores. Photo: Canadian Geographic
This beach is located at Long Point National Park, the fourth-oldest park in Ontario. The park features 1.5 kilometres of sandy beach in the middle of the lakeside community of Port Rowan.
Long Point Beach is located in Long Point National Park. Photo: jrtwynam/Shutterstock
Just a three-hour drive from Toronto, this beach is known for its warm waters and has even earned designation as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
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