Beaches and Swimming

Looking to swim at a clean, sandy beach? There are several places to dive into the cool, clear waters of Georgian Bay in and around Owen Sound.

On the western shore you'll find Kelso Beach Park, which has a shallow sandy beach, change rooms and washroom facilities, a sheltered picnic area, splash pad, playground and trails. It's near the Georgian Shores Marina. Parking is free and the beach is unsupervised. Picnic under the tall shady willows and enjoy the view across the harbour.

Further north lies Sarawak Family Park, across from the Legacy Ridge Golf Club. It has a sheltered beach, small playground, washrooms and picnic facilities. The beach is sandy, but the bay here is rocky in places. Parking is free.

There are several other beaches tucked along Owen Sound Bay heading north on County Road 1 past Kemble, but the largest is in Big Bay, the self-proclaimed "Skipping Stone Capital of Canada."  Indeed, the shore is full of smooth, flat stones perfect for skipping on the water. While you're there, stop by the Big Bay General Store for home-made ice cream, or Kepple Croft Gardens for a horticultural treat!

On the east side of Owen Sound Bay a little north of the city is the Hibou Conservation Area, a great place to take the family for the two natural sand beaches, hiking trails, playground, picnic facilities and bathrooms. Hibou is on County Road 15. From May to October there is a $5 parking fee.

Sauble Beach, the second-longest freshwater beach in the world, is only 20 minutes west of Owen Sound.

If the waters of Georgian Bay feel a little too cold or poolside lounging is more your style, there are several other swimming options, including heated outdoor pools at Harrison Park, the splash pad at Kelso Beach Park and indoor swimming at the YMCA Owen Sound Grey Bruce, Stone Tree Fitness, and the Quality Inn.