Looking for Ontario’s best lakes, beaches & islands? The Frontenac Arch Biosphere Region (FAB) is home to some of the most stunning beaches and islands in the vicinity, making it an ideal day trip or relaxing weekend destination.
The FAB Region provides something for everyone! Whether you want to swim in crystal-clear waters, go hiking in magnificent forests, or simply relax in a natural setting, the FAB region has some of Ontario’s best lakes, beaches and islands for you to explore.
To help you plan your next swimming, boating, or day trip activity, here are our top five selections for the best lakes in the FAB Region:
Ontario’s Best Lakes: Big Salmon Lake
Big Salmon Lake is a lake in Eastern Ontario’s Frontenac Provincial Park. It is the largest lake in the park and is located on the Frontenac Axis. It is a long, narrow lake accessible via the park’s main road and numerous hiking routes. Despite its name, this lake does not contain any salmon. This popular destination is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The lake’s crystal-clear water makes it an excellent location for snorkeling and diving. For an even more tranquil experience, rent a kayak or boat and explore the little islands dotting the lake.
Ontario’s Best Beaches: Frontenac Provincial Park
This park is filled with beautiful beaches and little islands for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Hiking trails wind through the woodland, providing spectacular views of the surrounding area. Some of the best beaches of this area include Sharbot Lake Beach, Sydenham Point Beach, and Sand Lake Public Beach
Charleston Lake Provincial Park
This Provincial Park is located on Charleston Lake near Athens, Ontario, Canada, in the township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands. This park is ideal for a day trip or a quiet weekend, with various beaches and small islands. The lake is famous for boating and fishing, and it is home to a variety of fish species such as bass, pike, and perch.
Jones Falls
This well-known Set of falls on the Rideau Canal is ideal for a day trip. Jones Falls cascades over the escarpment 12 metres to the Pottawatomi River that flows into Owen Sound Bay. It should be noted that water flow is minimal during August and September. The Pottawatomi Conservation Area is 116 hectares of Niagara Escarpment land and provides many recreational activities. Spring is the “high tide” for these waterfalls, where the water flow is abundant, but they are popular in all seasons.
Jones, Inglis and Weaver’s Creek falls are linked by marked trails, offering experienced hikers an invigorating day trip with many lookout points along the way. In winter, these three waterfalls are accessible by snowshoe.
Plan your next swimming, hiking, or day trip activity today to enjoy the natural splendor of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Region!