La Belle Province is full of secret gems to visit. If you love beaches and being near the water, you must absolutely discover these stunning locations!
Abitibi-Témiscamingue - Faillon Lake Beach
This beach is legendary! This is where the photo of the sunset that graced our health insurance cards for so many years was taken. The beach at Faillon Lake is not only renowned for its magnificent sand, but also for the quality of its water, which seems to have been spared by pollution. As an added bonus, this beach is located in the middle of the Mégiscane Forest: experience the joy of being close to nature!
Côte-Nord - The beach at Parc national d’Anticosti
If swimming is not a priority, this beach could be for you. Located to the north of Anticosti Island, it is situated in the heart of the Baie-de-la-Tour. The temperature there rarely gets above 25 degrees, yet the landscape is breathtaking. The water is turquoise and the beach is covered with pebbles, which is quite rare in Quebec. The beach is surrounded by white stone cliffs. You’ll never get tired of gazing!
Mauricie - Normand Lake Beach
To enjoy this beach’s attractions, you have to visit Camping du Lac Normand located in the Réserve faunique du Saint-Maurice, in Trois-Rives. But it’s worth the effort to get there! It is ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in Quebec and is very intimate. Be aware that there are no lifeguards to oversee safety! What sets this place apart: you can swim up to 200 metres away from the shore before the water’s depth reaches four feet. Boating and canoeing activities are also always popular.
Québec - Saint-Joseph Lake Beach
It’s not because we live in a northern province that we can’t enjoy a tropical atmosphere. Saint-Joseph Lake is proof, located only a few minutes from the provincial capital. They even have real palm trees! This beach is most appreciated for the numerous activities it offers for the whole family like rallies, sandcastle contests or jumping on giant floating trampolines.
Île-de-la-Madeleine - Dune du Sud Beach
The Îles-de-la-Madeleine offer a true change of scenery! This region, far from urban centres, is well worth the grueling travel time. Stretching over 22 kilometres, the beach at Dune du Sud is one of Quebec’s longest. And this isn’t the only thing that attracts visitors: the area also features caves and magnificent red cliffs.
Estrie - Fraser Lake Beach
In summer, many only swear by the beach surrounding Fraser Lake, located in the Estrie region. And they are right! The water is extremely clear and the area seems to have very few visitors because of its proximity to nature and its lushness. A quiet little corner of paradise!
Côte-Nord - Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve
If you feel like discovering unusual areas, you have to visit this northern national park, far above the 50th parallel. Although swimming there is a challenge because of the low temperatures, you can enjoy splendid views as well as observe marine animals, such as seals and whales. You will be amazed by the park’s environment: the archipelago is made up of thousands of islands and contains several erosion monoliths.
Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean - The beach at Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon
The water is pleasant and warm, attracting many visitors every year. This not a problem, however, as the beach is 15 kilometres long! The sand is fine and feels nice underfoot. It is an ideal location as much for those who like to lay in the sun as wells for those who are fond of water sports. But be warned, the area is not always quiet!
Whether you are athletic, just want to have fun or are more of the contemplative type, you are sure to find something to suit you at one or more of these beaches. Enjoy your travels!