Quebec: Beach

With over 100 000 lakes and numerous rivers, the most famous of which, the St. Lawrence River, Quebec is prime location for a beach retreat. The diversity of Quebec's landscape means you will find beaches for suited for every taste. In the east, try the Îles-de-la-Madeleine archipelago, or take a dip in the warm waters of Baie des Chaleurs, in Carleton and in Bonaventure. Quebec's national parks also make a great place to enjoy sun and natural sand. The 15 kilometers of white sand at Pointe-Taillon is always a favourite as is Lac Saint-Francois in Frontenac. On the shores of Lake des Deux Montagnes, the beach has a section for nudists called "OKApulco." Visitors to Quebec can head toward the upper Laurentians, where the beaches are renowned for their white sand. That’s the case at lakes Nominingue, des Sables and Tremblant. Wild beaches in Quebec are also plentiful and offer unspoiled nature and privacy.

Quebec’s parks and wildlife reserves, have thousands of lakes concealed in their forests. Beach sports are very popular such as canoeing, kayaking, paddle boating, wind surfing and swimming. Family beaches can be found in in the Outaouais region, including the ones at Gatineau Park and Lake Simon. The Floribell resort and Lake Massawippi have beautiful beaches rated "A" by Quebec’s environment department. Finally, the beach on Île Notre-Dame in Montreal, and the Récré-O-Parc at Sainte-Catherine (on the south shore) are excellent and refreshing spots to while away a hot summer afternoon. The only negative thing about Quebec beaches is that the season is too short.