National Geographic once said that Grand Bend, Ont. has one of the most stunning sunsets in the world, but that’s not all it has to offer. Located on the southern shores of Lake Huron, it’s a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto.
Whether you’re looking to swim, parasail, wakeboard, or just relax in the sand, Grand Bend has one of the best beaches in the country. In fact, Grand Bend’s main beach is one of only 23 beaches in Canada to have earned Blue Flag status, an international certification given to beaches that meet environmental, safety, and cleanliness standards.
If water isn’t your thing, hike through Pinery Provincial Park, hit up Sand Hills Golf Club for a round of 18, window shop in nearby galleries and boutiques, or give skydiving a try. There’s something for everyone.
Photo by VRBO/Ken Stronach
Photo by VRBO/Ken Stronach
Photo by VRBO/Ken Stronach
Photo by VRBO/Ken Stronach
Photo by VRBO/Ken Stronach
Photo by VRBO/Ken Stronach
Located in the gated community of Beach O’ Pines, this three-bedroom, Grand Bend cottage is nestled right next to the trails of Pinery Provincial Park and is only a two-minute walk to a private, white sand beach.
Location: Beach O’ Pines, Ont.
Price: Averages $255 per night
Sleeps: 6
Bedrooms: 3
Notes:
- Minutes from private beach
- Outdoor fire pit
- Internet included
- Gas barbecue
- Well-behaved dogs welcome
Click here to book
Photo by VRBO/Brenda Valero
Photo by VRBO/Brenda Valero
Photo by VRBO/Brenda Valero
Photo by VRBO/Brenda Valero
Photo by VRBO/Brenda Valero
This four-season cottage is 300 metres from Grand Bend Beach and is close to local shops and restaurants on the town’s main street.
Location: Grand Bend, Ont.
Price: Averages $330 per night
Sleeps: 8
Bedrooms: 3
Notes:
- Minutes from Lake Huron beaches
- Outdoor fire pit
- Internet included
- No pets or parties
Click here to book
Photo by VRBO/Tony
Photo by VRBO/Tony
Photo by VRBO/Tony
Photo by VRBO/Tony
Photo by VRBO/Tony
A nautical-themed beach house, this property is newly renovated with a large kitchen space and a wrap-around deck where you can dine al fresco.
Location: Grand Bend, Ont.
Price: Averages $335 per night
Sleeps: 7
Bedrooms: 3
Notes:
- Minutes from Lake Huron beaches
- Outdoor fire pit
- Internet included
- Parking pass provided
Click here to book
Photo by VRBO/Maplewood Lakehouse
Photo by VRBO/Maplewood Lakehouse
Photo by VRBO/Maplewood Lakehouse
Photo by VRBO/Maplewood Lakehouse
Photo by VRBO/Maplewood Lakehouse
Photo by VRBO/Maplewood Lakehouse
Surrounded by Carolinian forest, this Grand Bend cottage’s cedar walls give it a lodge-like feel. Grand Bend Beach is only a three-minute walk away, and it’s a quick drive to nearby attractions, such as Dark Horse Estate Winery and the Huron County Playhouse.
Location: Southcott Pines, Ont.
Price: Averages $400 per night
Sleeps: 10 (8 adults + 2 kids)
Bedrooms: 5
Notes:
- Minutes from a private beach
- Sauna available
- No kids
- No fire pit
- Bring your own linens, towels, and blankets
Click here to book
Photo by VRBO/Mauricio Bravo
Photo by VRBO/Mauricio Bravo
Photo by VRBO/Mauricio Bravo
Photo by VRBO/Mauricio Bravo
Photo by VRBO/Mauricio Bravo
Offering a scenic forest view, this oak-tree-surrounded cottage is located on the edge of Pinery Provincial Park, and is a two-minute walk to the Old Ausable River Channel and 15 minutes to a private beach.
Location: Grand Bend, Ont.
Price: Averages $491 per night
Sleeps: 8
Bedrooms: 4
Notes:
- 15-minute walk to the beach
- Outdoor fire pit
- Internet included
- Mountain bikes available for use
- Arcade games
Click here to book
Photo by VRBO/Hisham
Photo by VRBO/Hisham
Photo by VRBO/Hisham
Photo by VRBO/Hisham
Photo by VRBO/Hisham
Photo by VRBO/Hisham
Located in a gated community, this cottage comes with a private garden, an outdoor shower, and a playset for kids. The property is a short walk from the shops and restaurants of downtown Grand Bend, as well as the sandy beaches of Lake Huron.
Location: Grand Bend, Ont.
Price: Averages $872 per night
Sleeps: 12
Bedrooms: 6
Notes:
- Minutes from Lake Huron beaches
- Internet included
- Foosball table
- Outdoor fire pit
- Barbecue available
Click here to book
Photo by VRBO/Clare Shantz
Photo by VRBO/Clare Shantz
Photo by VRBO/Clare Shantz
Photo by VRBO/Clare Shantz
Photo by VRBO/Clare Shantz
Photo by VRBO/Clare Shantz
Surrounded by the forest that borders Pinery Provincial Park, this cottage offers is a private getaway. Plus, the beach is a short walk away. Take advantage of the towels and beach chairs provided by the host, and transport them in your own beach wagon.
Location: Grand Bend, Ont.
Price: Averages $437 per night
Sleeps: 10
Bedrooms: 4
Notes:
- Steps from Lake Huron beaches
- Internet included
- A/C
- Outdoor fire pit
- Canoe and kayak available for use
- Bicycles included
- Pool table
Click here to book