Summer in Montreal is amazing, but it can get very hot! When the concrete starts to feel like an oven, you do not need to drive for hours to find relief. There are beautiful, sandy beaches and cool, shady parks right here on our island.
Here are three fantastic local spots where you can splash in the water, relax under giant trees, and beat the summer heat:
1. Verdun Beach (Plage de Verdun)
If you want to cool off fast without using a car, this is the perfect spot! Located right behind the Verdun Auditorium, this urban beach is completely free to visit.
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How to get there: Just take the Metro to the De l’Église station and walk down to the river.
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What makes it great: It has real sand, wooden slides for the kids, and comfortable hammocks. A rock barrier keeps the swimming area safe and calm, making it perfect for families.
2. Jean-Doré Beach (Parc Jean-Drapeau)
This is Montreal’s classic island escape. Located on Île Notre-Dame, Jean-Doré Beach makes you feel like you are at a lake resort, even though you can see the city skyline in the background!
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How to get there: Take the yellow line Metro to Jean-Drapeau station, then enjoy a short walk or a quick shuttle ride to the beach.
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What makes it great: The water is clean and monitored by lifeguards. There is tons of room to play beach volleyball, and kids will love Aquazilla—a giant inflatable obstacle course that floats on the water!
3. Cap-Saint-Jacques Nature Park (West Island)
If you want to feel like you have traveled far into the wilderness, head to the western tip of the island. Cap-Saint-Jacques is Montreal’s largest park, and it features a gorgeous natural sand beach on the lake
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How to get there: It is located in Pierrefonds-Roxboro. It is easiest to reach by car, but there are also city buses that go near the park.
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What makes it great: Because it is surrounded by lush forests and hiking paths, it is much quieter than the downtown beaches. The trees provide plenty of cool shade for a perfect family picnic.
Quick Beach Tips for Montrealers:
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Check the water quality: The city tests the water at our beaches every single day. After a big rainstorm, some spots might close temporarily, so always check the city’s website before you pack your towel!
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Go early: On very hot days, these popular spots can hit their safety limits by midday. Arriving before 10:00 AM is the best way to secure a prime spot on the sand.
No matter which spot you choose, taking a quick break by the water is the best way to enjoy our beautiful Montreal summer. Stay cool, wear your sunscreen, and have fun out there!