Petrie Island Beach
Ottawa's spacious, sandy beach offering swimming, wildlife, and stunning sunsets with affordable parking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Breathtaking sunsets & fewer crowds
Petrie Island Beach
Best Time
Breathtaking sunsets & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ottawa's spacious, sandy beach offering swimming, wildlife, and stunning sunsets with affordable parking.
"One of the best beaches I have been too so far! Even when busy it does not feel like it because it’s so wide spread."
🚗 Affordable Parking
Paid parking is very reasonable ($2-$3 for 5 hours). Free street parking requires a short walk.
🐢 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for turtles and various bird species, especially near ponds and marshy areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spacious Sandy Beach
Main beach area
Wide, clean sandy shores perfect for relaxing, playing, and enjoying the water. Feels uncrowded even when busy.
Sunset Views
Western-facing areas
Spectacular sunset vistas over the Ottawa River, offering a serene and picturesque end to the day.
Wildlife Spotting
Island trails and ponds
Abundant opportunities to see turtles, birds (including geese and goslings), and other local fauna.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Best Time for Wildlife & Sunsets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Affordable Parking
Paid parking is very reasonable ($2-$3 for 5 hours). Free street parking requires a short walk.
🐢 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for turtles and various bird species, especially near ponds and marshy areas.
🦟 Insect Repellent
Bring bug spray in spring/summer, as marshy areas can attract mosquitoes and biting insects.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of space and picnic tables make it ideal for a family outing or a relaxed lunch.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Affordable Parking
Paid parking is very reasonable ($2-$3 for 5 hours). Free street parking requires a short walk.
🐢 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for turtles and various bird species, especially near ponds and marshy areas.
🦟 Insect Repellent
Bring bug spray in spring/summer, as marshy areas can attract mosquitoes and biting insects.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of space and picnic tables make it ideal for a family outing or a relaxed lunch.
🏊 Lifeguards on Duty
Swim with peace of mind; lifeguards are present during supervised hours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Petrie Island Beach is a beloved Ottawa gem, praised for its spacious, clean sandy shores and breathtaking sunset views. Visitors appreciate the affordable parking, on-duty lifeguards, and the abundance of wildlife, making it ideal for families and nature lovers. Some find parking can be busy, and bug spray is recommended in warmer months.
"Out of all the beaches I’ve visited around Ottawa so far, Petrie Island is definitely my favorite. 🏖️ It’s spacious, the sand feels great under your feet, and the view — especially at sunset — is simply breathtaking. 🌅
There is some free parking available on nearby streets, but be prepared to walk 5 to 10 minutes depending on where you find a spot. If you’re not into walking, there’s convenient paid parking very close to the beach. 🚗💰
I loved how clean and relaxing the area was. There are lifeguards on duty, which made me feel safe while swimming, and the beach is open until 9 PM — perfect for a calm evening visit. 🏊♀️🌇
Highly recommend it for anyone looking to unwind, enjoy nature, or spend quality time with friends or family. 🌿👨👩👧👦"
Monica Galan
"One of the best beaches I have been too so far! Even when busy it does not feel like it because it’s so wide spread. They have volleyball nets, beautiful sand, lifeguards and a canteen that serves everything from poutine and fries to burgers and chicken. Parking is I believe we paid $2.75 for 5 hours which was great took awhile to wait for a spot to open but you can also park 5-10minutes down the road as others have pointed out."
Nicole C
"Amazing wide sandy beach. There are some regular chairs for sitting and picnic chairs. You can rent boats and kayaks.
There is a bathrooms and cold water.
There is a nice juice bar."
Dina Jrira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Petrie Island Beach is about a 25-30 minute drive from downtown Ottawa. You can drive and utilize the paid parking lot or find free street parking nearby. Public transport options are limited, so driving or rideshare is generally recommended.
Yes, there is paid parking available very close to the main beach area, which is quite affordable. Some free street parking can be found on nearby streets, but it may require a short walk to the beach.
Yes, rideshare services like Uber and taxis can drop you off at Petrie Island Beach. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or worry about parking.
From downtown Ottawa, take Highway 417 East and exit onto Trim Road. Head north on Trim Road, then turn right onto Petrie Island Road, which leads to the beach and parking areas. The address is 795 Tweddle Road, Ottawa, ON K4A 3P4.
Public transit options to Petrie Island Beach are limited and may involve multiple transfers and a significant walk. Driving or using a rideshare service is generally more convenient for reaching the beach directly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Petrie Island Beach itself is free. There is a fee for parking, which is very affordable, especially for longer stays.
The beach is open until 9 PM, making it a great spot for evening visits and watching the sunset. Lifeguards are on duty during specific supervised hours.
Parking fees are very reasonable, typically around $2-$3 for a 5-hour period. This makes it an economical choice for a day at the beach.
While beach entry is free, some specific events held at Petrie Island may require tickets. It's advisable to check local event listings if you plan to attend a particular function.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy at Petrie Island Beach. There are also picnic areas and a canteen available.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, play beach volleyball, have picnics, walk or cycle along the trails, and enjoy wildlife spotting. Kayak and boat rentals are also available.
Yes, lifeguards are on duty during supervised hours, providing a safe environment for swimmers.
Amenities include washrooms, change rooms, picnic areas, a canteen, volleyball nets, and a juice bar.
Absolutely! It's a great place for families with its spacious beach, play areas, and opportunities for wildlife observation. Lifeguards add to the safety.
Yes, rentals for boats and kayaks are typically available at Petrie Island Beach, allowing you to explore the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a canteen that serves a variety of food options, including poutine, fries, burgers, and chicken. There's also a juice bar.
Definitely! Petrie Island Beach is an excellent spot for picnics, with plenty of space and picnic tables available.
While there's a canteen on-site, more dining options can be found in the nearby Orléans area, a short drive from the beach.
The canteen offers classic beach fare such as poutine, fries, burgers, and chicken, catering to casual dining needs.
Alcohol policies can vary, and it's best to check local regulations. However, it's generally recommended to stick to non-alcoholic beverages at public beaches.
📸 📸 Photography
The wide sandy beach, especially during sunset, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The natural island landscape and wildlife also provide great subjects.
Yes, the island is known for its diverse wildlife, including turtles and various bird species, making it a fantastic location for nature photography.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape and wildlife photography. Midday can be harsh but good for capturing beach activities.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and local park bylaws. It's essential to check current rules before flying a drone in the area.
A versatile setup is recommended. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for capturing wildlife from a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the beach, the island offers picnic areas and a canteen with kid-friendly food options. The opportunity to spot turtles and various bird species adds an educational and exciting element for children. Exploring the trails can also be a fun, low-impact activity for the whole family. Remember to bring insect repellent for warmer months.
💰 Budget Travelers
You can pack your own picnic and snacks to save on food costs, as there are plenty of picnic tables available. While kayak and boat rentals are an option, simply enjoying the free activities like swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the trails makes for a fulfilling and inexpensive day out.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping beach vistas and a telephoto lens for wildlife. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic potential, from lush summer greens to autumnal colors. Remember to be mindful of wildlife and maintain a respectful distance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Petrie Island's Natural Beauty
Spring and summer are particularly lush, with vibrant greenery thanks to ample rainfall. However, this also means insect repellent is a must during these warmer months, as mosquitoes and other biting insects can be prevalent in the marshy sections. The island's ponds and river offer opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, allowing for a different perspective of the natural environment.
For those interested in wildlife photography, Petrie Island is a gem. The abundance of turtles and birds provides ample subjects. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing these creatures in their natural habitat. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
Beach Activities and Amenities
Beyond swimming and sunbathing, Petrie Island offers a range of amenities to enhance your visit. There's a canteen serving classic beachside fare like poutine, burgers, and fries, as well as a juice bar for refreshing drinks. Picnic tables are scattered throughout the area, making it an ideal location for a family gathering or a leisurely lunch. For those looking to get on the water, rentals for boats and kayaks are often available.
The beach remains open until 9 PM, providing an extended opportunity to enjoy the waterfront, especially for those who appreciate a calm evening visit or want to witness the breathtaking sunsets. This extended hour makes it a versatile destination for both daytime fun and twilight relaxation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit