Potters Beach Grindstone Island
A serene, natural sandy beach on Grindstone Island, perfect for families and boaters with shallow, calm waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Potters Beach Grindstone Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, natural sandy beach on Grindstone Island, perfect for families and boaters with shallow, calm waters.
"Amazing little beach. One of the a couple natural sandy beaches in the 1000 islands."
Arrive Early for Spots
The beach fills up quickly, especially in summer. Get there early to snag a prime spot! :sunrise:
Great for Little Ones
The shallow, sandy water is perfect for children to play safely. :child:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shallow Sandy Shores
Potters Beach
Perfect for families, the water is shallow and sandy, ideal for safe swimming and wading.
Natural Sandy Beach
Grindstone Island
One of the few natural sandy beaches in the 1000 Islands, offering a serene escape.
Driftwood Treasures
Potters Beach
Kids love collecting unique driftwood and rocks, adding an element of discovery to the beach day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Summer Crowds
Boat Access is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Spots
The beach fills up quickly, especially in summer. Get there early to snag a prime spot! :sunrise:
Great for Little Ones
The shallow, sandy water is perfect for children to play safely. :child:
1903: The Potter Hotel facing the beach between Chapala and Bath Streets. Surpassing even the Arlington Hotel in luxury, it opened in 1901 on 36 acres of broad lawns and paths with geranium borders. Ambassador Park is a remnant of the entrance to the hotel from what’s now Cabrillo Boulevard.
Boat-Friendly Destination
Ideal for boaters looking to anchor and enjoy a swim or picnic. :sailboat:
Explore the Island
Beyond the beach, discover unique driftwood and enjoy nearby fishing. :fishing_pole:
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Spots
The beach fills up quickly, especially in summer. Get there early to snag a prime spot! :sunrise:
Great for Little Ones
The shallow, sandy water is perfect for children to play safely. :child:
Boat-Friendly Destination
Ideal for boaters looking to anchor and enjoy a swim or picnic. :sailboat:
Explore the Island
Beyond the beach, discover unique driftwood and enjoy nearby fishing. :fishing_pole:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Potters Beach is lauded as one of the nicest natural sandy beaches in the 1000 Islands, particularly praised for its shallow, safe waters ideal for children. Visitors enjoy the serene environment, collecting driftwood, and the convenience for boaters. Some note it can get very busy during peak summer months.
"This is one of the nicest beaches we have access to in our area. During the busy summer months, it is Amazing to see just how many people come to enjoy this beach. This is a great beach for children to play. A very large portion of the water near the beach is very shallow. It's perfect for children and adults of all ages"
James Dorr
"Amazing little beach. One of the a couple natural sandy beaches in the 1000 islands. Beautiful place to take the boat and family for a day of relaxing and swimming. Beautiful rocks and drift wood for the kids to pick for "treasures". Some excellent fishing close by. Very enjoyable to snorkel and see the river."
B.D P
"We always enjoy tying up at Potters Beach and taking a dip. The cool waters of the St Lawrence feel nice on a hot day and the sandy bottom tickles the toes. The beach is on the leeward side of the island so the water is generally calm. Get there early tho, the place fills up quickly."
Jim Hicklin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Potters Beach is located on Grindstone Island in the St. Lawrence River. The most common way to access it is by boat, as it's a popular stop for boaters in the 1000 Islands region. There are no direct ferry services to the beach itself, so arriving by private vessel or charter is recommended.
Information regarding car parking directly at Potters Beach is limited, as it's primarily accessed by water. Visitors arriving by land may need to explore options on Grindstone Island and potentially walk or use other means to reach the beach.
Yes, kayaking or canoeing to Potters Beach is a great option for exploring the 1000 Islands. The calm waters on the leeward side of the island make it accessible for smaller watercraft.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Potters Beach in traveler reviews. It appears to be a natural beach accessible to the public, especially for boaters.
As a natural beach, Potters Beach does not have set operating hours. It is accessible whenever visitors can reach it, though it's most enjoyable during daylight hours.
No advance booking is required for Potters Beach. However, due to its popularity, arriving early is advised, especially during peak summer months.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Potters Beach is perfect for swimming, wading, sunbathing, and relaxing. Kids enjoy collecting driftwood and rocks. Snorkeling and fishing are also popular activities nearby. +1
Absolutely! The beach features very shallow, sandy water, making it incredibly safe and enjoyable for children of all ages.
While specific amenities are not detailed, some reviews mention misters for cooling off on hot days, suggesting a focus on visitor comfort. It's advisable to bring your own food, drinks, and any other necessities.
Yes, there are excellent fishing opportunities close to the beach, and the river is enjoyable for snorkeling, allowing you to see the underwater life.
The beach boasts a natural sandy bottom, which is soft on the feet and ideal for comfortable lounging and playing. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Reviews do not mention any restaurants or food vendors directly at Potters Beach. It's recommended to pack a picnic or bring your own snacks and drinks for your visit.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a picnic lunch. Consider a cooler to keep your food and drinks fresh, especially on warm days.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene beauty of the natural sandy beach, the calm waters, and the unique driftwood. The surrounding 1000 Islands landscape also offers stunning backdrops.
While not explicitly mentioned for sunsets, the tranquil waters and island setting could offer beautiful evening light. Arriving early might allow for capturing golden hour light before the crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many families arrive by boat, making it a fantastic stop for a day of island hopping. The calm waters on the leeward side of Grindstone Island are ideal for anchoring. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as amenities are minimal. The focus here is on natural fun and relaxation, making it a stress-free outing for everyone.
🚤 Boaters and Water Enthusiasts
The sandy bottom and shallow entry make it ideal for a refreshing dip after a day on the water. Beyond swimming, the surrounding area offers opportunities for fishing and snorkeling, adding to the aquatic adventure. It’s a prime example of the idyllic island lifestyle that the 1000 Islands are famous for, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the 1000 Islands Beaches
Many visitors arrive by boat, transforming Potters Beach into a vibrant hub for island hopping and aquatic recreation. The beach is situated on the leeward side of Grindstone Island, which typically means calmer waters, ideal for tying up a boat and enjoying a leisurely day. The combination of natural beauty, family-friendly conditions, and convenient boat access solidifies Potters Beach's reputation as a premier summer destination in the area.
Family Fun and Discovery
The overall experience at Potters Beach is designed for simple enjoyment and connection with nature. The calm waters are not only safe but also pleasant for snorkeling, offering a glimpse into the river's aquatic life. For those who enjoy fishing, the proximity to good fishing spots adds another layer of activity. It’s a place where simple pleasures, like collecting a unique piece of driftwood or feeling the soft sand between your toes, create lasting memories for families.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit