Prince Edward County, Ontario, July 28: One of Ontario’s most celebrated summer destinations has received international recognition after Sandbanks Provincial Park in Prince Edward County was named among the world’s best beach travel experiences in a global ranking compiled by travel publication Travel and Tour World.
The annual list highlights 500 outstanding beaches from around the world, recognizing destinations known for their natural beauty, visitor experience, environmental significance and scenic appeal.
Sandbanks was the only beach in Ontario to earn a place in the international ranking.
Canada Well Represented
The ranking includes 10 Canadian beaches, showcasing the country’s diverse coastal and freshwater landscapes.
British Columbia dominated the Canadian list, with Chesterman Beach and Long Beach on Vancouver Island, along with Kitsilano Beach and English Bay in Vancouver, occupying the top four national positions.
Sandbanks ranked 10th among Canadian beaches, following destinations in Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick.
A Unique Freshwater Destination
Located on the northern shore of Lake Ontario, Sandbanks Provincial Park is internationally recognized for its remarkable freshwater ecosystem and spectacular landscape.
The park is home to the world’s largest freshwater baymouth barrier dune system, featuring towering golden sand dunes, expansive beaches and shallow, crystal-clear waters that attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Among its most popular attractions is Outlet Beach, a family-friendly destination known for its gradual shoreline, warm water and safe swimming conditions.
The combination of broad sandy beaches, impressive dune formations and surrounding natural habitat has made Sandbanks one of Canada’s premier summer recreation destinations.
Tourism and Conservation
Travel and Tour World’s rankings recognize destinations that set high standards for travel experiences while also emphasizing environmental stewardship and conservation.
Many of the beaches featured on the list are noted for protecting fragile coastal ecosystems while providing exceptional recreational opportunities for visitors.
Sandbanks Provincial Park has long balanced tourism with conservation through dune protection programs, habitat restoration initiatives and visitor education designed to preserve its unique natural environment.
Economic Boost for Prince Edward County
International recognition is expected to further strengthen tourism in Prince Edward County, one of Ontario’s fastest-growing travel destinations.
The region is already renowned for its wineries, culinary experiences, cycling routes, historic communities and waterfront attractions, with Sandbanks serving as its most recognizable natural landmark.
Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, wineries and tourism operators, could benefit from increased visitor interest generated by the global ranking.
World-Class Company
Sandbanks joins an impressive list of internationally acclaimed beaches, including Fteri Beach in Greece, Wharton Beach in Western Australia, Isla Pasión in Cozumel, Mexico, and Cala Macarella in Spain—destinations widely recognized for their spectacular scenery and exceptional visitor experiences.
Its inclusion demonstrates that Canada’s freshwater beaches can compete with some of the world’s most celebrated coastal destinations.
A Growing International Profile
For Ontario, Sandbanks’ recognition reinforces the province’s reputation as home to some of North America’s finest freshwater beaches.
As international travel continues to recover and outdoor tourism grows in popularity, the global recognition is expected to introduce even more visitors to one of Canada’s most iconic natural attractions while highlighting the importance of preserving its unique ecological heritage.