For your reading pleasure, I have put together a list of places to staycation in Ontario this summer. As many of us have our summer travel plans on hold indefinitely, we are going to have to plan to spend our summer vacation’s a little closer to home. As some travel restrictions begin to ease up within Ontario I plan on spending my summer at a few different places supporting local tourism and getting out of the city.
My favourite place is on the lake. I am partial to Lake Simcoe of course, but have put together a list of a few other places where I am planning to spend some time this summer and you should too! They are in no specific order, they are all great places and have their own upsides and downsides, they are also all within driving distance of Toronto (be warned some are a little further than others). These destinations can be perfect for day trips or hopefully overnight trips. There are many different options from rustic cottages to modern condos, lakes to pools, I promise there is truly something for everyone.
Tobermory
Tobermory is simply gorgeous. This destination is the furthest on my list but SO worth the drive. It is home to Flowerpot Island in the Fathom Five National Park and the Grotto in the Bruce Peninsula National Park. There are so many ways to enjoy nature in Tobermory. The Grotto is a must see, for those who have never been it’s a sea cave with clear blue waters. It also has many rocks for relaxing and catching some rays. If you’re looking for a place to hike, swim and take in some scenery this is the place you want to be. Click here for 15 things to do in Tobermory.
Bayfield
Bayfield is an adorable little town on the west coast of Ontario, home to the most beautiful beaches on Lake Huron. The town has a gorgeous strip with many unique shops and restaurants (that are officially going to be open this summer)! Besides the beaches and town there are also plenty of parks and trails for enjoying the great outdoors. If you find yourself in town this summer be sure to check out the Bayfield Inn and the Black Dog Bistro (both have the Sam Flynn seal of approval). Stay here if you’re looking for a small town charm and love the beach. I plan to spend some of my staycation here this summer!
Friday Harbour Resort
Friday Harbour is less outdoorsy but beautiful nonetheless. It’s located in Innisfil on Lake Simcoe and has all the beautiful serenity of the lake with plenty of shops and restaurants along the boardwalk. The resort has a golf course, a gym, a nature preserve, a pool (for those who don’t love the beach), volleyball nets, fire pits on the beach and of course a marina. Friday Harbour truly has something for everyone. There are townhomes and condos for rent or purchase so check them out if you too would like to, “live everyday like it’s Friday.” Check out airbnb if you’re looking for more of a short term rental, they have different sizes of rentals for all types of families.
Blue Mountain Village
Blue Mountain Village has a lot going on and is the most urban destination on my list. If you’re looking to get out of the city but still have many options for restaurants and shopping this is the one for you. Blue Mountain Village is located near Collingwood so it is a quick drive into town (and the beach) if there is something you need you can’t immediately get in the Village. For spa-goers there is of course the lovely Scandinave Spa close by too.
The Village has so many different restaurants, pools, green spaces, trails, sports activities and tours. There are also many different accommodation options everything from, condos, chalets and hotels to town homes for longer term rentals. Airbnb has a ton of rentals in this area available all summer long, check them out. You can also stay at one of the various resorts in Blue Mountain – there are a number to choose from. The Westin Trillium House is also located right in the middle of the Village if a more traditional hotel experience is more your style – it has beautiful views and spacious suites.
Deerhurst Resort
Let me start by saying Deerhurst Resort is open for overnight stays as of June 12th and located in BEAUTIFUL Muskoka. I am certainly eyeing a staycation here! The resort is situated on 760 acres, home to an extensive lakefront with multiple beaches where you can swim, kayak and paddleboard. There is also a golf course, onsite and nearby wilderness trails plus cottage inspired accommodation styles spread throughout the resort landscape. There is so much to do outside and the cottage styled rooms are so cute and cozy. The restaurants on site are not open for dining but there is take out service and room service. Stay here if you love Muskoka but cooking and cleanup at the cottage is not for you.
So that’s it folks! Some summer staycation options as we are all vacationing a little closer to home this year. Get out and enjoy some of the beautiful places Ontario has to offer! And of course there are so many other wonderful places I haven’t listed! Let me know in the comments where you’re planning on going this summer.
