Port Burwell Beach

Contributor Review – Christine Penner
Local Expert. Visited 2024

We visited Ontario's Port Burwell Beach on a busy long weekend and had to pay the higher $24 day-use fee. There's no way around this fee, so be prepared. Initially, we tried walking to the beach by following Google Maps and got lost. It's better not to try and take shortcuts through private property. Instead, follow the clearly marked signs to the beach.

When you reach the sand, you won't see any naked people right away. You need to turn right at the beach and follow it as far as you can. Once you leave the Ontario Parks boundary, you're entering the nude zone. If you go on a busy day like we did, you'll see LOTS of people here! It’s quite a sight to see the beach suddenly transform into a vibrant naturist community.

The landowner permits nude use of this section of the beach, so it's essential to be respectful. The landowner's generosity has allowed this beautiful stretch of beach to be enjoyed freely by naturists for years. We should all do our part to keep it clean and respect the no overt sexual behavior rule to maintain the positive atmosphere. There have been no reports of 'funny business' at this beach which is great to hear.

The water was icy cold at the start of the season but very refreshing. Generally, you'll find the water level high at the start of summer and lower as the season progresses. However, there's always enough beach space to fit everyone comfortably! Lake Erie’s freshwater is incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day. Fun fact: Lake Erie is the fourth largest of the five Great Lakes in North America. It’s also the shallowest, which means it warms up quickly in the summer but can be quite cold early in the season.

Everyone here was respectful and super friendly, which was especially important since I went as a solo woman. There was no awkwardness, and there were lots of families, couples, and no creepy singles! It’s such a welcoming atmosphere that you quickly feel at ease. The sense of community is strong, and it’s easy to strike up a conversation with fellow beachgoers.

I didn't get bitten by horseflies, but regulars warned they can be a problem during certain times of the year. It’s a good idea to bring bug spray just in case. The beach itself is spotlessly clean, thanks to the efforts of the regulars who make sure to pick up after themselves and others.

What really stood out to me was the down-home feel of Port Burwell Beach. It’s much more relaxed and intimate compared to Toronto’s busy Hanlan’s Point Beach. Here, you can enjoy the freedom of naturism in a serene and beautiful setting without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. The lack of amenities means you need to bring everything you need for the day, but it also adds to the rustic charm of the place.

Despite the steep day-use fee, I highly recommend Port Burwell Beach. It’s a hidden gem that offers a unique and liberating experience. Surely it is one of Ontario's best nude beaches, if not the best! Even if you live in the area or are just visiting, it’s definitely worth checking out. Just remember to follow the parking instructions, respect the landowner’s rules, and enjoy the natural beauty of this special place.