The temperature is rising, and everyone’s favourite time of the year is approaching fast. Summer is a time for socializing, soaking up the rays and warm weather, and taking a step back to relax. Whatever pleasure activities you seek, there is plenty in Southern Georgian Bay to keep you busy from June through to the end of August.
Beaches
Nothing says summer like a day at the beach. The Collingwood and surrounding areas are home to many beaches perfect for couples, families, and friends. Arguably the most popular, Wasaga Beach, has a little something for everyone, with a boardwalk, sprawling sands, and warm water to enjoy all day. Other beaches in the area to consider include, Sunset Point (make sure to grab fries and ice cream at The Chipper!), Northwinds Beach, and Christie Beach.
Camping and Other Outdoor Adventures
Camping is almost a rite of passage for Ontarians. People love getting out into the great outdoors while the temperatures are warm enough to make it fun. Provincial parks, such as Craighleith, are great places to pitch a tent and explore the nature and wildlife that comes alive during summer. Other sites perfect for a little scenic getaway in the woods include Georgian Bay Park, Lakes of Wasaga Resort, Cedar Grove Park, and Holiday Park.
If it is adventure you seek, check out Free Spirit Tours, offering paddling, caving, wild edibles experience, kids’ camp, group activities and more in Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Beaver Valley, Nottawasaga River, Metcalfe Rock and Georgian Bay.
Blue Mountain Village
Many people look to Blue Mountain Village for their winter getaways, but exploring the village when the sun is shining can be just as fun. They offer activities for the whole family, romantic getaways for couples and fun weekends for friends. Kids and adults alike will love the daytime activities including mini-golf, Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, Plunge Aquatic Centre, Woodlot Low Ropes, hiking, shopping and dining.
Hiking and Biking
Now that it’s time to dust off your biking and hiking apparel, knowing where to go in Collingwood to get the most out of your two feet (or two wheels) is good. Collingwood offers over 60 km of trails that people can explore, whether it be through cycling or walking. Some of the best include Loree Forest, Georgian Trail, Wasaga Beach Trail, Clearview Train Trail, Bruce Trail, Pretty River – you really can’t go far in South Georgian Bay without coming across a trail! They range from easy to moderate and flat gravel to rocky inclines so that you can pick the one best suited for you based on your desired experience.
Watersports
With boats coming out of hibernation, why not try your hand at some watersports in Collingwood? If you’re looking for more of a wild ride on the water, you can check out some of the more extreme watersports at Xtreme Adventures Watersports. They have everything from water skiing to wakeboarding and everything in between.
If it’s a more leisurely vibe you’re looking for, renting a sailboat at one of the many boat rental places in the area can feed your desire for some serene and relaxing time on the water. Or dip your kayak or SUP into the crystal clear waters of Georgian Bay or canoe one of the many rivers in the area and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.
Patios
Sitting on a patio and sharing food and drinks with friends is one of Ontario’s most coveted summertime activities. It allows you to enjoy the nice weather without sacrificing your love for city life.
There are so many patios to choose from in Collingwood and The Blue Mountains! The village at Blue is full of them! Locals and visitors alike frequent patios like The Huron Club in Collingwood, Sterlings in Thornbury, Hearts in Kimberley, Chez Michele in Creemore and Coffin Ridge Boutique Winery outside Meaford, to name a few.
Enjoying the summer heat isn’t tricky, and in Collingwood and the surrounding area, there’s no shortage of activities you can choose from to make your summer one of the best ones yet.