Saugeen Shores
Nestled along the beautiful shores of Lake Huron, Saugeen Shores offers a wealth of outdoor activities, fall fairs and cultural experiences.
During the summer months, visitors flock to the town’s many beaches, including Southampton Main Beach, Shipley Beach, Port Elgin Beach and South Street Beach, which is known for its spectacular sunsets.
Thanks to the Saugeen River, Saugeen Shores is also known for its excellent canoeing, namely the Saugeen River Canoe Route and fishing. In fact, the stretch of the river just upstream from Lake Huron is said to be Ontario’s best trout and salmon run.
Where is Saugeen Shores?
Saugeen Shores stretches along the shore of Lake Huron at the base of the Bruce Peninsula. The region is about a three-hour drive from the Greater Toronto Area and about 2.5 hours from London, Kitchener and Barrie.
Saugeen Shores is best explored by car or motorcycle, although limited bus service is available to Southampton and Port Elgin. Visitors can arrive by boat, with moorage available at Port Elgin Harbour.
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Things to do in Saugeen Shores
Discover the town’s history
The Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre offers the chance to explore homes, shops and a schoolhouse from the 1800s. The museum also hosts special exhibits throughout the year.
Go to a fall fair
Feast your eyes on the award-winning pumpkins and other giant veggies on display at the Port Elgin Pumpkinfest. This annual fair also features a midway, games, pet show and live music.
Do some bird watching
Just south of Port Elgin, birders will enjoy exploring the trails of MacGregor Point Provincial Park or the marshy shores of Miramichi Bay, two spots known for their migratory birds.
Paddle a canoe route
Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle the Saugeen River canoe route, a 198-kilometre river route with multiple access points from Dundalk to Southampton. The route empties into Lake Huron.
Make it a beach day
The town of Southampton is known for its spectacular beach. Relax on the white sand, go for a dip in the waters of Lake Huron and admire the view of the Chantry Island lighthouse.
Go fishing
Fishing the Saugeen River upstream from Lake Huron is a must, this stretch of river is known as home to one of Ontario’s best trout and salmon runs.
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Last updated: October 22, 2024