Norfolk County > Visiting > Beaches

Beaches

Couple piggybacking along beach

Located along the beautiful shoreline of Lake Erie, Norfolk County is home to many kilometres of sandy beaches. For the best beach experience, visit one of the area’s two provincial parks. If you visit other areas, be sure to read all parking signage and be respectful of private property.

Port Dover

Port Dover is a beautiful and quiet resort town with friendly people and, of course, a scenic beach. Jump into the water for a relaxing swim or soak up the sun on the sand for that South Coast tan. The pier is a focal point for anglers, couples, and seniors watching the fishing tugs return with their catches. If you want to hit the open water, the waterfront boasts a great marina and charter tours.

Norfolk County owns a small portion of the Port Dover beach with most of the beach being privately owned. There is no lifeguard on duty.

Port Dover Beach rules

The Port Dover Beach is open to visitors daily from dawn until dusk. Those visiting Port Dover Beach, visitors must adhere to Norfolk County By-Law 2023-46.

The following are not permitted on Port Dover Beach at any time:

  • Fires
  • Dogs, with the exception of clearly identifiable service dogs
  • Glass containers
  • Littering
  • Public defecation/urination
  • Smoking or vaping any tobacco or cannabis
  • BBQs of any kind
  • Tents of any size or type
  • Umbrellas greater than 2.3 m high and 2.7 m shade diameter. Umbrellas shall have one center pole, and no material portion may be in contact with the sand
  • Consuming, serving, or selling alcohol
  • Trespassing dusk until dawn

Turkey Point

Turkey Point Beach is a long, shallow beach with many sand bars, ideal for families. The beach extends into the cottage areas of Turkey Point, so please observe parking signs and respect the privacy of others.

Long Point

Long Point is an incredible sandy beach on Lake Erie. The beach is part of Long Point Provincial Park, located on the 40 km-long sand spit recognized as a biosphere reserve by the United Nations.

The best beach experience can be found at the provincial park. If you park anywhere else, please observe parking signage, and respect private property. Note that high water levels can lead to significant beach reduction in this area.

Tips when visiting Norfolk County beaches

To get the most out of your visit to Norfolk County’s beaches, please consider the following:

  • Plan ahead by visiting ontarioparks.com
  • Consider visiting during off-peak times, such as throughout the week
  • Arrive at your destination early in the day
  • Read all parking signage to avoid getting a ticket
  • Be respectful of private property
  • Be aware of local weather conditions
  • Pack out what you bring in, or use provided garbage cans
  • Have a backup plan in case beaches are busy and parking is unavailable

Parking

Paid Parking is in effect in the lakeside communities of Port Dover, Turkey Point and Long Point from June 15 to September 3, 2023. The information, below, shows the locations of the spots affected.

Visit the Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.

Visit the Resident Permit page if you are a Norfolk County Resident looking to purchase a permit.