Ontario is home to some of the most pristine waters and wild shorelines around, and whichever direction your beach adventures take you this summer, you’re going to need snacks. Let me help.
By Lauren Hambleton
Wasaga Beach—known as the world’s longest freshwater beach—has a few can’t-miss places to grab a bite, both in town and on the way. On your drive in, make a stop 20 minutes down the road in Stayner to pick up some road trip-worthy snacks.
Do yourself a favour and get sushi to go at Miso Hot. You can’t go wrong with whatever your taste buds gravitate towards, but might I recommend the Yama-Rama and the Dixie Roll to get your order started? Stock your cooler with a variety pack, and you’re ready to find that shady spot in the sand.
Before popping up your umbrella and unfurling your beach blanket, make a pit stop at Che Roba! in Wasaga Beach proper. Here you’ll find an array of sandwiches prepared with the fluffiest, freshest, homemade focaccia around. Or post-beach, grab an affogato—an elevated float of sorts, with a buttery, creamy scoop of gelato topped with a fresh pull of espresso. They also have a variety of imported Italian beers and wines to toast the beautiful day.
After Wasaga, Sauble Beach is the second-longest freshwater beach in the world. Soak up the sun, dip your toes in the warm waters of Lake Huron, or log a few kilometres on the sandy expanse before treating yourself to a beverage at 1858 Caesar Bar. Steps from the beach, 1858 has over 45 signature Caesars, and the option to build your own if you know exactly how you like it. You can even get a Caesar on the go: a travelling adult juice box!
Without question, Gigi’s Italian is a place worth visiting. The light and crispy calamari with bright, lemony aioli is complemented by their friendly service. Their namesake Pizza Gigi is their take on the Hawaiian: sweet pineapple pieces and just the right amount of smoked bacon are balanced with pickled onions on a thin, tender crust. The decor is welcoming and cozy, like dining in your modern, stylish, Nonna’s home.
Tobermory—at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, between Lake Huron and Georgian Bay—is a wildly popular spot to explore beautiful rocky beaches with the most crystal clear waters. While it might be the destination you have in mind, don’t pass up the abundance of coves and beaches that are a short detour off the main road. On the East side, Little Cove is a true gem mere steps from the Bruce Trail.
On the West, Singing Sands has some of the warmest, shallowest waters in the area. Along the way, you’ll want to take a break in Wiarton to fuel up and explore, so plan to pop into Howell’s Fish. Throughout the summer, this fish market offers a takeout menu. Locals rave about their delicately crisp fish and fresh-cut fries. They sell a variety of fresh, frozen and smoked fish, caught by Indigenous Fisherfolk on Georgian Bay and Lake Huron.
Once you’ve wound your way up the Peninsula, what better way to celebrate than by grabbing a fresh pint at the Tobermory Brewing Company? Secure a spot on their front patio for the best vantage point of the busy harbour—the boats coming and going, and the cotton candy-streaked sky as the sun is setting.
Pack your sunscreen, take the scenic route, and enjoy every delicious bite this summer has to offer!
Picnic Packs
I love tasting my way through a region, savouring the flavours that the locals do best. But sometimes it’s nice to pack your own picnic—here’s what I take.
Sandwiches that travel well
Curried Chickpea Wraps or a multi-layered Muffaletta
Salads that can withstand a ride in the cooler
Caesar Potato Salad or Corn and Black Bean Salad (pickles are always a great addition to have on hand!)
A cold beverage to cut through the summer heat
Kombucha makes a refreshing choice, while Pippin is a great non-alcoholic option from West Avenue Cider.
Grand finale
Hand Pies are the picnic hero. A portable sweet treat to cap the meal off.
Image credits: Sauble Beach Brianne Farquhar | Che Roba! | Gigi’s Italian Justyna Charette Photography | Wasaga Beach Simcoe County Tourism | 1858 Caesar Bar | Tobermory Brewing Co. Momentum360 Marketing