Set on the shores of Lake Huron, Port Elgin has white sandy beaches, crystalline water and some of Ontario's most beautiful sunsets. The lively holiday town has been attracting sunseekers since the late-1800s and is known for its active outdoor lifestyle and maritime heritage.
Things to do in Port Elgin
Swim, sunbathe and build sandcastles on Port Elgin Main Beach, a three-kilometre stretch of sand known for its spectacular sunsets. Don't leave without snapping a photo in front of the half-scale 1836 American Steam Train set on the foreshore.
Water sports are a top priority in Port Elgin, with activities available for all ages and interests. If you're feeling adventurous, sign up for kiteboarding, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Anglers can fish for rainbow trout and chinook salmon, while families can take things easy with an afternoon of canoeing and kayaking.
The Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre is perfect for discovering the region’s past. Inside you can climb aboard the HMS General Hunter 10-gun brig ship, peer into a pioneer-era general store and discover the legacy of Bruce County's historic lighthouses.
In summer, the Port Elgin waterfront hosts a bustling open-air flea market. It's a great place to pick up toys, books, jewellery and other pre-loved treasures. For a taste of Bruce County's flourishing agritourism scene, head to Smiths' Apples and Farm Market, a family-owned orchard featuring a corn maze and pick-your-own service.
Getting around Port Elgin
Port Elgin is easy to get around on foot, especially around the downtown district. You can also step aboard the SS Trolley, which runs throughout Port Elgin and Saugeen Shores. Rental cars are best for exploring Bruce County. Toronto Pearson International Airport is a three-hour drive south-east.