Port Elgin Ontario is a small town nestled on the shores of Lake Huron. Located along the clear turquoise blue waters, Port Elgin shows off its stunning sunsets bringing in 1000s of visitors every summer. The Fall foliage in Port Elgin Ontario is known for its mesmerizing colours, Fall activities, visit to local farms and Pumpkin Fest that happens every year. That’s not all. In the winter months, you can see the Northern Lights on a clear day from this town! Filled with the Caribbean flair, this town is sure to be a hit amongst all age groups visiting.
We moved to Port Elgin in the middle of the pandemic. Uncertain of our life plans, we bought a town home but within months of settling in, we realized that this is where we were going to live. We started building our dream home and put our townhouse on AirBnb once we moved to our new home. I want to secretly lure in others to visit this town and show off all that Port Elgin is so famous for. It is truly a hidden gem on the Bruce Peninsula.
Life on the shores of Lake Huron has been nothing short of magical. The winter months are cold, but there are a ton of things to do if you love the outdoors. The summer months are beyond amazing. Port Elgin main beach will remind you of the Caribbean. The vibe on the beach, the activities going on, the occasional fireworks, well, I can keep going on and on.
But, here’s why you should visit!
Port Elgin main beach
There is so much to do at the main beach. With a restaurant, washroom facilities, a playground right on the beach, the marina close by, volleyball nets, a sandy beach and even a pet friendly beach within walking distance, this place is a must for the entire family. There are 6 beaches in Port Elgin and the main beach is the busiest of them all.
If you are looking for a quieter spot, check out Gobles Grove. The water is warm and shallow and makes it an excellent spot for little swimmers.
North Shore Trail
This trail is a must for everyone visiting or living in Port Elgin Ontario. North Shore trail is right along the lake and offers spectacular views of Lake Huron as well as Port Elgin main beach and the harbour. The trail connects Port Elgin to Southampton, and you will find some of the best views of the town while walking on this trail.
In Port Elgin, the trail starts at the North Shore Park. The park boosts picnic tables for those that want to enjoy lunch with a view! There is a playground and splash pad at the North Shore Park for your little ones and of course, restrooms on site.
Between Port Elgin and Southampton, the trail is paved and a great spot to walk or bike. There are benches along the trail to take in the stunning views of the lake as well as Chantry Island at a distant. This spot is known amongst those that enjoy watching the picturesque sunsets over Lake Huron.
Downtown Port Elgin
If you enjoy browsing through boutique stores, pick up local souvenirs or support local small businesses or even grab a bite to eat in a fast-food setting or a restaurant, downtown Port Elgin is the place for you. With bars and restaurants, shops and ice cream parlours, Port Elgin rentals and convenience stores, coffee shops and sweet shops, there is something for everyone.
During the summer months, you will find the street covered in massive hanging flower baskets and street markets bursting with tourists and locals enjoying a drink on one the patios. There are chairs along the downtown area for you to sit and take in all the hustle and bustle of a small town. Make sure you visit the Visitor Center for more information on making the most of your time in Port Elgin.
Port Elgin shopping
Looking for one of a kind thing? Something for yourself or a special piece for your home? Well, you are in luck. Downtown Port Elgin has boutique stores where you can find beautiful beach clothes and art from local artists and vendors. If you are looking for something special for your home, check out K Interiors located in downtown Port Elgin or drive a few minutes to Interior Motives or The Modern Farmhouse.
If this does not satisfy your shopping hunger, visit the Southampton Market. The Southampton Market is over two acres of indoor factory outlet market shopping. You will find everything that you can imagine and more at the market.
No matter what you are looking for, Port Elgin stores will be sure to please you!
Weather in Port Elgin Ontario
Port Elgin weather is lovely for outdoor lovers. Summer is filled with warm sunny days and the hikes are spectacular no matter what the weather is. Summer is the perfect time to visit if you are longing for beach days and an ice cream at one of the many ice cream shops. During summer, Port Elgin experiences more than double the population with all the tourists coming in from around the world. If you are looking to visit during a quieter month, consider visiting during spring and Fall.
Winter is a great time to visit but I would recommend avoiding a visit during a snowstorm. The highways into and out of town can close when the snow is drifting, and snowplows are not allowed on the road.
Fall is a lovely time to visit because of the spectacular Fall foliage you can see driving up and into the McGregor Provincial Park.
If you are planning to visit the Bruce Peninsula, check out our blogs on things to do, must-visit places, the most stunning hikes, and a lot more.
Accommodations in Port Elgin Ontario
A variety of accommodations are available for those wishing to visit Port Elgin Ontario. There are a few motels in Port Elgin Ontario, and you will find a ton of cottage rentals in Port Elgin Ontario. Airbnb’s and VRBOs are extremely famous in the area. There is a Holiday Inn in Port Elgin and a new hotel franchise coming soon.
With numerous options, you may wonder what the best option for you is. This is a personal choice and once that you may need to pick based on your family’s needs. If you are looking for a long-term rental or wish to stay in the area for more than a few days, I recommend booking an AirBnb. There is so much flexibility in terms of cooking meals, laundry facilities, etc when you are in an AirBnb styled home. Click Here if you are looking for a place to live in Port Elgin.
Final thoughts on Port Elgin Ontario
If I haven’t convinced you to visit Port Elgin, here are some more! Port Elgin to Owen Sound is a 40 minutes’ drive. Port Elgin to Sauble Beach is a mere 25-minute drive. Sauble beach is a very popular spot in the summer months, but it can be challenging to find accommodations in the area specially ones that are reasonably priced. Setting up your base in Port Elgin means you can venture in all directions as and when you please. Surrounded by the Saugeen River and Provincial Parks, there is so much to do and see in Port Elgin Ontario.
I hope this has convinced you to visit this little hidden gem on the shores of Lake Huron. If you have any questions of visiting Port Elgin, feel free to reach out to me through the Contact Us form or through social media.
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