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Young swimmers race through the shallow waters just off ÃŽle Bizard beach. (Gazette file photo)
All local beaches are now open
If you're looking for a day of outdoor fun, try a beach area in and around the West Island
Kristina Edson
The Gazette
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Young swimmers race through the shallow waters just off ÃŽle Bizard beach. (Gazette file photo)
While there are many things to see and do in faraway places, the best can sometimes be found right in our own backyard. With that in mind, The Gazette's West Island section will explore attractions and delights in our corner of the world, both on and off the island.
While many spent the day celebrating fathers of all stripes last Sunday, June 21 also marked the first official day of summer.
With that milestone under our belt, now is the perfect time to break out the sand toys and sunscreen and head for the beach.
Thankfully, the West Island and off-island regions have plenty of prime sand spots to offer. Here are just a few local beaches:
Cap St. Jacques Nature Park
The beach at Cap St. Jacques Nature Park in Pierrefonds welcomes visitors seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. With an average annual attendance of more than 65,000, the site at the northwestern tip of the island, near the Pierrefonds-Senneville border, is a popular beach destination indeed.
Beach water, tested weekly by park staff, comes from the Lake of Two Mountains and Rivière des Prairies.
What should I bring along? Regular beach gear, from Frisbees to sand toys. Radios are not allowed in the beach area for consideration reasons. Picnics are OK but must be eaten in designated areas.
Will I need money? For parking ($7) and the snack bar or pedal-boat, canoe and kayak rentals.
Where is it located? The Cap St. Jacques Nature Park is at 20099 Gouin Blvd. West in Pierrefonds. 514-280-6871.
What else do I need to know? Lifeguards are on duty. The facility also includes access to an ecological working farm with organic produce and two historic buildings, as well as access to hiking trails.
Oka Provincial Park Beach
The beach at the Oka Provincial Park is open for the season. This week, it switches to extended summer hours, meaning many West Islanders may head for the Hudson-Oka ferry for easy access to the beach.
There is a bicycle path running parallel to the beach, and a more challenging mountain bike lane within the park. One walking path also leads to Lac de la Sauvagine, a small lake with its own beach.
What should I bring along? Regular beach gear, a picnic, a bicycle or hiking shoes.
Will I need money? For snack bar or boat rentals, as well as parking ($9) and admission ($3.50 for adults, $7 for a family pass.)
Where is it? 2020 Oka Rd., Oka, 450-479-8365.
What else do I need to know? Lifeguards are on duty. Open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
ÃŽle Bizard Beach
With its shallow waters and small sand areas, the ÃŽle Bizard beach is ideal for families with younger children.
The beach, on the shores of the Lake of Two Mountains, is part of the Cap St. Jacques Nature Park network.
What should I bring along? Beach gear, though no radios are allowed. Picnic food is OK in designated areas only.
Will I need money? Parking is $7 and there are snack machines. Admission is free.
Where is it located? 2115 Bord du Lac, ÃŽle Bizard, 514-280-8517.
What else do I need to know? Lifeguards on duty. Open weekdays, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; weekends from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. until Aug. 9.
Other beaches in the region:
Camping Lac des Cèdres: 1717 St. Denis St., St. Lazare, 450-455-2131.
The family-style campground has a small beach by an artificial lake and two swimming pools. Prices start at $6 for adults and kids over 12.
St. Zotique Beach: 1250 Principale St., St. Zotique, 450-267-3003.
Open seven days a week, it is also possible to book a campsite in advance. Beach admission starts at $9 for adults. Boat rentals are available.
Le Sablon Beach: 1360, St. Philippe St., St. Polycarpe, 450-265-3564.
The beach opened June 20. Prices range between $10- $12 for adults.