Make Summer Happen This August Long Weekend
It is one of the biggest weekends of the summer. The sun is out and it’s the perfect opportunity to relax by getting to the water. Whether it’s a beach, dock, lake, or river, wash away the stress of everyday life and enjoy some time with family, friends, or simply yourself. Water is refreshing, rejuvenating, and boosts your mental health. There really is no better way to spend your August long weekend.
Be sure to check out Swim Guide for top beach destinations near you, as well as up-to-date water quality data. For additional inspiration, keep reading below!
Since Drowning Prevention Week was last week, July 19-25, we should remind swimmers on some key points. Don't swim alone and keep children supervised at all times. PFDs are recommended for children and less-experienced swimmers. Lastly, as you enjoy the long weekend, remember not to "drink and dive" (click here to learn about the dangers of combining alcohol and swimming).
Now check out some fun ways to make summer happen!
National Water Highlights:
Banff National Park, Alberta
Enjoy the water from a National Park, with free admission at all 37 national parks until September 7th, 2026. From the Atlantic to Pacific and all the parks in between, there's no more affordable way to get out to admire our Canadian waters!
West Coast Water Highlights:
There are so many exciting events happening across Metro Vancouver this long weekend, and after some rainy days, the good summer weather is in our favour! Kick things off on Friday night down at English Bay for the breathtaking summer light shows along the waterfront. Just a quick heads up: make sure to arrive early and try to walk, bike, or take public transit, as several key streets close down from 12:00 PM to midnight.
The activities will keep rolling all weekend long with incredible local festivals across the region. Down south, you can check out White Rock’s 75th Annual Sea Festival running from July 31 to August 3—it’s the ultimate coastal weekend filled with sun, surf, live music, and family activities along the waterfront. Then on Sunday, get ready for the iconic 48th Annual Vancouver Pride Parade! Running from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM, the vibrant parade marches down its route from Main Street all the way to Science World, filling the streets with incredible energy, music, and color.
Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver, British Columbia
Beyond all the big events, don't forget to squeeze in some classic BC getaway before the long weekend wraps up. Take full advantage of the weather by hitting the trail for a morning hike through breathtaking provincial and regional parks. You can also walk or bike along the scenic waterfronts in Kitsilano, Steveston, or North Vancouver, or do the full Seawall loop around Stanley Park. Afterwards, cool off with an afternoon swim at spots like Jericho, English Bay, or Ambleside Beach—or just relax and catch one of our famous sunsets.
Prairie Water Highlights:
The prairies may be landlocked, but there are still so many water spots to check out! Travel to engage with water in its frozen state, as glaciers in the Rocky Mountains near National Parks like Banff and Jasper. With crystal blue-green lakes and trickles of meltwater, our headwaters flow into tributaries or rivers that nourish our boreal forests and grasslands. Common rivers to walk or boat along are the Bow River, Red Deer River, North and South Saskatchewan Rivers, Clearwater River, and Churchill River.
Look for a lake! From Lake Winnipeg to Waterton Lakes, we're rich in standing water bodies too. Sylvan Lake, Waskesiu Lake, or even wetlands at Elk Island National Park are special places to engage with water.
In more metropolitan areas like Edmonton, there is a lot to do as well! Bike or stroll through the river valley on a 100km+ trail system. Book a leisurely brunch or evening ride on the Edmonton Riverboat as you catch unique views of the city. If you have your own motorized boat, you can conveniently use one of the city's boat launches (Sir Wilfrid Laurier Boat Launch is open again, and Capilano Boat Launch should be re-opening soon – check the city website). For canoers, kayakers, and paddleboarders, you can paddle away in the city at Northeast River Valley Park or Hermitage Park (just remember to wear your PFD and follow city bylaws). The newly-reopened Hawrelak Park is also offering rentals this season from their boathouse!
Lac La Biche, Alberta, Canada
Lac La Biche, Alberta, Canada
Ontario and East Coast Water Highlights:
As the long weekend approaches, this is a great time to check out some Blue Flag beaches! By visiting these beaches, you can ensure that your trip will be memorable. Blue Flag beaches meet specific environmental, safety, and cleanliness standards to provide beach goers with extraordinary beach experiences.
Woodbine Beach, Toronto, Ontario
Ontario is home to many National and Provincial parks such as the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, a beautiful place to enjoy the rapids, that offers Elora Gorge River Tubing during the summer season for a fun, water filled family adventure. This weekend is also an excellent time to pack up your family and hit a national park for an exciting camping trip! Many of these parks, such as the Thousand Islands National Park, Algonquin Provincial Park, and so many more, offer amazing campsites to enjoy some company under the stars.
If you are in a part of Southern Ontario that is expected to experience rain this weekend, don’t fret! There are plenty of ways to experience water indoors! You may enjoy taking a trip to your local indoor waterpark or pool, heading into Toronto to visit Ripley’s Aquarium, or you may even enjoy cozying up at home this weekend. Anywhere you are, you can enjoy the water right at your fingertips. Sit back and get comfortable with some popcorn and snacks, and have a water-based movie marathon! From Finding Nemo to Pirates of the Caribbean to Jaws and Percy Jackson, there is an array of cinema that lets you immerse yourself in the water, right from your couch!
Whatever you decide to do this weekend, let it be filled with water and fun with loved ones. If you decide to head out onto the water, make sure to check the weather beforehand, wear sunscreen, drink lots of water, stay safe, and check the Swim Guide for the latest information on water quality data!
