Enjoy stunning mountain scenery, watersports and both sea and freshwater swimming at this beach in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Ingonish Beach is set around a picturesque bay on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a long sweep of fine sand backed by verdant mountains. Here you can swim in both saltwater and freshwater, surf, play sports and enjoy scenic walking trails.
Spend a few moments taking in the views from the beach, which include the rocky peninsula that juts out from the northern end of the bay. Face away from the ocean and marvel at the forest-clad mountains of Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
On a warm summer day, go for an invigorating swim in the sea. Bring a surfboard with you and ride the waves or just sit on the shore and watch the surfers enjoying the action. Go for a stroll along Ingonish Beach until you reach Dunphys Creek where you will see fishermen casting their lines into the water.
Framing the beach is a wall of smooth cobblestones that separate it from Freshwater Lake. Cross the stones for a swim in the clear body of water. Afterwards, follow the 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) long trail that surrounds part of the lake. Walk through areas of thick forest and look out for local wildlife.
If you are feeling very energetic, take part in some sporting activities. There are tennis courts, a soccer field and a playground for children. Break for refreshments in the picnic areas or head over to the canteen, which is open in July and August.
Ingonish Beach is situated on the northeast coast of Cape Island. The most convenient way to arrive is by car. You will find ample free parking at the north end of the beach. Among the facilities here are public conveniences and changing rooms. Lifeguards patrol the saltwater area in July and August. Note that in the winter the Atlantic Ocean washes the beach away and reforms it in the spring.