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Beach · Ingonish, Nova Scotia
Ingonish Beach
A sand-and-pebble beach in Ingonish’s south bay, separated by a sandbar from a freshwater lake, inside Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Ingonish Beach
Ingonish Beach sits at the head of the south bay, inside the national park. A sand-and-pebble strip separates the ocean from a freshwater lake, and beachgoers can choose between the two waters: the ocean, cold and with waves, and the lake, calmer and a little less cold.
Around the beach there are lawns, picnic areas, changing rooms and, in season, lifeguards. The view opens to the Middle Head peninsula and to Smokey Mountain to the south. It is one of the few beaches in the park with facilities for spending the day.
The swimming season is short, usually July through late August. Outside that period the beach remains beautiful for walking, with fewer people.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day.
Best time
July through late August for swimming; on sunny days, afternoons.
How to get there
At Ingonish Beach, with access via the Cabot Trail and parking by the beach.
Tip
If the ocean is too cold, try the lake on the other side of the sandbar.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ingonish Beach
Does Ingonish Beach have freshwater?
Yes: behind the sandbar there is a freshwater lake beside the ocean.
When to swim at Ingonish Beach?
Generally July through late August. The ocean water is usually cold.
Does Ingonish Beach have facilities?
Yes, with picnic areas, changing rooms and lifeguards in season.