9 Beaches & Hidden Spots To Explore For A Caribbean Vacation Right Here In Quebec
Montrealers don't need to go far to find hidden gems and famous landscapes that, in the summertime, look like they belong on a tropical island. From Quebec's beaches and rugged coastline to emerald rivers and waterfalls tucked away in the forest, there's plenty to see and do without ever leaving the province.
Seemingly endless natural beauty awaits — often just a few hours from Montreal.
After being cooped up in our homes all winter, it's nice to know that these vacation-like spots are within reach.
There are also some magical landscapes to be found in the distant corners of the province if you're looking for a little bit more of a getaway.
Travelling around the globe and discovering new, exotic locations is great. But there's something extra special about exploring your own backyard. Plus, you get to support local communities and business owners.
Where will you go first?
Plage St-Zotique
Distance from Montreal: About one hour
Cost to visit: $12 per adult
This stunning beach will give you major tropical vibes thanks to the beautiful water and sand.
Plage de Penouille
Distance from Montreal: 10 hours
Located in Forillon National Park in Gaspé, this breathtaking beach is worth the long voyage. The beach looks straight out of a magazine and you can explore the beauty of Quebec along the way.
Lac St-Joseph
Distance from Montreal: Three hours
This town in Quebec is home to a beautiful lake and beach with Instagram-worthy views. About three hours from Montreal, this beach will give you the feeling of being on a sunny island vacation, somewhere far away from home.
Douglass Beach
Distance from Montreal: One hour and 20 minutes
Cost to visit: Parking fee
Located in the charming town of Knowlton, this photogenic lakeside park will make you believe that you have travelled long and far when in reality you're just a quick hop from the city.
Plage de la Grande Échouerie
Distance from Montreal: 19 hours and 30 minutes
Located in the Îles de la Madeleine, the Plage de la Grande Échouerie offers wide sandy plains, rolling dunes, and endless ocean vistas. If you are looking to explore somewhere a little further, then this is the spot for you.
Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon
Distance from Montreal: Five hours and 20 minutes
Less than six hours from Montreal, Pointe-Taillon National Park is the place to immerse yourself in nature. Sépaq puts it best: "Who hasn't dreamed of a day spent lounging on a vast sandy shore and walking for miles without reaching the end? That's exactly what you can do on kilometres of shoreline at Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon."
Chutes Waber
Distance from Montreal: Three hours
The towering falls make for a relaxing and memorable experience that's also sure to impress your social media following.
Bonaventure Island
Distance from Montreal: 10 hours 30 minutes
Cost to visit: $9 per adult
The Parc national de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé is where cliffs dive into the sea. Rocky islands punctuate the horizon, resulting in a dramatic rural landscape that, though well-known, feels like a world away.
Chute de la Rivière aux Émeraudes
Distance from Montreal: 10 hours and 15 minutes
According to the Gaspésie regional tourism website, the river gets its name from "the depth and [colour] of the stones at the bottom which gives it a green appearance."
Hike to the falls and watch as emerald green water cascades before you.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.