Summer in the city can hit like a wall of heat, and when the humidity spikes, there is only one logical solution: finding the nearest body of water. Whether you’re loading up the car for a mini road trip or just walking down the street with a towel over your shoulder, Montreal and its surrounding municipalities have plenty of options to help you cool off.

Beaches worth the drive Oka National Park Beach (Oka)

Managed by SEPAC (Société des établissements de plein air du Québec) and just a scenic 45-minute drive from downtown, this beach is a summer classic. Once parked, you’re greeted with soft sand and calm waters. It feels like a proper escape from the concrete jungle.

The Details: Expect to pay the SEPAQ daily access fee ($9.85/adult; kids 17 and under are free), plus a parking fee of $10.50. Arrive early to secure a good spot.

Plage de Saint-Zotique (Saint-Zotique)

Head west on Autoroute 20 for an hour, and you’ll find this gem. It features a massive stretch of sand, thatched palapas that give off a tropical vibe, and a splash pad.

The Details: Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children. You can bring your own food, making it easy to pack a cooler in the trunk and stay all day.

Plage Jean-Doré (Parc Jean-Drapeau)

If you want the beach experience without travelling too far, this is your best bet. Located on Île Notre-Dame, it offers golden sand and a massive inflatable aquapark.

The Details: Access is a breeze via the metro or a quick drive in from the West Island. Entry is $9 for adults and $4.50 for kids.

Pools with room to breathe

Parc Jean-Drapeau Aquatic Complex

This isn’t your average backyard setup. It is a massive facility featuring multiple pools, including a gradual-entry family pool with a cushioned floor. It is incredibly spacious, meaning you won’t feel like you’re swimming on top of your neighbours.

The Details: Admission is $8 for adults and $4 for children. Remember to bring your own padlock for the lockers.

Confederation Park Pool (NDG)

For those in the west end, this community pool is a neighbourhood staple. It’s large enough to accommodate lane swimmers and toddlers simultaneously. There is also plenty of grassy space surrounding the deck to lay out a blanket.

The Details: The best part? It is entirely free for residents and non-residents.

Jarry Park Pool (Villeray)

If you find yourself crossing town, Jarry Park offers a sprawling outdoor pool that is tough to beat. The pool area is large enough that it rarely feels uncomfortably crowded, even on sweltering afternoons.

The Details: Access is completely free for everyone, not just municipality residents. However, the pool has a capacity of 650 pool-goers so on those super hot days, make sure you show up early to secure your spot.

Thrills on the mountain

Les Sommets Water Park (Sommet Saint-Sauveur)

If you’re looking to trade relaxed lounging for a bit of adrenaline, head north to the Laurentians. Built right into the side of the mountain, this massive water park has it all: twisting, high-speed waterslides, a sprawling wave pool, and a lazy river for when you just need to catch your breath. It’s a full-day adventure that will easily exhaust (and entertain) the whole family.

The Details: As a premier mountain destination, an all-day pass runs between $45 and $50 for anyone taller than 4’4”, with great discounted rates available for smaller kids and evening-only visits. Booking online in advance is the absolute way to go — it unlocks the best rates and lets you bypass the front ticket lines entirely. n