Ethan BrownTucked along the banks of the Ottawa River, Westboro Beach is not just about sandy shores and sunshine—this place has some history. Back in the early 1900s, this was the go-to spot for city folks looking to escape the hustle, and you’ll find many summer cottages dotting the area.
Fast forward to today, and it’s transformed into a chill hangout for locals, joggers, and paddleboarders. The exciting part is that Westboro Beach is getting a major glow-up thanks to the Beach Redevelopment Project.
The city is investing in expanded facilities, better pathways, and greener spaces to make this post even more inviting. Think upgraded picnic areas, eco-friendly designs, and a revamped pavilion for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts alike!
Things to Know
Operating hours: Reopens Summer 2025
Contact: +1 613-239-5000 or [email protected]
Where is Westboro Beach?
Westboro Beach is tucked away in Ottawa’s west end, right along the south shore of the Ottawa River. It’s pretty much where nature meets the city—close enough for a quick escape but far enough to feel like a little getaway.
You’ll find it near the popular Westboro neighbourhood, off the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway, and it’s part of the scenic parklands that hug the riverbank.
To give you some bearings, it’s just a short drive or bike ride from downtown Ottawa, right beside the NCC’s Ottawa River pathway (perfect for those waterfront strolls).
How to Get to Ottawa’s Westboro Beach
Closest subway stop: Getting to Westboro Beach is super easy, whichever way you like to go. For those taking public transit, hop on an OC Transpo bus and get off near the Dominion Station (on the Transitway), just a short walk from the beach.
From there, it’s a breezy stroll along the pathway to dip your toes in the sand. Now, if you’re on wheels, just head west on the Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway—it’s right off the road, and there’s parking nearby.
For biking or walking enthusiasts, the Ottawa River Pathway is your best bet. The pathway runs along the beach, offering gorgeous views before you even get there!
Best Time to Go to Ottawa’s Westboro Beach
The best time to visit Ottawa’s Westboro Beach depends on your vibe. If you’re after sunshine and a chill waterside hang, summer is where it’s at.
However, Westboro Beach isn’t just a summer destination. It transforms in the winter, when the famous Westboro Beach Winter Carnival takes centre stage.
Organised by the Westboro Beach Community Association, this local favourite is all about the snow and ice with fun family activities, music, and even some tasty treats! So, whether it’s summer or winter, there’s always something happening here.
What to Do and See in Westboro Beach
Sunbathe and swim during summer
Westboro Beach is one of Ottawa’s favourite spots to cool off during the warm summer months. If you’re looking to unwind, this sandy stretch along the Ottawa River is ideal for soaking up the sun or getting your feet wet.
The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a relaxing atmosphere without feeling too far from the city. Lifeguards will be on duty during its reopening in the summer season, so it’s also a safe spot for families to enjoy.
Aside from swimming, there’s always something happening here—whether it’s a local group hosting yoga sessions or families picnicking. The beach also has accessible bathroom facilities and a small concession stand nearby for snacks and drinks.
Go kayaking or paddleboarding
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If you’re into active water sports, kayaking and paddleboarding at Westboro Beach should be at the top of your list. The Ottawa River offers calm waters perfect for both beginners and seasoned paddlers looking to explore scenic views from the water.
Rental shops are often set up nearby for those who don’t own gear. Furthermore, the river’s shoreline offers views of forests and charming homes, and you might spot some wildlife along the way—birds in particular love hanging around the area.
If you’re a fan of early mornings, paddling with the sunrise can truly elevate the experience. And if you’re in Ottawa during the summer, keep an eye out for local paddleboarding groups that sometimes organise sessions or tours in the area.
Explore biking and hiking trails around Westboro Beach
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Westboro Beach isn’t just about the water—it’s also the gateway to some incredible trails that cater to cyclists, walkers, and runners. The Ottawa River pathway is one of the more popular routes in the area.
Many cyclists start right at Westboro Beach and follow the pathway into the downtown core or west toward other riverside spots. For walkers and hikers, the shaded areas along the trail make it perfect for midday strolls, even during the height of summer heat.
You’ll find plenty of benches along the way, perfect for quick water breaks or just to sit and appreciate the surroundings. The trails also connect to other recreational hotspots, so they’re a great jumping-off point if you want to extend your adventure.
Enjoy a scenic picnic with family
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A trip to Westboro Beach wouldn’t be complete without a picnic with family or friends. Plenty of open grassy areas and picnic spots close to the shoreline make it easy to set up camp for an afternoon of good food and relaxation.
Kids can even run around and play in the open spaces while adults enjoy the surroundings. Don’t forget to toss a frisbee or bring a soccer/volleyball—there’s more than enough space here for a bit of family game.
Join in the annual Easter egg hunt
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The annual Easter egg hunt in Westboro Beach is one of those events that you’ll want to mark on your calendar well in advance. It’s fun, lively, and perfect for the entire family!
Spread across the beach and nearby park, this hunt isn’t just about finding chocolate eggs—it’s a whole morning of entertainment. And it’s not just for kids; there are often special zones for adults where you can participate in challenges and win prizes.
Be sure to arrive early, though—this event tends to attract quite a crowd, and starting as early as possible gives you a chance to make the most of the day. The event also includes extra perks, like face painting, craft tables, and snack booths.
Experience the festive Winter Carnival
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If you love fun outdoor events, the Winter Carnival is one you won’t want to miss. Held right at Westboro Beach every year, this snowy celebration is a full-on winter fest with everything from ice carving competitions to cosy fire pits scattered around.
One of the highlights is the variety of activities available, depending on what you’re into—from sledding hills to snowman-building contests. For adults, the carnival usually features food trucks, live performances, and pop-up artisan markets.
If you’re the adventurous type, sometimes there’s even a chance for some light winter hiking or cross-country skiing on nearby trails. Plus, at night, the carnival ramps up with evening festivities, like light displays, fireworks, or live entertainment.
Watch the lively Holiday Parade featuring Santa
– Media credit: westborobeachca
The Holiday Parade in Westboro Beach is an event you’ll want to attend if you’re in town in December. The streets come alive with marching bands, themed floats, and costumed performers, with Santa’s grand arrival at the end of the parade.
There are usually stations along the route for free hot chocolate or cookies, carolers popping up to serenade the crowd, and local businesses offering small holiday-themed giveaways or discounts as part of the celebration.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot some familiar faces because, as fun as it is for visitors, this parade is a yearly local favourite, too! Dress warm, though—it’s a December staple, so chilly temperatures are expected.
Where to Eat and Drink in and near Westboro Beach
Gezellig
– Media credit: gezelligwestboro
Address: 337 Richmond Rd.
Phone: +1 613 680 9086
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday, Sunday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5 PM to 9 PM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5 PM to 10 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 2 PM, 5 PM to 10 PM
Good to know: Ideal for date nights or elegant celebrations
Set in a converted 1950s bank building, Gezellig has carved out a niche as one of the must-visit restaurants. Their brunch is where it’s at—salmon gravlax, eggs Benedict, and the Gezellig breakfast sandwich are staples you can’t go wrong with.
If brunch isn’t your thing, they’ve got lunch options such as a Gezellig burger and ricotta gnudi loaded with bacon and smoked blue cheese. Dinner is also worth diving into, with our go-to dishes like PEI mussels and braised beef short rib—both pair great with wine.
Speaking of wine, their list is solid, so grab a glass to go with your meal. And yeah, dessert gets its shine here, so don’t leave without trying their Chai tea crème brûlèe.
Fratelli Westboro
– Media credit: fratelliwestboro
Address: 275 Richmond Rd.
Phone: +1 613 722 6772
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 5 PM to 9 PM
Good to know: Great for an intimate dinner with family or friends
If you’re craving solid Italian comfort food, Fratelli Westboro has been holding it down since 1996 and has the menu to prove it. You can dive into their pasta lineup, featuring classics like penne pasquale, gluten-free ravioli, or linguine primavera.
Oh, and their wood-fired pizzas? Definitely worth a shout. The Carne pizza, with steak, is a crowd-pleaser, and the Mangia cake tops pepperoni pizza with a twist.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try the grilled salmon or the grilled chicken gorgonzola—they always deliver! Dessert here is the cherry on top, with options like their panna cotta or Nutella cake—they kept us coming back for a reason!
Barley Mow Westboro
Address: 399 Richmond Rd.
Phone: +1 613 695 7669
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Thursday to Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Good to know: Great for casual hangouts
Barley Mow Westboro is one of those places where you can chill with good food, solid drinks, and an easygoing vibe. Their seasonal draughts and hard seltzers are always worth checking out, so keep an eye out for what’s on tap.
On the food front, they’ve got you covered with choices like the big pretzel and sticky fingers to kick things off. Their burgers are always a solid pick, with options like the Barley burger, Big Mow, and Oklahoma smash burger stealing the spotlight.
Gof kids with you? Easy—they can grab mac ‘n’ cheese balls, which is always a fun option for them. Barley Mow isn’t just about the eats; they’re big on events too, with trivia nights, drag shows, and live music.
Churchills
– Media credit: churchillswestboro
Address: 356 Richmond Rd.
Phone: +1 613 421 3775
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 2 AM
Good to know: Great for families or groups
Churchills is all about hearty pub fare that hits the spot, no matter the occasion. Their menu nails your pub favourites, including the Churchill burger, Cuban pulled pork panini, and beef brisket.
For classic picks, you’ve got fish ‘n’ chips and fajitas rounding out the lineup. Families will also love the kid-friendly options here, like mac ‘n’ cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and burgers.
Finally, when the weather’s good, their rooftop patio is the place to be!
Supply and Demand
– Media credit: supply_ottawa
Address: 1335 Wellington St. W.
Phone: +1 613 680 2949
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 5 PM to 10 PM
Good to know: Great for a sophisticated dining experience
Supply and Demand takes local ingredients seriously, focusing on seafood and pasta that are fresh and full of flavour. Their menu shines with hits like oysters, squid ink rigatoni, and handmade potato and pecorino carciofi—our favourites!
The handmade element ups the game here, so if pasta’s your thing, you’ll leave impressed. Oh, and their wine list is worth exploring, especially since it pairs so well with everything on their menu.
Where to Stay near Westboro Beach
Best Western Plus Ottawa City Centre
– Media credit: best_western_ottawa
Address: 1274 Carling Ave.
Phone: +1 613 728 1951
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Located right on Carling Avenue, Best Western Plus Ottawa City Centre puts you in the middle of the action. The rooms are clean and practical, with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges.
Guests can enjoy perks like free parking, a fitness centre, and meeting spaces. The on-site Cafe 1274 offers tasty meals and a full bar, making your stay more enjoyable.
There’s also an outdoor seasonal pool to cool off during warmer months and a 24-hour front desk—convenient! The best part? Westboro Beach is just a quick 9-minute drive!
LIV Extended Stay
– Media credit: livottawa
Address: 207 Bell St N Suite 100
Phone: +1 855 500 0155
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
LIV Extended Stay offers modern, apartment-style accommodations ideal for longer visits and those who like little extras. From here, Westboro Beach is only 12 minutes away by car, so it’s very convenient for day trips to enjoy the area.
Moreover, the rooms feel like home, with full kitchens, comfy bedding, high-speed Wi-Fi, and work-friendly setups perfect for remote work.
You can even unwind on the rooftop patio, and the central location means easy access to nearby groceries, shops, and dining. The building also includes a yoga studio and a coffee bar for added relaxation and productivity during your stay.
Sonder The O’Connor
– Media credit: sonderstays
Address: 377 O’Connor St.
Phone: +1 438 795 6650
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Sonder The O’Connor redefines hotel stays with its spacious apartment-style suites equipped with kitchens, smart TVs, and in-unit washers/dryer setups. While there’s no traditional front desk, check-ins are automated, supported by an app with 24/7 assistance.
Moreover, the property caters to independent travellers looking for seamless service and stylish comfort. You’ll also love the complimentary toiletries and thoughtfully designed spaces that make you feel at home, like the wide seating areas.
And with Westboro Beach being an 8-minute drive away, you’re perfectly placed for both urban exploration and beach visits.
Holiday Inn Ottawa Dwtn – Parliament Hill by IHG
– Media credit: holidayinnottawa_dwtn
Address: 402 Queen St.
Phone: +1 613 236 1133
Pricing: $$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 3 PM
- Check-out – 11 AM
Holiday Inn Ottawa Downtown is centrally located near Parliament Hill, Sparks Street, and other top sightseeing spots in the city. The spacious, well-equipped rooms here feature Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and work desks for maximum convenience.
There’s also a fitness centre and an on-site restaurant, The Porch, serving pub-style favourites like burgers and wings. You’ll also get to enjoy their free morning coffee in the lobby and take advantage of the diverse breakfast menu to start the day right.
However, parking is limited and requires an additional fee, so keep this in mind. Furthermore, Westboro Beach is an easy 8-minute drive from this hotel.
Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown
– Media credit: lorigold99
Address: 361 Queen St.
Phone: +1 613 234 6363
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours:
- Check-in – 4 PM
- Check-out – 12 PM
Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Downtown blends modern comfort with excellent amenities, and it’s just a short 8-minute drive from Westboro Beach.
The rooms here offer cosy beds, free Wi-Fi, and microwaves for late-night convenience. You’ll also enjoy features like an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and a 24/7 on-site convenience store.
Furthermore, the hotel’s cooked-to-order breakfast and evening cocktails at the bar are great touches for anyone.
