The Great White North is the second-largest country in the world, so it's only natural that it has its fair share of world-class cities and beautiful towns on the Canada-US border. Canada is also home to many picturesque, small towns with serene lakeside views. Travelers who are keen on visiting Canada (but want to stay away from the busy cities) can enjoy a relaxing stay in these beautiful lakeside towns!
10 Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario
Nestled in Southern Ontario along the Niagara Peninsula, there are plenty of reasons to visit Niagara-On-The-Lake besides its proximity to Niagara Falls! This quaint town has local boutiques, eateries, and cozy hotels for traveling couples and families. This small Ontarian town also sits close to the Niagara Wine Region, alongside stunning views of Lake Ontario.
9 Lake Louise, Alberta
Technically, Lake Louise is NOT a town but a hamlet (or village). Regardless of its municipal status, the village of Lake Louise offers a quaint experience and is only a stone's throw away from the legendary turquoise waters of Lake Louise! After visiting the world-famous lake, relax in the village, whether having dinner at the Lake Louise Railway Station & Restaurant or shopping for souvenirs at the Samson Mall. Best of all, Lake Louise is beautiful year-round (though its views are particularly beautiful in the winter).
8 Irish Cove, Nova Scotia
Compared to the likes of Lake Louise or Niagara-On-The-Lake, there may not be much in terms of amenities at Irish Cove. However, this small community has a stunning view of the Bras d'Or Lake and encompasses the Irish Cove Provincial Park. Take in the fresh air of this small community while road-tripping around Canada's western coast, and be sure to stop by Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine, a shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who was believed to speak through the local Mi'kmaq community by speaking the Aztec language.
7 Tobermory, Ontario
Tobermory is settled along the Bruce Peninsula in Ontario. Its turquoise waters, extensive trails along Niagara Escarpment's Bruce Trail, and its proximity to the Bruce Peninsula National Parks offer tons of recreational activities for outdoorsy tourists. Plus, there's also a reason why this harbor village is nicknamed the "Scuba Diving Capital of Canada," as it's home to 24 shipwrecks that can be explored via scuba diving at the Fathom Five National Marine Park!
6 Steep Rock, Manitoba
There are several good reasons to visit Manitoba, including the small town of Steep Rock. This Manitoba town sits along the northeast end of Lake Manitoba and serves as an excellent destination for camping buffs and outdoor-loving tourists. Walk the Steep Rock Beach Park trails, admiring the craggy cliffs and lakeside views. Besides staying at a hotel, consider being close to nature and go camping on Steep Rock or stay in one of their cabins!
5 Regina Beach, Saskatchewan
Regina Beach overlooks the southern end of south-central Saskatchewan. Regina Beach boasts small-town vibes while basking in its reputation as a cozy resort destination in Saskatchewan. Stay at Regina Beach with the whole family and enjoy water recreational activities at the Regina Beach Recreation Site. Besides enjoying the lake waters, the town offers golfing excursions and grounds for camping.
4 Fort St. James, British Columbia
Overlooking Stuart Lake in Omineca Country, this Northern British Columbia town encompasses the Fort St. James National Historic Site. History lives here at Fort St. James, which formerly functioned as a fur trading post in Canada. Discover and explore the restored National Historic Site, which has been around since the early 19th century, including landmarks (and memorabilia) like the fort's trade store, the fish cache, and the fur storage area!
3 Teslin, Yukon
Travelers keen on learning about Canada's history, heritage, and culture can easily do so at Teslin. Once a booming campsite during the 1898 Gold Rush, this cozy Yukon settlement now offers friendly, small-town vibes! Learn about the Tlingit community by visiting the George Johnston Museum and the Teslin Tlingit Heritage Centre. This friendly village also boasts breathtaking views of Teslin Lake, Nisutlin Bay, and the Nisutlin River Delta National Wildlife Area.
2 Baker Lake, Nunavut
Also known by its Inuktitut name, "Qamani'tuaq" (which means "where the river widens"), Baker Lake offers an experience unlike other Canadian towns. Functioning as Nunavut's only inland community, Baker Lake is home to a hub of artists in all forms of media, from printmaking to jewelry making. Adventure-seeking travelers can also go wildlife life watching, whether it's close by Baker Lake at Inuujaarvik Territorial Park or across 20,077 square miles of land at the Thelon Wildlife Sanctuary!
1 Lake Cowichan, British Columbia
Though Vancouver is a diverse coastal city suited for many wide-eyed travelers, Lake Cowichan is one of British Columbia's best kept secrets! Home to about 3,000 residents, visitors can enjoy peaceful vibes at Lake Cowichan while enjoying the views of Western Canada, especially Cowichan Lake. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy themselves at the nearby Cowichan River Provincial Park, which provides activities like white-water kayaking, fishing, and tubing!