Lakeside Park Beach-A gift of Nature!

A Gift of Nature Right Here in St. Catharines

By Andrea Lopez

When I first arrived in St. Catharines, I was nervous and excited—I had come for a job interview that could change everything for me and my family. But what I didn’t expect was to find a small treasure waiting for me right near the heart of the city: Lakeside Park Beach on the shores of Lake Ontario.

After the interview, we decided to take a short walk with my little boy and husband to clear my mind. As I stepped onto the soft sand and felt the cool breeze off the water, something inside me lit up.

 The wide, open lake sparkled under the sun, stretching endlessly into the horizon. It wasn’t just beautiful—it felt peaceful, grounding, and welcoming. I stood there thinking: What a blessing this place could be—not just for me, but for my little boy, Sebastian, who was only four at the time.

As a parent, you’re always searching for safe, natural places where your child can play, explore, and grow. In that moment, I realized that living so close to Lake Ontario would offer exactly that. Instead of crowded playgrounds or endless hours inside a shopping mall, my son could spend summers swimming, building sandcastles on the beach, and experiencing nature the way children are meant to—freely and joyfully.

Lakeside Park Beach quickly became a part of our life. Watching Sebastian, Luke and Julian now a family of 5, splash in the shallow waters, laugh and play beach sports, and chase seagulls across the sand has been pure magic. These are simple moments, but they build the best childhood memories—the kind that stay with you forever.

There’s something so special about children swimming in Lake Ontario. It’s not just about fun—it’s about discovery, confidence, and connection. Here they learn how to respect our water, how to enjoy nature safely, and how to simply be kids in a world that moves too fast.

For families in St. Catharines, having this beautiful beach so close is an incredible gift. Whether it’s their first time dipping toes into the cool lake or a summer ritual of picnics and swims, the experience of Lake Ontario shapes a childhood in unforgettable ways.

I’m so grateful that what started as just a job interview led me to this little corner of paradise—a place where my sons and the children of my school in Port Dalhousie can enjoy the wonder of nature right outside our door.

If you haven’t yet brought your little ones to spend time and swim in Lake Ontario, especially at Lakeside Park Beach, I truly encourage you to go. Always check the water daily for monitoring and avoid swimming after a rainy day.

 Spending time on this beach on a summer day, is a simple joy—but sometimes, those are the best kind!