Pointe des Chenes Park and Beach
A serene beach on Lake Superior with shallow, warm waters, golden sand, and unique views of passing freighters and planes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warmest water for swimming
Pointe des Chenes Park and Beach
Best Time
Warmest water for swimming
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene beach on Lake Superior with shallow, warm waters, golden sand, and unique views of passing freighters and planes.
"This little gem...is a charm to must see attraction, giving you the view to the entire Lake Superior with the clouds, sky, sun and sunset."
👟 Wear Water Shoes
The beach is rocky, so water shoes are a must for comfortable wading and swimming.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view! Picnic tables are available, making it a great spot for a family outing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shallow, Warm Waters
Main Beach Area
Wade far out into Lake Superior's surprisingly warm, shallow waters. Perfect for families and relaxed swimming.
Lake Superior Views
Throughout the Park
Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Superior, including stunning sunsets and the occasional passing freighter.
Airport Proximity
Near the Airport Entrance
Watch small planes take off and land from the adjacent Sault Ste. Marie Airport – a unique backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There & Parking
Beach Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
cheap ways of getting to airport?
👟 Wear Water Shoes
The beach is rocky, so water shoes are a must for comfortable wading and swimming.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view! Picnic tables are available, making it a great spot for a family outing.
✈️ Plane Spotting Fun
Located near the airport, it's a unique spot to watch small planes in action.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The sunsets over Lake Superior here are breathtaking. Don't miss them!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Water Shoes
The beach is rocky, so water shoes are a must for comfortable wading and swimming.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view! Picnic tables are available, making it a great spot for a family outing.
✈️ Plane Spotting Fun
Located near the airport, it's a unique spot to watch small planes in action.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
The sunsets over Lake Superior here are breathtaking. Don't miss them!
⏰ Respect Closing Time
The park closes promptly at 9 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Pointe des Chenes Park and Beach for its shallow, warm waters perfect for wading, beautiful sandy-peach colored beach, and stunning Lake Superior views, especially at sunset. The proximity to the airport and ample parking are also appreciated. Some note the beach is rocky and recommend water shoes, and advise bringing your own food as there are no concessions.
"One of my favorite spots in Sault Ste. Marie. Easy to get to, lots of parking and room for everyone. The water is warmer than most places because it’s really shallow; must walk quite a distance to reach deeper waters. It is a bit rocky so wear water shoes! Sometimes we can even see freighters passing by in the distance.
This park is across the street from the airport, so we see many small planes flying over. There are picnic tables if you plan to spend the day. There are change rooms and restrooms at the end of the road. There’s also a small pavilion area for gatherings. The park closes at 9pm."
krispy1121
"So peaceful and quite when we went today. Perfect to have a swim on a sandy beach when the weather is not windy and raining."
Lubna Samara
"Every time here is a good time to have fun with family and friends. The water is clear, the nature is wonderful all seasons. I love the place. Need more attention? It is true. but I still enjoy visiting."
William Crespo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pointe des Chenes Park and Beach is located across from the Sault Ste. Marie Airport. While taxis are an option, they can be costly. Consider carpooling or other local transport services for a more budget-friendly journey.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the park. However, it can fill up quickly during peak season and on busy days. Arrive early for the best spots.
The park offers picnic tables and restrooms, making it accessible for day visits. The beach itself is natural and rocky, so accessibility directly on the sand may vary.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Pointe des Chenes Park and Beach, making it a great spot for families with pets.
From the city center, you can drive, take a taxi, or explore ride-sharing options. Public transport routes might be limited, so checking local schedules is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee mentioned for Pointe des Chenes Park and Beach, making it a free public access area for visitors.
The park is open until 9 PM. Visitors should plan their activities to conclude before the closing time.
No advance booking is required as it's a public park. You can visit anytime during operating hours.
The main restriction is the park's closing time at 9 PM. Otherwise, it's open for public enjoyment.
While the beach is most popular in summer, the park's natural beauty can be enjoyed year-round, though amenities might be limited in colder months.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the shallow waters, relax on the sandy beach, have a picnic, enjoy the views of Lake Superior, and watch planes from the nearby airport.
The beach has a mix of sand and small rocks. Water shoes are highly recommended for a more comfortable experience.
The water is very shallow, requiring you to walk a considerable distance to reach deeper areas. This makes it ideal for wading and for children.
Yes, there are change rooms and restrooms available at the end of the road within the park.
Occasionally, you might be able to see freighters passing by in the distance on Lake Superior, adding to the scenic experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no on-site restaurants or food vendors mentioned. It's best to bring your own food and drinks.
Dining options would be back in Sault Ste. Marie. It's recommended to pack a picnic to enjoy at the park's picnic tables.
While not explicitly stated, bringing your own portable grill might be permissible, but it's always best to check local park regulations. Picnic tables are readily available.
There are no facilities for purchasing snacks or drinks within the park. Plan ahead and bring everything you need.
Sandwiches, salads, fruits, and easy-to-eat snacks are perfect for a picnic at the beach. Don't forget water!
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunsets over Lake Superior, the unique perspective of planes from the nearby airport, and the golden-peach colored sand.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape and scenic photography. Midday can be good for capturing the shallow, clear water.
The expansive Lake Superior shoreline, the distant freighters, and the planes taking off or landing provide excellent photographic subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the lake and sky. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting and photographing distant freighters.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone operation policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Packing a picnic lunch and snacks is a must, as there are no food services on-site. The picnic tables provide a convenient place to refuel. The nearby airport also offers a unique point of interest for curious kids, with the chance to watch planes. It’s a relaxed, low-key destination that offers simple pleasures and a safe environment for family fun by the lake.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own food and drinks for a picnic is the most economical way to dine. Instead of paying for restaurant meals, you can enjoy a scenic meal by the water. The park offers a beautiful natural setting for relaxation and recreation without breaking the bank, making it an excellent value for visitors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The proximity to the airport adds an unusual element, allowing for shots that combine natural scenery with aviation activity. Keep an eye out for passing freighters on the lake, which can add a sense of scale and maritime interest to your photos. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive vistas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for distant subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Appeal of Pointe des Chenes Beach
The proximity to the Sault Ste. Marie Airport adds another layer of interest. Visitors can enjoy the unusual sight of small planes taking off and landing, providing a dynamic element to the otherwise serene natural landscape. This blend of natural beauty and subtle man-made activity creates a memorable and somewhat quirky destination. The park also provides essential amenities like picnic tables, change rooms, and restrooms, enhancing the visitor experience for day-trippers.
While the park is maintained, it's noted that it might need 'more attention' in certain aspects, yet the overall sentiment remains positive. The panoramic views of Lake Superior, especially during sunset, are consistently praised, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting that can even rival more famous destinations. It's a place where the vastness of the lake meets accessible, gentle waters, creating a unique charm.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
Transportation to the park is generally straightforward, being located near the airport. However, some travelers have noted that taxi fares can be a significant expense. Exploring carpooling or other local transport services might be a more economical choice, especially for those on a budget. Parking is available and generally plentiful, but it's wise to arrive earlier in the day, particularly during peak season, to secure a good spot.
Remember that the park has a closing time of 9 PM. Visitors should be mindful of this to avoid any issues. The best times to visit often depend on what you're seeking: summer afternoons for the warmest water, or weekday evenings for a more tranquil experience and stunning sunset views. The park's natural beauty is appreciated across seasons, though the beach experience is most vibrant in warmer months.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit