Southern Georgian Bay comes alive in the summer, offering endless possibilities for outdoor fun, lakeside dining, and lively local events. This summer-specific guide spotlights the best warm-weather activities, restaurants, and resources in Collingwood, Blue Mountain, Thornbury, and Wasaga Beach.

Collingwood

Top Summer Activities 

• Georgian Trail: Spanning 34km from Collingwood to Meaford, the Georgian Trail is a level, well-maintained path beloved by cyclists and walkers. Enjoy a serene ride or stroll with beautiful water views along the way.
• Harbourview & Millennium Park: These scenic parks stretch along the waterfront and are the perfect settings for a classic summer picnic. Spread a blanket on the manicured lawns, catch breezes off the bay, or venture onto the long boardwalk for birdwatching. Photo-worthy sunsets are a summer highlight here.
• Paddleboarding/Kayaking: Directly from Collingwood Harbour, rent stand-up paddleboards or kayaks to experience Georgian Bay's crystal-clear water up close. Paddle past sailboats, explore the coastline, or watch the sunset from the bay! Rentals cater to all skill levels, and guided eco-tours are available.
• Summer Events: Collingwood’s warm months come alive with a packed calendar. Street festivals, outdoor art walks, live music on the waterfront, and large-scale events. Many are free and family-friendly, providing a festive atmosphere throughout downtown and the waterfront parks.

Best Restaurants in Collingwood

• Brunello at 27 on Fourth: Elegant Italian and Tuscan fine dining with handmade pastas; perfect for a date or celebratory evening.
• The Tremont Café: Atmospheric French-inspired café known for seasonal Canadian cuisine and artful cocktails.
• Duncan’s Café: Cozy and casual, renowned for all-day breakfast, homemade soups, and local favourite sandwiches.
• Lakeside Seafood & Grill: Modern lakefront steakhouse with a wraparound patio and a menu focused on fresh-caught seafood and Ontario meats.
• Black Bellows: Lively brewpub serving inventive small plates, beer, and local ciders, set in a beautifully renovated heritage space.

Blue Mountain

Top Summer Activities 

• Blue Mountain Resort: Blue Mountain is Ontario’s adventure capital in summer. Zip down the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, soar above the trees on the scenic gondola, which gives beautiful views of Georgian Bay. Challenge yourself on the Woodlot Low Ropes, climb outdoor rock walls, or try the summer tubing hill. Trails of varying difficulty wind up the escarpment, offering everything from casual hikes to intense mountain biking.
• Village Events: Blue Mountain Village bustles with energy. Expect weekly live music, open-air markets, and festivals throughout the summer. 
• Plunge Aquatic Centre: This indoor/outdoor waterpark is a hit with families. Outdoor pools, waterslides, and splash pads are surrounded by deck chairs and picnic areas. Ideal for cooling off after a hike or bike ride.

Best Restaurants in Blue Mountain

• Oliver & Bonacini Café Grill: Modern Canadian bistro cuisine with a large terrace. Excellent for breakfast, lunch, or upscale dinners.
• Tholos: Delicious Greek and Mediterranean spot, popular for festive meals and shareable small plates.
• The Pottery Alpine Restaurant: Alpine-inspired menu (think schnitzel, trout, hearty brunches) served in a cozy lodge space.
• Jozo’s Original Après: Lively gathering place for hearty pub classics. Great wings and burgers!

Thornbury

Top Summer Activities 

• The Fishway & Harbour: In downtown Thornbury, the Fishway is a unique spot to watch trout and salmon in the dam in spring and fall, but in summer, it’s the heart of the marina scene. Rent canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards next to the scenic pier, or relax with an ice cream while sailboats drift by. The area is also home to artisan shops and parks ideal for a lazy afternoon.
• Thornbury Village Cider & Brewery: In the heart of downtown, relax on the patio of this local cidery, sample small-batch ciders, craft beers, and take a guided tour to learn about classic Ontario apple lore and production methods. Tastings often feature summer-limited releases.

Best Restaurants in Thornbury

• Bruce Wine Bar: Laid-back with standout wood-fired pizza, rotating farm-to-table small plates, and a local vibe.
• The Mill Café: Upscale casual with an expansive patio along the river. Seafood, steak, and creative Canadian fare.
• Fabbrica: Chef-driven Italian by Mark McEwan, known for artisan pizza and burrata on a sunny terrace.
• Sterlings: Lakefront Mediterranean spot blending inventive starters, seafood, homemade desserts, and a market to go.
• The Corner Café & Grill: Community favourite for home-baked muffins, specialty sandwiches, and live music on weekends.

Wasaga Beach

Top Summer Activities

• Wasaga Beach Provincial Park: Stretching over 14km, Wasaga is the world’s longest freshwater beach. Its soft sand and warm, shallow waters make it Ontario’s quintessential summer hangout. Lifeguarded areas, volleyball courts, and playgrounds line the shore, making it perfect for families, sunseekers, and water lovers.
• Water Rentals: Jet ski, kayak, and paddleboard rental shops line Beach Area 1 offering everything for aquatic fun or leisurely paddles along the Nottawasaga River. Lessons and guided eco-tours are available for beginners.
• Nature Walks/Trails: Beyond the sand, the Wasaga Beach Provincial Park’s inland trails wind through gorgeous scenery.
• Family friendly activities: Wasaga features several classic mini golf courses, go-kart tracks, and arcades. Timeless favourites for summer fun.

Best Restaurants in Wasaga Beach

• Catch 22 Fresh Market Grill: The local favourite for surf-and-turf, inventive specials, and an inviting patio.
• The Iron Skillet: Heaping portions of ribs, schnitzel, and Canadian classics.
• Pizza Dee’s: Spot for traditional Italian pizza and pasta, with comfort-food and gluten-free options.
• The Hive: Beach-casual restaurant and bar with craft beers and burgers.
• Match Eatery & Public House: Modern sports pub serving juicy burgers, poutine, and creative finger foods.