Summer is about to kick into high gear, and if you haven’t booked a vacation yet, rest assured, you’ve still got time. The issue is finding spots that meet all your summer needs that still have availability. Reader, I’ve got you!
Hacienda del Mar Los Cabos, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort.
Disclosure: Travels with Baggage sometimes receives compensation and/or hosted travel and sample products related to blog posts. This story may include affiliate links for which we receive a small commission at no extra cost to consumers.
Here’s a look at some of the unexpected hot spots for summer travel that are easy to access for Canadians, and especially for Calgarians.
Table of Contents
North Bay, Ontario
When I think of summer vacations, this is what comes to mind: swimming in warm lakes, cruising through charming, not-too-busy resort towns, and leisurely walks in forests without scary animals.
North Bay ticks all these boxes. It’s situated just a few hours north of Toronto, but Calgarians don’t have to make the drive. Not when there’s a new WestJet flight from Calgary directly to North Bay, now operating seasonally.
North Bay sits between two of Northeastern Ontario’s beautiful lakes: Trout Lake and Lake Nipissing, one of Ontario’s largest lakes. Both offer superb fishing, boating and sandy beaches.
In fact, there are 43 public beach access points in North Bay. Did I mention without the crowds?
For nature lovers, you’ll find a different kind of Canadian Wilderness here. Calgarians know mountains, but North Bay offers something entirely different: a plethora of swimmable sandy beaches, a pristine boreal forest, island-dotted lakes, and the chance to paddle, cycle, hike, or fish in landscapes most Albertans have never explored. It’s a legit change of scenery, not just another version of home.
Small-City Charm with Big-Trip Energy
North Bay has a vibrant downtown brimming with local breweries, waterfront patios, farmers’ markets and live music. Days are spent swanning about its charming downtown, poking into boutiques or attending one of its many festivals.
Those who wish to escape back to nature can do so along its sandy shores, easy hiking trails in the boreal forest or by chasing waterfalls. (Duchesnay Falls is THE waterfall hike not to miss.)
Whichever way you roll, you’ve got the option to enjoy a great meal and a craft beer at the end of the day.
Getting Here
Seasonal, non-stop flights between Calgary and North Bay, Ontario, start June 19 on WestJet.
The Beach Club Resort, Parksville, B.C.
One of the best, low-stress vacations we ever took as a family was to The Beach Club Resort in Parksville, on Vancouver Island. It was summer, but we still snagged a fantastic room last minute and the closest airport (Nanaimo) was a stress-free experience, even during summer, it’s high season.
We were looking for a pretty town with enough activities to keep us entertained. But truthfully, a beach and affordability ranked higher on our list.
Experience Canada’s Warmest Pacific Ocean Beach
We stayed at The Beach Club Resort directly on the waterfront in Parksville, home to some of the warmest ocean waters on Canada’s Pacific Coast. Here, the tide recedes up to a kilometre from shore, which means you’ve got an expansive sandy beaches at low tide and calm, shallow waters at high tide.
It was just perfect for our family with opportunities for beach walks, tide pool collecting, skim boarding and kite flying. When the tide was in, we went paddleboarding and kayaking.
Embrace Island Time and Ocean Therapy
Parksville offers a slower pace that we instantly felt upon arrival. Whether you’re watching the sunset from your oceanfront suite, strolling along the beach, or enjoying your morning coffee with panoramic views, it’s a place to unplug, recharge and embrace what locals call ‘ocean therapy’ and true island time.
Discover an Authentic West Coast Vibe and Taste of Place
We found that The Beach Club is deeply connected to the local community, and we were given solid advice on what to experience on Vancouver Island. From visiting local farms and artisan producers to exploring nearby markets and attractions, we immersed ourselves in the island’s culture.
Here are my top 10 activities to do in Parksville.
Best was that the resort includes complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, bicycles, and beach gear. This made it a breeze to get outside and experience everything Parksville has to offer.
Getting Here
WestJet offers direct flights between Calgary and Nanaimo (a 30-minute drive away) year-round.
Mexican All-Inclusive Resorts
Canadians don’t always think of Mexico for summer travel, but it’s a great time to visit destinations like Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta during their off-season.
At this time of year, you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, and the convenience of an all-inclusive stay means accommodations, dining, drinks and many activities are included, allowing you to spend less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation.
Marriott recently expanded its all-inclusive portfolio in Mexico with two new resort openings, including:
Hacienda del Mar Los Cabos, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
Marriott’s first all-inclusive resort in Los Cabos offers Canadians a new way to experience one of Mexico’s most popular destinations, especially for families.
Set along the Sea of Cortez, the fully reimagined property combines authentic Mexican character with modern comforts, featuring colonial-inspired architecture and lush gardens. Immersive cultural experiences for guests include cooking classes, Frida Kahlo–inspired art workshops and live traditional music.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the 8 diverse dining venues showcasing regional Mexican cuisine, beachfront seafood and international flavours. They even have an exclusive underground wine cellar experience. Sign me up!
Hacienda del Mar Lost Cabos, an Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort, also features five pools, dedicated family and adults-only spaces, a spa and a vibrant kids club.
The Westin Playa Vallarta, an All-Inclusive Resort
The Westin’s first all-inclusive resort in Mexico brings the brand’s signature wellness philosophy to Puerto Vallarta’s Pacific coastline. And let’s not forget about those Heavenly Beds!
Following a multi-million-dollar transformation, The Westin Playa Vallarta now offers a range of upgraded accommodations, including adults-only Swim-Up Sky Pool Suites with private plunge pools and ocean views, and Wholesome Family Studios featuring kitchenettes and flexible living space.
Guests can take advantage of a variety of wellness-focused experiences, including sound healing, sunrise yoga, kayaking, paddleboarding, Aqua Fit, Fitdance, meditation rituals and coastal biking.
The resort also features 10 culinary and mixology concepts that highlight local flavours, chef-led experiences, and regional ingredients. Curated cultural programming connects guests with the destination in a way few all-inclusive resorts do.
Whichever resort you choose, don’t forget you can earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points, adding even more value to your getaway.
Getting Here
Multiple airlines (WestJet, Air Canada and Flair) offer direct flight service to Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta from many Canadian cities.
Where’s you’re favourite summer vacation spot that’s few on crowds and easy on the wallet?
