Bayfield combines two sandy beaches, a walking trail through historic village streets and a marina at the mouth of the Bayfield River. When planning a stay, it’s worth noting the differences: the beaches do not have the same access or amenities, while the Heritage Trail connects village streets, historic buildings and the village square. If you’re looking for accommodation in Bayfield, you can first decide whether the beach, local history or boating will shape your stay.

Beaches: Access and Amenities

At Bayfield Pier Beach, you can walk along the pier, swim in the freshwater or enjoy the large sandy beach. Other amenities include a lifeguard station, vehicle access, parking and public washrooms.

Howard Street Beach is a sandy beach at the end of Howard Street West in Bayfield. Access is via stairs; there are no washrooms. The contrast is useful when choosing a beach: Bayfield Pier Beach has vehicle access, parking and public washrooms; Howard Street Beach is reached by stairs and has no washrooms.

Explore Bayfield on Foot

The 2.5-kilometre Heritage Trail takes walkers through Bayfield’s tree-lined streets, past historic buildings and to the village square, Clan Gregor Square. It is an accessible walking route on paved streets; eight historic information panels are located at points of interest along the way.

As an optional route, a section of the Heritage Trail called the Mara Street Spur leads to Bayfield’s public pier and marina. It is relatively steep and follows a gravel path, while the Heritage Trail runs along paved streets. If you’re planning to visit the pier, take this different path surface and the incline into account.

Bayfield has a historic Main Street and was founded in 1832. The Heritage Trail passes through historic Pioneer Park, which overlooks Lake Huron. The visible ruins of Thomson’s Mill and the old dam are preserved in the River Flats Natural Area; the dam served as the first bridge over the Bayfield River.

The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association maintains seven hiking and recreational trails in and around Bayfield, Ontario.

Marina and Getting There

The Village of Bayfield Marina is located at the mouth of the Bayfield River on Lake Huron’s south shore and offers fuel and transient docking. Amenities include picnic tables, a pump-out station, 20-, 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups, and washrooms. A boat launch is located in Bayfield at the end of Fishermans Wharf Road.

Bayfield can be reached by bus with Huron Shores Area Transit; check the schedule for your trip. By boat, Bayfield can be reached via Harbour Lights Marina. This boat access is separate from the services offered by the Village of Bayfield Marina.

For the broader travel overview: Bluewater.