Are you looking for a dreamy beach getaway in Ontario, Canada? I recommend planning a getaway to Southampton! Set along the shores of Lake Huron in Bruce County, there are so many fun things to do in Southampton Ontario. This charming small town has an array of attractions that there’s something for everyone.
On my recent visit to Southampton, I absolutely fell in love! Southampton is one of the best small towns in Ontario. Perched at the mouth of the Saugeen River where it meets Lake Huron, the area is full of fun outdoor adventures. However, there’s plenty of cultural attractions too.
Best Things to do in Southampton Ontario
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Explore Downtown Southampton
A great place to start your visit is downtown Southampton. At the crossroads of High Street and Albert Street, you’ll find plenty of the top things to do in Southampton here.
Standing center stage is the Southampton town hall, which was built in 1910. This stunning historic building with a bell tower features a bell that chimes every hour on the hour. It’s also home to the Bruce County Playhouse and the Southampton Art School and Gallery.
Downtown is a great place to enjoy some shopping in Southampton. Two great beach-themed shops are A Little of This and That and The Beach House. In A Little of This and That you’ll find locally made items ranging from home décor to gifts. It also sells locally made products like chocolate and maple syrup. Plus, you’ll find Southampton-themed souvenirs like t-shirts and hoodies.
If you’re looking for ladies clothing that has a beachy vibe then pop into Lac Boutique! Along with fun pieces ranging from shorts to dresses, you’ll also find accessories like hats and jewelry.
Downtown is also home to a spa, Re:mind Wellness Spa. If you’re the type of person who loves a little self-care during your vacation then book an appointment. The spa offers a variety of treatments including hot stone massage, reiki, facials and more. Plus, they have a shop selling a number of products from sustainable companies.
A fun way to explore Southampton is by bike. But don’t worry if you don’t have a bike because there’s Martin’s Bicycle Shop. Along with selling bikes, they also provide rentals. There’s a bike to suit everyone, from e-bike to mountain bike. Plus, if you are travelling with family, they have options for kids too.
Visit Dominion Lookout & Take in a Sunset
Just steps from downtown, at the end of High Street, is Dominion Lookout. Here you’ll find more attractions in Southampton!
Standing at the end of the street is the Southampton’s giant flag. The pole towers into the sky, and the flag can be seen from various points around town.
The lookout is dotted with white and red benches. These benches are perfect for sitting and taking in the incredible views of Lake Huron. You can also see Chantry Island and its lighthouse from the lookout too!
One thing I highly recommend you experience during your visit is one of the stunning Southampton sunsets. And Dominion Lookout is the perfect place for it! Just a warning though, you’ll be hanging out with locals and visitors alike.
Stroll the Southampton Boardwalk
Right next to the Dominion Lookout is the beginning of the Southampton boardwalk. For over 100 years, the boardwalk has been a staple in the community. The boardwalk runs from Dominion Lookout down to the Long Docks area. It’s a pleasant 15-minute walk and perfect on a summer evening.
Strolling along the boardwalk you’ll be rewarded with fabulous views. Those views include the mighty Lake Huron as well as Chantry Island and its lighthouse. Lining the boardwalk are numerous benches to soak in the views. In addition, there are a few swing sets, which adds a fun element to taking in the views.
Running between the boardwalk and the Southampton beach is an incredible dunes system. The Southampton dune system is a unique ecosystem that is home to a wealth of bird species. You’ll spot birds like Caspian terns, cormorants, and more.
There are numerous interpretative signs along the boardwalk. Reading them you’ll learn all about the sensitive dune system as well as the history of the area. One thing to remember is that the dunes are sensitive. So, stay on the pathway.
Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre
If you’re looking for things to do in Southampton on a rainy day, then pop into the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre. Even if it’s a nice day, the museum is worth a visit!
The museum shares the history of the area’s history through a range of exhibits. There are both permanent and rotating exhibit, so there’s always something new going on. You’ll learn about everything from pioneer times to current day.
One of the top permanent exhibits is the Anishnaabwe Gallery. It shares the history of Indigenous people in the area as well as the changes their culture and land has seen. Another interesting exhibit brings you aboard a replica of the HMS General Hunter. The original battleship was found on Southampton beach! Learn about the ship as well as the area’s port history.
FUN FACT: Southampton is the oldest port on the Bruce Coast!
In the rear yard of the Bruce County Museum area a few historic gems! Be sure to pop out to see the MacKenzie Log Home, the Log School House and the Stokes Bay Range Light.
The log home dates to the 1800s and was home to a large family. Surprising to think of with the size of homes now. The log school house, built in 1875, was a school for nearly 20 years.
Stokes Bay Range Light is one of the many Bruce County lighthouses! Its original home was at Stokes Bay. The bay is just north of Black Creek Provincial Park, one of the many places to hike on the Bruce Peninsula. Now this over 100-year-old lighthouse overlooks Fairy Lake.
Chantry Island Lighthouse & Tour
One of the top things to do in Southampton Ontario in the summer is take the Chantry Island tour! The tours run from June through September, and the 2023 season starts on June 3.
Chantry Island is an island 15 minutes off the coast of Southampton. The small island is a Federal Migratory Bird Sanctuary and home to a wealth of bird species. You’ll be able to see everything from great egrets to black-crowned night herons.
The big draw for many is the Chantry Island Lighthouse. Towering 80 feet tall, the lighthouse was built in 1859. During the tour visitors can climb up the 106 steps of the lighthouse. The views are well worth the climb!
The only way to visit the island is on the tour. Board the Peerless II on this small group tour. The two-hour tour brings guests from the Southampton harbour to the island.
A few things to keep in mind is that tours must be booked in advance. In addition, flip-flops are not allowed, you’ll need closed toed shoes.
Check out the Coffee Shops in Southampton
One of my favourite things to do when exploring small towns is check out their local coffee shops! I found two awesome coffee shops in Southampton!
The first one I popped into, Elk & Finch Coffee Pub, was full of gems! Set in a 100-year-old Victorian home, this coffee shop is full of historic charm. You’ll find plenty of locals starting their day here with a cup of coffee.
Elk & Finch Coffee Pub has two floors and a second-floor patio. Inside are all sorts of nods to Southampton like a lighthouse etched into a window pane. The shop is adorned with stained-glass windows, fun wallpaper and a sign reading ‘Gathering Room’. Along with coffee, the pub serves a range of fresh pastries and desserts. And later in the day you can enjoy locally inspired food.
My favourite coffee shop in Southampton is Dizzy Bird Coffee! This is the sister coffee shop to Rabbit Dash Coffee House in Port Elgin. Inside you’ll find a very boho-chic vibe with plants, an exposed brick wall and twinkling fairy lights strung up.
Dizzy Bird Coffee does in-house micro roasts which produce an incredible cup of coffee! They also partner with other local producers, like Southampton Bagel Co, to serve tasty food options. I highly recommend picking up a bag of their coffee and one of their cute branded cookies to bring home!
Explore the Murals
A great way to explore Southampton is on foot looking for murals! There are a number of cool murals scattered about town.
One of the newest and largest murals in Southampton is downtown on the Atlantis Spa & Eatery. The mural encompasses the entire building front. It features Poseidon and Amphrite, his wife, and was created by Billy Goodkat. You’ll see a bunch of his work in downtown Owen Sound too!
Also on High Street, down the alley beside Southampton Olive Oil Company, is a small mural. This mural features children at play, skipping, swinging and riding a bike in what looks like Southampton. On the side of Sparkles Laundromat is another mural.
The most beloved mural is on the front of Southampton Market. Here you’ll find the mural titled Steam Train Service in Southampton by Lambertus De Graaf. The mural depicts a woman waving goodbye to the engineer. It pays homage to Allen Hilgendorf, a member of Mural Routes, who sadly passed away. It’s a fitting place for the mural as the train once ran through the old furniture factory.
Visit Fairy Lake
Who can resist a place called Fairy Lake?! In the heart of downtown Southampton lies a small lake that back in the 1850s was literally called just that, Small Lake.
Fairy Lake is a lovely place that can be found just behind the Bruce County Museum. The lake features a pavilion where summer concerts are held. Plus, there’s a scenic trail tracing the shores of the lake.
Strolling along the Fairy Lake Trail turned out to be one of my favourite things to do in Southampton! The lake is filled with plenty of life. I spotted turtles basking on floating logs and ducks bobbing in the water. The trail only takes about 15 minutes but is pure bliss.
During the summer swans grace the lake. And carp can be seen just below the surface. Plus, along the trail are a number of carved tree stumps. Keep an eye out for a turtle, butterfly, and duck family carved into old trees.
If you don’t want to walk the trail, there are benches along the shoreline. Pull up a seat and sit a while and soak in the tranquil view.
Browse the Southampton Art School and Gallery
Southampton is home to a thriving art scene and has for a long time! Back over 60 years ago, an art centre was created by a local artist, Bert Henderson, along with three Group of Seven members. Now, the centre has grown to have programs throughout the year.
I highly recommend browsing the local art at the Southampton Art School and Gallery! Located within the Town Hall right downtown. The Town Hall was built in 1911 and was once the Fire Hall. Now it’s home to a large gallery. Across multiple floors, you’ll discover art by local artists in a range of styles.
The walls are adorned with art over 30 local artists that include children, seniors, and professionals. All of which is incredible! Be sure to pop into the Gallery’s shop! The shop is filled with interesting pieces, many of which are clearly inspired by Southampton and Lake Huron. You can purchase a variety of pieces including photography, watercolour paintings, postcards, clothing, and more!
Visit the Range Lights on a Lighthouse Tour
When road tripping along the Huron Coast and looking for what to see in Southampton, pop by the range lights. As the oldest port on the Bruce coast, Southampton has a long history of marine travel. So, you’ll find a number of lighthouses in town and more nearby!
I highly recommend enjoying a tour of the Lake Huron lighthouses! A few of them are right in Southampton. For me the best lighthouse in Southampton is the Saugeen Front Range Lighthouse. It’s located on a long pier off of Scrubby’s Point Park. Stretching into Lake Huron, the pier is also a great place to catch the sunset. However, whether you visit during the day or in the evening, be prepared to get wet. The scenic lighthouse is at the end of a pier that is constantly being hit by waves from the mighty lake.
Minutes away along the channel, just east of King’s Highway 21, is the Saugeen River Rear Range Light. Originally built in 1903, this heritage lighthouse helped guided boats up the river. After a century in service, it’s now a great stop to pay homage to Southampton’s history.
There’s another one that can be seen from the road and water, McNab Point Right Light. However, it’s on private property. And as mentioned above, there are two more lighthouses. One is behind the Bruce County Museum, Stokes Bay Range Light. The other is on Chantry Island and is the only one you can get inside.
So, be sure to add a lighthouse tour to your list of things to do in Southampton Ontario!
Take a Historic Walking Tour of Southampton
Whenever I visit a new place, I always love exploring its historic buildings. A fun way to do this is on a walking tour. Many small towns across Ontario have self-guided walking tours of their historic buildings. You can either find them in pamphlet form in the tourism office or as a pdf online.
If you love learning a places’ history then I recommend adding a walking tour to your things to do in Southampton list. You can find the online pdf here. It features a whopping 56 locations! Some of the sites include the Town Hall, Fairy Lake, and the Walker House. Plus, there are a large number of notable homes, many of which were owned by captains in the port town’s heyday.
A large number of the buildings on the walking tour are found downtown, along Albert and High Streets. At 118 High Street is the charming Southampton Inn. Built in 1893, the grand home was once owned by a captain but is now transformed into a boutique inn.
Across the street is another home that was owned by a captain and shipbuilder. The beautiful Queen Anne home at 107 High Street is also an inn called Chantry Breezes B&B. Other notable Southampton families called it home through the years.
Poetry fans should stop by 79 Albert Street North. Built in the 1860s, it was once the rectory for the Anglican Church. And it was also the home of William Wilfred Campbell, a Canadian poet.
My favourite building is at 125 High Street! This grandiose home is full of stunning details. The most prominent feature is the extravagant gingerbread trim. There are also stained and lead glass windows.
Hike or Bike the Saugeen Rail Trail
I’m a huge fan of trains and all their history! So, it’s no surprise that I love hiking rail trails in Ontario. I’ve hiked the Caledon Trailway which is a rail trail. Plus, I’ve biked part of the SC Johnston Trail, which is one of the many Grand River trails.
Saugeen Shores has their own rail trail! The Saugeen Rail Trail is a multi-use trail that’s ideal for hiking or cycling. It runs between Southampton and Port Elgin for 8 kms.
The trail uses the old railway line. It’s popular with cyclists in the summer. And you can make it a loop by connecting with the North Shore Road. To expand your trip even further, the trail connects with the Bruce County Rail Trail and the Great Lake Waterfront Trail.
There are various access points along the trail, in case you only want to tackle a portion of it. However, if you’re cycling the loop it will only take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on stops.
Indulge in a Sweet Treat from Offshore Bakery
One of the sweetest things to do in Southampton Ontario is grab a treat from Offshore Bakery! Located on High Street, this bakery has been a staple in the community for over 30 years.
This family owned and operated bakery serves up all sorts of tasty treats! You’ll find fresh baked loaves of bread, bags of cookies, donuts, and so much more!
Offshore Bakery is best known for their butter tarts. They were voted one of the best butters tarts in Canada by Canadian Living followers! Serving up a variety of tarts, from raisin to pecan filled, they sell on average around 80 dozen butter tarts a day!
Everything is made with the best ingredients. Plus, you can taste the love! This is a popular spot in the mornings, so get there early. Or be prepared to wait in line!
Visit Southampton Beach
If you’re looking for a beach vacation in Ontario then head to Southampton! The beach spans the Lake Huron coast for about 4 kms. All along the shore is a rich sand and there’s plenty of room for everyone!
A great reason to visit Southampton Beach is that its not as busy as other nearby beaches, like Sauble Beach. So, it’s a great place to escape the crowds. But be prepared for those strong Huron waves!
There are plenty of benches, swings and even a trail running along the beach. So, there’s something for everyone. Whether you want to work on your tan, take a refreshing dip, or simply enjoy the views, Southampton beach is for you!
The beach, while sandy, has varying water levels. The closer you are to the iconic Canadian flag, at Dominion Lookout, the water gets deep closer to the shore. However, closer to the southern section, its shallower further out. This a great place to take the kids swimming. Another thing to note is that there are rocky sections along the beach, so water shoes come in handy.
Down by Long Dock, the southern section of the beach, you’ll find change rooms and washrooms. If you get hungry, there’s also a fast food stall that local’s say serves up the best fries in town!
Hike More Trails
Avid outdoor enthusiasts will love Southampton! One of the most popular things to do in Southampton Ontario is hike. And there are plenty of trails to choose from!
Beyond the Saugeen Rail Trail, another great one is the North Shore Trail. Running for 6 kms between Southampton and Port Elgin, the North Shore Trail is also part of the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail. This scenic trail travels along the shoreline of Lake Huron, making for awesome water views. It’s a great spot to hike during sunset too, especially around Miramichi Bay!
Following the shore line north of Southampton’s main beach is the Captain Spence Path. This trail is short and takes you from the giant flag to the habour and Pioneer Park. Along the way you’ll be rewarded with beautiful lake views. Plus, there are Monarch Way Stations too where these stunning butterflies can stop on their epic journey to rest and refuel.
One of the best Ontario provincial parks is near Southampton! That park is MacGregor Point Provincial Park! With a number of trails taking you through varying environments, it’s an amazing place to hike! There’s a trail running along the shores of Lake Huron. Or if you’re a birder, you’ll love the Tower Trail that loops around a wetland full of bird life. Plus, there’s even a lookout tower and its only 20 minutes south of downtown Southampton!
More Fun Southampton Things to do
Browse Southampton Market – Built in a factory from 1901, the Southampton Market is a must visit. The historic building still maintains much of its charm with original wooden floors. Now the market is set over two floors and covers over 140,000 square feet. There’s everything from puzzles to Mennonite furniture.
Enjoy the Sunset Piper – Southampton comes alive in the summer with fun events! One of the most popular is the Sunset Piper. Every Friday evening in the summer a piper pipes on his bag pipes leading up to sunset at Dominion Lookout.
Crush on the Cars during Cruisers Cruise Nites – Another must visit Southampton event is Cruisers Cruise Nites! During June through August Millard Boulevard (west end of High Street) comes alive every Thursday. Along with antique cars lining the boulevard, there’s classic rock music in the background.
Visit the Bruce Power Sensory Gardens – Families visit will love a visit to the Bruce Power Sensory Gardens at Jubilee Park. Along with a splash pad, the park features a fully integrated rotary accessible playground. Plus, there’s an adorable little library with books for kids and adults.
Visit Denny’s Dam Conservation Area – Another of the great places to visit in Southampton is Denny’s Dam Conservation Area. The park is a popular spot for fishing. And paddlers can enjoy paddling along the Saugeen River Canoe Route. The route runs between Hanover and Southampton. It takes approximately 9 to 12 hours to paddle from Southampton to Paisley.
Take in a Performance at the Bruce County Playhouse – If you’re looking for what to do in Southampton on a rainy day then take in a performance. The Bruce County Playhouse, located in the old Town Hall, puts on a variety of entertainment, including plays. Plus, most shows are family friendly.
Day Trips from Southampton
Port Elgin – Just south of Southampton is Port Elgin. There are plenty of things to do in Port Elgin, including more beaches, fun shops and restaurants. It’s also home to a number of trails. Plus, close by is MacGregor Point Provincial Park.
Kincardine – The next small town on the Lake Huron Coast is Kincardine. This charming town is a 40-minute drive from Southampton. You’ll find lots of fun things to do in Kincardine! There are museums, murals, great shops, and a beautiful stretch of beach too!
Sauble Beach – One of the most popular places close to Southampton is Sauble Beach. Best known for its 7km white sand beach, which is the second longest freshwater beach in the world! There are more things to do in Sauble Beach then just the beach! You’ll find more places to hike, a waterfall, cute shops, and more!
Restaurants in Southampton
Come hungry because there are so many great places to eat in Southampton! Along with the great coffee shops and bakery, there are a number of must visit restaurants.
For breakfast or lunch pop into the Lighthouse Restaurant! This family owned and operated restaurant serves up a solid all-day breakfast and at a decent price. Plus, their known for tasty burgers and delicious homemade soup.
One of the most iconic restaurants in Southampton is the Walker House. The building has been a staple in town since the 1860s. They have a large menu that’s perfect for lunch and dinner. I really enjoyed their Smokey Bison Burger that’s made with local bison meat. However, they have awesome daily specials too, so be sure to ask about them.
Dare I say, the best place to get Thai food on the Huron coast is at Southampton Thai Cuisine! This incredible restaurant has an authentic Thai vibe and THE BEST service I’ve had in a long time! Plus, the dishes were delicious and the portion sizes were large. If you’re looking for a sweet treat after your meal, try their Banana fritters!
Another one of my favourite places to eat in town is Highview Food & Drink! With an unassuming exterior, you’ll be blown away by the eclectic and sexy vibe inside. This restaurant and wine bar has a menu that features plenty of Italian dishes and other incredible offerings. Plus, they have one of the cutest patios in Southampton that’s strung with twinkling lights.
Where to Stay in Southampton
There are plenty of options for places to stay in Southampton and the area. Depending on what your style, you’ll find something to suit you. Along with plenty of cottage rentals, Southampton has numerous bed and breakfasts set within historic homes.
The Beach Motel – If you’re looking for a dreamy place to stay in Southampton then I highly recommend The Beach Motel. This eco-conscious motel has Instagrammable rooms outfitted with Chromecast and a Nespresso machine. But it’s also all about the details! The motel is a short walk to downtown and to the beach. Plus, they have one of the best breakfasts I’ve ever enjoyed at a motel. Breakfast includes fresh pastries, bread from a local bakery, and the coffee is local too! There’s also a rooftop patio, spa treatments available, and more!
Quality Inn Southampton – For those looking for a classic hotel, book your stay at the Quality Inn. The hotel is a short walk from downtown and close to two of the range lights. Some rooms feature a whirlpool tub and there’s breakfast available.
Driftwood Haus – Enjoy a cozy apartment with a sauna and a hot tub that’s steps from the beach. The Driftwood Haus is also within walking distance to downtown. Plus, there are various accommodations available depending how many people you’re travelling with.
Conclusion: Things to do in Southampton Ontario
Start planning your next trip to the coast of Lake Huron! Whether you’re looking for a charming place to explore or a relaxing beach vacation, there are so many things to do in Southampton Ontario to fill your days. Plus, with nearby parks and trails its an outdoor adventures’ haven!
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