Kayak rentals, two free beach volleyball courts but no swimming?
Part of a revitalization project for the waterfront near the Beaudoin Marina in Pointe-aux-Trembles, this was the first beach to have been created on the eastern side of Montreal.
At 1.2 hectares, Plage de L’Est—the beach in Promenade-Bellerive Park—offers outdoor toilets and showers, two beach volleyball courts, hangout spots, and a steel and wood jetty to break the current for the beach.
But swimming is prohibited.
Is it safe to swim in Montreal?
With so many gorgeous beaches in and around Montreal, along with a new urban beach and bathing area planned between Griffintown and Pointe-Saint-Charles, Plage de L’Est is not the only game in town—but has been a disappointment that hails back a few years.
After a delay in 2022, the City of Montreal had forecasted the opening of this beach to swimmers this summer, but has pushed the project to 2028 due to public health concerns.
In a report from Montreal Public Health, swimming will remain restricted due to soil contamination, namely the presence of lead, benzene, and sewage that is potentially polluting the water.
Despite the public health concerns, some residents continue to swim in the water, along with visitors who rent kayaks or book guided fishing activities.
With plans to start work on the shore by 2028, the city plans to remove beach furniture and add more signs explaining the risks.
Does Montreal have beaches?
Montreal is an island. Take advantage of it! From long stretches of sand dotted with tiki-inspired huts to surf spots, our picks for the best beaches in and around Montreal include urban oases, park-adjacent shores and kid-friendly getaways that are always worth the trip (this secret beach should be on your Montreal road trip bucket list—and have you heard about this nudist beach just outside of Montreal).
Pack your favourite cheap eats, grab a beach chair and don’t forget the sunscreen.
RECOMMENDED:
Full guide to the best things to do in Montreal
Montreal's best pools to cool off in this summer
Best parks in Montreal