Ottawa’s newest swimming spot opens

Jumping off the dock into the cool water of Dow’s Lake is allowed this summer.

A project by the National Capital Commission (NCC) permits people to enjoy the water surrounding the observation dock. The area has buoy lines marking the area allowed for swimming, and another separate lane for people wanting to do laps.

“Extensive water testing conducted over the last year has revealed that the swim area consistently meets or exceeds applicable health and safety guidelines,” the NCC said in a post.

Unlike other beaches in the nation’s capital, this area will not have lifeguards on site, and there is only a deep-water entry off the dock.

The organization says this is a part of its greater plan to “reinvigorate” the city’s waterways and shorelines, by introducing new swimming sites, cafes, equipment rentals and more.

The addition of a food and drink destination will be installed near the dock in the coming days.

“We want to turn Canada’s capital towards its incredible waterways to give residents and visitors great recreation and fun destination experiences,” Tobi Nussbaum, CEO of the NCC, said.

New/old beach front reopened

This comes just as the organization reopened Westboro Beach after a years-long project.

The area along the Ottawa River has been closed partially since 2022 for a revitalization plan that included accessibility designs and a zero-carbon pavilion. Located at 745 Kichi Zībī Mīkan, the beach area gives people a new way to enjoy the waterway.

The year-round restaurant is open 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., a seasonal cafe and lots of riverfront lookouts.