Set on the Penetanguishene peninsula in Ontario, the township of Tiny sprawls across 43 miles of coastline along Georgian Bay, the eastern arm of Lake Huron. Tiny, which was named after the town founder’s pet dog in 1822, is a popular summer destination for travelers seeking time on the lake’s sandy beaches and expansive blue waters. The entire peninsula is a haven for boating enthusiasts, and you’ll find many ferries that go to nearby islands.

True to its name, Tiny is compact, with just a few beachside restaurants and shops. You don’t come to Tiny for the city scene, however, but the numerous outdoor activities such as swimming, sailing, or just floating on a raft in the calm lake waters. Just 10 minutes away, the larger city of Penetanguishene is worth visiting to visit its picturesque protected harbors.

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), the closest major airport, is about 80 miles south of town. Public transportation options to Tiny are limited. You could take a UP Express Train from the airport to Barrie, then hire a taxi to bring you to your Tiny beach cottage rental, but that will take more than 3 hours. The easier solution is to rent a car at the airport, which will allow you to get to Tiny easily and enjoy all that the region has to offer. The County of Simcoe does operate bus services, but they are infrequent.

Ontario has warm summers, making the season a perfect time to visit Tiny and spend your time on or by the lake. The humidity increases along with the temperatures, making dips in the water especially appealing, and be sure to bring mosquito repellent and long-sleeve clothing if you’re planning on staying outdoors as night falls. The biggest celebration of the summer is Canada Day on July 1, when the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum hosts food and games. The leaves change color in the early part of October, making fall a beautiful time to explore the area. Winters can be bitterly cold here, but as Canadians know, you can still enjoy the coldest of winters if you dress for it. The annual Winterama Festival in Penetanguishene in February features snow sculptures, toboggan races, and winter games for all ages. Once the snow melts in March and April, springtime in Tiny is a beautiful time to hike on the local trails.

Simcoe Honey Trail

Simcoe County is known across the region for its honey, and if you follow the county’s Honey Trail, you’ll find several stops where you can learn more about the the science of beekeeping, the history of beekeeping in the region, and pollinators, and taste your share of the golden, sticky sweetener.

Wasaga Beach

Wasaga Beach, to the south of Tiny, is one of the world’s longest freshwater beaches. The white sandy shoreline stretches along Georgian Bay and offers panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere. Its dramatic sand dunes are surrounded by natural wetlands and lush woodlands, and you’ll find plenty of trails for hiking and biking around the beach.

Penetanguishene Centennial Museum

This charming museum set in the 1875 Lumber Office and General Store is located on the shores of Penetanguishene Bay and open year round. You can visit to learn about the history and heritage of the area, then stop in at the gift shop to look for handmade souvenirs.