Can you swim in Lake Ontario?

We have been compiling water quality data and tracking beach water quality trends for more than a decade now. In 2011, we decided we needed a tool that would tell you where the closest beaches are and provide you with the up-to-date water quality information so that you can find your swimmable water right now. read more

Swim Guide delivers free real-time water quality information for over 7,000 beaches, lakes, rivers, and swimming holes in Canada, the U.S., Mexico, New Zealand, the Bahamas, and Australia. Swim Guide is available in English and French. read more

Lake Ontario is the smallest of the five great freshwater lakes in North America. As of 2012, over 50 people have swum completely across this lake, which is mainly bordered by Canada and the US state of New York. The name comes from a Huron word meaning shining waters. Yes, you can swim in it. read more

Basically, if you do decide to go swimming in Lake Ontario, try your best not to swallow any water. Speaking as a former lifeguard, I won't swim in Lake Ontario. There are plenty of cleaner inland lakes and city pools to swim in. read more