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Canada/Things to Do in Ottawa, with kids

Mooney's Bay Park and Beach (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Mooney's Bay Park and Beach?

91%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 91% Kids-Friendly: Lifeguarded swimming, pirate adventure shows, a big playground and summer sport festivals fill a full day for 5–12s, with washrooms, change benches and picnic tables steps away.

Google
Reviews4.5/ 5
(from 4,679 reviews)

Positives:

  • Lifeguard Coverage: Trained lifeguards on duty keep the swim area safe for kids.
  • Family Facilities: Pavilion offers accessible washrooms, changing benches and water fountains.
  • Smooth Riverside Trail: Paved path is ideal for strollers, scooters or family bike rides.

Challenges:

  • Parking Fees: Metered parking costs $1 per 30 minutes 7 am–6 pm; spaces fill up by midday.
  • Weather & Water Quality: Beach may close after heavy rain; check posted advisories before swimming.
  • Limited Shade at Playground: Few trees by the play structure; bring a sun umbrella or pop-up tent.
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🏖️ Explore Mooney's Bay Park and Beach with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Mooney's Bay Park and Beach. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Mooney's Bay Park and Beach?

  • A riverfront park in Ottawa fronting the Rideau River with a designated sandy freshwater beach
  • A municipal green space featuring playgrounds, picnic facilities, mature woodland and a prominent sledding hill
  • A landscaped recreational venue furnished with paved multi-use trails, an outdoor pavilion and infrastructure for seasonal community events

What is so special about Mooney's Bay Park and Beach for with kids?

  1. Supervised shallow water swim with lifeguards
  2. Sandy beachfront playground for slides and swings
  3. Family tandem kayak rentals on the Rideau River
  4. Interactive Pirate Adventures show with treasure hunt
  5. Free picnic tables and BBQ pits under shade
  6. On-site equipment rentals and metered parking

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to swim, play, paddle and picnic without tiring younger children.

(View Mooney's Bay Park and Beach on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Mooney's Bay Park and Beach

Supervised Beach Swim:

Splash in the shallow zone watched by lifeguards from 12pm–7pm.

Tip: Arrive before noon to find parking close to the Pavilion.

Beachfront Playground:

Climb slides, swings and climbing features next to the beach.

Tip: Bring a towel and a change of clothes in case of extra sandy fun.

Pirate Adventures Show:

Join a 1.5 hour interactive pirate-themed theatre with face paint and treasure hunt.

Tip: Book tickets online at least one week ahead to secure family seating.

Tandem Kayak Rental:

Share a kayak with a child on the Rideau River; lifejackets provided.

Tip: Check in at the lifeguard station 30 minutes before your desired launch time.

Family Beach Volleyball:

Rent a net on the sand and rally as a team by the water’s edge.

Tip: Ask the lifeguard station for nets; no reservation needed.

Picnic and BBQ:

Use free picnic tables and public BBQ pits under shady trees.

Tip: Pack your own charcoal, utensils and snacks for a stress-free meal.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Mooney's Bay Park and Beach

  1. Use Public Transit: Take OC Transpo bus 12 to skip parking charges and find drop-off by the Pavilion.
  2. Early Arrival: Get to the park before 10 am on weekends to claim prime picnic tables.
  3. Seasonal Parking Pass: Buy a multi-day pass if you plan repeat visits to reduce daily fees.
🏖️ Tour Mooney's Bay Park and Beach like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Mooney's Bay Park and Beach. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Mooney's Bay Park and Beach

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S Foo

S Foo

Jun 2024

This park is a great way to spend a sunny day solo or with family and friends. There is a beach, park benches, picnic tables, trails, and playground structures. Parking is not too far and plentiful during the week. It can get busy even during the week so weekends are super crowded. The bathroom situation was limited but better than nothing.

AM B

AM B

Jan 2024

You have to prepare to go there. Washrooms ate open but not sure till what time. Evenings attract a different crowd as well. Not my favorite city beach tbh.. Best thing about it is the connecting bike paths along the river. Fantastic. The pedestrian Bridge near Carleton U should be finished by now.

Asif A. Ali

Asif A. Ali

Jul 2023

Great outdoor park and beach for those looking for outdoor activities with family and friends. A little messy, and my advice to everyone to please pick after yourself. If you're not going to respect and clean the surrounding, then how else you're going to love yourself. Great swings and mini playground for kids. The sand at the beach was clean. It's a fun and lively area to spend weekends.

Jeff Eng

Jeff Eng

Jul 2023

This is a fantastic park and beach. There is something here for everyone. There are multiple large play structures for all ages. The beach is large, with lots of space for everyone and good water access so it doesn't feel crowded. Green space is plentiful and there are many trees for shade, even in the beach area. You can purchase snacks, ice cream, and such at a concession stand, though you'll ...

Victoria

Victoria

Nov 2020

Very clean and spacious playground. Always lots of kids. Fresh and clean air. Located far from roads. Great place for all seasons. The only thing that makes me unhappy that there is no washrooms since October. There are still lots of people coming with kids, for picnics and to exercise. I am wondering how do they keep everything inside, or maybe there is someplace that I do not know. Especially, l...

When is the best time to visit Mooney's Bay Park and Beach (Ottawa, Canada)?

Summer: lifeguards patrol the beach daily 12pm–7pm from late June to late August. Winter: groomed, lit cross-country ski trails open with kids’ lessons available.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Ottawa on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Parking (3 hr peak)CAD 6
Tandem Kayak Rental (2 boats, 1 hr)CAD 66
Pirate Adventures Show (4 tickets)CAD 120
Beach Volleyball Net (1 hr)CAD 21
Total EstimatedCAD 213

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Mooney's Bay Park and Beach

Address: 2960 Riverside Dr., Ottawa, ON K1V 8N4, Canada

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About Mooney's Bay Park and Beach

Opening Hours

Monday:8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday:8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday:8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Thursday:8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday:8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday:Closed
Sunday:Closed

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+1 613-580-2595

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