Port Dover is a fabulous small town in Ontario with a beachy vibe that makes for the perfect summer getaway. Known for its sandy beach, Friday the 13th, and fresh fish dinners, Port Dover and the surrounding area have much to offer! Explore Port Dover with me!
This is your mini guide to Port Dover, Ontario.
Where is Port Dover?
Port Dover is on the north shore of Lake Erie in Norfolk County in southern Ontario. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Toronto, 1.5 hours from Niagara Falls and just an hour south of Hamilton. Its beautiful beach and Lake Erie’s warm, shallow waters have helped make Port Dover a tourist destination since the 1920s.
Avoid Friday the 13th
No, I’m not superstitious, but DO NOT visit Port Dover on Friday the 13th unless you plan to arrive by motorcycle. Over 100,000 bikers can attend Port Dover’s Friday the 13th Motorcycle Rally, which started in 1981, so this small town gets wildly crowded. Check out this website, counting down to the next Friday, the 13th.
Where to Stay in Port Dover?
While it’s a doable day trip, Port Dover’s beachy charm makes it a worthy place for a weekend getaway. You’ll find more than enough to do, see, and eat in Port Dover for a one or two-night stay. The town, especially the beach, is quite magical when all the day-trippers leave.
Luxe Lodges on Lake Erie
Luxe Lodges on Lake Erie is just a few minutes walk from the beach and Port Dover’s shops and restaurants. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better location. The property offers one and two-bedroom apartments that are super clean and include all the amenities you could want for a weekend getaway.
On arrival, which was self-check-in, I was greeted by a bag of saltwater taffy. And the air-conditioned apartment was a cool respite from the summer’s heat.
While many great restaurants are within walking distance, having access to a well-stocked kitchen was nice, especially if you’re a fan of self-catering.
Best Things to Do in Port Dover
Port Dover Beach & Lighthouse
The beach is the big draw for Port Dover, whether building sandcastles or swimming in the waves.
The only downside is that Port Dover’s public beach is small and can get crowded, especially on weekends. I loved staying at Luxe Lodges on Lake Erie, which provides access to Port Dover’s local private beach.
Another must-do is walking down Port Dover’s pier to its historic lighthouse. On the way, you’ll pass the Fishermen’s Memorial, dedicated to all who’ve lost their lives to Lake Erie’s stormy waters. The pier is also a great sunset and photo spot, and if you’re lucky, a busker might be adding the soundtrack to your getaway.
Port Dover’s Lighthouse Theatre
The Lighthouse Theatre on Main Street was once Port Dover’s town hall. It now hosts the town’s annual summer Lighthouse Festival.
The plays showcased all tend to be light-hearted and humourous; all you have to do is choose one that strikes your fancy and decide on an afternoon matinee or an evening performance.
The cozy 347-seat theatre has excellent sightlines. And if going to see a play isn’t your thing, check out their website, as the Lighthouse Theatre also hosts cover bands.
WhAt to Eat in Port Dover!
The Arbor
The Arbor Restaurant is located at 101 Main Street in the heart of Port Dover. It opened in 1919 and retains much of its old-fashioned charm. While it’s not fancy, this is a walk-up in your flip-flops and takeaway kind of place.
While its fresh-cut fries are quite good, it’s “world famous” according to its sign for its Ritz Footlong Hot Dogs and Golden Glow, a refreshing orange drink that’s been on the menu since it opened over 100 years ago.
Expect long lines on summer weekends. There’s a window to order hot dogs, burgers, and fries and a separate window for ice cream.
The Arbor is open 11 am to 8 pm from mid-March to Thanksgiving weekend.
Knechtels on the Beach
Knechtels on the Beach is another Port Dover institution. It has been serving Lake Erie Perch and Pickerel since 1960. Their takeaway fish dinners include fries, coleslaw, a fresh bun and tartar sauce. But if fish isn’t your thing, there are many other options, including burgers, hot dogs and chicken wings.
The best part is Knechtel’s designated dining area for customers, with picnic tables set up right on the beach.
Open daily from 11 am to 7 pm.
Erie Beach Hotel
The Erie Beach Hotel was once a 60-room summer resort where you could stay for a week for $12, including meals. But its claim to fame today is its fabulous fresh fish dinners.
Lake Erie Perch and Pickerel are the heroes, but there are options to please everyone, from shrimp to steak, burgers and veggie lasagna.
Dinners are served with a selection of old-school salads, like horseradish jello, coleslaw and a mixed bean salad. I’m guessing these salads have been a menu item since the place opened in the forties. Also included is celery bread, which might not sound exciting, but these large toasted cubes of buttery bread sprinkled with celery seeds are so delicious that you’ll ask for seconds. And then, for dessert, don’t miss the homemade pies.
Cove Room is open daily: 11:30 am – 7:30 pm.
Fat Back BBQ
Love BBQ? Head to Fat Back BBQ at 1 Main Street in Port Dover. I’ve brought my favourite carnivores and BBQ lovers here, and everyone raved about Fat Back. This takeout restaurant is unassuming, with only a few picnic tables and a rustic wood sign. But EVERYTHING is good!
Meat lovers will devour the Big’N Knuckle Sandwich. It’s fire-grilled beef brisket doused with cheese, peppers, and onions and served with a heap of house-cut fries. And like all good BBQ places, Fat Back has awesome sides!
I’m a huge fan of their homemade Kale & Broccoli Slaw. And I still dream about their Gar-Par Onion Rings, which are crispy onion rings drizzled with parmesan and garlic aioli.
Fat Back BBQ is seasonal and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. It is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Urban Parisian
The Urban Parisian is a hidden gem for baked goods lovers. It’s on a side street, 120 Greenock St West, not the main drag.
Start your day with a cup of coffee and one of their excellent croissants. They also post their lunch specials on Instagram. When I visited, the lunch choices were Spring Roll Salad, First Date Picnic Sammie, or Loaded Potato Quesadillas. But my absolute favourite was their S’mores Brownies.
Urban Parisian is closed on Monday. It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cute Shops!
Port Dover is very walkable. You’ll find pretty much everything on George Street, Walker Street, and Main Street. Due to the Friday the 13th Motorcycle Rally, there are a few shops with themed souvenirs and the expected beach shops selling bathing suits, towels and water floats. And mixed in amongst them are a few gems that shouldn’t be missed. Here are a couple of my favourites.
Grand Trunk Station
Near the beach at 5 George Street, Grand Trunk Station sells lovely gifts, home decor and Port Dover souvenirs.
I spent a happy hour taking in their lovely displays as my must-buy list grew longer and longer. Many items have a nautical or beach hut theme, and I love the local vibe.
If you only have time to pop into one shop, it should be Grand Trunk Station.
Open daily from 10 am to 5:30 pm.
Beach Reads bookshop
Could there be a better name for a bookshop? Beach Reads is an adorable bookshop at 230 George Street selling new and pre-loved books.
Cleary, a book lover, has curated their great selection. And they offer terrific recommendations; just let them know what you’re in the mood for. If you want a good summer read, you’ve found your dream bookstore. Buy a book and head to the beach!
It is closed on Mondays. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, noon to 4 pm.
Best Things to Do Near Port Dover
Turkey Point Beach
Port Dover’s Beach is lovely but small. And if you truly want a beach day, a better option is just a twenty-minute drive away in the village of Turkey Point. While there is some street parking, buy a day pass online or in person.
While the beach area nearest the parking lot tends to get busy, Turkey Point’s two kilometres of golden sand ensure that you’ll be able to find a spot and stake your claim.
Wade out into the shallow water and splash amongst the waves of Turkey Point’s buoyed swim area. Toilet facilities are also available, although they are a little primitive. If you’re into camping, nearby Turkey Point’s Provincial Park offers shady campsites and hiking trails.
Grab a designated driver and hit the Toast the Coast Trail to enjoy local wines, beers and ciders. Here are a few of my favourite spots along the trail.
Frisky Beaver Winery
Fun, quirky names and friendly service make the Frisky Beaver a must-stop destination. And it’s just minutes from downtown Port Dover at 455 Radical Road.
If Rose is your go-to for an easy-drinking summer wine, try their “beach wine” called the Blushing Beaver. I also bought a bottle of Frisky Beaver’s Cocky Cabernet and brought it to a potluck; it was a big hit! As per the back of the bottle, their Cocky Cabernet pairs with “everything from grilled salmon to messy poutine.”
If you can’t resist bubbles, don’t hesitate to try their pale pink Blushing Bubbles. And their Virgin Beaver is a sparkling blend of apple with a bit of peach sans alcohol. While I’d highly recommend visiting their friendly tasting room, you can also order Frisky Beaver Wines online.
Burning Kilim Winery
Burning Kilim Winery is another great stop on the Toast the Coast Trail. I had a fabulous lunch beneath one of the bright red umbrellas on the patio of their Back Kitchen Restaurant. From there, you can take in views of Long Point’s inner bay and it’s a scenic spot to enjoy a glass of Burning Kilim wine. And for anyone who needs to know, their truffle fries are divine!
Bonniehealth Estates Lavender and Winery
Bonnieheath Estates Lavender & Winery is a special place! This might be my favourite lavender field in Ontario. In part because of the beautiful setting, with many picture-perfect photo spots. But also its charming boutique, where you’ll find a lovely assortment of lavender-based products, plus bottles of its estate wines and hard ciders. I’ve driven back more than once to stock up on their Folkin’ Hard Cherry Bomb Cider. It’s pink, fizzy, and tastes like ripe cherries.
Bonnieheath is just a 15-minute drive north of Port Dover on 410 Concession 12 Townsend, Waterford, Ontario. It’s free to visit, but bring your wallet, as I haven’t yet been able to leave without doing a bit of shopping.
Lavender peaks in July. Check out their website for opening hours and events.
Apple Hill Lavender
Apple Hill Lavender is another lovely lavender field in the area, about a 20-minute drive from Port Dover.
Located at 1795 Windham Road 11 in Windham Centre, Apple Hill has been a family farm since 1906. Their lavender field is picturesque, with slight hills, a rustic barn, and photo spots featuring red Muskoka chairs.
You can also picnic in their apple orchard or splurge on a few lavender-based products in their photogenic Carriage House Boutique.
Check out their website for opening times.
Port Dover is the perfect summer destination, with beaches, great food, and local wineries. If you’re craving inspiration for more things to do in Southern Ontario, check out these posts: Spend a Day in Niagara Falls or Three Wonderful Places to Stay for a Weekend Getaway in Ontario.
