Let The Phantom Piper Call You In To Kincardine, Ontario

Published: Wednesday, May 2, 2018

On a beautiful summer’s evening as you approach the port of Kincardine, Ontario — located along the sandy shoreline of Lake Huron — you may just find yourself captivated by the tranquil, yet haunting, sounds of the bagpipes as the Phantom Piper guides you to shore whilst you simultaneously take in the most breathtaking of sunsets you could possibly envision. Renowned as Ontario’s Scottish Destination, the Phantom Piper won’t be the only time you encounter bagpipes — and that’s a promise! And, although we wear our tartans proudly, we offer so much more to visitors and residents alike, and can’t wait for you to experience it all.

The Kincardine Harbour & Marina, nestled just below the Kincardine Lighthouse & Museum, welcomes you to the full-service facility, which accommodates over 150 boats. Fuel up, purchase basic marine supplies, pump out, and dock for the night (or longer), and enjoy facilities that boast picnic tables, BBQs, and bikes to tour the area. Located just a half block from downtown Kincardine, you won’t have any issue locating restaurants, shops & boutiques, or alternative accommodation should you wish to give those ‘sea legs’ a rest.

Idyllic surroundings, captivating lifestyle, festive events, and more, have all amused and beguiled residents and visitors of Kincardine for generations. You’ll be treated to spectacular vistas of beautiful sandy shoreline and beaches adorned with our BIG blue beach chairs (a photo opportunity must and the perfect sunset viewing point), scenic boardwalks that meander along the lakefront, with various beach access points, and benches along the way to ensure you can sit and take it all in.

Being lakeside, water sports are definitely high on our priority list. Aside from boating and swimming, if those NW winds are high, you can almost be certain that our surf community will be taking full advantage of those Great Lake swells. Named one of Canada’s “Top 9 Surf Destinations,” you’ll undoubtedly be privy to some amazing athletics. Paddleboard, short and long board, and kite-surfing — we have a wave for all! For those willing to give this a go (adventure level dependent) both Surf and Paddleboard rentals are available should you wish to test your skills in this growing sport.

Outdoor activities don’t just start and stop at the water’s edge. With over 30km of four-season, multi-use trails, conservation areas, a Provincial Park, and four area golf courses within a 20 minute radius, getting your fresh air quota will not be a problem — even for your four-legged friends! The KinDog Dog Park, located off Bruce Avenue (south of the Marina) is open to the public without cost, and the perfect place to meet new friends or burn some energy.

Home to a myriad of annual events and festivals, we’d be remiss if we didn’t highlight even a few of our local favourites; a full calendar of events for the year can be accessed at visitkincardine.ca. As mentioned, here in Kincardine, our Scottish blood runs strong, so it only makes sense that we would host the Annual Kincardine Scottish Festival & Highland Games. Thrill to the sights and sounds of Scotland, and take in piping and drumming competitions, highland dance, heavy games, and world class entertainment. Now, if this event isn’t enough for you to get your Scottish fix, not to worry. Every summer Saturday evening, march with the Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band in our weekly Pipe Band Parade. The parade takes place at 8pm sharp, rain or shine. Grab a spot along Queen Street to take in this spectacle (trust us when we say this is one you need to see to believe), or march behind the band with thousands of your closest friends. A main street tradition for over 100 years, and hopefully for 100 more.

Had your fill of bagpipes? You will be pleased to hear that we also love to sing the blues. The Bruce Telecom Lighthouse Blues Festival has been a mainstay in Kincardine for what will be their 9th year. Main stage acts overlook Lake Huron, a free street festival featuring well-known blues acts and artists, and a gospel revival — this three-day festival will have you wishing you’d heard about it sooner.

Live, professional, summer theatre beckons you to the Kincardine Centre for the Arts on many an evening (or afternoon) in July and August. Bluewater Summer Playhouse hosts licensed, cabaret style seating during their season, and offer up an impressive selection of performances to entertain audiences. Be it comedy, musical, or drama, Bruce County’s only professional summer theatre will definitely delight.

That’s not all that we have to showcase. We encourage you to check us out online or visit us through our Social Media channels (Facebook/Instagram/Twitter), @visitkincardine, to discover other hidden treasures and adventures. Reach out if you have a question, or five of them! We look forward to hearing from you.