Niagara’s South Coast is where Ontario’s sunny side shines brightest, a laid-back shoreline escape anchored by the communities of Fort Erie, Pelham, Port Colborne, and Wainfleet. Here, Lake Erie sets the tone with wide, sandy beaches like Crystal Beach and Nickel Beach, while inland routes reveal artist studios, local festivals, and heart-racing adventures like wakeboarding and skydiving. The region’s food and drink scene is equally bright, from farm-to-table fare and beachside bites to small-batch breweries and family-run wineries pouring local flavours into every glass. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, browsing galleries, or watching ships glide by on the Welland Canal, this is lakeside living at its best!
EXPLORE THESE COMMUNITIES
Begin your day in Pelham, a picturesque town where rural charm meets artisanal flair. Your morning starts at Stoke Deli Bar, a welcoming café known for its expertly brewed espresso and hearty breakfast sandwiches made with high-quality ingredients. After fueling up, head over to White Meadows Farms, a local gem that celebrates all things maple. Here, you can browse the farm’s boutique for sweet treats like maple syrup, maple butter, and candies or take a short walk on the property’s trails to soak in the natural beauty of the Niagara Escarpment.
From Pelham, make your way to Wainfleet, where life moves at a slower, sweeter pace. Be sure to stop at Pie in the Sky Farm & Bakery, a cozy spot tucked into the countryside. This small-batch bakery is beloved for its flaky, fruit-filled pies, butter tarts, and comforting seasonal desserts. It’s the perfect place to grab something delicious to go or enjoy a quiet moment with a slice of pie and a coffee.
Next, cruise into Port Colborne, a vibrant town perched on the Welland Canal. This is your chance to slow down and enjoy lunch at Breakwall Brewing Company, where you can sip on locally brewed beer and sample pub favourites like fish tacos or gourmet burgers. The patio offers front-row views of passing ships as they navigate the canal locks—an iconic South Coast experience. Afterward, wander through the charming downtown shops, or stop in at Tea on West, a charming tearoom nestled in a heritage house. Whether you’re in the mood for high tea or just a pot of loose-leaf tea and a warm scone, it’s a cozy and elegant way to recharge.
End your journey in Fort Erie, where locally rooted dining brings the day full circle. While Blue Goose Farm offers for small farm shop stocked with fresh seasonal goods and produce, it’s worth noting as the trusted source of farm-fresh ingredients for your final stop: Rizzo’s House of Parm. This cozy eatery is all about hearty, Italian-inspired comfort food, with a focus on house-made sauces and classic parmigiana dishes made from ingredients grown just down the road. It’s a fitting end to a day spent exploring the flavours and charm of Niagara’s South Coast, where every stop tells a story and every bite is a taste of local pride.
Exploring the Region?
Here are a few great places to start.
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