This breathtaking beach 2.5 hrs from Toronto has powdery white sand shores with Bahamas vibes

If a trip to the tropics isn't in the cards for you this summer, you might want to plan a trip to this dreamy Ontario destination before the season ends.

With powdery sand dunes, shimmering waters, and sun-soaked shores, it's like a mini trip to the Bahamas without leaving the province.

Plus, it's under a 3-hour drive from Toronto, making it an idyllic spot for a weekend escape.

See on Instagram Sandbanks Provincial Park is a warm-weather oasis that might make you feel like you've been transported somewhere much farther south.

Located in scenic Prince Edward County , the park is best known for its sweeping sand dunes, shining Lake Ontario waters and beaches that have been called the best in the country.

See on Instagram Its most famous feature is the baymouth barrier dune system, which spans 12 kilometres and is considered the largest of its kind in the world.

"While the soft, golden sand warming the bottom of your feet, epic sunsets and rolling waves may trick you into thinking you're in the Caribbean, your GPS will prove you're right here in Prince Edward County," Sandbanks Vacations says.

See on Instagram There are three beaches to choose from.

Outlet Beach is a popular pick thanks to its broad sandy shoreline and shallow, calm water.

The beach stretches for around two kilometres, with a gentle slope that makes it easy to wade into the lake, cool off with a swim or relax on the sand for the afternoon.

See on Instagram For an even longer stretch of shoreline, Lakeshore Beach offers roughly seven kilometres of sand to explore.

The water gradually gets deeper as you move away from shore, while the expansive beach gives you plenty of room to spread out, go for a walk or find a spot to take in the scenery.

Then there's Dunes Beach, which is home to the park's most dramatic scenery.

See on Instagram As its name suggests, this beach is surrounded by the park's rolling dunes, creating a landscape that looks a little different from your typical Ontario beach.