Lifeguards Return to Port Stanley Main Beach

Beginning this weekend, lifeguards are back on duty at Port Stanley Main Beach, marking the start of another summer beach season in Central Elgin. 

Lifeguards will supervise designated swimming areas daily through Labour Day weekend, helping residents and visitors enjoy a safe summer along the Lake Erie shoreline.

"Beach season is officially underway in Central Elgin, and we are happy to welcome residents and visitors back to Port Stanley's waterfront," said Mayor Andrew Sloan. "Whether you're spending the day on the sand, taking a swim, or enjoying our waterfront, we encourage everyone to make safety a priority, pay attention to beach conditions, and help keep our beaches safe and enjoyable for everyone.”

Lifeguards are stationed at five lifeguard towers along Main Beach and can be identified by their red, black, and white uniforms.

Lifeguard Hours

•        Monday to Friday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
•        Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

In the event of lightning, guards will be off the beach from 30 minutes from the time of the last lightning/thunder strike, patrons are similarly advised to seek safe shelter during this period.

Beachgoers are reminded that there are no lifeguards on duty at Erie Rest Beach, Little Beach, or Pumphouse Beach. Lifesaving equipment, including ring buoys and reaching poles, is available at those locations.

Flag System for Water Conditions

Lifeguards use a coloured flag system to identify swimming conditions at Main Beach.

• Green Flag – Good conditions; no unusual hazards.
•  Yellow Flag – Moderate conditions; swim with caution.
•  Red Flag – Dangerous conditions; swimming not advised.
• Double Red Flag – Hazardous conditions; no swimming permitted.

If no flag is flying, there are no lifeguards on duty.

Swim Safely

The Municipality of Central Elgin encourages all beachgoers to enjoy a safe and enjoyable visit by following these important safety tips:

·        Always supervise children and stay within arm’s reach when they are in or near the water.

·        Swim only in designated swimming areas marked by white buoys.

·        Never swim alone or while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

·        Wear a properly fitted lifejacket and be aware of your swimming abilities.

·        Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and take regular breaks from the sun.

·        Never dive into the lake or jump from the pier.

·        Be mindful that weather and water conditions can change quickly. 

Beachgoers are also encouraged to learn about rip currents, which can occur in the Great Lakes, including Lake Erie. For more information, visit www.ripcurrents.org.

Lifejacket Lending Program

A free Lifejacket Lending Program is available at Main Beach during lifeguard patrol hours. Adult, youth, child, and infant-sized lifejackets can be borrowed from the central lifeguard tower at no cost. Please visit the central lifeguard tower to borrow a lifejacket. 

Water Quality Monitoring

Beach water quality is monitored regularly at Main Beach, Little Beach, and Erie Rest Beach. If E. coli levels exceed provincial standards, Southwestern Public Health may issue a swimming advisory. Beaches remain open for other recreational activities and beach sports.

Beach Amenities and Visitor Information

Public washrooms and changerooms at Main Beach are open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Public washrooms at the Port Stanley Visitor Centre are also open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Little Beach washroom trailer is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Paid parking is in effect daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Boat Launch parking lot is enforced 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Parking payments can be made using the HONK app, pay-by-plate machines, or a seasonal parking pass.

For beach information, safety tips, parking details, and current beach conditions, visit centralelgin.org.