Sands on Golden Lake - Golden Lake, Ontario

Tracey G.

We stopped here to have supper. Cloe was so accommodating and pleasant. The food was delicious and The view from our table was breathtaking. So we decided to stay. Our room was huge and so clean. It had a balcony that overlooked the lake.
Absolutely stunning.

A beautiful spot for a family vacation, a wedding, a honeymoon. Wish I had known this place years ago.

Thanks for making our road trip more special.

Tracey n Lindsay

Robin M.

My wife and I had a wonderful stay at this place, although it was only for one night. The room was spacious, well equipped, and immaculately clean. The view over the lake was beautiful. What really made this memorable was the owners. So genuine, helpful, pleasant, and went over and above when it came to ensuring we enjoyed our stay. It so rare to find anywhere that takes an interest in anything but your money, but these people were exceptional. I wish them all the best and every success with their business, they really truly deserve it! P.S. The food was excellent!!!

Kim T.

I can’t recommend this hotel. We stayed at this hotel in September 2025 for one night. It is in a wonderful location on a sandy beach. There is a beautiful park not too far away. When we arrived (2pm) the front door was locked. Someone came to the door and we asked to check in early however we were told that rooms will be ready at 3pm. Check in was quick. We found the room completely updated. There was a walkout to the beach. There were stairs to get down to the room on the lower level. I had called to enquire if there was anywhere nearby for breakfast. I was told that there would be a selection of fruit, toast, yogurt and coffee available. The following morning when we went upstairs we found a couple of croissants and a banana which were being taken by guests in front of me. When I asked an out the yogurt or other options, I was told that the previous guests ate it all. There was no where around for breakfast so I mentioned what I had been told to which the hotel employee replied ‘so your husband needs bread?’ He said he would go look. When I asked if there was tea he put a selection of teas on the counter however there wasn’t any hot water available that I could see so I gave up and went to collect my luggage. As i returned he put a kettle on the counter and said ‘here’s your hot water.’ I think my face reflected how I was feeling about the lack of assistance or courtesy from this hotel employee. A gentleman beside me commented that he was feeling the same way. (I wondered if the fellow had taken a disliking to my husband and I? But apparently not). I have NEVER had such a negative experience. I travelled for my work and stayed in many hotels over the years all over the province. I will NEVER return this location. I wonder if the individual is the owner… if not then some pointers on customer service seem to be required. If you are the owner then might I suggest a more welcoming demeanor.

I think the attitude of the hotel staff was the most disappointing aspect of our stay. Both when we first arrived and also the following morning. It was the same staff member for all of our interactions. I can appreciate that breakfast was a ‘bonus’ and I would not have expected anything if I had not been told there would be a variety of options when I called to confirm. It was about 9am when we went to the reception area so definitely well before the end of the options.

Nikki H.

We were greeted and told to take a seat wherever we wanted which was fine cause there was only one other table of customers there. We waited a little over 20 minutes for a tea and coffee. And then received dirty mugs!! That’s when she informed us of our 2 choices for breakfast. Buffet (which you don’t serve yourself) or a blt sandwich. What happened to their menu So no choice but to choose the buffet. Food was cold! Eggs were juicy and cold! This used to be our go place when camping in the area…. NEVER again!

Nafey G.

For years, this lakeside resort has been our summer tradition—a place our kids eagerly anticipate. The views of the lake are stunning, and the beach-level rooms offer seamless access to the grassy area and sandy shore. The shallow water near the shore is ideal for young children to play safely.
We’ve experienced both accommodations: the rooms (perfect for short stays) and the cottage (excellent for longer visits, especially with its kitchenette for preparing meals while exploring Algonquin Park).
What sets this place apart is its family-run charm. The owners are exceptionally welcoming and attentive, creating a warm, hospitable atmosphere. We leave each year feeling relaxed and already planning our return. If you’re seeking a serene, family-friendly getaway with genuine character, this hidden gem delivers. We’ll continue our tradition for many summers to come.

Peter N.

We originally booked a room at The Sands for 10 nights. Later, we found a dog-friendly place where we could stay with our pet, but we still wanted to keep part of our booking so our family could use the room. We changed the reservation to 3 nights and emailed The Sands months before our trip to explain the situation and ask if it would be okay for our family to stay there under our booking. We never got a response, so we assumed it was fine.

The first night of the stay was a disaster. Our family, who had just gotten married that day, found actual bodily fluid on their bed sheets (not a stain—fresh). The jacuzzi tub only had half the jets working, the shower curtain appeared mouldy, there was a broken electrical outlet, and there was no privacy divider on the shared balcony between rooms. We had booked the king bed with jacuzzi as a wedding gift, but it ended up being a huge disappointment.

When we raised these issues with the front desk the next day, the staff member deflected blame. For example, she said the dirty sheets were the fault of their linen service—possible, but unlikely given the situation. Instead of addressing the concerns or offering solutions, each point we raised was brushed off.

We don’t usually leave negative reviews, but the lack of basic cleanliness, maintenance, and customer service left us with no other choice.

Karen A.

This place is seriously a hidden gem! My partner booked a room as a surprise for me for one night on July 16th. He booked massages at the Cabin Spa and we were completely blown away! THE best massage we've ever had!! (Thank you Siobhan....sorry if I've misspelled! But you were awesome!!) Our room was lovely! Much larger than your regular hotel room with a beautiful view of the water. There are a few things that need to be updated, but the hotel is working on it, and it certainly wasn't anything that bothered us. The room was clean and the bed was delightful!! We will definitely be back for another stay soon!!! Thank you to all of the staff working here!!!

Darcy L.

Please note - I'm using my husband's account as I don't have a google one. I loved my stay at the Sands on Golden Lake. I was there just a few days ago (July 4th) and Zach and Nicole were a great help. I had to book last minute but I got a beautiful room (number 16) on the second floor. So spacious, clean and comfortable! And nicely air conditioned - fantastic for the afternoon when it's hottest outside so one can take refuge in the room, nice and cool. I enjoyed my early morning stroll on the beach where I saw some cute ducklings in the water. Hotel guests were young families as well as young and elderly couples - it's a place for everyone. Thank you so much to the staff at Sands on Golden Lake, you provided me with the break I needed! Wishing you all the best.