The mayor of Lambton Shores says the municipality, local businesses, and OPP are ready for the unofficial start to summer as thousands are expected to descend upon Grand Bend during the Victoria Day long weekend.
"We'll probably have a few thousand [people] show up, I would imagine, that's about average. We tend to be busier in July and August but May is the kick-off for the summer, that's for sure," said Mayor Doug Cook.
While it still may be a little chilly for swimming, Cook said the beaches are open. The marina has also been open for a few weeks.
Beginning this weekend, Lambton OPP will dispatch 12 members to Grand Bend every weekend for the season.
Cook's only request for visitors is to be respectful.
"When you come to the beach please try not to leave a mess behind you when you're leaving. Respect the rules that are there. No fires, no camping equipment -- tents, that type of thing on the beach," he said. "And just be respectful of others when you're there."
Just in time for the busy season, Lambton Shores council officially unveiled the new self-cleaning washroom at Grand Bend Beach during a 'ribbon-cutting' ceremony held on Thursday.
"It will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., beginning Friday, May 17. There will be scheduled cleaning after every 10 uses, it's fully accessible, it'll be available year-round," Cook said. "I think people are excited to see it. It was necessary, we need additional washroom facilities, especially for the north beach."
The state-of-the-art washroom, equipped with two separate restrooms, will also include touchless technology with an automatic soap dispenser, faucet, and flushing.
The facility arrived at the beach last month.
Those visiting the area this summer also shouldn't have to worry about major traffic delays caused by construction. Cook said the Ontario Street Bridge project isn't expected to start until September.
Meanwhile, OPP said officers will be out "in full force this holiday weekend" and will conduct patrols and enforcement on roads, waterways, and trails.