Complete Travel Guide to Pointe-Claire, Canada

Pointe-Claire Pointe-Claire is a Quebec local municipality within the Urban agglomeration of Montreal on the Island of Montreal in Canada. It is entirely developed, and land use includes residential, light manufacturing, and retail. As of the 2021 census the population was 33,488. As a municipal center, Pointe-Claire serves as an important administrative and economic hub for the surrounding region, providing essential services and infrastructure that support both urban and rural communities. Positioned at coordinates 45.44868°N, -73.81669°E, Pointe-Claire occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Pointe-Claire place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. Home to 34548 residents, Pointe-Claire maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Pointe-Claire represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Pointe-Claire reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Canada, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Quebec province, Pointe-Claire contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Canada's regional character. The role of Pointe-Claire in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Pointe-Claire discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Canada while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Pointe-Claire

History On a map of the Island of Montreal dated 1700, the words "Pointe Claire" are visible Pointe-Claire was first described by Nicolas Perrot in his account of 1669, and the name Pointe-Claire appeared on a map as early as 1686 Although Samuel de Champlain canoed through the area in 1613, he reported no village or dwelling visible.

The urbanization of the territory of Pointe-Claire began in the 1600s, when the Sulpicians were lords of the island of Montreal Land on the island of Montreal was granted to the Sulpicians for development as early as 1663 They began to grant concessions along major waterways.

In 1678, the first concession on the land under the seigneurial system was to Jean Guenet who named his property Beau Repaire This was near the future village of Beaurepaire, located in what is now Beaconsfield on June 4, 1910, the village of Beaconsfield separates from the parish of Saint-Joachim- de-la-Pointe-Claire The first concession of land that is still in the current city limits of Pointe-Claire, was in 1684 to Pierre Cabassier, for a lot just east of Pointe Charlebois.

Under the seigneurial system, the Sulpicians had to build a mill for the colonists, who in turn had to grind their grain there at a set fee The arrival of French settlers in Pointe-Claire began in 1698-1699 In 1707, after the Great Peace of Montreal was signed in 1701, the Chemin du Roy (now Lakeshore Road) from Dorval to the western tip of Montreal Island was opened having been ordered by intendant Jacques Raudot, and the parish was subdivided in three côtes: St.

Rémy (present-day Boulevard Des Sources), St Between côtes St Charles lay 33 lots (numbered 145 to 177) These were generally three arpents wide by 20 or 30 deep Up to this time Pointe-Claire had only been accessible by boat Church and presbytery of Saint-Joachim de Pointe-Claire On October 13, 1713, the seminary formed a parish on the land that now includes Pointe-Claire and much of the West Island, and in 1714 a church was built at the point, at the site of the present-day church.

Up to that time the area was served by an itinerant missionary priest Initially the church was called Saint-Francois-de-Sales, but it was renamed six months later to Saint-Joachim de la Pointe Claire The church and presbytery, both built of stone, formed a fort about two arpents (7,000 m2, 75,000 sq ft) in area, surrounded by stakes.

The construction was ordered by Governor Beauharnois out of fear of the Iroquois The point was used as a stopover by voyageurs en route to the interior In 1728–1729, the first lots were granted, near the fort, to a blacksmith and to a carpenter By 1765 there were 783 residents, 74 lots owned by 35 individuals, and 19 houses, some built of stone, but most of wood.

On July 1, 1845, the Village Municipality of Saint-Joachim-de-la-Pointe-Claire was created, before losing its municipal status on September 1, 1847, as was common in Quebec for many.

The historical trajectory of Pointe-Claire demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Pointe-Claire reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Pointe-Claire remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography View from Pointe Claire over Lake Saint-Louis The shoreline of Pointe-Claire along Lake Saint-Louis is at about 30 metres (98 ft) above sea level and rises along a fault by about 30 metres (98 ft) not far from shore, more steeply in the west. The eastern side has a soil rich in clay, while the western side is stonier with limestone strata. Pointe- Claire is bounded on the north by Dollard-des-Ormeaux, on the east by Dorval, on the south by Lac Saint-Louis, and on the west by Kirkland and Beaconsfield. Pointe-Claire is entirely urbanised and developed. There are 38 public parks and green spaces with 5 baseball/softball diamonds, 26 playgrounds, 19 soccer pitches, 7 outdoor swimming pools, 24 tennis courts, 10 outdoor skating rinks, and five shoreline areas. Large green spaces include: * The public Terra-Cotta Natural Park which is a natural green space of 39 hectares (96 acres), with six kilometers (4 miles) of paths. From 1912 to 1962, a clay deposit on the site was exploited by the Montréal Terra Cotta and Lumber Co. The clay, mixed with sawdust, was baked on site to produce hollow tiles used in construction. * The Last Post Fund National Field of Honour, a National Historic Site of Canada, which is open to the public. * The private Beaconsfield Golf Course, on the site of a disused quarry which supplied limestone for the construction of the Victoria Bridge in 1860. #Climate Pointe-Claire has a humid continental climate (Köppen: _Dfb_). Climate data for Pointe-Claire Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −4. 6) Daily mean °C (°F) −8. 4) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −12. 1) Average precipitation mm (inches) 59. 5) Source: Weather. Matthews, Brian (1985). _A History of Pointe-Claire_. "PARKS, SPORTS FIELDS AND BUILDINGS" (PDF). Retrieved 4 May 2014. "Terra-Cotta Natural Park". Retrieved 4 May 2014. Cite error: The named reference `toponymie` was invoked but never defined (see the help page). "Pointe-Claire Weather & Climate Guide". Retrieved 15 June 2025.

The topographic characteristics of Pointe-Claire result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Pointe-Claire region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Pointe-Claire area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Pointe-Claire has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Pointe-Claire demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Pointe-Claire create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

#Climate Pointe-Claire has a humid continental climate (Köppen: Dfb). Climate data for Pointe-Claire Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Mean daily maximum °C (°F) −4. 6) Daily mean °C (°F) −8. 4) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −12. 1) Average precipitation mm (inches) 59. Rainfall patterns in Pointe-Claire determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 5) Source: Weather. “Pointe-Claire Weather & Climate Guide”. Retrieved 15 June 2025.

The climatic regime of Pointe-Claire reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Pointe-Claire create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Pointe-Claire determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Pointe-Claire create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Pointe-Claire demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Pointe-Claire include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics Historical populationsYearPop. The demographic composition of Pointe-Claire reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. ±% 1871461— 1881443−3. 9% 19212,617+230. 0% 195615,208+73. 7% 196122,709+49. 3% 196626,784+17. 7% Source: Statistics Canada According to the Office québécois de la langue française, Pointe-Claire has been officially recognized as a bilingual municipality since 2 Nov 2005. In the 2021 census conducted by Statistics Canada, Pointe-Claire had a population of 33,488 living in 13,313 of its 13,823 total private dwellings, a change of 6. The demographic composition of Pointe-Claire reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 7% from its 2016 population of 31,380. The demographic composition of Pointe-Claire reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. With a land area of 18. 30 sq mi), it had a population density of 1,770. The demographic composition of Pointe-Claire reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 6/sq mi) in 2021. Canada census – Pointe-Claire community profile 20212016 Population33,488 (+6. The demographic composition of Pointe-Claire reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 7% from 2016)31,380 (+1. 9% from 2011) Land area18. 30 sq mi) Population density1,770. The demographic composition of Pointe-Claire reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. 9/km2 (4,587/sq mi)1,660. 0/km2 (4,299/sq mi) Median age49. 6) Private dwellings13,823 (total) 12,835 (total) Median household income$80,242 References: 2021 2016 Home Language (2021) Language Population Percentage (%) English 20,705 63% French 5,485 17% Other 4,660 14% Mother Tongue (2021) Language Population Percentage (%) English 15,595 47% French 6,750 21% Other 8,565 26% Visible Minorities (2021) Ethnicity Population Percentage (%) Not a visible minority 23,545 75% Visible minorities 8,015 25% 1. The demographic composition of Pointe-Claire reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Laxer, Dan (21 September 2022). “Pointe-Claire fights for bilingual status”. Retrieved 20 April 2023. Meagher, John (15 September 2022). “Pointe-Claire tables bilingual status resolution”. Montreal Gazette. Retrieved 20 April 2023. “Organismes reconnus offrant des services dans une langue autre que le français”. 19 December 2022. Retrieved 20 April 2023. “Population and dwelling counts: Canada, provinces and territories, and census subdivisions (municipalities), Quebec”. The demographic composition of Pointe-Claire reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Statistics Canada. Retrieved 29 August 2022. “2021 Community Profiles”. 2021 Canadian census. Statistics Canada. Retrieved 6 June 2022. “2016 Community Profiles”. 2016 Canadian census. Statistics Canada. Retrieved 6 June 2022. ^ a b c “Pointe-Claire (Code 2466097) Census Profile”. Government of Canada - Statistics Canada. ]: Population *[±%]: Percent change. The demographic composition of Pointe-Claire reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life.

The cultural landscape of Pointe-Claire represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Pointe-Claire reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Pointe-Claire continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Pointe-Claire provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Pointe-Claire demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Pointe-Claire provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

Economy Fairview Pointe-Claire, a major regional mall in Pointe-Claire The city has a large business and industrial park spanning both sides of Quebec Autoroute 40. The manufacturing sector is the largest provider of jobs in Pointe-Claire, with 7,005 employees or 23. 7 percent of employment. Employment in manufacturing has been declining, while employment has been growing in healthcare and social services. Retail is the second biggest sector with 17. 7 percent of the total. Major employers (more than 500 employees) include: Future Electronics, Lakeshore General Hospital, Avon, Hewitt Équipement (CAT dealer), City of Pointe-Claire, Lumen, and Bell TV. Employers of more than 200 employees include: Réno-Dépôt, El Ran Furniture, Tyco Medical, Hudson's Bay Company, and FPInnovations. Companies headquartered in Pointe-Claire include Bouclair, Novacam Technologies, Odan Laboratories, The Canadian Salt Company Limited and Unidisc Music. "Profil économique: juillet 2010". l’Agglomération de Montréal. Retrieved 13 October 2012.

The economic structure of Pointe-Claire reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Pointe-Claire often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Pointe-Claire serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Pointe-Claire demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Pointe-Claire has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Pointe-Claire focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

#Transportation Both Autoroute 20 and Autoroute 40 cross Pointe-Claire from east to west, both with intersections at Boulevard Saint-Jean and Boulevard Des Sources, the major north-south roads in the city. Parallel along Autoroute 20 are the Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Railway lines. Pointe-Claire is served by three stations on Exo’s Vaudreuil–Hudson line: Pointe-Claire station located at Donegani Avenue and Ashgrove Avenue, Valois station located at Avenue De-la-Baie-de-Valois (Valois Bay) and Donegani Avenue, and Cedar Park station also located on Donegani Avenue between Applebee Avenue and Aurora Avenue. The city is also served by several bus routes operated by Société de transport de Montréal with a major terminal located at Fairview Pointe-Claire. Starting 2024, Pointe-Claire will be served by two stations on the Réseau express métropolitain rapid transit network: Fairview–Pointe-Claire station on Fairview Avenue, and Des Sources station on Des Sources Boulevard. Local bus transportation is provided by Société de transport de Montréal. RTM Dorion-Rigaud Line Archived 2009-09-23 at the Wayback Machine.

Transportation infrastructure serving Pointe-Claire reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Canada. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Pointe-Claire.

Regional connectivity from Pointe-Claire provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education The Lester B. Pearson School Board (LBPSB) operates Anglophone public school. They run two elementary schools: Clearpoint (formerly Cedar Park) and St. John Fisher, and two high schools: John Rennie, and St. Thomas. In addition St. Edmund Elementary School and Beacon Hill Elementary School in Beaconsfield as well as Wilder-Penfield Elementary in Dollard-des-Ormeaux serve sections of the city. Lindsay Place High School is a former public high school that was part of the Lester B. Pearson School Board. It opened in 1962 and closed in 2021. St. Thomas High School has relocated into the building previously occupied by Lindsday Place. The Centre de services scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys operates Francophone public schools, but were previously operated by the Commission scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys until June 15, 2020. The change was a result of a law passed by the Quebec government that changed the school board system from denominational to linguistic. They run three primary schools: Marguerite- Bourgeoys, Pointe-Claire (formerly Lakeside Heights Elementary), and Saint- Louis, and one high school, the École secondaire Felix-Leclerc (formerly École secondaire Saint-Thomas). 1. The Suburban News | LBPSB to open new high school in Pointe Claire 2. newscoverage.org • Editor • Robert Frank • Rédacteur • reportages.ca: Horizon High School celebrates its first graduates 3. “School Board Map Archived 21 September 2017 at the Wayback Machine.” Lester B. Pearson School Board. Retrieved on September 28, 2017. 4. Meagher, John (24 June 2021). “Lindsay Place High School in Pointe-Claire closes after 59 years”. montrealgazette. Retrieved 22 June 2022.

Educational institutions in Pointe-Claire serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Planning Your Visit to Pointe-Claire

Successful visits to Pointe-Claire require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Pointe-Claire often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Pointe-Claire include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Pointe-Claire extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.