When summer rolls around in Toronto, there’s no better way to beat the heat than by heading to one of the city’s scenic beaches.
From baring it all and one of the world’s best nude beaches to Blue Flag certified family-friendly spots where you can cool off with a dip in the lake, Toronto has a beach for every vibe.
Here’s a guide to some of the best beaches in Toronto to visit this summer:
1. Cherry Beach
Typically achieving annual blue flag status, the water at Cherry Beach has some of the cleanest swimming water in the city. You’ll find the beach on the north shore of the Outer Harbour at the base of Cherry Street. It’s also a popular destination for kite boarders. Each Sunday, it also hosts Promise at Cherry Beach, weekly electronic dance parties with live sets by some of Toronto’s hottest DJs.
Where: 1 Cherry Street, Toronto
2. Bluffer’s Park
You’ll feel like you’ve been transported far away from Toronto when arriving at Bluffer’s Park, which has almost Caribbean-blue waters surrounded by the striking bluffs. There are also plenty of picnic areas, trails, lookouts, and a boat launch. If you get hungry, grab a bite at Bluffer’s Restaurant, a waterfront gem featuring Mediterranean-inspired fare.
Where: 1 Brimley Rd S, Toronto
3. Sunnyside
The 3-km sandy strip along Humber Bay was once home to an iconic amusement park, but is now a nice stretch of sand to sunbathe at after walking along the boardwalk. If you’re hoping to swim, look for the green flags or check online for the beach’s water quality in advance.
Where: 1755 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto
4. Hanlan’s Point
Found on the Toronto Islands, Hanlan’s Point is reached via a ferry or water taxi from Queens Quay. The beach is clothing optional, and was named one of the best nude beaches in the world. Hanlan’s is also Canada’s oldest queer space, home to the city of Toronto’s first-ever Pride celebration back in 1971.
Where: Toronto Islands
5. Woodbine Beach
This expansive beach is one of the most popular in Toronto, found at the foot of Woodbine Avenue. A great destination for beach volleyball, there is also a recently renovated bathing station here, with change rooms, accessible washrooms, water bottle refilling stations, and a beach shower. Nearby, you can also take a dip at the Donald D. Summerville Outdoor Olympic Pool, which is now open after a two-year closure.
Where: 1675 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto
6. Ward’s Island
Also found on the Toronto Islands, Ward’s Island is on the east side and typically achieves annual Blue Flag certification, meaning the water is clean and safe to swim in. Typically much quieter than Centre Island or Hanlan’s Point, the area has plenty of picnic and BBQ sites.
Where: Toronto Islands
7. Kew-Balmy Beach
Much quieter and more secluded than Woodbine Beach, you’ll find Kew-Balmy just a quick walk away. Spanning 1.2 km, you can take the boardwalk or the paved Martin Goodman Trail from Woodbine to get there. Just above the beach, you can also explore Kew Gardens, home to a beautiful botanical space with over 50,000 living plants.
Where: 1 Beech Ave, Toronto
8. Centre Island Beach
Another gem on the Toronto Islands is Centre Island Beach, a soft-sand destination that’s ideal for families. With lifeguards on duty, food vendors nearby, and a backdrop of Toronto’s iconic skyline, Centre Island Beach is as picturesque as it is practical. It’s also close to Centreville Amusement Park and other island attractions, making it a great spot for a full day of family fun.
Where: Toronto Islands