Toronto considers water safe for swimming when E. coli levels are below 100 counts per 100 millilitres. Readings above that threshold can increase the risk of illness, including gastrointestinal illness and ear, eye, nose, throat, or skin infections if contaminated water is swallowed or comes into contact with the body.
Recent testing found E. coli levels above Toronto’s safety threshold at Bluffer’s Beach, while Marie Curtis Park Beach has appeared on the unsafe list multiple times this season.
Neither beach is closed, and visitors can still enjoy the shoreline and sand. However, Toronto Public Health is advising against swimming until bacteria levels return to safe levels.
Where To Swim
The good news is that the issue is limited to just two beaches. Most of Toronto’s supervised beaches, including Woodbine Beach and the beaches on Toronto Island, Hanlan’s Point, Centre Island, and Ward’s Island, are currently considered safe for swimming.
Swimming advisories are common throughout the summer, especially after heavy rainfall. Stormwater runoff can carry bacteria, including E. coli, into the lake, while cloudy or murky water can also signal poorer water quality.
Because water quality can change quickly after heavy rainfall, it’s generally recommended to avoid swimming for 24 to 48 hours following a significant storm. Before heading to the beach, check Toronto Public Health’s latest SwimSafe water quality updates, as advisories can change daily.
