With warm weather well on its way, the people of Toronto are frantically putting pen to paper and composing their summer bucket lists. These may include ‘taking a scenic hike’, ‘eating all the ice cream the city has to offer’, or ‘doing an epic patio crawl’. With an endless number of summer activities in Toronto, it’s easy for your list to grow to staggering lengths (this is a good thing!), but there’s one quintessential outing you simply must include – going to the beach!
Here’s a list of the beaches to visit in and around the city!
Marie Curtis Park Beach
A popular beach for Mississauga locals or those who find themselves in the Long Branch area, Marie Curtis beach is a quiet spot for a lovely summer day. With an off-leash dog park and a playground for kids, the whole family will enjoy themselves.
Sunnyside Beach
Whether you just want to soak up the sun and read a book, or get active on the boardwalk, this beach is a great spot to enjoy the summer weather.
Ward’s Island Beach
Found on the east side of Centre Island, Ward’s Island Beach is a quieter spot for in-the-know locals. Play a game of volleyball or stop by the cafe for some cool refreshments.
Hanlan’s Point
Don’t worry – while this is Toronto’s only official nude beach – nudity is optional, and you’ll find a clothing mandatory area as well. If you’re looking for a day in the sun (sans tan lines) this is the place to go.
Gibraltar Point Beach
A newer and less crowded beach found in Toronto and just a short stroll from the Centre Island ferry docks, this beach is perfect for those looking for a quiet and relaxing summer day.
Sugar Beach
If you’re hoping to take some super likeable Instagram pics,then this is the beach for you. With pink umbrellas, white sand, and striped rocks you’re sure to enjoy a picturesque day at the Claude Cormier-designed Sugar Beach. Bonus: it’s really close to Pier 27!
Cherry Beach
One of the most beloved city beaches, Cherry Beach is guaranteed to get busy on a warm day. While less manicured than other beaches in the city, it’s a great spot to give any water sports a try.
Kew-Balmy Beach
A very popular spot in the east end, you’ll find this beach busy every weekend of the summer. The best part of Kew-Balmy? Its close proximity to the great shopping and restaurants Queen Street East has to offer!
Woodbine Beaches
With the reputation of being the best beach in the city, Woodbine Beach is surely going to top your bucket list. Head to this east end gem if you’re looking for lots of space, recreation, and a swimming pool! Yep – Woodbine Beach has it all.
Bluffer’s Beach
Unknown by many city dwellers, this spot at the foot of the Scarborough Bluffs will transport you to a place akin to Big Sur. Whether you’re there to hike and bike or just take it easy and soak up some rays, Bluffer’s Beach is a great day-trip destination.