When people think of Toronto, they think of the CN Tower, busy streets, and skyscrapers — but what many don’t realize is that Toronto has some of the best urban beaches in North America.
Along the north shore of Lake Ontario, the city’s waterfront is a sandy oasis of bike paths, leafy parks, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Whether you’re looking for a chill sunbathing session, a game of volleyball, or a lakeside stroll, Toronto’s beaches have something for every mood.
The city has 10 official beaches, eight of which have earned the prestigious Blue Flag for water quality and safety.
Beach Neighbourhoods
Each beach area feels like its own little world — here’s a quick breakdown:
- The Beaches (or “The Beach”) — A charming east-end neighbourhood with a small-town feel, perfect for families and relaxed days by the water.
- Harbourfront & Sugar Beach — Right downtown, this is the spot for those who want a beach day without straying far from the city centre.
- Toronto Islands Beaches — A short ferry ride away, these beaches feel totally removed from the hustle and bustle — a mini escape.
East End Beaches
Toronto’s east end is a beach lover’s paradise:
- Woodbine Beach — The largest and most popular, famous for its volleyball courts, wide sandy stretches, and proximity to Ashbridges Bay Park.
- Kew-Balmy Beach — A quieter, more local spot with beautiful boardwalks and shady areas for picnicking.
- Cherry Beach — A bit west of the traditional “Beaches” area, Cherry Beach is a favourite among paddleboarders, kite surfers, and dog owners.
Beach Amenities
Toronto’s beaches are well equipped:
- Changing rooms and public washrooms
- Outdoor showers
- Beach volleyball courts (especially at Woodbine)
- Food trucks
- Rentals for paddleboards, kayaks, and bikes
Pro tip: Get there early on weekends if you want a good spot — locals love these beaches as much as visitors do.
Beach Safety
Many Toronto beaches are patrolled by lifeguards from late June to Labour Day, typically 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Look for the Blue Flag — it’s your sign that the beach meets high standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
Accessibility Features
Toronto has made big strides in making its beaches more accessible:
- Beach mats at several beaches, like Woodbine and Centre Island, make it easier for wheelchair users and strollers to get to the water.
- Accessible washrooms and reserved parking at major beach parks.
- Mobility devices like water wheelchairs can often be reserved for free with advance notice through the city.
Public Transportation
You don’t need a car to get to the beach. Toronto’s TTC makes it easy:
- Take the 501 Queen streetcar eastbound to get to the Beaches neighbourhood.
- The Ferries to Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point, and Ward’s Island depart from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal downtown.
- Buses run directly to Cherry Beach from Union Station.
Tip: always check TTC alerts before you go — especially during festival season when routes get busy!
Restaurants and Bars
Nothing works up an appetite like a day at the beach. Luckily, there are plenty of options:
- The Beaches area is filled with cozy cafes, ice cream shops (hello, Ed’s Real Scoop!), and patios along Queen Street East.
- Against the Grain at Sugar Beach is a great spot for lakefront cocktails.
- On the Islands, you’ll find casual spots like The Island Café, perfect for a post-swim burger.
If you’re up for it, a short Uber or walk back downtown opens up Toronto’s entire restaurant scene.
Events and Festivals
Toronto’s waterfront hosts some amazing summer events:
- Beaches International Jazz Festival — One of Canada’s biggest free jazz festivals, with over 1,000,000 attendees at Queen East in July.
- Waterfront Artisan Market at HTO Park — Local art, food trucks, and chill lake views.
- Ashbridges Bay Fireworks — Big shows for Canada Day and Victoria Day.
There’s always something going on — that’s why beach season in Toronto is so lit.
One More Thing…
Say hello to your new travel guide. Our Canada Hustle app is the perfect answer when you are looking to make your stay fun and easy. With an itinerary made just for you exploring the beaches of Canadian cities has never been easier.
Available for both Android and iOS users, the app is easily accessible. Chasing wild thrills, inspiring stories, or quiet escapes? Canada Hustle curates the experience that suits you best.
Get Ready
Toronto’s beaches are the city’s best-kept secret — accessible, fun, gorgeous, and full of community spirit. Whether you’re paddling at Cherry Beach at sunrise, getting ice cream on the boardwalk at Kew, or dancing at a waterfront festival, there’s something for you. Just don’t forget your sunscreen (and a beach chair) — you’ll want to stay a while.
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