The 11 Best Sunrise Views in Toronto [2022]

Best Sunrise Views in Toronto

The best sunrise views in Toronto will have you feeling like you’re on top of the world. 

Toronto is home to some of the most breathtaking views in all of Canada. And, luckily for us, there are plenty of places where you can catch a glimpse of the sun as it rises above the horizon. Here we put together a list of some of the best places to see the sunrise in Toronto based on recommendations from locals and travellers alike. 

Whether you’re looking for a place to watch the sunrise with your significant other, or you’re just hoping to get a good photo of the sun peeking through the city skyline, Toronto has you covered. 

If you’re also interested in seeing the sunset, check out our list of the best places to watch the sunset in Toronto. Also, you wouldn’t want to miss the best sunflower fields in Toronto. 

Summary

What Time Does the Sunrise in Toronto?

The average sunrise time in Toronto is 6:45 AM. However, this will change depending on the time of year. For example, in June the sun rises as early as 5:43 AM, while in December it doesn’t rise until 7:32 AM. 

Keep this in mind when planning your sunrise viewing adventure, as you’ll want to make sure you’re at your chosen location well before the sun actually rises. 

The Best Places to Catch the Sunrise in Toronto

Now that you know when the sunrise is, it’s time to pick your spot. Here are some of the best places to see the sunrise in Toronto.

1. The Scarborough Bluffs

The Scarborough Bluffs
Credit: Bubba Woods

The Scarborough Bluffs are one of the most popular places to watch the sunrise in Toronto. And, it’s not hard to see why. The bluffs offer stunning views of Lake Ontario and the city skyline. What’s more, they provide a perfect opportunity to watch the sun come up over the lake. 

There are a few different vantage points along the bluffs where you can watch the sunrise. But, one of the best is from Bluffer’s Park beach. From there, you can see the sun rise directly over the water. It’s an unforgettable experience that’s well worth getting up early for. 

So, if you’re looking for a place to watch the sunrise in Toronto, be sure to check out the Scarborough Bluffs.

Location Information:

Scarborough, ON M1M 3W3

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

2. High Park

High Park
Credit: Kanwar Singh

If you’re looking for a place to watch the sunrise in Toronto, High Park is definitely worth checking out. The park is huge, so there are plenty of places to set up your camera or just find a spot to relax and enjoy the show. 

One of the most popular places to watch the sunrise in High Park is from Grenadier Pond. The pond offers stunning reflections of the sun as it rises above the city skyline. If you’re lucky, you might even see a few ducks swimming by. 

So whether you’re an early bird or just looking for a new place to appreciate the beauty of nature, make sure to add High Park to your list.

Location Information:

1873 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6R 2Z3

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

3. Marie Curtis Park

Marie Curtis Park
Credit: Ashraf Youseff

Marie Curtis Park is another great place to watch the sunrise in Toronto. The park offers stunning views of Lake Ontario, and it’s a perfect spot for photography lovers. 

The park is located on the east bank of the Etobicoke Creek and offers beautiful views of the water. There are also plenty of nature trails to explore, as well as wooded paths with lovely bridges that cross the creek. 

There are plenty of places to set up your tripod and capture the perfect shot. But, one of the best is from the east side of the park where you can get a clear view of the sun rising over the water. 

If you’re hoping to catch the sunrise with someone special, Marie Curtis Park is definitely the place to be. The park is romantic and peaceful, and it’s the perfect spot to watch the sun come up with your significant other.

Location Information:

2 Forty Second St, Etobicoke, ON M8W 3P2

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

4. Colonel Samuel Smith Park

Colonel Samuel Smith Park
Credit: Nas

Colonel Samuel Smith Park is a hidden gem in the Toronto shoreline. While you can watch the sunrise from almost anywhere along the shoreline, the park has a special view of the sun rising over Lake Ontario. 

The park also has a variety of attractions, including a children’s playground, making it a great place to spend the day with family and friends. The playground is located only steps from the lake, so you can enjoy the sun and the water all day long.

In addition to the playground, Colonel Samuel Smith Park also has picnic areas, walking trails, and a bird sanctuary. So whether you’re looking for a place to watch the sunrise or just want to spend a day outdoors, Colonel Samuel Smith Park is the perfect spot.

Location Information:

3145 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke, ON M8V 4B6

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

5. Woodbine Beach

Woodbine Beach
Credit: Neha Kshatriya

Woodbine Beach is one of the most popular places to watch the sunrise in Toronto. The beach offers stunning views of the sun rising over Lake Ontario. The best time to catch the sunrise is early in the morning before the crowds start to arrive. 

So if you’re looking for a quiet spot to enjoy the views, be sure to get there early. The beach also has a volleyball court, a playground, and even a dog park. So whether you’re looking to catch some rays or just want to enjoy the views, Woodbine Beach is the perfect place for you.

Location Information:

1675 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4L 3W6

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

6. Prince of Wales Park

Prince of Wales Park
Credit: Ken Thomas

Prince of Wales Park is located in South Etobicoke and offers stunning views of the city skyline. The park is home to a variety of different amenities, including a playground, picnic areas, and walking trails. 

The best spot to watch the sunrise is from the top of the hill. From there, you’ll have an unobstructed view of the sun rising over the city. The park is also a great spot for photographers. So if you’re hoping to snap a few pictures of the sunrise, Prince of Wales Park is definitely worth checking out.

Location Information:

1 Third St, Etobicoke, ON M8V 2X5

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

7. Humber Bay Arch Bridge

Humber Bay Arch Bridge
Credit: KD Mack

Humber Bay Arch Bridge is a photographer’s dream come true. The bridge, which was completed in the mid-1990s, provides fabulous photo opportunities at sunrise. The unique structure is right next door to the Humber Bay Park, making it the perfect place to capture the beauty of nature. 

The Humber Bay Arch Bridge is one of those subjects that’s captivated Toronto photographers for years, and it’s easy to see why. With its stunning views and convenient location, the bridge is the perfect place to get that perfect shot.

Location Information:

Martin Goodman Trail, Toronto, ON M8X 3M9

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

8. Sunnyside Beach

Sunnyside Beach
Credit: Android Dave

For those looking to take a dip in the past, this historic summer recreation spot is the perfect place to start. Located south of Parkdale next to the Lake Shore, the remains of an amusement park still stand today. 

Although the pool is no longer in use, the remains of the pool and the surrounding area make for a beautiful setting to watch the sun come up. The view of the skyline from this spot is truly breathtaking, and you’re sure to find plenty of cozy spots to relax and take it all in. 

So why not make a trip to this historic summer spot and enjoy the beauty of nature?

Location Information:

Sunnyside Beach, Sunnyside, ON

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

9. Trillium Park

Trillium Park
Credit: TorontoCity Canada

Trillium Park by Ontario Place is undoubtedly one of the best places to enjoy a sunrise or sunset in Toronto. From its vantage point atop the lakeshore, the park offers stunning panoramic views of the cityscape that include some of Toronto’s most iconic landmarks. 

On a clear day, you can see all the way from the CN Tower to the skyline of downtown. And at sunset, the city lights up in a glorious display that is simply breathtaking. 

If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace and quiet, Trillium Park is definitely worth a visit.

Location Information:

955 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto, ON M6K 3B9

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

10. Ireland Park

Ireland Park
Credit: Ali Kheradvar

Ireland Park honours the memories of Irish immigrants in Toronto with hopes for a new life. This Canadian park features a stunning sunrise which lights up the park’s bronze sculptures and massive memorial wall made exclusively with limestone from Kilkenny.

With such a beautiful setting, it’s no wonder that the park is due for an update to bring its facilities and programming into the 21st century. With these exciting improvements on the horizon, Ireland Park is sure to become a cherished gathering place for generations to come.

Location Information:

Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5V 3G3

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

11. Martin Goodman Trail

Martin Goodman Trail
Credit: Onasill – Bill Badzo

If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with a beautiful sunrise, then the Martin Goodman Trail is the perfect place to go. This 56-kilometre multi-use path traverses the entire lake shore from one end of the city to the other, providing a serene escape from the concrete jungle. 

The trail is open to walkers, joggers, cyclists and inline skaters, making it a great place to get some exercise while enjoying stunning views of Lake Ontario. And if you’re a photographer, the trail is worth visiting in early spring before the leaves start to grow back on the trees. 

So whether you’re looking for a place to work out or simply want to enjoy some peace and quiet, be sure to check out the Martin Goodman Trail.

Location Information:

Martin Goodman TrailToronto, ON

Visitor Reviews:

“Park that one want to visit especially during cherry blossom, spring and summer time. This park has loads of colorful trees, flowers, water bodies, falls and scenic views across the park. One can do picnic roam around the park and click some nice views and pictures with colorful trees and flowers variety. It's awesome place to be at and spend hours with family and friends. Especially kids are going to love this park.”
“One of the biggest park by area in Toronto. visited here in April last year. Park has many cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring. Easy access through TTC/bicycles. You can roam around the park in your bicycle. One of the must visit place during spring.”

Pros

  • Lots of cherry blossom trees
  • Great place for a picnic

Cons

  • One of the most popular locations and can get very crowded

FAQs About Sunrises in Toronto

June 14th is the Summer Solstice, which means it’s the longest day of the year. The earliest sunrise usually occurs a few days before that on June 11th.
Sunrise actually starts before the sun even rises! The first light of dawn is called twilight, and that’s when you’ll see the sky start to lighten up.
The shortest day of the year (Winter Solstice) is December 21st. On this day, the sun rises at 7:44 am and sets at 4:58 pm. This is about 9 hours and 14 minutes of daylight.
There’s no correct answer to this question. It’s all a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the serenity of a sunrise, while others prefer the dramatic colours of a sunset. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which is better!

Final Thoughts

There you have it! These are just a few of the best places to enjoy a sunrise or sunset in Toronto. So get out there and explore all that this great city has to offer. And don’t forget to take some pictures while you’re at it!

Toronto is filled with plenty of events and activities that are perfect for families and friends. Don’t miss out on some of the most exciting activities and events on the weekends in Toronto!

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