The 10 Best Beaches In Toronto [2022]

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The best beaches in Toronto are the place to be on a hot summer day. There are so many different beaches to choose from, and each one has its own unique atmosphere.

Toronto’s beaches are some of the busiest in the world and for good reason. They offer a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and are perfect for a summer day. Here we put together a list of the best beaches in Toronto based on their popularity, amenities and location.

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun, or you’re looking for a place to party and have some fun, there’s definitely a beach in Toronto that’s right for you.

For more great places to explore in Toronto, check out our list of the best places to see the cherry blossoms or the best sunset views in the city.

Summary

When’s the Best Time to Visit the Beach in Toronto?
The Best Beaches in Toronto
1) Woodbine Beach
2) Hanlan’s Point Beach
3) Centre Island Beach
4) Gibraltar Point Beach
5) Bluffer’s Park Beach
6) Kew-Balmy Beach
7) Marie Curtis Park East Beach
8) Rouge Beach
9) Sunnyside Beach
10) Sunnyside Beach
11) Ward’s Island Beach
FAQs About Toronto Beaches
Final Thoughts

When's the Best Time to Visit the Beach in Toronto?

The best time to visit Toronto’s beaches is during the summer, from June to August.

This is when the weather is warmest and the beaches are at their busiest. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, September is a great time to visit, as the weather is still warm but the crowds have died down a bit.

Most of Toronto’s beaches are open from early in the morning until sunset. However, some beaches have different hours depending on the time of year. For example, during the winter months, some beaches may close earlier in the day or be closed altogether.

The Best Beaches in Toronto

Now that you know when to visit, let’s take a look at some of the best beaches in Toronto.

1. Woodbine Beach

Photo By Nasim Kay

Woodbine Beach is one of the busiest beaches in Toronto. It’s located in the east end of the city and is easily accessible by public transit. The beach is over 2 km long and has a designated swimming area, as well as a children’s playground and splash pad.

There are also numerous sports facilities at Woodbine Beach, including volleyball courts, a soccer field and a baseball diamond. If you’re looking for a place to have some fun in the sun, Woodbine Beach is the place for you.

Location Information:

1675 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4L 3W6
(416) 338-4386

Visitor Reviews:

"I simply love this place. Beach, nature and some really calm spots for contemplation. The water tends to be cold, but it could be refreshing on a warmer day. Great infrastructure, with washrooms and a changing room available (at least in the summer). The whole area is one of my favourite places in Toronto."

Pros

Cons

2. Hanlan's Point Beach

Photo By Christoff Alfonso

Hanlan’s Point Beach is located on Toronto Island and is only a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto. The beach is clothing-optional, so it’s perfect for those who want to tan without worrying about tan lines.

Hanlan’s Point Beach is also a great place for swimming, as the water is clean and clear. There are also several restaurants and cafes on Toronto Island, so you can grab a bite to eat after a day at the beach.

Location Information:

Lakeshore Ave, Toronto, ON M5J 2W2
(416) 392-8196

Visitor Reviews:

“A mostly clean beach with amazing views for sunset! Be careful when walking on the shoreline as there are broken glass bottle pieces sometimes that are left behind. You don't want to have a medical emergency here as it is quite far from the centre island emergency room.”

Pros

Cons

3. Centre Island Beach

Photo By Skeezix1000

Toronto’s Centre Island Beach is the perfect summertime destination. The soft sand and clear water make it a perfect place to relax, and the nearby amusement park, waterpark and outdoor maze offer plenty of entertainment for the whole family.

A beach is also a great place to people watch, as it fills up with beachgoers and outdoor activity seekers every weekend in the summer. So whether you’re looking to relax or have some fun, Centre Island Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the summer sun.

Location Information:

Toronto, ON M5V 1A1
(416) 203-0009

Visitor Reviews:

“The beach was awesome. There’s no lifeguard on duty but the water doesn’t get too deep unless you pass the first layer of rocks. You can bring liquor just try not to make it too obvious."

Pros

Cons

4. Gibraltar Point Beach

Photo by Andy Nystrom

Gibraltar Point Beach is another great option for those looking for an amazing beach experience. The beach is situated between Hanlan’s Point and Centre Island and offers stunning views of Lake Ontario. The sand at Gibraltar Beach is what remains of the Gibraltar Beach Sand Dunes and is a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the water.

With its clear blue waters and serene surroundings, Gibraltar Beach is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. So, if you’re looking for a hidden gem in Toronto, be sure to check out Gibraltar Beach!

Location Information:

Toronto, ON

Visitor Reviews:

“It is the nicest beach on Centre Island if you're a swimmer. Clothing is mandatory and the buoys set up make it look like a proper beach (I am from B.C.). We didn't swim, but we saw lots of families playing in the water. It is sand rather than the plethora of rocks and boulders by the beach.”

Pros

Cons

5. Bluffer's Park Beach

Photo By Jeff Hitchcock

Bluffer’s Park is a real hidden gem in Toronto. Located at the bottom of Brimley Road, it’s bordered by the Scarborough Bluffs to the north, making it the perfect spot for a summer picnic or a swim in the lake. The beach at Bluffer’s Park is definitely one of the nicest in Toronto – it’s clean, well-maintained and has stunning views of Lake Ontario.

And, because it’s located at the base of the bluffs, it’s usually quite a bit cooler than other beaches in the city, making it ideal for a hot summer day. If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy some time outdoors, be sure to check out Bluffer’s Park – you won’t be disappointed!

Location Information:

Toronto, ON

Visitor Reviews:

“Nice beach. Long stretch so you can always find a spot. Parking can get filled easily but place is accessible by public transport so you might want to ditch the car if you're going in peak times. There's also a trail with good views that overlooks the beach if you feel like a hike."

Pros

Cons

6. Kew-Balmy Beach

Photo By Marcio Cunha

Kew-Balmy Beach is one of Toronto’s quieter beaches, located on the east side of the city. While it may not be as popular as the western beaches, it has its own charm. The sand is a bit rockier than other beaches, but this makes it perfect for building sandcastles or searching for shells.

And if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, Kew-Balmy Beach is the perfect spot. There are fewer crowds and more off-leash dogs, so you can enjoy the sound of waves crashing against the shore in peace.

Plus, the Eastern Beaches boardwalk provides stunning views of Lake Ontario. So if you’re looking for a quiet escape from the city, Kew-Balmy Beach is the perfect place to go.

Location Information:

Toronto, ON M4L 1B8

Visitor Reviews:

“One of my favourite places to visit regularly every summer. It’s not as busy as woodbine beach. Love to go there to sit on the rocks and meditate, or sit on one of the muskoka chairs and watch the water come to shore. My absolute favourite thing to do is to rent a paddle board from Paddle Pirates, which is so easy to do, and go out in the water and get a much deeper view. Highly recommend getting out there in the water for some serenity.”

Pros

Cons

7. Marie Curtis Park East Beach

Photo By Sohaib Alzubi

Marie Curtis Park is a great place to enjoy the sun and quiet near Toronto. The east beach is shorter than the west, but it’s still a great place to relax and soak up some rays. The east beach features a mix of soft sand and flat rocks and tends to fill up with a decent amount of families and locals on a warm day.

Children love the park playground, and there is ample space and greenery for everyone to use and appreciate. If it ever gets too crowded, head over to the western beach which spans quite a bit longer. Marie Curtis Park Beach is a beautiful place to enjoy the sun and quiet near Toronto.

Location Information:

Toronto, ON

Visitor Reviews:

“Marie Curtis is a favorite park/beach when visiting Toronto - never a dull moment when spending time there. They have a playground for the kids, picnic spots and walking trails. We noticed they have lifeguards now to supervise swimming at designated areas.”

Pros

Cons

8. Rouge Beach

Photo By Mhsheikholeslami

Rouge Beach Park is one of Toronto’s hidden gems. Located at the mouth of the Rouge River, it offers stunning views of Lake Ontario. The park is home to a wide variety of birds, including aquatic bird species. And it’s perfect for swimming, fishing, and hiking.

But the best part of Rouge Beach Park is its tranquillity. With its calm waters and serene setting, it’s the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. So if you’re looking for a little piece of paradise in the middle of the city, head to Rouge Beach Park. You won’t be disappointed.

Location Information:

Toronto, ON

Visitor Reviews:

“This is one of my best private beach have visited many times and every time l get my space to breath the fresh ocean air without being over crowded by people. The trails around it its a place to walk and cycling. I love this place small hidden beach at the end of Lawrence.”

Pros

Cons

9. Sunnyside Beach

Photo By Pascal Guibord

Sunnyside Beach is the perfect spot to enjoy all that Toronto has to offer. The beach is situated in a prime location, with plenty of activities nearby to keep everyone entertained. The outdoor swimming pool is a great way to cool off on a hot day, and the stand-up paddleboarding is perfect for those looking for a bit of adventure.

For those who prefer to relax, the park is the perfect spot for a picnic. The small beach and park are also great for young kids, who can bike and play in the park while adults can enjoy the views. Sunnyside Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy all that Toronto has to offer.

Location Information:

Sunnyside, ON

Visitor Reviews:

“Beautiful beaches and lake views, trails and long board walk. The restaurant by the lake side is a nice place to relax and enjoy.”

Pros

Cons

10. Ward's Island Beach

Photo By Daniel Li

Ward’s Island beach may be a hidden gem, but it’s about to get a lot more exposure. The beach has been awarded Blue Flag status for the 2022 season, which is sure to bring more visitors to this idyllic spot. Ward’s Island is accessible by ferry from the Toronto Ferry Docks, and it’s well worth the trip.

The beach is sheltered by the Leslie Spit, making for calm water that is perfect for swimming. In addition to being a great place to take a dip, Ward’s Island beach is also a beautiful spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

So if you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, plan a visit to Ward’s Island beach.

Location Information:

Ward’s Island Beach, Toronto, ON
(416) 338-4386

Visitor Reviews:

“Can't believe there is such a beautiful beach so close to the city! We just took a 15 minute boat ride to the island to enjoy a day at the beach. The sea temperature in early July was still a bit cold, but the intensity of the sun was really strong. I was on the beach for six hours and of course got a sunburn , but I still love this place, very beautiful and very relaxing!”

Pros

Cons

FAQs About Toronto Beaches

Are all of Toronto's beaches free?

Yes, all of the beaches in Toronto are free to visit.

Are all Toronto beaches safe to swim in?

Most of Toronto’s beaches are safe to swim, but it’s always a good idea to check the posted signs before entering the water.

Does a lifeguard always need to be present?

No, but there should always be a lifeguard on duty during the swimming season.

What are the hours of operation for Toronto beaches?

Toronto’s beaches are open from sunrise to sunset.

Final Thoughts

Toronto’s beaches are some of the best in the world. With so many to choose from, there’s sure to be a perfect spot for everyone. So whether you’re looking to relax or have some fun in the sun, make sure to check out one of Toronto’s amazing beaches.

The 10 Best Beaches In Toronto [2022]

Summary

When's the Best Time to Visit the Beach in Toronto?

The Best Beaches in Toronto

1. Woodbine Beach

Location Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

2. Hanlan's Point Beach

Location Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

3. Centre Island Beach

Location Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

4. Gibraltar Point Beach

Location Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

5. Bluffer's Park Beach

Location Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

6. Kew-Balmy Beach

Location Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

7. Marie Curtis Park East Beach

Location Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

8. Rouge Beach

Location Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

9. Sunnyside Beach

Location Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

10. Ward's Island Beach

Location Information:

Visitor Reviews:

Pros

Cons

FAQs About Toronto Beaches

Final Thoughts

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