Some of the best places to hang out by the lake happen to be sandless (or at least mostly). There are grassy parks, beautiful boardwalks and waterside restaurants you can flock to when you want to avoid the usual beach crowd (and gritty sandwiches). If you're craving a view of the lake and a gentle breeze, head to one of these scenic spots to soak up the atmosphere.
Here are my top picks for places to hang out by the lake in Toronto.
Olympic Island
This portion of the Toronto Islands is lined with lush greenery and cushy grass, making it the perfect spot for a picnic. Settle in at a picnic table by the water facing north and you'll get an unobstructed view of the Toronto skyline and the voyaging ferries.
Sunnyside Boardwalk
Take a scenic jaunt along this waterside path, which stretches from the bottom of Roncesvalles to the old Palais Royale. Stroll past Budapest Park -- a great place to lay down a blanket -- or stop to take a dip in the Sunnyside Bathing Pavilion.
Cabana Pool Bar
If you're willing to wade through a pool full of bros, Cabana Pool Bar is a luxurious vantage point from which to savour the view of the lake. Book a cabana and sip on some mojitos to take it all in in style. Dudes, don't forget your pastel-coloured tank tops.
Coronation Park
This is a great place to chill out and watch the boats come in and out of the harbour. Picnic tables and benches in the shade make it a serene spot to catch up on some reading or assignments, or take a walk along the path by the water's edge.
Toronto Music Garden
This isn't your average waterside garden. The landscape architecture here will blow your mind as you explore and interact with it, and there are tons of spots to buckle down and enjoy some lunch while soaking up the sight of the lake.
The patio at Against the Grain
Located in the lakeside area of Corus Quay, Against the Grain serves up a refreshing summertime menu that you can browse while sitting adjacent to the lake on their atmospheric patio. Snack on an ice cream sandwich and sip some beer while gazing at the view.
HTO Park
If you're that person who likes to tan in the sand without swimming, this man-made alternative to a beach is your happy place. Real sand and sun umbrellas create an all-day hangout spot where you can enjoy the view of the water (without buddies nagging you to jump in).
Sherbourne Common
Add a mod mood to your enjoyment of the lake at this new waterfront area. Contemporary water features and landscape architecture make it an ideal spot for those seeking some zen.
Leslie Street Spit
This long stretch of wilderness branches out into the middle of the water, making it a true escape from metropolis. The view of the city and the plant life are more than worthy of a day trip out here.
Paralia
Just off Woodbine Beach, this restaurant is known for its view of the lake as much as it is for its Greek food. A beautifully decorated interior and a scrumptious menu equals prime lakeside relaxation.
Did I miss any? Add your favourite place to hand out by the lake to the comments.
Photo by mooncall2012 in the blogTO Flickr pool
by Amanda Storey via blogTO
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