Here, in no particular order, are my picks for the top beaches in Toronto.
Sunnyside Beach
Sunnyside Beach boasts a well loved stretch of sand, perfect for those looking for a day away from the hustle and bustle of downtown city life. The water quality here isn't always the best thanks to the proximity to the Humber River, but you'll still see plenty of paddlers and sun-seeking locals soaking up the rays.
Ward's Island Beach
Ward's Island has a distinct cottage-country vibe, which is welcome in a city populated with skyscrapers and streetcars. Typically very busy on weekends and gloriously quiet during the week, this island paradise is an escape from city life that's only 20 minutes away from the Financial District.
Hanlan's Point Beach
Are you proud of your beach body? Feel free to show it all off at the clothing optional beach at Hanlan's Point. If you're a little more on the modest side, there's also the "clothing mandatory" area, which is just as good. The sand and water quality at both ends is some of the best in the city, so look forward to a rock-free day of relaxation.
Cherry Beach
Cherry Beach is a contender for the most popular beach in the city. Parking spaces are hard to come by on weekends, but if you can manage to get down there you'll find it filled with sunbathers and windsurfers alike. If you're lucky, you'll be able to catch one of the old-style food trucks that occasionally swings by to dish up eats by the beach.
Woodbine Beach
Woodbine Beach is one of the most well-loved areas in the Beaches for good reason. It boasts a huge swath of volleyball courts, for those who prefer outdoor activities to lounging. Plus, if you don't feel like braving Lake Ontario, you always have the option of diving into the safe, chlorinated waters of the Olympic Pool (located just off/above the beach).
Kew Balmy Beach
You'll find this neighbouring beach slightly less busy and better for quiet lounging. It boasts an off-leash dog park and is close to tennis courts, volleyball courts, a baseball diamond and a private lawn bowling club, if you want to play a game or two. It also leads into Kew Park, so you can have a post beach picnic in the shade if that's up your alley.
Bluffer's Beach Park
Bluffer's Beach Park is one of the more picturesque waterfront areas in the city and is definitely worth the trek to Scarborough. There's plenty of room for an impromptu frisbee game and the water quality generally remains at Blue Flag for the whole summer, so swimming is no problem. There's also a full service restaurant and bar, where you can kick back with a pint and watch the boats.
Rouge Beach
If you're willing to drive almost all the way out to Pickering, Rouge Beach is the ideal place for a day trip. It offers ample space to take part in outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing (with a license, of course). Word to the wise: the sand is pretty rocky, so if you prefer to lay about, you may want to go elsewhere.
Sugar Beach
Known as one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the city, this beach will have you kicking back in style under a giant pink umbrella. Remember to sport your most fashion-forward swimsuit because there's a big chance you'll make it into the background someone's pic. You can't swim here, but the sand and the view are pristine.
HTO Park
If your ideal beach day is kicking back in a Muskoka chair in the shade, look no further. Populated with beach chairs and massive yellow umbrellas, this is the perfect place to get some R&R in the city. Plus, because it's in such close proximity to the Harbourfront Centre, you can easily check out one of the many summer festivals after you spend the morning soaking up the sun.
What did I miss? Add your favourite Toronto beach to the comments below.
Photo by you picked me in the blogTO Flickr pool
by Alice Prendergast via blogTO
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