As summer finally arrives in Toronto, the Toronto Sun has unveiled its readers' top five beaches, with the Scarborough Bluffs taking the crown as the city's most beloved shoreline destination. The list, compiled from reader polls, highlights the diverse and scenic beach options available across the Greater Toronto Area.
1. Scarborough Bluffs
The Scarborough Bluffs, stretching approximately 15 kilometers along Lake Ontario's shore, offer a dramatic and stunning landscape that captivated voters. According to the City of Toronto, these bluffs are a significant geological feature formed over 12,000 years ago through sedimentary deposits and natural erosion by wind and water. On weekends, parking is highly sought after as visitors flock to swim, paddleboard, hike, and socialize. The area also features three dining options at the marina: Bluffers Restaurant & Event Centre for upscale seafood and steaks, The Dogfish Pub for casual pub fare, and the Marina Snack Bar for quick bites like burgers and hot dogs. A city spokesperson noted that the 11 parks along the bluffs offer spectacular views, trails, beaches, gardens, and recreational facilities.
2. Hanlan's Point Beach
Located on the westernmost of Toronto's three main islands, Hanlan's Point Beach is known for its soft sand dunes and clothing-optional policy. Its west-facing position makes it an ideal spot for sunset viewing and watching the Canadian International Airshow in September. The beach has a long-standing reputation as a gay-friendly space but welcomes everyone with its relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.
3. Woodbine Beach
Situated at the foot of Woodbine Avenue in Toronto's Beach neighborhood, Woodbine Beach offers three kilometers of sandy shoreline along Lake Ontario. Visitors enjoy picnics, sunbathing, and swimming, with the nearby Donald D. Summerville Outdoor Olympic Pool as an alternative. Recent renovations to the bathing station include a new roof, change rooms, water bottle filling stations, and a beach shower with foot wash.
4. Sunnyside Beach
In Toronto's west end, Sunnyside Beach is a popular picnic destination on Lake Ontario's shore. The east side features the historic Sunnyside Pavilion and Sunnyside Gus Ryder Pool. Activities include people-watching at Sunnyside Café, beach volleyball, and canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard rentals from the Sunnyside Paddling Club.
5. Kew-Balmy Beach
Established in 1903, this historic park in the Beach neighborhood is home to the Balmy Beach Club, a lawn bowling club, a playground, and outdoor fitness equipment. The Silver Birch Dogs Off-Leash Area along the shoreline allows commercial dog walkers and is unfenced. Note that the pathway around Balmy Beach Park will undergo upgrades starting early next week, with completion expected in two to three weeks.
These top five beaches showcase Toronto's diverse waterfront offerings, from geological wonders to vibrant community spaces, ensuring residents and visitors alike can enjoy the city's natural beauty this summer.
