Discover the 9 Best Urban Beaches in Toronto

Think about Toronto and you might conjure up images of the CN Tower, the Hockey Hall of Fame, hip neighborhoods, cool street art, and the foodie offerings of Chinatown… but beaches? That probably never crossed your mind.

However, Toronto has abundant beaches, from man-made spots in the city center to beautiful natural strands at Scarborough Bluffs and on the Toronto Islands. Consequently, locals cherish the summer rays and the city’s prime location on Lake Ontario, which means plenty of options to soak up the sun.

Ranging from sandy to rocky, and tucked under impressive cliffs or scattered across islands, Toronto’s beaches provide perfect stops for any warm-weather getaway. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s even a clothing-optional beach to consider. Just remember to check updates from the city’s SwimSafe team regarding water quality, as seasonal changes can affect conditions in Lake Ontario.

Toronto’s beaches come alive in summer, but even in spring and fall, locals enjoy watching sunsets and colors changing over the water. Here are the best beaches in Toronto for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely beach walks.

Sugar Beach, East Bayfront

Best for urban sunbathing

As close to downtown as you can get, Sugar Beach is a charming patch of sand adorned with Instagram-worthy pink umbrellas. Located next to the Redpath Sugar Refinery, this urban oasis used to be a parking lot, now cherished by locals for sunbathing and enjoying warm evenings.

Although it is situated in an industrial area, Sugar Beach offers a quick escape from the urban hustle—ideal for a small beach fix amidst concrete surroundings.

Visitors can revel in city sunbathers, comfy Muskoka chairs, and large rocks for lounging. If you’ve spent the day exploring or cycling downtown, make sure to stop by for a refreshing reprieve.

Sunnyside Beach, Sunnyside

Best for a seaside vibe

Over in the West End, Sunnyside Beach provides a quintessential seaside escape. While it may lack fine sand—being more pebbly—it bustles with activity. This beach features a long boardwalk perfect for jogging, walking, and cycling, plus volleyball nets and water sports rentals during the summer.

To enhance your beach day, grab a bike and cycle down to this lively beach, where the historic Sunnyside Pavilion offers delicious food, frosty cocktails, and often live music for a relaxed experience.

Bluffer’s Park Beach, Scarborough Bluffs

Best for feeling miles from the city

The Scarborough Bluffs are a remarkable feature in Toronto—a cliff-backed lakeshore stretching for 14km (9 miles), revealing breathtaking scenery formed over the ages. Along this magnificent stretch lies some of the best beaches in Toronto, including that at Bluffer’s Park, characterized by soft sand and comfortable swimming spots.

Upon reaching the bottom of the bluffs, the stunning view of the water is sure to transport you far from the busy city life above. Accessing this beach is easiest by car or bike, or you can take a bus from the Kennedy subway station. The beach experience here is highly rewarding, particularly on a sunny day.

Centre Island Beach, Centre Island

Best for families

One of the fascinating aspects of Toronto is the picturesque islands located in Lake Ontario, just off the downtown shore. The ten small Toronto Islands, formed by erosion from the Scarborough Bluffs, offer a car-free zone perfect for relaxing family outings.

Centre Island Beach ranks among the most family-friendly beaches, easily accessible after hopping off the Centre Island ferry. While it may not boast purely sandy shores, the beach features a breakwater that maintains calm waters, making it ideal for families looking to take a dip.

Hanlan’s Point Beach, Centre Island

Best for the body-confident!

For those who appreciate body positivity, Hanlan’s Point Beach on Centre Island is the city’s only official clothing-optional beach. This scenic stretch of sand, surrounded by sandy dunes and brush, ensures privacy for sunbathers. If you’re keen to embrace the freedom of nudity, make your way to Hanlan’s via ferry from downtown.

It’s important to note that not all areas of the beach are clothing-optional, so be sure to choose the right spot before you disrobe. On warm days, expect a friendly crowd, perhaps enjoying a bonfire or two and the festive atmosphere created by boats anchored offshore.

Ward’s Island Beach, Ward’s Island

Best for a quiet escape

If you’re in search of tranquility away from the crowds, Ward’s Island Beach is a wonderful choice, accessible by a scenic 3km (1.9-mile) boardwalk from Centre Island Beach. This charming beach attracts a local following and delivers beautiful views of the city skyline.

With a more serene atmosphere, it invites visitors to sunbathe, read, or picnic in peace. Visitors will find the Rectory Cafe nearby, offering a more refined dining experience compared to the fast-food options available at Centre Island Beach.

Woodbine Beach, Ashbridges Bay Park

Best for people-watching

Offering an energetic vibe, Woodbine Beach is the most popular destination on our list, located in the east end of Toronto at Ashbridges Bay Park. The beach is a bustling hub, perfect for people-watching, volleyball, and enjoying the summer atmosphere.

If relaxation is your goal, be aware that this beach is lively. On national holidays such as Canada Day, the beach teems with thousands of visitors, celebrating with fireworks and festivities. Therefore, plan to arrive early to secure a prime spot.

Kew-Balmy Beach

Best for nostalgia

Kew-Balmy Beach stands out as one of Toronto’s underrated treasures. This beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to bustling Woodbine Beach, boasting a local charm that’s hard to resist. Here, visitors can unwind, listen to music, or simply enjoy a good book.

This beach is also home to the historic lifeguard station built in the 1920s, one of the last remaining structures of its kind along the waterfront. You’ll be just steps away from Kew Gardens, providing easy access to additional green space for relaxation.

Cherry Beach, Port Lands

Best for making a noise

If you’re looking for a vibrant scene infused with live music, Cherry Beach is your destination. Known as Toronto’s dance beach, this lively spot hosts Sunday dance parties that have become a staple since the early 2000s. Bring your friends, a portable speaker, and enjoy a fun summer day.

The beach, located in a primarily industrial area, remains well worth the trip. Explore the sandy sanctuary and admire the charming Cherry Beach Lifeguard station, aptly nicknamed “the cottage” for its quaint appearance.