Beach Time in Toronto (Updated 2023)

Slowly we may be able to enjoy our summer. The sun has been out, the humidity high and the temperatures hovering into the upper 30’s degree celsius. What does that spell…Beach time in the Toronto area, located on the shores of Lake Ontario. There is no shortage of places to wade, dive, swim in the almost always cold water of this great lake. Be forewarned that although the lake is deemed clean most of the time, please adhere to the local warnings posted at your favourite watering hole, I mean swimming hole.

Yes, we have to and practice social distancing, and if this is the worst possible scenario to allow for the species to exist in the world, well, so be it. Actually, in Toronto, Canada, you may not have any other options. Choice may be a luxury that we are no longer able to afford. Let’s see what tomorrow looks like as we peer over our masks with beedie eyes gasping for oxygen. Remember, you do not have to wear your mask while swimming- at least I don’t think you do, nor should you.

In fact, the location for swimming coincides with a previous blog. Bike riding and stopping at some of the hottest restaurants and bars located along the water. That blog was created last summer, so please contact the individual locations regarding their -19 policy.

Most lakeside parks provide an official swimming area. Marie Curtis Park east beach, Sunnyside Beach in the west. Cherry Beach, Ashbridges Bay, Woodbine BeachKew/Balmy. Not to be forgotten are beaches on Toronto’s Island.

What is (un) official anyways?

However, as the waterfront is vast, there are many places along the lake that offer “unofficial” places to swim along the Lakefront from Mississauga to Scarborough. Here we will explore some of the most popular and obscure places to have a “dip” along the waterfront. It is beach time in Toronto.

Here I think we may need to define our terms more clearly. The official swimming site is a location that is recognized by the municipality as a safe and supervised place to swim. The water has been checked regularly. There will be lifeguards on duty, and information will be clearly posted.

 An unofficial spot is simply a beach along the lake that people have been using for years. Here there are no lifeguards. They may or may not have information regarding the water conditions. What makes these environments most appealing is that the number of people using the beach is often less than the “official” beaches.

In either case, swimming can be a hazardous activity, and what started off as a beautiful day in the sun can turn deadly very quickly. Never swim alone! If the conditions look unsafe, stay on the shore, this is especially true if you intend to use the unofficial locations.

We will begin our trek in the west of Toronto in Mississauga. Here you will find both official and unofficial places to wade or swim in the lake. In many cases, especially during a hot day, the beaches can become very active with people looking to cool off. Now that you are ready and have a towel and bathing suit let’s begin our trek along Lake Ontario’s shore.

Mississauga

Jack Darling Memorial Park

Extending towards the Rattay Marsh in the west, Jack Darling is a large park with plenty of parking and amenities. Here you will find hot dog and ice cream vendors on the internal paved walking paths. While others cook their own food, the air is awash with the flavours of summer. Its sandy beaches make it an ideal location to launch small water crafts such as kayaks, canoes and paddle boards along its expansive beachfront.

While most people inhabit the park and only venture into the lake to cool off on occasion. Combining this with much of its natural waterfront area intact makes it an ideal way to spend a hot summer’s day. Please remember that there are no lifeguards on duty at Jack Darling, so please ensure your child’s safety near the water or in the park. Never leave your children unattended. Enjoy a nice safe outing at the beach.

The region of Peel monitors the water regularly. Contact information is posted on signs within the park should you need more information.

Jack Darling Memorial Park, 1180 Lakeshore Road West, Mississauga, ON, L5H 1A1, Canada

Please obey all signs posted at the beach, especially if it has rained in the last 24-48 hours.

Richards Memorial Park 

In 1971, then-Mayor Robert Speck received a heart from a fourteen-year-old boy named Richard Wolniewicz, for whom the park has been commemorated. The Park is also home to a five-foot-tall peace monument, bearing the inscription “Planet Earth is our Home, Humanity is our Family.”

Although it is considered the smallest of the three lakeside properties in the municipality. It is well equipped with picnic and grilling areas. Most in the area residences are especially fond of it is mostly sand beach that makes it an ideal way to cool off during a sweltering summer afternoon. It is beach time in Toronto. Please remember that there are no lifeguards on duty at Richards Memorial Park, so please ensure your child’s safety near the water or in the park. Enjoy a nice safe outing at the beach.

Richard’s Memorial is located at 804 Lakeshore Road W Mississauga, ON L5H 1E5.

Please obey all signs posted at the beach, especially if it has rained in the last 24-48 hours.

Lakefront Promenade / R.K. McMillian Park

Often the city planners seem to miss the mark; here they got it right. Between these two parks is a man-made lagoon. Its design and location are ideal for swimming and small craft boating, such as a kayak or canoe. In fact, you can often see many kayakers playing a game that resembles “water polo” from their kayaks; it looks pretty amazing. The Lagoon is large enough to house such a game with ample room for other activities. Please remember that there are no lifeguards on duty at Lakefront Promenade / R.K. McMillian Park, so please ensure your child’s safety near the water or park. Never leave your children unattended. Enjoy a nice safe outing at the beach.

 The Lagoon is surrounded on three sides with a sandy beach with reasonably shallow water. Patrons often bring coolers and bar-b-ques for dinner or snacks as there are no restaurants in the immediate vicinity. Making it an ideal opportunity to get outdoors and spend the day with friends and family. 

There is paid parking on the south side of the Lagoon. However, carrying all of your equipment from the parking area to the beach may be cumbersome. You might consider dropping off your gear and then park- just a thought. There is a small parking area and street parking on the north side, read all the signs carefully. Nothing ruins a day out with the family faster than a fifty dollar parking ticket- user beware.

Please obey all signs posted at the beach, especially if it has rained in the last 24-48 hours.

Lakefront Promenade Park

Here you will find a small water park for the younger children. Here there is no beach, I thought I would mention it if you are looking for something to do with your young children. 

There is also a kiosk that, unfortunately, is currently closed due to the -19. For those with a sporting streak, volleyball courts are overlooking the water park. These were constructed for use during the Pan-Am games in 2015. 

Parking is available but limited, especially on hot days.

West Toronto

Marie Curtis Park- Official Beach Status

Although officially curated by the city of Toronto, the park and the beach extend into Mississauga as you pass over the Etobicoke creek bridge. Therefore the beach extends beyond Toronto and into Mississauga. The beach has “official beach status” in Toronto only.

Located at 42nd Street and Lakeshore Rd E, you can follow 42nd Street south, and you will be at the beach within seconds. There is parking on site. You are within walking distance to the lake. 

Here there is a boardwalk, Lifeguard Station with safety information, bathrooms and a small kiosk. The beach itself is adequate in size and ideal on a hot day. The park is perfect for picnics and bar-b-que(ing.) Many people take full advantage of this ideal recreational resource.

One caveat that I have to mention is that there is not ample parking for weekend visitors. Frequently guest park on 42nd Street, where this is a no-parking area. I have written emails and letters to the Metro Councilor in this area  suggesting that on weekends from June 15th to Labour day (first week in September) that no tickets be issued for parking on 42nd. If you feel the same, please contact the councilor.

Colonel Samuel Smith Park

Unofficially sanctioned beach- No Lifeguard on duty

Is anyone familiar with the old police academy films that were created in the 1980s? If you are, this is where you will find Colonel Samuel Smith park. My fingers instinctively want to spell Colonel Sanders- of fried chicken fame. This was the original home of the regional mental health care facility, which was decommissioned many years ago. It has since become part of the Humber College south campus’s grounds located at Lakeshore Road and Kipling Avenue.

Although this is not an “official beach,” you would not know it if you were to come down on any afternoon. It is well frequented by sun worshipers of all shapes and sizes. It is relatively easy to find. Simply drive along the lower branches of Kipling avenue, until you can drive no further. Here there is a location to park; however, it fills very quickly on the weekend. Remember that it is paid parking, and “vultures” will tag your vehicle. Walk beyond the Mimico yacht club and continue to walk straight. Within three minutes, turn to your left; you will start to see the beaches’ entrance (s). Frequently there are kiteboarders, indicating that you are in the right vicinity. Remember you are so close to enjoying beach time in Toronto.

The park is a great place to bird watch and view other wildlife such as turtles, frogs and small snakes. The beach is made up of a combination of sand, pebbles and larger stones. It is an ideal place to spend the afternoon and set up the grill and make a day of it. Remember, there are no sanitary facilities on site. Rustic, perhaps, fun definitely.

West Humber Bay Park- Mimico Beach 

 Unofficially sanctioned beach- No Lifeguard on duty

Humber Bay Park is home to both the Etobicoke Yacht club and the Mimico Cruising Club. Although you will need to drive into the park for a kilometre or two, the beaches are easy to find and accessible. Simply follow Humber Bay Park Rd West until you come across one of the two main parking lots. Undoubtedly, they are paid, and you will be tagged if you are parked illegally. Unfortunately, there does not seem to be enough parking for the weekend. As it is located at Lakeshore Blvd., there is a streetcar stop at HBPR, and you can walk into the park from there. Cycling would be the best option.

The beaches are well kept and consist of stone, pebbles and sand. Having a good pair of water socks would be advantageous for getting in and out of the water. Many people bring their portable grills and set up sunshades on the beach itself or on the adjacent grassy areas. From this vantage point, you also have a very picturesque view of the city’s skyline. Ideal for sunrise photographs should you get there early in the morning. Included in the price-free! A washroom, located closer to the north parking area.

A great time is had by many here during the hot summer months.

The official address: 2225 Lakeshore Boulevard W. 

The nearest intersection is Lakeshore Blvd and Legion Rd.

East Humber bay Park. 

unofficially sanctioned- No Lifeguard on duty

Within walking distance from Humber Bay West Park, you will come to Humber Bay East Park. Officially recognized as a habitat for many rare species of butterflies, the surrounding ecological system provides an ideal habitat for these creatures.

 This park is on the east side of the Mimico creek as it divides into lake Ontario. The entrance is located at the intersection of Park lawn Rd and Lakeshore Blvd West. Similar to HBPW, you will have to drive approximately 1 kilometre until you reach the parking area, which is very large. Take the path to your right towards the lake. If you come across the washroom, you are going in the right direction. The beach is less than a minute’s walk at this point.

Here you will come to a crossroads, turn left towards the beach. This is a sand beach with a few rocks and stones. Many people bring sunshades and coolers to keep cool on the hot days of July and August. Please remember that drinking alcohol in a public place is still illegal if you happen to see any “lawmen” it is advised that you keep your bottles and cans discretely out of sight. These restrictions are rarely enforced but still use caution. It is beach time in Toronto, so close your eyes as you broil in the sun with your feet digging into the hot sand, you could mistake this stretch of beach as your own island paradise.

 The official address:100 Humber Bay Park Rd east.

Nearest intersection: Humber Bay Park Rd east. And Lakeshore Blvd. West

Central Toronto

Sunnyside Park – Official Beach Status

Sunnyside Park is located just east of the Humber River at Windermere avenue. It stretches along the Lakefront for many kilometres, where it unofficially ends at the bridge at Roncesvalles Avenue. 

Sunnyside has a long and illustrious history and is truly a recreational landmark for the city of Toronto. During the early part of the twentieth century, Sunnyside park was home to a pier that extended far into the lake, an amusement park with its showcase Ferris wheel, a horse racing track, and a swimming pavilion were among its attractions. Sadly due to the faltering economic climate, the public’s appetite for more significant attractions and poor city planning, all that remains is the swimming pavilion known locally as the “Sunnyside pool.”

Fortunately, the pavilion has been restored and houses a lovely restaurant where you can have lunch or dinner while enjoying a refreshing drink- alcoholic or otherwise. You can calmly look at the passersby on the boardwalk while watching the more athletic play volleyball on the beach. Of course, you can simply gaze at the lake itself that extends beyond on the beach, and on a clear day, you can see Western New York.

There is plenty of paid parking. However, the lots fill very quickly, you may find it more advantageous to hire a bicycle and ride along the well-paved trails. Bicycle rental kiosks are readily available all across the Lakefront.

Sugar Beach

As the name implies, the beach was built on the old Redpath sugar refining factory’s location. They have since scaled down their operation on Lake Ontario. Located at Queens Quay and Lower Jarvis street in the east part of the city. Near the Corus radio building is Sugar beach. Here is a unique site, a beach nestled along the Lakefront surrounded by everything else that is “un” beach like. But Sugar beach has everything you would expect from a beach.

Succulent white sand, nicely distributed beach chairs and umbrellas (possibly missing due to -19) and water fountains with a spectacular view overlooking the lake to the Toronto Islands. What it does have in uniqueness makes up for the one thing it is lacking- water access. You can not cool off in this part of the lake-this is probably a good thing. This does not detract from this spectacular beach nestled in an urban environment.

You can find paid parking close; however, Sugar Beach is more in harmony with the pedestrian or cyclist. With everything that Downtown Toronto offers, Sugar beach is an eclectic diversion from the city landscape.

East Toronto

Cherry Street / Clark Beach – Official Beach Status

Cherry Beach, as it is referred to locally, was initially Clarke Beach Park. A beach-side lake park located at the foot of Cherry Street just south of Unwin Avenue. Located on the north shore on Toronto’s outer harbour, it is referred to as the eastern gap.

Located at the tip of the Portlands, Cherry Beach has been a popular gathering place for many years. The park has undergone many improvements, including a paved entrance way and parking, a renovated washroom and swimming change room facilities. Most importantly, the renovation to the iconic lifeguard station. TTC service has been added during the summer months.

In summer, the beach water is generally calm and slightly warmer than other Toronto beaches along the lakeshore. Its shallow water is sheltered by the Leslie spit. This captivates all people enduring July and August summer temperatures to enjoy the sand and surf. However, it has to be mentioned that lake grass sometimes builds up and can tarnish the swimming experience. Despite this, the beach is often crowded with swimmers, windsurfers and kitesurfers, and sun-worshippers. Enjoy Cherry Beach, a Toronto beach time summer tradition.

The Beach area

“The Beach” (previously known as the Beaches) area is more than a large area of beachfront property that extends from Coxwell Avenue in the west to Lee Avenue in the east (near the iconic art deco water treatment plant.) Here you will find a community that is proud of their Lakefront properties and, more importantly, their neighbourhood. With the commercial portion centered along Queen Street East – a vibrant street with an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants.

The waterside parks consist of three well thought of parks- beaches with their own personalities and offer something for everyone. Ashbridges Bay, Woodbine Beach, and Kew Beach / Balmy Beach.

Ask any local, and they will proudly announce that they are from “The Beach.”…Beaches

Ashbridges Bay Park – Official Beach Status

Located at the foot of Coxwell Avenue and Lakeshore, Ashbridges Bay Park is a beautiful area on the waterfront in the east end of Toronto. The Bay was once part of the large sand dune chain spanning the majority of the Toronto Harbour. The result of sediment from the Scarborough Bluffs located further east.

The Martin Goodman and Waterfront trails pass through the north end of Ashbridges Bay Park. These paved and hard-packed walking trails allow for accessibility as do the park’s multiple paid parking lots. It is advisable to arrive early as the parking area will fill quickly on hot days, especially on the weekend. However, the park is accessible by TTC.

 Enjoy the time walking along the Woodbine Beach Boardwalk. You will find a vast expanse of sandy beach, where you can have a swim and succumb to your “Beach” experience. Picnics, bird watching, hiking and bicycle riding are all pleasant pastimes to enjoy at Ashbridges bay Park.

Woodbine Beach – Official Beach Status

To completely immerse yourself into ‘The Beach” experience. Woodbine Beach is the place to be. It has all the features that one would expect from a 15.2-acre park with three kilometres of sandy beach stretching east along the shores of Lake Ontario. Located at the foot of Woodbine avenue- thus the name.

Woodbine Beach could be considered your “Baywatch” experience in Toronto. Here is an ideal spot for picnics, popular with sunbathing and swimmers with vast stretches of sand. A fully functional beachfront park, it contains all of the amenities that you would expect to find. Summer lifeguards, a recently renovated bathing station that has many modern features, and of course the Donald D. Summerville Outdoor Olympic Pool nearby. 

Accessible washrooms and water bottle filling stations are conveniently located. Especially for those who have participated in one of the most popular activities on the beach- volleyball. With a “netscape” that seems never to end. Of course, this lends itself ideally to the second most prevalent activity along the Woodbine beach- people watching. Young and old, athletic and not so, and the eccentric can all call the beach home. Here is the “jewel” in the city of Toronto’s beach time tourist marketplace. Come along, I am confident you will have a story to tell afterwards.

Kew Beach / Balmy Beach – Official Beach Status

Located just east of Woodbine Beach, you will find a 1-kilometre swatch of sand known as the Kew / Balmy Beach. You won’t find the athletic bodybuilders playing volleyball under the hot sunshine. Kew-Balmy is much more laid-back, more mature – “I have done that, sense of itself.” With many wooden chairs and benches that scatter across the boardwalk, that beg you to sit relax and enjoy the pace of life the way it was intended to be lived- so rare in such a large city. 

Take your time to saunter along the boardwalk as you arrive at Kew beach. 

Marking the first hundred meters of Kew Beach is the historic Leuty Lifeguard Station. Built-in the 1920s, it remains one of the few historic structures along the Toronto shoreline. It has been involved in an estimated 6000 life-saving operations during its lifetime. Thanks to the brave men and women who put their lives in peril. 

As the beach comes to its natural conclusion in this area, you’ll pass the Nursewood Dog Park. Marking the end is the R. C. Harris Water Treatment Plant, the Art Deco building and architectural marvel placed like a beacon on the shoreline. Nicknamed the “Palace of Purification.” Sitting where the old amusement park, Victoria Park, used to be. 

Scarborough

Bluffers Park / Scarborough Bluffs – Official Beach Status

Bluffer’s Beach Park is arguably one of the most spectacular beach areas that Toronto has to offer. Bluffers Park is man-made and still transcends its original intention, which is to showcase the majesty of the Scarborough Bluffs themselves.

The Scarborough bluffs surround the beach below. These massive white cliffs contour the eastern Toronto coastline for more than 20 kilometres, creating a shimmering contrast as the sun glistens off the lake’s blue waters. The bluffs have been dated back beyond 100, 000 years and are in a constant flux state. Without professional management, the bluffs can erode as much as one meter per year. This makes preserving the “Bluffs” of paramount importance.

Access to the park is very manageable by car, bike or transit. Here like many parks, you will find ample paid parking. Recently the TTC has added a bus line from Kennedy Station to Bluffers park. This creates an elevated level of convenience for beach goers.

A Beach Beyond words

Here you will find some of the most extensive sandy beaches found anywhere in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area). Head directly to the very eastern edge and gain access to the large beach. If you are uncomfortable with lake swimming, this is one of the city’s better beaches, with its sandy base and very few rocks. Being shallower than most other city beaches make it ideal for boosting anyone’s confidence in the water.

The park offers a wide array of recreational activities, such as sport fishing and boat charters. For those that prefer the land, the park is laden with bicycle trails. For those who feel this activity level is for the young and foolish, a picnic oasis is close to your bidding, where you can relax under enormous trees. Bluffers Park makes for an ideal opportunity to spend your day at or near the waterside. 

A beach too far – doubtful

From west to east, you can easily find a place to cool off on Toronto’s waterfront. As most practice safe distancing, and a long indoor season behind us, the beaches could be a destination that allows us to enjoy the now- however difficult that may prove to be. 

Have respect for your fellow beach enthusiast and remain an acceptable distance from each other, if possible. 

The-19 has placed many of us in compromising positions. Please contact the local municipality regarding the status of their portion of the Lakefront. Try to obey all signs, they are there for your own personal safety. Please pay attention to all parking regulations for the sake of your finances.

Please ensure your child’s safety near the water or in the park. Many of these locations do not have lifeguards.. Never leave your children unattended. Enjoy a nice safe outing at the beach.

Are you intending to go to the beach this summer? It is beach time in Toronto’s on the waterfront.  Perhaps you have frequented one or many of the locations mentioned? If so, we would be grateful to hear from you, so that we can help others in their quest for the great Toronto beach. Simply leave your comment below, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

As always, it is our privilege to help you with your next adventure.

Your Vacation, Your Escape.

VTE