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Toronto is famous for its vibrant, urban, modern city life, but it’s also so much more than that. There are some incredible beaches near Toronto and its surrounding areas that are simply stunning and are perfect for some beautiful beach getaways. Be it a solo day trip with yourself, a water-side weekend of relaxation, or an adventure filled with nature with your loved ones, the beaches around Toronto can fulfil all. These beaches come with sandy shores, thrilling water sports to scenic waterfront views.
Top 10 Beaches Near Toronto
Here’s a curated list of the 10 beaches near Toronto that visitors can explore for a peaceful retreat and an unparalleled experience.
1. Woodbine Beach
Photo: Benson Kua / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the shore of Lake Ontario in Toronto’s east end, Woodbine Beach is Toronto’s largest and most popular urban beach, perfect for a summer day outing. It features soft sand and a boardwalk with ample area for a picnic. Along the waterfront, you can enjoy beach volleyball, swimming, and scenic strolls. The beach is family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty during peak season. Food stalls, public washrooms, and changing areas are also conveniently located nearby. Vibrant yet scenic, Woodbine Beach offers relaxation or energy-filled activities for everyone.
Top Experiences: Enjoy beach volleyball, swimming, scenic strolls, picnics and family day outs
Location: Toronto, Ontario
2. Hanlan’s Point Beach
Photo: Kelly / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Hanlan’s Point Beach is one of the most unusual beaches along the Toronto Islands and consists of a zone that is specially designed to be clothing-optional for those who seek relaxed, easy company. The beach is fringed all around by the horizon of Lake Ontario and offers a quiet atmosphere. Hanlan’s Point is popular for sunbathing, swimming, and picnics. Everybody loves the quiet atmosphere of Hanlan’s Point Beach, a real haven where one can relax and enjoy the spectacular panorama of Toronto’s skyline with natural sceneries. It constitutes a real getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Top Experiences: Sunbathing, swimming, enjoying the clothing-optional section, Toronto’s skyline and Lake Ontario
Location: Toronto Islands, Ontario
3. Sugar Beach
Photo: Jeff Hitchcock / Wikimedia Commons
What can be better than taking a quick flight from the hustle-bustle of downtown Toronto to Sugar Beach? It’s an urbane beach entertainment facility that comes complete with signature pink umbrellas. Though swimming isn’t allowed here, it is one trendy place where one goes to unwind take in lakefront views and snap great pictures. The white sand, pastel hues, and waterside seating are picture-perfect for Instagram. Along with Sugar Beach, you will also find cafes, a vast boardwalk, and benches to sit on. This tiny beach serves best for quick breaks or sunbathing right in the middle of the city.
Top Experiences: Relax under the iconic pink umbrellas, take photos, and enjoy lakefront views
Location: Toronto Waterfront, Ontario
4. Bluffer’s Park Beach
Photo: Jeff Hitchcock / Wikimedia Commons
Bluffer’s Park Beach is tucked away at the bottom of the Scarborough Bluffs beach and features dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and great views off to the boiling water of Lake Ontario. This beach offers beautiful views and is very popular for swimming, picnicking with friends and family, and even kayaking. Linear strips of sandy beach, transparent water, and a curvy trail are heaven for any nature enthusiast. The convenience is enhanced by picnic spots, washrooms, and a boat launch provided in the park. Bluffer’s Park Beach, with its serene atmosphere and breathtaking topography, is one of the wonders of Toronto.
Top Experiences: Swim, picnic, kayak, and enjoy scenic trails and views of the Scarborough Bluffs
Location: Scarborough, Ontario
5. Cherry Beach
Cherry Beach is among the city’s most loved spots for water sports like windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. This beach is situated on the waterfront of the city and has a sandy shoreline, and shady areas. It allows dogs, with clearly marked off-leash areas, making it a real gem of a destination for owners. The beach is easily reached by bike and public transportation, including nearby public restrooms and food trucks. Cherry Beach is a casual family-friendly spot that is frequently used for days spent lounging at the water’s edge in highly active ways.
Top Experiences: Water sports like windsurfing and paddle boarding, relaxation in shaded areas, and exploring off-leash areas for dogs
Location: Toronto, Ontario
6. Wasaga Beach
Photo: Seth Doyle / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Located two hours north of Toronto, the famous Wasaga Beach boasts of being one of the longest freshwater beaches in the world. It just so happens to be lively and a hot spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. Wasaga does have trails available, picnic areas, and is known to be a lively hot spot for local shops and eateries along the shoreline. Families and groups love the friendly, buzzing atmosphere that has plenty of activities to be enjoyed. Shallow waters here make this beach suitable for children, with lifeguards available during summer.
Top Experiences: Swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, exploring local shops and eateries
Location: Wasaga Beach, Ontario
7. Sandbanks Provincial Park
Photo: Maxime Laterreur / Wikimedia Commons
Sandbanks Provincial Park is especially famous for its towering sand dunes and three distinct beaches that line Lake Ontario, thus making it a favourite of nature and beach lovers. This beach is characterised by soft sands, and shallow waters. It is great for swimming, picnicking, and hiking opportunities. The park also offers campgrounds and scenic trails for longer stays for visitors. The serene dunes and tranquil waters create an perfect setting for families, couples, and are a photographer’s dream far from city hustle and bustle-all within two hours from Toronto.
Top Experiences: Swimming, picnicking, hiking, and camping near the sand dunes
Location: Prince Edward County, Ontario
8. Sibbald Point Provincial Park
Photo: George Ian Bowles / Wikimedia Commons
Sibbald Point Provincial Park lying on Lake Simcoe, claims its sandy beach with picnic tables, shaded spots, and BBQ facilities. This beach is just perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and having a meal outdoors in a very relaxed setting. Besides that, Sibbald Point has hiking trails and historic sites to see. Ideal for those in need of a quieter day trip spent in nature. Clean washrooms, playgrounds, and easy access to the water make this a great spot for families looking for a fun and convenient day trip close to Toronto.
Top Experiences: Swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, hiking, and exploring nearby historical spots
Location: Sutton West, ON
9. Kelso Conservation Area Beach
Photo: Clem Onojeghuo / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Kelso Conservation Area has a quiet lakeside beach on Kelso Lake, which comes with forested hills all around just outside Milton. There is swimming, paddleboarding, and canoeing available within the conservation area, plus hiking and mountain biking on the surrounding trails. Picnic areas and campgrounds provide a wonderful choice for an all-day or overnight adventure in Kelso Conservation Area. Merely a quick drive out of Toronto, Kelso provides a little slice of nature and lots of outdoor activities to keep any family busy and entertained.
Top Experiences: Swimming, paddleboarding, canoeing, hiking, and mountain biking
Location: Milton, Ontario
10. Port Stanley Beach
Photo: Mark / Wikimedia Commons
Located on Lake Erie, Port Stanley Beach is renowned for its golden sands, gentle waves, and the pulsating vibe of its beach town. Being two hours southwest of Toronto, the area is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring all the quaint shops and restaurants nearby. At the height of the season, the beach puts lifeguards on duty, and for visitor facilities, there are several washrooms, playgrounds, and food stands on hand. Port Stanley Beach is relaxed, with family-friendly amenities that make it a top pick for a perfect summer day trip or weekend getaway.
Top Experiences: Swimming, sunbathing, exploring local shops and restaurants, and enjoying a family-friendly beach town atmosphere
Location: Port Stanley, Ontario
Beaches in Toronto offer a fantastic way of living for everyone—from lively, bustling shores to peaceful, scenic escapes. Each beach has its own unique charm and appeal, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot or a clothing-optional retreat. These beaches provide the perfect setting for swimming, sunbathing, water sports, or simply relaxing in nature’s beauty. Plan a trip with TripXL and enjoy your next adventure with friends, family, or solo.
Cover Photo: Khachik Simonian / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
