Toronto’s Top 5 beaches according to Sun readers

The Scarborough Bluffs is the most dramatic of Toronto's beach areas

Published May 29, 2026  •  Last updated 15 minutes ago  •  3 minute read

Scarborough Bluffs Photo by destinationontario.ca

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It’s beach time in Toronto – finally.

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And you know what that means for the latest Toronto Sun readers’ Top 5 poll – choose your favourite beach.

Not surprisingly, given the beautiful, striking landscape, the Scarborough Bluffs landed in the number one spot.

1. Scarborough Bluffs

The Bluffs, which stretch for about 15 kilometres along the Lake Ontario shore, are about as dramatic as it gets when it comes to beaches in Toronto.

Turns out they “are a significant geological feature resulting from the accumulation of sedimentary deposits over 12,000 years ago formed by the natural processes of wind and water erosion from Lake Ontario,” says the City of Toronto website.

On the weekends, parking is at a premium as everyone from teenagers to couples to families makes their way down to the water there and sets up for the day and often night to swim, sleep, paddleboard, hike, eat and socialize.

There are even three restaurants at the marina that make good grub if you don’t feel like cooking yourself: the most upscale Bluffers Restaurant & Event Centre that offers a menu that includes seafood and steaks; The Dogfish Pub, a more relaxed alternative downstairs for grabbing a pint and traditional pub fare and the Marina Snack Bar, which has on-the-go items like burgers, fries, and hot dogs.

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“The 11 parks along Scarborough Bluffs feature spectacular views of the bluffs and Lake Ontario, trails, beaches, gardens, sports and recreation facilities and more,” said a city of Toronto spokesperson when asked about the Bluffs placing number one among Toronto Sun readers.

Here’s the rest of the Toronto Sun reader choices when it comes to their favourite beach:

2. Hanlan’s Point Beach

Hanlon’s Point Beach (toronto.ca) Photo by toronto.ca

Commonly referred to as Toronto’s clothing-optional beach, this soft sand dune-filled space is on the most westerly of the three main islands that make up the Toronto Island Park. Given it’s west-facing, it’s a primo spot to view the sunset and to see the Canadian International Airshow later in September. The beach has always been “gay friendly,” but everyone is welcome because of its relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

3. Woodbine Beach

Woodbine Beach (toronto.ca) Photo by torontoc.a

Located at the foot of Woodbine Ave. on the edge of Toronto’s The Beach neighbourhood, this beach offers three kilometres of sandy waterfront heading east along the Lake Ontario shoreline. While people come for picnics, sunbathing and swimming, there’s also the Donald D. Summerville Outdoor Olympic Pool nearby if the lake isn’t your thing. The recently renovated bathing station features a new roof, change rooms, water bottle filling stations and a beach shower with a foot wash.

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4. Sunnyside Beach

Sunnyside Beach (destinationontario.ca) Photo by destinationontaro.ca

Located in the west end of Toronto on the shore of Lake Ontario, this beach is a popular place for picnics. On the east side, you will find the historic Sunnyside Pavilion and Sunnyside Gus Ryder Pool. There’s also great people watching at Sunnyside Café, beach volleyball at Sunnyside Beach Park, or you can rent a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the Sunnyside Paddling Club.

5. Kew-Balmy Beach

Kew-Balmy Beach (toronto.ca) Photo by toronto.ca

Created in 1903, this historic park, also in Toronto’s The Beach neighbourhood, is home to the Balmy Beach Club and features a lawn bowling club, a playground and outdoor fitness equipment. The Silver Birch Dogs Off-Leash Area lies along the shoreline southeast of the park and allows commercial dog walkers and is unfenced. Note: The pathway around Balmy Beach Park will be unavailable due to upgrades beginning early next week and is expected to be completed in two to three weeks.

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