With summer now in full swing, it’s the time to lap up some of the GTA’s finest swimming sites. Here are some of the better spots to soak up (and soak in) Mother Nature’s air conditioners.
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Bluffer’s Beach (Scarborough)
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Awarded the special “Blue Flag” certification for water quality and environmental bliss, Bluffers Beach offers up something for everyone. The trek down the hill is definitely worth the trip! With plenty of beachfront and the Scarborough Bluffs as an impressive backdrop, this picturesque spot is a must-visit. Overall, it’s tough to beat!
Van Wagner’s Beach (Hamilton)
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A picturesque piece of sand and water despite being quite close to Hamilton is what Van Wagner’s Beach is all about. Van Wagner’s Beach was created in the ’60s and is found adjacent to the Skyway Park area of Hamilton’s Confederation Park. The park is also busy every Jan. 1st, as a polar dip also takes place there. But it’s always better to cool off in the summer!
Coronation Park East Beach (Oakville)
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It might be difficult trying to buy into the idea that a former landfill site can be a beautiful swimming haven, but that is Coronation East Beach. Oakville’s fine beach, which also includes a less pristine “West” side, is a well-known destination to those west of the GTA. Despite having a slightly more rocky shoreline than other areas, it’s a great site to cool off with some friends and enjoy the day!
Musselman’s Lake (Stouffville)
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Musselman’s Lake is another cozy swimming environment. Somewhat off the beaten track, the location contains ample “kettle lakes,” including Shallow Lake and Windsor Lake. Cedar Beach is another gem in this same location, although the beach and swimming areas are open to campers only. A wee bit out of the way, but well worth it!
Gibraltar Beach (Toronto Island)
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Gibraltar Beach has been described by Waterkeeper’s Swim Guide as Toronto’s “best kept secret.” While there’s no giant rock like the European destination, the beach contains a quick escape from the downtown hustle and bustle. It’s also reachable from different ferry crossings on the mainland. A lovely excursion from the usual downtown rat race! The sand dunes also originated from sand swept westward from Bluffers Beach.
Kelso Conservation Area (Milton)
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This spot contains a 35-hectare lake ideal for swimming located on the Niagara Escarpment. It also features a nearby Kelso Park with the amusement/recreation facility Glen Eden a few hundred yards away. While it might be busy on warm weekends, it remains one of the preferred swimming nooks in the region.
Sunnyside Beach (Lakeshore)
Located on Lake Ontario and with plenty of history nearby in Palais Royale, Sunnyside Beach is a great spot for a quick dip or swim without a lengthy commute. Although it’s not completely guaranteed to be open in comparison to other areas listed, Sunnyside Beach offers plenty of area to relax and soak up some waves.
Ashbridge’s Bay (Lakeshore East)
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Located only minutes away from downtown in Woodbine Park on Lakeshore, Ashbridge’s Bay might surprise you. Arguably Toronto’s best beach destination close to the heart of the city, this beach is a great spot for all summer activities. Rent out a BBQ, go for a walk along the Leslie Spit or rent out a Volleyball court and put your Summer Olympics skills to the test.
