The Top Beaches of Toronto Photo Essay Part II

A close view of the Financial District as seen from the Sugar Beach

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We are introducing a brand new series of Photo Essays! Have a look at amazing Photo Sets all shot by talented photographers. Explore the vibe of the city, its hidden treasures, meet the Torontonians! This time, let's have a look at Toronto through the lens of Viera Prievozníková!

For more pictures from the Toronto beaches, check out the first part of The Top Beaches of Toronto Photo Essay.

The City of Toronto is on the top of the list of Canadian cities with the most environmentally friendly beaches - almost all of its swimming beaches passed with the internationally recognized eco-award, Blue Flag! A favourite spot for the whole family, people flock to these sandy oases for recreation not just during the summer. Read the second part of our summer special.

1.Sugar Beach

The perfect urban beach park, Sugar Beach is literally just minutes away from downtown. It’s a favourite relaxing spot for many Torontonians who come here during their lunch break to sit on the comfortable white Muskoka chairs under the pink umbrellas to dream about exotic destinations. This popular waterfront area of East Bayfront was opened in 2010 and is located right next to the Redpath Sugar refinery at Lower Jarvis Street. That’s where the name “Sugar Beach” comes from. The city has gained a great public space for open-air concerts and other events such as the Sail-In Cinema, which brings a portable movie screen to the harbour.

An exotic destination? No, it's the Toronto's very own city beach.

2. Hanlans Point Beach

Another public beach that’s just a ferry ride away from the city (for as little as $7 a ticket), Hanlans Point Beach is located on the Toronto Islands. You’ll find yourself on a fully equipped sandy beach with a lifeguard station, washrooms, showers, a volleyball court, and a snack shop. A traditional site for nude sunbathing for decades (many can still remember the occasional police crackdowns), about 1 kilometer of the beach was officially recognized as clothing-optional, making it the second beach for nudists in Canada besides Wreck Beach in Vancouver. Known for its clean and quiet nature, it’s also a popular spot for families.

The second clothing-optional beach of Canada!

The life guard enjoys the coastal view

3. Lakeside Park Beach

This breezy beach is in Oakville. Belonging among the cleanest beaches in the GTA, you can enjoy walking on the rocks, visiting the local lighthouse, or chilling out in the beautiful park with many willows. The white beach houses that just steps away from Lake Ontario are true real-estate heaven!

A perfect afternoon walk for the whole family

Local landmark - the Lakeside Park Beach lighthouse

Fishing in Lake Ontario

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For more pictures from the Toronto beaches, check out the first part of  The Top Beaches of Toronto photo essays.

Meet the Photographer

Viera Prievozníková

Viera studies marketing communication. She has been devoted to documentary photography and fine art photography for 2 years. Amongst other styles, Viera is fond of street photography, portrait photography and art nude photography. Viera uses street photography to draw people's attention to things often overlooked in everyday life.