18 Things to Do in the Beaches Neighbourhood in 2025
Looking to escape the hustle of downtown Toronto without actually leaving the city? Just 45 minutes away by streetcar, The Beaches neighbourhood offers a refreshing blend of laid-back charm, lakefront vibes, and local culture.
Spend the day hanging out at Woodbine Beach, sipping iced coffee on a sunny Queen Street patio, or wandering the scenic boardwalk that locals adore. And if you’re lucky enough to visit during the Beaches Jazz Festival, you’ll get a front-row seat to one of the city’s most beloved summer events.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing day trip or a weekend getaway, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your time in The Beaches – including what to do, where to eat, and hidden gems you won’t want to miss.
Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy here.
Exploring the Beaches Neighbourhood: What to See and Do
Toronto’s Beaches neighbourhood is located right on the shores of Lake Ontario and encompasses about 6 kilometres of sandy beaches and parks along the waterfront.
Having lived here my whole life, I can share that there are so many excellent things to do between the boardwalk and Queen Street. Whether you’re visiting in summer for beach days or bundling up for a crisp fall walk, there’s always something happening here.
Read on for a complete guide to the best things to do in the Beaches – backed by local insight and must-know tips. Don’t forget to save this post for your trip!
1. Spend the Day at the Beach
Of course, no visit to The Beaches is complete without a stop at Woodbine Beach – one of the best places in Toronto to relax lakeside. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, playing beach volleyball, or cycling the waterfront trails, it’s a perfect spot for a summer day outdoors.
The beach also features plenty of picnic tables, a large off-leash dog park, and easy access to walking paths, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
Obviously, one of the best things to do is to visit the beach! Woodbine Beach is a perfect place for lounging on the beach, swimming in the lake, playing beach volleyball, or riding the bike trails.
While Toronto has several other beaches including Cherry Beach, Bluffer’s Park Beach, Sunnyside, and the Toronto Islands – they’re spread across the city and aren’t part of the Beaches neighbourhood. If you want a true Toronto beach day with everything in one place, Woodbine is your go-to.
2. Walk the Beaches Boardwalk
The Beaches Boardwalk is a scenic 3 km stretch along Lake Ontario, running from Ashbridges Bay to the R.C. Harris Water Filtration Plant. Open year-round and dog-friendly (as long as pups are leashed), it’s one of the best ways to experience Toronto’s waterfront.
Whether you’re walking with friends, cycling solo, or out for a family stroll, the boardwalk offers a peaceful escape with unbeatable lake views. It’s one of my absolute favourite spots in the neighbourhood – and a must for first-time visitors.
3. Stroll Along Queen Street East: Cafés, Shops & Local Favourites
One of the best ways to soak in The Beaches’ charm is with a stroll down Queen Street East. Locals love the relaxed, community vibe—where people walk their dogs, catch up with friends, and browse boutique shops.
Along the way, you’ll find cozy cafés, lively patios, and even a brand-new Irish pub worth popping into.
Here are a few local favourites to check out:
✓ Burnt marshmallow ice cream from Ed’s Real Scoop
✓ Sangria on the patio of Outrigger
✓ Live music and a pint at the new Wolfe Tone Irish pub!
4. Relax on an Outdoor Patio
f you love food, The Beaches won’t disappoint. Along Queen Street East, you’ll find everything from cozy brunch cafés to fine dining, casual pubs, and grab-and-go spots.
The neighbourhood’s vibrant patios are especially popular in the summer – and offer the perfect front-row seat during the Beaches Jazz Festival.
Here are a few local favourites to try:
✓ Best patio vibe: Inmigrante – perfect for a date night
✓ Must-try meal: Limon – a hidden gem for fresh, flavourful dishes
✓ Top coffee spots: Bud’s Coffee (new fave) or the classic Remarkable Bean
5. Relax in Kew Gardens Park
If you’re a fan of peaceful green spaces and beautiful blooms, Kew Gardens Park is one of the most charming spots in Toronto. This hidden gem is a personal favourite of mine – with wide open lawns, manicured flower beds, a playground, splash pad, and plenty of room to stretch out and unwind.
In fact, it easily earns a spot among the best gardens in Toronto, especially in spring when the magnolia trees burst into colour and tulips line the pathways. Don’t forget your camera if you’re visiting during bloom season!
6. Enjoy a Festival at Woodbine Park
Located just across from Woodbine Beach, Woodbine Park spans 28 acres of open green space on the north side of Lake Shore Blvd. East.
It’s one of the liveliest spots in the neighbourhood – home to some of the best summer festivals in Toronto like Afrofest, Ribfest, the Toronto Food Truck Festival, Q107 Canada Day Weekend, and the Beaches Jazz Festival.
Beyond the events, the park offers a peaceful escape with scenic walking trails, a pond with a fountain, and stunning cherry blossom trees in spring. Families will also love the playground and splash pad – perfect for a sunny day out.
7. Enjoy the BEST Ice Cream in Toronto at ED’s Real Scoop
No trip to The Beaches is complete without a stop at Ed’s Real Scoop – widely considered home to some of the best ice cream in Toronto.
Their legendary roasted marshmallow flavour draws people from all over the city, and yes – there’s often a line on warm days. But trust me, it’s worth every second of the wait (and maybe even a second scoop).
8. Attend the Beaches Jazz Festival in July
One of the highlights of summer in Toronto is the Beaches Jazz Festival, held every year on the last weekend of July. For three evenings, Queen Street East transforms into a pedestrian-only street party, featuring more than 50 bands, pop-up patios, and an unbeatable vibe.
This family-friendly festival is one of my absolute favourites – and the best part? It’s completely free.
If you’ll be in Toronto in late July, don’t miss this iconic event. It’s truly one of the best ways to experience live music and local culture in the city.
9. Walk the Glen Stewart Ravine
Tucked just off Queen Street at Glen Manor Drive, the Glen Stewart Ravine is one of the most scenic urban trails in Toronto. This short boardwalk path winds through a peaceful forested ravine – making it a top spot for a quiet escape and some fresh air.
In the fall, the trail becomes one of the best places in Toronto to see autumn colours, and its picturesque views have made it a favourite among photographers and Instagrammers alike.
If you’re visiting in the cooler months, bundle up and bring your camera – you won’t want to miss it.
10. Enjoy a Toronto Sunset
There’s nothing quite like ending your day in The Beaches with a view of the sun dipping below Lake Ontario. This neighbourhood is home to some of the best sunset spots in Toronto, where soft waves and glowing skies create a postcard-worthy scene.
Top places to watch the sunset include Silver Birch Beach, the iconic Leuty Lifeguard Station, and the waterfront path at Ashbridges Bay. Bring a blanket, a warm drink, and your camera – you’ll want to savour every second.
11. Go Skateboarding at Ashbridges Bay Skatepark
If you’re into skateboarding in Toronto, don’t miss the Ashbridges Bay Skatepark, located at Coxwell Avenue and Lake Shore Boulevard East – just steps from Woodbine Beach.
As the largest skatepark in the city, it’s a favourite for everyone from beginners to seasoned skaters. With smooth concrete, bowls, rails, and a thoughtfully designed layout, it stands out as one of the best places to ride in Toronto. Plus, the lakeside setting makes it a great hangout even if you’re just spectating.
12. Ride Your Bike Along the Martin Goodman Trail
Looking for a picturesque bike trail with a waterfront view? Look no further than Toronto’s Martin Goodman Trail!
This bike path runs from the bottom of Silver Birch Ave., near the Balmy Beach Canoe Club, all the way to Woodbine Beach and Ashbridges Bay. In fact, the total length of the trail is about 56 kilometres, taking you from one side of Toronto to the other.
With stunning views of Lake Ontario and the beach, you’re sure to enjoy a leisurely and scenic bike ride along the water.
13. Go Swimming at an Outdoor Pool
When summer rolls around, there’s really nothing quite like taking a refreshing dip in a cool swimming pool. There are two outdoor swimming pools that are worth visiting on those hot summer days!
Donald D. Summerville pool is located right on Woodbine Beach and Blantyre Pool is near Victoria Park Avenue and Kingston Road. Both are great ways to cool off in July and August.
14. Go Skating at Kew Gardens or Glen Stewart Park
If you are visiting Toronto in the winter and you’re in the Beaches neighbourhood be sure to bring your skates! Two of Toronto’s outdoor skating rinks, Kew Gardens and Glen Stewart Park, are located in the area.
And when you need a break from the skating rink, head over to the hills! While they may not be the biggest hills around, they’re perfect for an afternoon of tobogganing with the family.
✓ Local Tip: Glen Stewart Park is a natural ice rink, so the weather has to be very cold to keep the ice. If it’s been a warm winter, then this rink may not be frozen!
15. Watch a Movie at the Fox Theatre
Looking for a theatre experience unlike any other? Look no further than the Fox Movie Theatre!
This iconic establishment has been around since 1914, making it the longest running continuous theatre in all of Canada. And not only that, The Fox (as we locals call it) is also fully licensed to serve alcohol.
Whether you’re a film buff or just looking for a unique night out, the Fox Movie Theatre is the perfect spot for a fun and unforgettable evening in the neighbourhood.
16. Visit the RC Harris Water Filtration Plant
Have you ever heard of the RC Harris Water Filtration Plant? Locals like to refer to it as the “water works” and for good reason. This beautiful historic building was built in the 1930’s and sits right on the water.
The architectural design alone is enough to leave you breathless. And the fact that this building has been providing clean water to Toronto for almost a century is truly impressive. If you’re ever in the beaches area, make sure to check out this historic landmark.
17. Take in a Concert at HISTORY Toronto
Located very close to Woodbine Park on Queen St. E. at Kingston Rd. is the brand new concert venue HISTORY. This intimate concert hall with a capacity of 2,500 is a state-of-the-art live music venue.
Opened in 2021, this concert hall has excellent sound quality and is a premiere music venue in Toronto. It is definitely is worth taking in a concert here if you are in the area.
18. Watch the Fireworks at Ashbridges Bay Park
Twice a year Toronto puts on some impressive fireworks displays at Ashbridges Bay. Celebrating both Victoria Day and Canada Day annually, the fireworks start at dusk and last about 15 minutes in total.
Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy these free fireworks displays on each of the holidays.
Where is the Beaches Neighbourhood Located?
The Beaches are located along Lake Ontario in the east end of Toronto, between Woodbine and Victoria Park Avenues. Queen Street East runs through the centre of the neighbourhood, just north of the lake. The area is easily accessible by car or TTC.
Where to Stay in the Beaches
In all honesty, there are no hotels located right in the Beaches neighbourhood. The closest hotel is The Broadview Hotel located in the Leslieville neighbourhood.
The Broadview Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 8.2 | ✓ Check Rates and Availability | Address: 106 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON
✔️ Closest Hotel to the Beaches
✔️ Streetcar is accessible right out front of the hotel
✔️ Boutique Hotel with Rooftop Patio
The Broadview Hotel is not only a fabulous, unique boutique hotel in the city, it is the closest hotel to the Beaches and is my top pick of hotels in the area.
☞ For additional hotel options in the Beaches, read my post on the 10 Best Hotels near the Beaches.
Where Can I Park in the Beaches Neighbourhood?
Depending on when you visit the area, parking can be limited, but there are several parking options if you decide to drive and park in the area.
It is important to note that the Beaches neighbourhood is especially busy on weekends in the summer, on holidays, and during special events. If you can, I highly recommend taking the TTC during these busy times!
Final Thoughts: What to do in the Beaches Neighbourhood, Toronto
When visitors plan their visit to Toronto, most are unaware of how much Toronto has to offer outside of the downtown core. I believe the Beaches neighbourhood to be one of the city’s hidden gems.
Located just 30 minutes from downtown on the TTC, there are lots of interesting things to do in the Beaches neighbourhood. Come hang out at the beach, walk the boardwalk, ride your bike, or relax on one of the many outdoor beach patios.
So come check out my neighbourhood, especially if you are looking for an alternative to some of the more traditional Toronto tourist attractions.
Before You Go: Read More About Toronto
There are so many unique and interesting things to do in Toronto. For a different experience, I recommend heading to The Well, Toronto’s newest indoor-outdoor retail space. With incredible food options and a unique shopping experience, The Well is an interesting location to add to your plans.
You may also want to consider a visit to Toronto’s Graffiti Alley to see some cool street art. And even as a Toronto local, I do recommend a visit to the CN Tower if you have never been before. Of course, no visit to Toronto is complete without a ferry ride over to the Toronto Islands.
