25 Best Sunset Spots in Toronto

As a photographer, I find few things more breathtaking than capturing the perfect sunset.

Toronto provides some of the best opportunities to capture stunning sunsets! Because it is located on Lake Ontario, the modern architecture of Toronto’s skyline is a beautiful backdrop for your sunset photos. I am constantly amazed by the beauty of the setting sun in the city.

As a local Torontonian who is always attempting to capture that picture-perfect sunset, here is my list of the 25 best Toronto sunset spots.

There are some classic sunset spots on this list, but there are also some hidden gems worth checking out too!

Best Places to See the Sunset in Toronto

1. Riverdale Park East

Address: 550 Broadview Ave., Toronto, ON

The best place to capture a sunset in Toronto is Riverdale Park East. Every “Best Sunset List” will include Riverdale Park, and I have to agree that it is the best view of the Toronto skyline in the city.

What makes this location so special are the unobstructed views of the city skyline from the top of the hill along Broadview Avenue in this large park. It’s also an easy location to visit, as it is accessible by public transportation.

At Riverdale Park on the top of the hill, there are lots of benches where you can sit and admire the sunset, along with many professional and amateur photographers. Or bring a blanket and sit on the hill to take in the most breathtaking sunset view in Toronto.

And if you visit in the winter, Riverdale Park has one of the best tobogganing hills in the city, and there is also an excellent outdoor ice skating rink that is worth checking out!

☞ See Also: Ice Skating in Toronto: 12 Best Outdoor Rinks

2. Leuty Lifeguard Station

Address: On Kew-Balmy Beach at the bottom of Leuty Ave.

My absolute favourite place to take sunset photos is in the Beaches neighbourhood at the Leuty Lifeguard Station. This iconic beach landmark was built in 1920 and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Toronto. You can find the Leuty Lifeguard Station on the beach at the bottom of Kew Gardens Park.

You will often find amateur and professional photographers setting up on the beach to capture that perfect sunset (or sunrise) photograph with the lifeguard station in the background. Be sure to say hello to them! The many local beach photographers are always very friendly and happy to share a photography tip or two!

Of course, I recommend spending the whole day exploring this fantastic neighbourhood! Spend the day at Woodbine Beach, visit one of the many excellent patios on Queen Street, or walk through the tranquil Glen Stewart Ravine.

3. Toronto Islands

Address: Catch the ferry at Toronto Island Ferries, 11 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON

There’s no shortage of stunning sights in Toronto, but watching the sunset from the Toronto Islands is sure to be one of your most memorable experiences. From the Toronto Islands, you can get the full, unobstructed view of the Toronto skyline, which includes the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and the many downtown buildings.

In my opinion, this is the best view of Toronto.

The one challenge with the island is that you will need to find your way over there. The City of Toronto operates ferries that can take you over to the islands. Another alternative is to take a water taxi. There are lots of water taxi options in Harbourfront.

My recommendation would be to plan to spend the day on the Toronto Islands, visit Centreville Amusement Park, relax at one of the best beaches in Toronto, and then stay for the sunset before catching the ferry home.

☞ See Also: Toronto’s Best Beaches: 16 Must-Visit Spots

4. Polson Pier

Address: 11 Polson St, Toronto, ON

Located close to Cherry Beach, Polson Pier is another location that will appear on every list of the best sunset locations in Toronto. While this is a great spot to capture a photo and is considered one of the best views of Toronto, visiting this location comes with some considerations.

While you’ll see stunning Instagram pictures of the skyline from Polson Pier, it is a challenging location to travel to. It is in an industrial area that is currently undergoing significant construction work.

The pier is essentially a very small path at the bottom of an industrial street with no parking. While it’s a beautiful photo spot and there are a few benches to sit on and watch the sunset, it is in an isolated area of the city.

If you do visit, you can park at the free Cherry Beach public parking lot and walk a short distance (about 15 minutes) to Polson St. An alternative way to access Polson Pier is to visit the area by bike via the Martin Goodman bike trail.

While photographers love this spot, it will take some planning to get the most out of this particular Toronto sunset spot.

☞ See Also: Cherry Beach Toronto

6. Budweiser Stage at Ontario Place

Address: 909 Lake Shore Blvd., Toronto, ON

You know the summer has hit Toronto when the outdoor concert season starts at Budweiser Stage at Ontario Place. It turns out that this is one of the best places to capture a sunset and watch an outdoor summer concert at the same time! 

Toronto has a fantastic line-up of summer concerts, and Budweiser Stadium is a fun place to catch a show and the setting sun!

7. Silver Birch Beach, Beaches Neighbourhood

Address: Silver Birch Beach is at the bottom of Silver Birch Ave.

Also located in the Beaches neighbourhood, Silver Birch Beach is located beside the Balmy Beach Canoe Club and at the bottom of Silver Birch Ave. From this location, the beach and boardwalk stretch out in front of you, with Lake Ontario and the CN Tower in the background.

You may not be aware, but Toronto has some of the best beaches in Ontario, and Silver Birch Beach is just one of them. Located beside Woodbine Beach, it’s easy to make a visit here part of a fun-filled day trip to the beach!

I find this location to be one of the best spots to take sunset photos in the winter in Toronto. The contrast between the snow and sky can be quite spectacular.

☞ See Also: 20+ Best Things to Do at Woodbine Beach Park

8. Ashbridges Bay Park

Address: 10 Ashbridges Bay Park Rd., Toronto, ON

Ashbridges Bay Park is another east-end beach location. Ashbridges Bay is located at the west end of the Beaches neighbourhood and beside Woodbine Beach Park.

With a boardwalk, bike trail, beach volleyball courts, and public parking, this park is a beautiful spot to capture the sun setting over Lake Ontario.

Whether you head here for a relaxing walk at the end of the day or stay for a view of the setting sun after a day of swimming at Woodbine Beach, Ashbridges Bay is a lovely area to capture a Toronto sunset view.

☞ See Also: A Local’s Guide to the Ashbridges’ Bay Skatepark

9. Lake Ontario Boat Cruise

Nothing can beat the sunset views of the Toronto skyline while on the water. While you can see the Toronto sunset from land, there is something very special about enjoying the sunset while out on the lake.

You can take a short ride on the Toronto Ferry or a water taxi, but you may want to consider taking a sunset boat cruise or a sail on the lake. A view over the water will give you a whole new appreciation for the Toronto skyline.

10. Tommy Thompson Park (Leslie Street Spit)

Address: 1 Leslie St, Toronto, ON

Located in the east end, close to the Beaches, Tommy Thompson Park extends five kilometres into Lake Ontario and is one of the largest existing natural habitats on the Toronto waterfront.

As you hike or bike through the park, you will catch glimpses of the Toronto skyline all along the trails. There are beautiful lookouts to watch the sunset over the water. About halfway through the park is a floating red bridge that makes for an excellent photo spot!

If you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can go to the Toronto Harbour Lighthouse right at the end of the spit. The distance from the entrance to this spot is 5 kilometres (10 kilometres return), so it’s quite a hike or bike ride. If you do make it here, you will be rewarded with unobstructed views of the Toronto skyline, although the location itself is not that pretty.

Tommy Thompson Park is an excellent spot for those who want to combine sunset views with a bike ride or hike through this natural park setting. There is also free parking at the entrance to the park!

11. Sugar Beach

Address: 11 Dockside Dr, Toronto, ON

Located right beside the Redpath Sugar Factory, Sugar Beach is an urban beach park. While it is quite small, it has a number of loungers and umbrellas for visitors to relax and soak up the picturesque view.

It’s the perfect spot for both a peaceful sunrise and a romantic sunset in the city. The contrast between the industrial backdrop and the pink umbrellas adds to the charm of the area. Loungers, umbrellas, and wooden chairs are available for public use.

5. CN Tower

Address: 290 Bremner Blvd., Toronto, ON

If you’re looking for breathtaking views of Toronto, nothing quite compares to watching the sunset from the top of the CN Tower. Standing tall at a staggering 1,815 feet, this architectural wonder was once the world’s tallest free-standing structure. With panoramic views of the entire city, including Lake Ontario and beyond, the CN Tower offers a view unlike any other.

Whether you’re a Toronto local or a visitor to the city, watching the sunset from the CN Tower is an experience that you won’t soon forget.

12. Broadview Hotel Rooftop

Address: 106 Broadview Ave., Toronto, ON

Located in the trendy and up-and-coming neighbourhood of Leslieville, the Broadview Hotel is conveniently located just 3 km from the beaches, HISTORY music venue, and Woodbine Beach. It is my top pick of hotels to stay in near the Beaches neighbourhood.

The Broadview Hotel has been recently renovated, but perhaps the best feature of the hotel is its rooftop patio. With stunning views of the city skyline, including the CN Tower, it’s the perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

13. Hotel X

Address: 111 Princes’ Blvd., Toronto, ON

Looking for a hotel in downtown Toronto with breathtaking views? Look no further than Hotel X. With over 30 stories and 400 luxurious rooms, this hotel is one of the most impressive in the city. But what really sets it apart is the gorgeous sunset view it offers. 

Located near the Canadian Exhibition and Ontario Place, Hotel X provides the best vantage point to see the Toronto skyline from your hotel room. And if you really want a luxury experience, head to the rooftop pool or restaurant for one of the best Toronto skyline views.

14. Hanlan’s Point Beach

Address: Catch the ferry at Toronto Island Ferries, 11 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON

Looking for the perfect spot to catch a breathtaking sunset in Toronto? Look no further than Hanlan’s Point Beach! Located on the far side of the Toronto Islands, this beach can be easily accessed by taking the Hanlan’s Point ferry in the summer.

It is important to know that as of March 2023, Hanlan’s Point is now completely clothing-optional (previously some parts were clothing-mandatory). So head down to Hanlan’s Point Beach for a sunset experience you really won’t forget!

15. Trillium Park at Ontario Place

Address: 955 Lake Shore Blvd. W, Toronto, ON

Trillium Park at Ontario Place is an ideal spot to witness a breathtaking sunset with views of the stunning Toronto skyline over the lake.

There are plenty of spots to sit and appreciate the scenery. You can even rent a fire pit with seating on large rocks, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the city skyline.

The park’s location, close to the X Hotel and Ontario Place, makes it easily accessible for anyone who wants to enjoy the natural beauty of this location. There are plenty of photo opportunities here, so make sure to bring your camera and capture the memorable moments!

With the ongoing redevelopment happening at Ontario Place, some public access is being impacted by the construction. Before visiting, it is best to confirm site access before visiting.

16. HTO Park

Address: 339 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5V 1A2

The view of the sunset from this park is truly something special. Located on the waterfront, just south of the CN Tower, the park is nestled in the heart of Harbourfront.

Close to the Toronto Music Garden, the park provides an ideal location to enjoy some peace and quiet. It’s also a popular spot to rent a boat, kayak, canoe, or paddle board and capture the sunset from the water.

All in all, HTO Park is a nice place to relax and take a moment to appreciate the beauty of a sunset that you won’t find anywhere else in Toronto.

17. BMO Field

Address: 170 Princes’ Blvd., Toronto, ON

BMO Field is located in Exhibition Stadium and close to Ontario Place. BMO Field is home to the Toronto FC soccer team and the Toronto Argonauts football team.

From the top of the stands, you can capture an epic view of the sunset at the end of the day. So if you have the chance to catch a soccer or football game, be sure to venture to the top and take some time to enjoy the sunset from this high vantage point and capture a great view of Toronto.

18. Distillery District

Address: 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON

At the pedestrian-only Distillery District, the sunset serves as an awe-inspiring backdrop to the restored Victorian Industrial buildings, cobblestone streets, and local bars and restaurants.

There’s no shortage of interesting subjects to photograph in this unique neighbourhood, but for me, capturing the sunset behind the Distillery District with the CN Tower in the background is the best part!

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to capture some stunning street photography, the Distillery District at sunset is a great place to be.

19. Humber Bay Arch Bridge

Address: Close to Palace Pier Park at 1 Palace Pier Ct., Etobicoke, ON

As a photographer, one of my favourite spots to capture the perfect shot of a sunset is at the Humber Bay Arch Bridge in Toronto’s west end.

This beautifully built pedestrian bridge stretches 456 feet long and is a part of the Martin Goodman Trail. The bridge’s unique curved arc provides a stunning backdrop to the sun as it dips below the horizon.

Ever since it was built in 1994, the Humber Bay Arch Bridge has been a prime photography spot for both sunrise and sunset views, and it’s no surprise why.

20. Puente de Luz Pedestrian Bridge

Address: 168 Dan Leckie Way, Toronto, ON

Puente de Luz is a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the railway tracks located between Bathurst Ave. and Spadina Ave. in the west end of Toronto.

This public art installation piece, the Puente de Luz, or Bridge of Light, connects the waterfront to the city. This bridge provides a unique view of the city skyline over the busy railway lines.

21. Etobicoke Point in Humber Bay Park

Address: 300 Humber Bay Park Rd. W, Etobicoke, ON

There’s no better location to capture a perfect sunset than at Etobicoke Point in Humber Bay Park. Located in the west end of Toronto, not far from the Humber Bay Arch Bridge, this waterfront park offers stunning views of the city skyline.

I highly recommend this spot to any photographer or visitor looking for a picturesque spot to capture the beauty of a Toronto sunset.

22. Bluffers Park, Scarborough

Address: 1 Brimley Rd. S, Scarborough, ON

If you’re in search of an awe-inspiring view in the east end of the city, head on over to the Scarborough Bluffs. This unique natural geological formation, located on the shore of Lake Ontario, and has one of the nicest beaches in Toronto.

It’s not just the stunningly beautiful cliffs that make Scarborough Bluffs a must-visit destination. The surrounding walking trails offer a peaceful environment where you can enjoy a picnic, go for a swim, or just take your dog for a walk. You can experience the stunning sunset over the lake as you walk along the trails.

This is one of the few spots in Scarborough where you will be able to capture some incredible sunset views. Be warned, however, that the Bluffs parking lot fills up quickly on weekends in the summer. By noon, you won’t be able to drive into the bluffs and park.

☞ See Also: Bluffers Park and Beach: All You Need to Know

23. Colonel Sam Smith Park

Address: 3145 Lake Shore Blvd. W, Etobicoke, ON

At Colonel Sam Smith Park, the sun sets in a way that will leave you utterly spellbound. The park spans over 200 acres and provides an uninterrupted view of the city’s skyline. This beautiful park not only offers great photo opportunities, but it also has a dog park, bike paths, and picnic tables.

Whether you’re a nature lover or a city dweller, the sunsets at Colonel Sam Smith Park are an experience like no other. And if you’re an early riser, don’t forget to catch the sunrise too; it’s equally mesmerizing. So grab a blanket, sit back, and enjoy the picturesque moment the sky presents to you.

24. Marilyn Bell Park

Address: 1095 Lake Shore Blvd. W, Toronto, ON

If you’re looking to catch the best sunsets in West Toronto, look no further than Marilyn Bell Park! Named after the first person to ever swim across Lake Ontario, this park is a true gem. 

Not only does it offer breathtaking views of the sun setting over the lake, but it also boasts a lovely boardwalk and a cycling trail to boot.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful evening stroll or a scenic bike ride, Marilyn Bell Park has everything you need for a perfect time. So grab your camera and head on over—you won’t want to miss this magical sunset spot!

25. Harbourfront

Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON

Harbourfront is a beautiful area south of the downtown core, right on the shores of Lake Ontario. It is here that you can catch the ferry over to the Toronto Islands, take a boat cruise on Lake Ontario, or enjoy the waterfront from one of the many patio restaurants or parks scattered along the waterfront trail.

Best Views of Toronto Skyline

Toronto has some of the best sunset spots in Ontario, all of which offer truly breathtaking views. Whether it’s high atop the CN Tower, from the shores of the beach, or taking in the view from a rooftop, there are plenty of stunning views to be had.

So if you’re looking for a good place to watch the sun set and take in all the best views of Toronto, then pick one of these top locations from this list of the 25 best sunset spots in Toronto and enjoy!

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