Toronto is home to many beaches featuring activities
such as sunbathing, beach volleyball, swimming, canoeing and kayaking. While some of these water sports may
be more than a little adventurous, the City of Toronto takes all of the risk out of the swimming itself by
testing its beaches regularly to ensure safe swimming conditions.
The primary rules to go by include avoiding swimming after heavy rainfalls — this tends to flush debris and
other contaminants into the urban beaches, thus rendering them unsafe.
Arguably the most popular of all of Toronto’s beaches are Woodbine Beach and Kew Beach. These beaches make up
what is known simply as “The Beach” or “The Beaches,” a popular tourist destination located on the east side
of the “Old” City of Toronto. The sandy Lake Ontario shoreline is a favorite destination for Torontonians to
unwind and grab some sun by the water’s edge.
Running through the Beaches is the famous boardwalk: a three-kilometre stretch through some of the
beaches’ prettiest sites. Expect to share the pathway with bikers, joggers and rollerbladers as you stroll by
fine restaurants, ice cream shops, trendy bars and adorable boutique-style shopping.
Three hours away from Toronto lies Sauble Beach, voted No. 1 in Ontario by readers of the Toronto Star and
“one of Canada’s top 10 beaches” by readers of Maclean’s magazine. The Lake Huron shoreline boasts
more than 11 kilometres of pristine golden sand.
While the beach with its inviting warm waters is the region’s greatest attraction, numerous events and
beautiful sights also draw countless tourists to the region.
The skyline at Sauble is always under constant observation and appreciation. The beach boasts beautiful dawn
skies and breathtaking sunsets. It doesn’t stop when night falls — as soon as the sun goes down, astronomers
flock to the water to observe the stars that, unmarred by urban lights, twinkle with astounding
brightness.
When not admiring the view or enjoying the sand, visitors to Sauble enjoy numerous attractions and
activities. Sauble Beach Fun World, a family amusement park complete with rides and go-karts, is
located a few short minutes away. The beach also plays host to National Beach Volleyball Championships as
well as sandcastle competitions.•
Photos courtesy of Judy Parsons
