Hot town, summer in the city.
That’s right, summer has officially arrived and things are really starting to heat up. But don’t stress, Toronto has its fair share of great places to swim. In fact, we’ve gone through the list and broken down the best places you can get your dive on over the next few months.
And since it’s summer, we’ve restricted these swimming locales to ones that are both open to the public and under the sun – in other words, you won’t find any indoor pools or hotel guest only pools here.
So put on your bathing suit, grab your sunscreen, and get water-side this summer in Toronto.
Sunnyside Pavillon
Where: 1755 Lake Shore Blvd W, Toronto
When: Open Now (Weekdays: 5-8pm, Weekends: 10am-3:45pm, 5-8pm)
Why: A nearly 100-year old landmark, the Pavillon and adjoining pool (nicknamed ‘The Tank’ for it’s enormous size) are definitely a summer hot spot. The beach and restaurant also help to make it a destination point.
Thompson Hotel Rooftop
Where: 550 Wellington St W, Toronto
When: Open Now
Why: This makes the list as the most beautiful urban pool, but it was a tight choice, as you have to be a guest to be allowed in. The reason we still chose it? There are about TEN THOUSAND events held there this summer that you could attend…and gain access to the pool.
Alexandra Park Pool
Where: 275 Bathurst St, Toronto
When: Opens July 1, 2016
Why: It’s called hipster beach for a reason. Located at Bathurst and Dundas, this is where you’ll find the too-cool kids on the too-hot days.
See also
Bluffer’s Beach
Where: 1 Brimley Road S, Toronto
When: Whenever life’s a beach
Why: Simply the most beautiful stretch of beach you’re going to find in the GTA. Warning: going here will make you think you’re no longer in Toronto.
#blufferspark #bluffersbeach #bluesky #sunny #toronto #InstaSize 🌥🌥🌥
A photo posted by 💋Sapphire Babe (@sapphirebabelsy) on
Alex Duff Memorial Pool (Christie Pits)
Where: 779 Crawford St W, Toronto
When: Opens July 11, 2016
Why: Perhaps the only place to swim on this list that’s more famous after dark. Known as the pool of choice for late night fence hoppers, Christie Pits’ slide still makes it worth a daytime visit any day of the week.
Cherry Beach
Where: 1 Cherry St, Toronto
When: Whenever life’s a beach
Why: If you like water sports, dogs, or dogs doing water sports, this is your sand of choice.
My friends are badass. #ladybase #acroyoga #beachyoga #cherrybeach @rachelward32 #toronto
A photo posted by Amanda Stokes (@bakayogini) on
Sheraton Centre
Where: 123 Queen St W, Toronto
When: 7am-10pm
Why: While technically they’ve cancelled their pool day-pass for non-hotel guests, you can still rent a ‘day room’ for around $100. So if you and a couple of friends want to go splitsville on a hotel room lounge chair for the day, it’s still a reasonable option.
Donald D. Summerville Olympic Pools
Where: 1867 Lake Shore Blvd E, Toronto
When: Open Now (Weekdays: 4-7pm, Weekends: 10am-4:00pm, 5-7pm)
Why: Both an adult pool and a diving pool make this a destination all of its own. Yes, it’s right in front of The Beaches, but they’re overcrowded and full of flexing volleyball players. Hit the deck at Donald D. for a more relaxing day in the sun.
A photo posted by Adrienne Sutton (@adriennesutton) on
Hanlan’s Point Beach
Where: Hanlan’s Point, Toronto Islands
When: Whenever life’s a beach
Why: Two words: Clothing. Optional. (Also, it’s outward facing, giving you the chance to forget that you’re even in Toronto at all.)
Riverdale Pool
Where: 550 Broadview Ave, Toronto
When: June 25, 2016
Why: Simply one of the best views in the city from one of the best parks in the city. Oh, and there’s a slide too!
A photo posted by Jerome Sung (@jeromesung) on
Radisson Admiral Toronto Harbourfront
Where: 249 Queens Quay W, Toronto
When: Noon-10pm
Why: One of the only hotels left in Toronto to still offer the public a day-pass for their pool. If you’re looking for an urban swimming escape this summer, this experience can be yours for $40.