The 11 best places to swim outside in Toronto this summer

Jun 22 2016, 10:19 pm

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.

It’s @sunnyside_TO from the air courtesy of @tomasmakacek

A photo posted by Sunnyside Pavilion & Cafe (@sunnyside_to) on

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.

#toronto where ya’t #sheratoncentretoronto

A photo posted by Andi.K (@andimou) on

 

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. 

 

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.)

Full moon party 😎🙀🙀🙀#hanlanspoint #fullmoonparty #toronto #bikes

A photo posted by @kswynar on

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!

 

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.

Today was hot and fabulous #staycationwithmywifey #hotelliving #radissontoronto #sunshineandsummertime

A photo posted by Ashley Ferris (@ashfurmur) on

Eric WainwrightEric Wainwright

+ Summer
+ Torontonians
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