Pack your bathing suits and get out the sunscreen, Toronto. It’s time for a beach day!

With blue skies and warm temperatures in our midst, there’s no better time to take a load off on the sandy shores of a beautiful beach. And lucky for us here in the city, there’s no shortage of shore around us.

Cherry Beach

Cherry Beach is one of the cleanest in the city, as noted by Waterfront Toronto. It is located at the foot of Cherry Street in the bustling Port Lands.

Back in 1912, when a Toronto Harbour Commission Plan transformed much of this area into an industrially focused district, it also set aside a portion of its south side for a beach, according to Heritage Toronto.

Now, aside from the beach, guests will also find a park, seven bike trails, two picnic sites and a dog off-leash area.

Address: 1 Cherry St.

Woodbine Beach

Woodbine Beach is part of a popular 15.2-hectare park and the “gateway to three kilometres of sandy waterfront stretching eastward along the Lake Ontario shoreline,” according to the City of Toronto.

Located near the Donald D. Summerville Outdoor Olympic Pool (also a great summer destination), Woodbine Beach is not only a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, but also for picnics. So, be sure to pack a lunch.

Address: 1675 Lake Shore Blvd. E.

Toronto Islands Beaches

Heading to a beach on the Toronto Islands feels like a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. On the islands, you’ll find three beaches — Ward’s Island Beach, Hanlan’s Point Beach and Centre Island Beach.

To get to the islands, you must take a ferry (or a private water taxi) to begin your journey. And that fresh boat air is a great way to start your beach day.

Ferry Terminal Address: 9 Queens Quay W.

Sugar Beach

Sugar Beach is the first public space you’ll see when travelling along Queens Quay from the central waterfront.

This spot is located at the foot of Lower Jarvis Street adjacent to the Redpath Sugar Factory.

Tucked inside a two-acre park, Sugar Beach “reminds us that Toronto’s waterfront is a playful destination,” Waterfront Toronto states.

“The beach allows visitors to while away the afternoon as they read, play in the sand or watch boats on the lake.”

Address: 11 Dockside Dr.

Bluffer’s Beach

In Scarborough’s Bluffer’s Park, you’ll find not only a sandy beach, but also picnic areas, lookouts, outdoor volleyball courts and a boat launch.

Originally owned by the Borough of Scarborough, the mainland at the base of the bluffs was transferred to the Metropolitan Toronto and Region Conservation Authority in 1960.

Since then, the park was designed to improve access to the Scarborough Bluffs.

Address: 1 Brimley Rd. S.

Balmy Beach

The historic 7.3-hectare Balmy Beach Park was created in 1903 and is home to the Balmy Beach Club.

The Martin Goodman Trail also runs through the park, parallel to the boardwalk and beach, along the shore of Lake Ontario.

Plus, you’ll also find a playground and outdoor fitness equipment.

Address: 1 Beech Ave.

Cobourg Beach

If you’re looking for a day trip outside of the city, Cobourg Beach is a treasured secret for the locals that’s located just under an hour and a half from Toronto.

In fact, this spot is actually two beaches, according to Destination Ontario. While most head to the main beach, known as Victoria Park Beach, there’s also a slightly quieter alternative called West Beach.

To access this lesser-known secret, head west from Victoria Park Beach.

Address: 138 Division St., Cobourg

Wasaga Beach

Wasaga Beach is the province’s “quintessential summer spot for sun, sand and surf,” as per Destination Ontario.

And not only is it an ideal place to spend a day soaking up some rays, but it is also known as the longest freshwater beach in the world, stretching 14 kilometres across the south Georgian Bay shoreline.

After you’re done in the water, grab a scoop from a nearby ice cream shop for the ultimate beach trip.

Address: 119 Mosley St., Wasaga Beach

Grand Bend Beach

Featuring sandy shore, a scenic boardwalk and epic sunsets, Grand Bend Beach is one of the liveliest beaches in Ontario.

It is located just under three hours from Toronto on the shores of Lake Huron in Lambton County.

“This expansive sandy beach provides the perfect summer backdrop for relaxation and adventure,” Destination Ontario said.

Address: Main Street West, Grand Bend

Port Stanley Main Beach

As one of the few beaches in Canada to have earned Blue Flag status for its excellent water quality and safety measures, Port Stanley Main Beach is situated in southwest Ontario about two and a half hours from Toronto. It hugs the north shore of Lake Erie at the mouth of Kettle Creek.

“The heart of the charming town of Port Stanley is Port Stanley Beach,” Destination Ontario states.

Address: 162 William St., Port Stanley