What Makes The Beaches So Great?

The Beaches is aptly named after the four beaches running along the shores of Lake Ontario just east of downtown. You may have heard the great debate about whether locals call the neighbourhood The Beaches or The Beach. Well, it’s still up for debate! But considering that there are numerous beaches, we tend to side with “The Beaches.” The Beaches had long been an easy-going, almost ocean-front neighbourhood of Toronto. As people discovered how fun, friendly and neighbourly The Beaches they began rushing in droves to buy homes. It is now one of the wealthier Toronto neighbourhoods.

Types of Homes

 There is a beautiful mix of homes in The Beaches. From cottage-like arts and crafts homes to modernist new builds to semi-detached Victorian houses, several new condo buildings dot the neighbourhood. Countless large wrap-around porches make sitting out on summer nights with a glass of wine and the fresh lake air the perfect evening.

You Should See

This will not come as a shock, but you need to see the beaches! Walk the nearly 3km of boardwalk with your family, friends or your furry friend. It’s a fantastic decision no matter what the season. Take an evening stroll and watch the sunset. Kew Gardens is a must as well. The park offers 16 acres of summer picnics, flowers, tennis courts, wading pools, and baseball diamonds, and it’s endless fun. As you can gather, summer is when the neighbourhood comes alive.

Neighbourhood Hotspots

A long-time favourite of ours is to stroll down Queen Street East. Take in all the restaurants and cafes. It’s wonderful. La Sala is a good restaurant with casual dining; Sauvignon Bistro is a little more upmarket, and as the name suggests, it has a lovely wine list. Lion On The Beach is a nostalgic spot for long-time residents. We also highly recommend the Beaches Jazz Festival – Queen Street East closes down to celebrate!

Getting Around

The Beaches has remained slightly laid back than the rest of Toronto. There are a couple of reasons for this: it is lakeside, almost cottage-like. The second reason is that it’s not the most accessible neighbourhood in Toronto. It’s primarily a car, bike and streetcar accessible.

81

Neighbourhood Walk Score

84

Neighbourhood Transit Score

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