A day at The Beach

Woodbine Beach

All Toronto neighbourhoods are unique, but it's safe to say that nowhere in town even closely resembles The Beach (or The Beaches if you prefer). The long stretch of beach provides a beautiful little slice of California right in the city. In the summer months, the neighbourhood is packed with sunbathers and beach volleyball players looking to take advantage of this east-end getaway.

Leuty Lifeguard station on Kew Beach, built in 1920.

Contrary to popular belief, the water at these beaches is safe to swim in. The neighbourhood's Kew-Balmy and Woodbine beaches have both been awarded the Blue Flag, meaning they meet a long list of clean water criteria laid out by an international environmental organization.

The boardwalk along Kew Beach.

And the long boardwalk that runs along the water provides a perfect place to take the dog for a walk or go for a scenic jog any time of year.

The row-houses along Lake Shore Blvd.

As popular as The Beach is with tourists, there are of course people who actually live there. And some of them live in very cool homes, like the tall row-houses that wind around the Lake Shore-Woodbine curve and up to Queen Street. These colourful beach houses are located right near the water and evoke thoughts of everything summer.

Ivan Forrest Gardens

If that's not your thing, perhaps you'd favour the homes tucked behind the trees overlooking the lovely Ivan Forrest Gardens that run along Glen Manor Drive. 

Kew Gardens, located from Queen St, south to the lake, between Lee Ave and Waverley Rd.

Another beautiful park is Kew Gardens. This sizeable green space has a lot to offer: a large bandshell gazebo, baseball field, outdoor skating rink, tennis courts, and more. 

Green Eggplant, 1968 Queen Street East.

Aside from the beach itself, Queen Street East is the heart of the neighbourhood and a dream come true for residents and tourists alike. Every step you take you discover a new restaurant, like the vibrant and popular Green Eggplant.

Papa Sol's, 1966 Queen Street East

Another local favourite is Papa Sol's. This Italian sandwich shack offers huge portions and friendly service. Even if it's your first time, they'll have you feeling like a regular. You'll understand right away why their motto is, "It's not just a sandwich, it's a relationship."

The strip is also covered by great little shops for you to get lost in. Kew Beach Galleries, a tiny little used bookstore and antique shop is the perfect example. It's cramped and disorganized, yet undeniably charming. The staff and the cat roaming around make you feel right at home while you search for some hidden gems. 

Woodbine Ave

This neighbourhood is truly one of a kind. The beach themed restaurants and shops and the small town, laid back attitude make a trip there feel like a vacation within the city. Not to mention the surprisingly nice beaches and swimmable water. If you've never been, or it's been a while since your last visit, you owe it to yourself to go check it out. You may just agree that life's better in the beach.

(All photos taken by Matthew McEwan)