The Beaches, Ontario
Location: The Beaches (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
Explorer: Jordan-na Belle-Isle – @jordashna
Board Used: Expedition
Date Logged: January 31, 2021
SUP Explorer – The Best Places to Stand Up Paddle Board
When I first learned to SUP, it was in the idyllic Beaches neighbourhood of Toronto. The Beaches sits on the north shore of Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes. It’s always been one of my go-to places to paddleboard, lovely at any time of the year, and easily accessible by car, bike, and public transit.
The shoreline stretches three kilometers, from the popular Woodbine Beach to the R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant. The sandy beaches that dot this stretch offer many perfect launch spots. It’s a great area for paddleboarders of all levels, as you can paddle safely close to shore and, if the waves become too choppy, you can seek refuge in one of the many bays. The lovely homes of the Beaches are visible from shore and as well as visible landmarks, like the Balmy Beach Club and the historical Leuty Lifeguard Station.
My favourite? The R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant. Being on the water gives you the perfect view of the stunning art deco buildings that make up the plant. Paddling westward rewards you with views of the distant city skyline, including the CN Tower. If the urban landscape is not your thing, the south view is miles of expansive lake (squint really hard and you might see New York State!). An uninterrupted sky view makes it an ideal place to check out the sunrise or sunset, depending on how early or late you prefer to paddle.
SUP Explorer Photos from The Beaches, Ontario
SUP Explorer Tips for Your Visit to The Beaches, Ontario
- There is lots of free street parking, but give yourself plenty of time to find a space during the busy summer weekends. And be sure to read the parking signs carefully!
- For the shortest car-to-water distance, try to park on Hubbard Blvd or, if you’re really lucky, one of the culs-de-sac that extend south of Hubbard, even closer to the beach
- Check the predicted wind speeds before you go as winds stronger than 10 km/hr can produce a sizeable swell as they travel over the immense Lake Ontario
- More advanced paddlers can challenge themselves by extending their journey eastward to the Scarborough Bluffs
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About the Author: Jordan-na
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