Toronto’s the Beaches Neighbourhood

“The Toronto’s Beaches Map”

The Toronto Beaches, sitting on the side of Lake Ontario, is one of the most favorite places to live in the Toronto area. Whether you want to have a fantastic weekend resort or buy real estate as an investment or to start a family and raise your children, the Beaches is a second to none place to think of in the Toronto area. But as it expected, more luxury and comfort always means more costs.

The Beaches neighbourhood offers you a vibrant, yet lovely environment. A family friendly, safe and peaceful place, a mix of modern and the old world facilities and all sorts of fun and amusement has made this neighborhood a top candidate to accommodate the needs of everyone.

A Coastal Haven in the Heart of the City

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Ontario, The Beaches neighborhood in Toronto stands as a captivating blend of laid-back charm and urban vibrancy. Known for its beautiful waterfront, boardwalk, and a unique blend of community spirit, The Beaches has become a sought-after destination for residents and visitors alike. In this article, we’ll explore the distinctive features of The Beaches neighborhood, its real estate landscape, and the allure that defines this coastal gem in Toronto.

The Beaches, often referred to simply as “The Beach,” is located in the east end of Toronto. The neighborhood’s defining feature is its scenic waterfront, offering residents and visitors a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The long sandy beaches, the boardwalk that stretches along the lake, and the expansive parks make The Beaches a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil urban oasis.

Distinctive Character and Community Spirit

What sets The Beaches apart is its distinct character and strong sense of community. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined residential streets, charming Victorian and Edwardian-style homes, and a vibrant commercial district along Queen Street East. Residents take pride in the local shops, cafes, and boutiques that contribute to the area’s unique charm.

History of the Toronto Beaches

In the 1900s and early 2000s, before the great Toronto stretches itself to the shoreline, the Beaches was a permanent destination for the residents of Toronto on the weekends to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax for a while in nature and by the water. It was mostly a woody land spotted by large cottages. By the time, Toronto became the fastest growing metropolitan of North America and this lakeside area was undertaken by the city developers and turned to a residential area. But, after one and a half century, it has highly preserved its old heritage and nowadays you can see all features of this heritage here and there all around the Beaches.

These historic buildings and architecture grant this neighborhood a unique persona which cannot be found anywhere else in Toronto.

The Beaches comprises four beaches: Woodbine Beach, Cherry Beach, Bluffer’s Beach and Kew-Balmy Beach, with Woodbine Beach is located in the far west and Balmy Beach is located in the far east of the Beaches.

The Beaches neighbourhood is bounded by Coxwell Avenue on the west, Victoria Park Avenue on the east, Kingston Road to the North and the shoreline of Lake Ontario to the south.

Resort and recreation facilities are mainly located beside the lake or in a walking distance from it and the small town shops, restaurants, kids accessories, antique stores and other sorts of things are mostly located along Queen Street East which like an axe cuts the Beaches in two halves.

Demographics of the Beaches Neighbourhood

The Beaches has a population of more than 20,000 mainly consisting of young and middle aged families. Average income of a family in the Beaches community is about $150,000.  The north of the area mainly belongs to the middle class and so called white collar people and the south is occupied by the wealthy people who own the luxury houses on the shore front. Majority of the residents in the Beaches neighbourhood are of caucasian descent. Almost two-third of the residents are owners and one-third are tenants.

Local professional jobs and businesses are very scarce and nearly all of the local jobs are in the shops, restaurants, cafés and seasonal service jobs which especially scale up in the summer. So, young and middle-aged professionals have to commute to other parts of the city to make a living.

How to Access the Beaches Neighbourhood

The Beaches is easily accessible from all around the great Toronto. If you want to reach the Beaches your options are streetcar, bus, and car.

Streetcar Route:

The easiest way is taking the 501 streetcar from the Queen Street subway station to the Beaches. You can easily take off at any stop in the area.

Bus Routes:

1. Walk to Union Station (Bay St at Front St West south side) and wait for 72 Pape Station Line. At arrival ride it to Carlaw Ave at Gerrard St East north side. From there walk to Gerrard St East at Carlaw Ave and ride 506 (Main Street Station) to Coxwell Ave at Upper Gerrald St East. From there walk to Coxwell Ave at Fairford Ave and ride line 22 (Eastern Ave at Queen St East south side) to Queen St East at Kingston Rd.
2. Walk to Bay St at King St West and ride line 6 (Davenport Rd at Dupont St) to Bay St at College St. Then walk to College St at Bay St and ride 506 (Main Street Station) to Coxwell Ave at Upper Gerrard St East. Then just get line 22 (Eastern Ave at Queen St East South Side) to Queen St East at Kingston Rd.
3. Walk to Fleet St at Strachan Ave and ride 511 (Spadina Station) to Bathurst St at College St. Then walk to College St at Bathurst St and ride 506 (Main Street Station).
4. Walk to Atlantic Ave at King St West and ride 63 (Oakwood Ave at St Clair Ave West) to Ossington Ave at College Street. Then walk to College St at Ossington Ave and take 506 to Coxwell Ave at Fairford Avenue. Then 22 to Queen St East at Kingston Rd.

Subway Route:

Walk to Union Station and ride Finch to Bloor. Then wait for Kennedy subway and ride to Woodbine and from there it is a 30 minutes walk to the Beaches.

Train Route:

At Union Station wait for LE (Oshawa Go) train and ride it to Danforth Go and exit at Danforth Go-Ted Reeves Dr. From there walk to the Beaches in 36 minutes.

Where to Amuse and Relax in the Toronto’s Beaches

The Toronto Beaches is not in a shortage of places to amuse and relax at all. Not only there are plenty of public facilities to serve the people all sorts of fun and resortments, but even the pets will find special places to play and get amused. The Beaches neighbourhood is very famous for the abundance of facilities for the kids.

Kew Gardens

It roots back to the late 19th century, Kew Gardens (called by locals Castle Park) is one of the historic landmarks of the Beaches. It is located between Queen Street and Kew Beach on Lake Ontario. This Park is the center of all major public events such as Beaches International Jazz Festival, in July. In summertime, it is the host of throngs of tourists from all around the world.  Also, it is the first place for local meetings, public shows and concerts.

Woodbine Beach

Woodbine Beach is probably the most harmonious part of the Beaches to actually serve the purpose of a natural beach.  Its sandy shore and first class swimming services has made this place the real deal for aquaphiles. Furthermore, providing a lengthy boardwalk, it will not disappoint the people who wish to take a stroll alongside the Beaches. Also, sport fans can find all imaginable sorts of sport facilities on this beach.

The Beaches Library

This branch of Toronto’s Public Library is a lovely, tranquil corner. You can sit there for one or two hours relaxing, reading or in the meanwhile enjoying sipping coffee.

The Fox Theatre

An old restored movie theatre which evokes nostalgia of early twenties classic cinemas, The Fox Theatre these days is a top place to watch classic, foreign and independent movies. It also is loved by the kids as a glorious hall to take local birthday parties.

Bizzy Bee Playcentre

Bizzy Bee Play Centre beside the Beaches Park is a perfect indoor play zone for parents to hang out with their kids for hours. Also, it is a dream place to take birthday parties for the kids.

Where to Eat and Drink in the Beaches

The stone Lion Pub in Queen Street East at the north side corner of Kenilworth Ave is a quiet, friendly place for wine and beer lovers. The pub provides craft beers, wines and some special dishes such as fish tacos. The prices are low and the environment is relaxing.

Along Queen Street East, beside Herbert Ave you can drop in Breakwall BBQ for lunch. From well-known “low n slow” smoked meat to home-made sauce, are ready to be served.

Once a bank building and now a popular pub, Murphy’s Law besides its delicious dishes is famous for its epic rooftop patio with a 360° view over Queen St. East and the waterfront. You can spot it where Queen St. East meets Kingston Rd.

Just one block past Beech Ave along Queen St. East you will hit Remarkable Bean Coffee and Tea. No visit to the Beaches will be complete without having a drink in this café shop.

Hogtown Smoke is located at the south corner of Queen St. East, Kenilworth Ave. joint. All sorts of smoked and fried meats and grinds for all tastes are served here. They serve dishes like pulled pork, brisket, side ribs and indeed chickens. A full array of drinks and appetizers prepare you for a hearty meal after a long stroll or hard swim.

In Queen St East just at Hambly Ave turn, Isabella’s Boutique Restaurant sits elegant and inviting. Its Japanese meals are second to none.

Where to Shop in the Beaches

Queen St. East is the shopping center of the Beaches. Between Waverley Rd. and Glen Manor Dr is packed with shops and boutique stores. Women can head to Set Me Free for clothing, handbags, jewelry and shoes. Men can find cute gifts here for their ladies. The Embellished Room is full of inexpensive women dresses. Men can find dress and accessories in La Manna Fashion For Men, Boa Boutique and Pony Club The Fashion For Men.

Green Spaces and Nature in the Beaches

Kew Gardens Park, Woodbine Park and Ashbridge’s Bay Park are three popular parks in the neighbourhood. If you want to get away from the crowds, you may head to Glen Stewart Ravine. There you can stroll, hike and do exercise and for a while get a true feel of being in nature.

Where to Cool Off in the Beaches

After soaking the sun in Kew Gardens on a hot summer day you may need to cool off somewhere. You can go for a swim in Donald D. Summerville Olympic Pool or Woodbine Beach. If you choose Woodbine Beach, there are all sorts of swimming and shore sport amenities. You even can rent a paddleboard and explore the bay.

Local Amenities and Events

The commercial stretch along Queen Street East is home to a variety of local businesses, from cozy cafes to trendy boutiques. Residents can explore the diverse culinary scene, attend community events, and participate in festivals. One of the famous festivals is the Beaches Jazz Festival, which adds to the lively and inclusive atmosphere of the neighborhood.

Waterfront Living and Recreation

Living in The Beaches means embracing a waterfront lifestyle. The neighborhood’s prime location along Lake Ontario offers residents opportunities for water-based activities, including swimming, kayaking, and beach volleyball. The boardwalk is a popular spot for leisurely strolls or bike rides, providing stunning views of the lake and the Toronto skyline.

Real Estate in The Beaches

The real estate landscape in The Beaches is as diverse as the community itself. From historic detached homes with well-manicured lawns to modern condominiums offering lakefront views, the housing options cater to a range of preferences. The demand for homes in The Beaches has grown steadily, making it a competitive market. The charm of the neighborhood, coupled with its proximity to the lake, parks, and amenities, contributes to The Beaches’ appeal in Toronto’s real estate scene.

In the Beaches neighbourhood what at the first glance draws your eyes are large detached and semi-detached cottages like houses and luxury lakeside lofts as you go toward the shoreline. Of course, there are some limited low-rise condos but the Toronto Beaches neighbourhood is one of the few districts that still has been kept away from the rush for high-rise and tower condominiums such as Condos in Yorkville. Many of the houses are old and their building dates back to 1960-1980. Currently, detached houses are sold for $1,800,000 and a typical condo price is well over $800,000. These prices are well above the Toronto Average House Price. Rental prices also vary in the range of $1500-$3500.

Conclusion

The Beaches neighbourhood in Toronto is famous for being tranquil, family-friendly, vibrant and rich in lush landscapes. If you have come to Toronto and haven’t visited the Beaches, you probably have lost the best part of your trip.

The Beaches neighborhood in Toronto is a unique blend of coastal beauty, community warmth, and urban convenience. With its sandy beaches, tree-lined streets, and vibrant local scene, The Beaches offers a lifestyle that feels like a perpetual summer retreat. The real estate landscape in The Beaches reflects the neighborhood’s appeal. This Toronto neighbourhood is a desirable destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of city living and lakeside tranquility in the heart of Toronto.

If you want to invest in a house in the Toronto Beaches or have decided to move there for living, the Beaches will fully meet your needs. Just in a few steps our top Toronto Real Estate Agents are ready to help you to find your best fit house in the Beaches neighbourhood.