Nature
Hanlan's Point Beach
Hanlan's Point Beach
Located on the Toronto Islands, this is a 2 km stretch of shoreline along Lake Ontario. Visitors go here for swimming and sunbathing, and it is recognized as a clothing-optional beach. The site is historically significant as one of the oldest queer spaces in the world and the location of Canada's first gay pride event.
Getting There
To reach the beach from the city centre, take a ferry or a water taxi from the downtown waterfront to the Toronto Islands. The travel time varies depending on the transport method and queue lengths, but the crossing typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes.
Duration of Visit
Depending on whether you are visiting for a short walk or a full day of swimming, allow between 3 and 6 hours to experience the shoreline and the surrounding park area.
When to Visit
The beach is seasonal and best visited during the summer months when the lake temperature is suitable for swimming. It can become crowded during weekends and public holidays. Early morning or weekday visits are generally quieter.
Nearby Attractions
You can combine a visit to the beach with other nearby locations on or across the water:
- Toronto Islands (1.2 km)
- Centreville Amusement Park (1.5 km)
- Ontario Place (2.5 km)
- Harbourfront (2.6 km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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