Top 10 Places to Paddleboard in Toronto

Welcome to our guide on the best paddleboarding spots in Toronto, where urban landscapes meet serene waters for an unforgettable experience. Join us as we explore the top 10 locations that offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation on Lake Ontario. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, Toronto's scenic waterways and beaches have something special in store for every paddleboard enthusiast.

1. Toronto Island Park

Toronto Island is an excellent spot for paddleboarding due to several compelling reasons. First and foremost, the island provides a picturesque setting with calm and protected harbour waters, ideal for paddleboarders of all skill levels. Beginners can enjoy the gentle lagoons for a relaxed introduction to the sport, while experienced paddlers can venture into Lake Ontario for a more thrilling experience.

The stunning views of the Toronto skyline from the water add a unique charm to the paddleboarding experience. Additionally, the absence of motorized boats in certain areas ensures a peaceful and safe environment for paddlers to explore at their own pace. With easy access via a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto, Toronto Island offers a convenient and rewarding paddleboarding adventure amidst natural beauty and urban landscapes.

Location: 15-minute ferry ride from Downtown Toronto (Ferry departs from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal - 9 Queens Quay W.

• For online tickets: https://secure.toronto.ca/FerryTicketOnline/) Alternative transportation options like water taxis or private boats are available. 

Water Type: Mostly Calm and Flat.

Starting Points: Hanlan's Point, Centre Island, Ward's Island.

Amenities: Public washrooms are available.

2. Cherry Beach

Cherry Beach is another fantastic spot for paddleboarding in Toronto, offering a mix of natural beauty and urban convenience. The beach features calm and sheltered waters along the shoreline of Lake Ontario, making it an ideal location for paddleboarders of all levels. Beginners can take advantage of the calm conditions near the beach to practice their skills, while more experienced paddlers can venture further into the lake for a bit more excitement.

One of the highlights of paddleboarding at Cherry Beach is the proximity to downtown Toronto, providing stunning views of the city skyline as you paddle along the water. The beach area is relatively less crowded compared to some other spots, offering a peaceful and enjoyable paddling experience. Cherry Beach is also known for its friendly and laid-back atmosphere, making it a welcoming destination for paddlers looking to relax and unwind on the water.

Location: 30 minutes from downtown Toronto by car or public transit

Water Type: Mostly flat water (Conditions may vary).

Starting Points: Public beach access is available.

Amenities: Public washrooms and free parking are available.

3. Kew Palmy Beach

Kew Palmy Beach emerges as a standout choice for paddleboarding enthusiasts in Toronto, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty and accessibility. Situated along the picturesque shoreline of Lake Ontario, this beach provides a serene and inviting environment for paddleboarders of all skill levels. Beginners can take advantage of the calm and protected bay to hone their skills, while experienced paddlers can venture further out to enjoy the open waters and scenic views.

One of the key attractions of paddleboarding at Kew Palmy Beach is its idyllic setting, characterized by sandy shores, clear waters, and a backdrop of Toronto's shoreline. Paddlers can relish in the tranquillity of the bay, with occasional boat traffic adding to the dynamic yet peaceful ambiance. The proximity to nearby amenities, such as cafes and walking trails along the Martin Goodman Trail, enhances the overall experience, making it a convenient and enjoyable outing for paddlers and beachgoers alike.

Location: 1 hour by car or public transport from downtown Toronto.

Water Type: Mostly calm and protected bay with occasional boat traffic.

Starting Points: Public beach access is available.

Amenities: Washrooms and public parking are available (fees may apply).

4. Scarborough Bluffs

Scarborough Bluffs stands out as a captivating destination for paddleboarding enthusiasts in Toronto, offering a unique and awe-inspiring experience. The towering cliffs overlooking Lake Ontario create a dramatic backdrop for paddlers, setting the stage for an adventure filled with natural beauty and exploration. Paddleboarders of varying skill levels can appreciate the calm waters near the shore, perfect for beginners and families, while more experienced riders can venture further out to embrace the challenge of navigating the lake's currents and waves. 

One of the highlights of paddleboarding at Scarborough Bluffs is the unparalleled views of the rugged coastline and the pristine waters below. Paddlers can marvel at the geological wonders of the bluffs, shaped over time by wind and water erosion, creating a breathtaking panorama from the water. The clear waters near the bluffs provide an ideal setting for spotting marine life and enjoying a peaceful paddle amidst nature's grandeur.

Location: 1 hour by car or public transport from downtown Toronto

Water Type: Calm water, but be aware of currents and waves that can arise. (Be sure to check the conditions before heading out.)

Starting Points: Public beach access is available.

Amenities: Washrooms and public parking are available (fees may apply).

5. Sunnyside Beach

Sunnyside Beach in Toronto is a fantastic spot for paddleboarding, offering a blend of natural beauty and urban convenience that appeals to paddlers of all levels. The calm and protected inner harbor waters provide an ideal environment for beginners to learn and practice their paddleboarding skills. Families and experienced paddlers also enjoy the serene bay, making it a versatile location for a relaxing paddle or a more adventurous outing.

One of the key attractions of Sunnyside Beach is its stunning views of the Toronto skyline, creating a picturesque backdrop for your paddleboarding experience. Paddlers can admire the cityscape from the water, adding a unique charm to their adventure. The beach's proximity to downtown Toronto makes it easily accessible, whether by car or public transportation, allowing paddlers to enjoy a quick escape into nature without venturing far from the city.

Location: 15 minutes by car or 30 minutes by bike from Downtown Toronto.

Water Type: Calm and protected inner harbour water with some boat traffic.

Starting Points: Public beach access is available.

Amenities: Washrooms and public parking are available (fees may apply).

6. Humber River

Paddleboarding on the Humber River in Toronto is a captivating experience that combines natural beauty with urban exploration. The calm and serene waters of the river offer a peaceful environment for paddlers of all skill levels to enjoy. Beginners can appreciate the gentle flow of the river, while more experienced paddlers can navigate through its twists and turns for a more challenging adventure.

One of the highlights of paddleboarding on the Humber River is the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature right in the heart of the city. The river is flanked by lush greenery, providing a scenic backdrop as you glide along the water. It's a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and connect with the natural environment.

The Humber River also offers convenient access points for paddlers, making it easy to launch your paddleboard and start your journey. Whether you prefer a short paddle or a longer exploration, the Humber River accommodates various paddleboarding preferences. 

Location: 30 minutes by car or public transit or 45 minutes by bike from Downtown Toronto.

Water Type: Mostly flat water (Conditions may vary).

Starting Points: Sunnyside Beach and King’s Mill Park provide a great starting point for Paddleboarding in Humber Bay, Toronto.

Amenities: Washrooms and public parking are available (fees may apply).

7. Marilyn Bell Park

Marilyn Bell Park is a standout location for paddleboarding in Toronto, offering a mix of serene waters and breathtaking views that make it a favourite among paddlers. The park's sheltered bay provides calm and peaceful conditions, making it suitable for paddleboarders of all skill levels, including beginners looking to learn the ropes and experienced paddlers seeking a relaxing outing.

One of the main attractions of paddleboarding at Marilyn Bell Park is the stunning scenery. Paddlers are treated to panoramic views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline, creating a picturesque backdrop for their adventure. The calm waters of the bay also make it an ideal spot for taking in the sights while gliding effortlessly on the paddleboard.

For those looking to extend their paddleboarding experience, Marilyn Bell Park offers opportunities to explore nearby attractions and landmarks. Paddlers can venture further along the lakefront or towards neighbouring areas, adding variety and excitement to their paddling excursion.

Location: 40 minutes drive from downtown Toronto.

Water Type: Mostly flat water (Conditions may vary).

Starting Points: Designated launch area near the Marilyn Bell Park parking lot.

Amenities: Washrooms and public parking are available (fees may apply).

8. Ontario Place

Ontario Place is a fantastic destination for paddleboarding in Toronto, offering a blend of urban charm and scenic beauty that attracts paddlers of all skill levels. Situated along the waterfront, Ontario Place provides paddleboarders with stunning views of the Toronto skyline, the serene waters of Lake Ontario, and the picturesque surroundings of offshore islands and the Canadian National Exhibition grounds.

One of the key features that make Ontario Place great for paddleboarding is its protected harbour with calm and flat water conditions. This makes it an ideal spot for beginners to practice their skills and for experienced paddlers to enjoy a leisurely paddle without the challenges of strong currents or choppy waves.

Ontario Place also offers a range of amenities and attractions that enhance the paddleboarding experience. Visitors can take advantage of public washrooms, seasonal food vendors, and bicycle rentals (during certain months) to make their outings more enjoyable and comfortable.

Location: 15 minutes by car or 30 minutes by bike from Downton Toronto.

Water Type: Calm and protected inner harbour water with some boat traffic.

Starting Points: Public beach access is available.

Amenities: Washrooms and limited parking are available (fees may apply).

9. Woodbine Beach

Woodbine Beach in Toronto is a fantastic destination for paddleboarding enthusiasts thanks to its combination of scenic beauty, calm waters, and accessibility. Nestled along the eastern waterfront, the beach offers stunning views of Lake Ontario, providing a picturesque backdrop for your paddleboarding adventures.

The calm and flat waters in designated areas make it an ideal spot for beginners to learn the ropes and for experienced paddlers to enjoy a relaxing session. With easy access by car, public transit, or bike, along with nearby paddleboard rentals, Woodbine Beach welcomes paddlers of all levels. 

Facilities like public washrooms, picnic areas, and food concessions enhance the overall experience, while the vibrant community and occasional water sports events add a lively atmosphere to this popular paddleboarding destination in Toronto.

Location: 30 minutes from downtown Toronto by car or public transit

Water Type: Mostly flat water (Conditions may vary)

Starting Points: Public beach access is available.

Amenities: Public washrooms and parking are available (fees may apply).

10. Tommy Thompson Park 

Tommy Thompson Park is a hidden gem for paddleboarding in Toronto, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Located on a man-made peninsula extending into Lake Ontario, this park provides paddleboarders with breathtaking views of the downtown skyline juxtaposed against serene open waters. While the open water can present a challenge for some, the opportunity to paddle in such an iconic setting is truly rewarding.

Location: 30 minutes from downtown Toronto by car or public transit to Cherry Beach.

Water Type: Mostly flat water (Conditions may vary).

Starting Points: Cherry Beach.

Amenities: Public washrooms and free parking are available.

Safety Tips for Paddle Boarding in Toronto

• Use a life jacket/PFD that fits you properly
• Paddle with a friend – it’s always more fun and safer than going solo.
• Check weather conditions and avoid paddling during and immediately after storms – be cautious of changing conditions.
• Share the water and respect others – always give plenty of space to motorized vessels.
• Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature – wetsuits provide thermal protection and are good precautionary measures if you fall in!

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