/
1x
Advertisement
Proudly Canadian, obsessively Toronto. Subscribe to Toronto Life!
City News

The city’s most picturesque beach, Sunnyside Pavilion, is back in action this summer

By Rebecca Fleming
Copy link
The city's most picturesque beach, Sunnyside Pavilion, is back in action this summer
Photography courtesy of the City of Toronto Archives

After a two-year renovation, the beaux arts dame of the city’s western harbourfront is once again open to the public. Launched in 1922, Sunnyside Pavilion is a reminder of the time Toronto was a popular beach destination—for real. The lake and the pool were the main attractions, but the odd dancing bear, boat burning (exactly what it sounds like) or cutest-baby contest didn’t hurt. The Water Nymph Carnival—where women and girls learned to swim—drew thousands, and free “bathing cars” shuttled swim-seeking city kids to and from the grounds. The construction of the Gardiner in the ’50s wiped out a sizable chunk of Sunnyside, including the amusement park. But the recent restoration reinstates the second-level observation deck, a prime perch from which to ogle sunsets, the skyline or the volleyball action on the beach below. The boardwalk-fronting restaurant serves pints and wood-fired pizzas. 1755 Lake Shore Blvd. W., 416-531-2233.

More of the Best of Summer

The top spots to eat, drink and play in Toronto right now
City News

The top spots to eat, drink and play in Toronto right now

Outlandishly good ice creams, secret beaches, sleepaway camps for grown-ups, and oodles of other creative ways to max out the all-too-short season

THIS CITY

Obsessive coverage of Toronto, straight to your inbox

By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Big Stories

Inside the Latest Issue

The June issue of Toronto Life features our annual ranking of the best new restaurants. Plus, our obsessive coverage of everything that matters now in the city.