What to know and love about this Toronto neighbourhood
One of the most visited and sought after areas in Toronto is The Beaches, or “The Beach.” Once a pre-war cottage destination, this waterside neighbourhood is a beautiful and fun place to live. The outdoor space is incredible, with sprawling parkland, biking and walking trails, and of course, the beach itself. The Boardwalk is possibly the best place in Toronto to go for a walk! Homes and condos in the Beach are a charming mix of historic architecture and modern design. Shopping on Queen Street East is also exciting, with eclectic restaurants, cafes, patios, boutiques, and specialty shops. Add in the tight-knit community feel, and The Beach really has it all!
The sense of community. The lake views and recreation are spectacular, but the best thing about The Beach is the laid-back community. Bike riding clubs, beach volleyball, tennis, lawn bowling, playgrounds, and a skateboarding park are some of the ways people in the Beach enjoy getting to know their area and their neighbours.
Are a close community of people. Real estate in the Beach is popular with working age people and families with children. The majority of residents are between age 30 and 64, and there is a high population of children and young teens. For the senior population, there are a lot of great clubs to join.
Local Insight: “Buskerfest at Woodbine Park is my favourite event in the Beach. Musicians, dancers, street artists, and mimes perform. It’s pay-what-you-can, and its a great time!”
What to Expect: Scenery and recreation. Go shopping, stop for ice cream, strap on rollerblades, and go for a swim. Or, sit and watch the water, or the people, with a cool drink in hand. Everything you want from a city and a beach community is all in one place. For commuters, streetcar and bus routes run along all major streets. The Lake Shore Boulevard is close by for drivers. Events like the Beaches Jazz Festival, Christmas lights display, and art installations on the beach.
What NOT to Expect: Since the area is so desirable, properties don’t come up for sale as often. Don’t hesitate when a condo or home becomes available, and know it will be pricey due to the many perks the area has to offer buyers.
A Day in the Life: Eat breakfast in your condo’s garden while listening to the seagulls by the lake. Walk to the Boardwalk with your coffee and stroll to Kew Gardens to watch an afternoon tennis match. Then, it’s time to shop at Mastermind Toys on Queen Street to pick up a puzzle,, and borrow a mystery from the historic Beaches library. Meet a neighbour for wining and dining at Sauvignon Bistro, and walk to the concert in the park to dance by the waves. If it's warm enough wade into the water for a dip in Lake Ontario!