Hidden away at the bottom of Queen Quay and Jarvis is a City of Toronto run beach called Sugar Beach. It is aptly named for its proximity to Redpath Sugar Factory (one of the only location downsides because the building it not particularly beautiful to look at).

The beach is just a short walk from the hubbub of Union Station. Built in 2010, it offers a clean, controlled beach environment in contrast with the often busy and packed Beaches area of Toronto.

With pre-set pastel pink umbrellas and classic white Muskoka chairs, all one needs to bring is a beach bag, sunscreen and a good book to enjoy Sugar Beach (or friends, snacks and a towel). Completely free, as all of Toronto’s beaches are, it offers a little something different for those looking to lap up the sun.

Sugar Beach is a good choice for those who don’t want to venture all the way out to the crowded Lakeshore for sandy waterfront, but still want a taste of a beach experience, with a view of Toronto’s downtown skyscrapers.

Amount spent for the day: $0 (not including transportation there and back)