July 13, 2021: the east side of Sunnyside Beach, near Budapest Park, is closed until further notice due to storm damage and unsafe water conditions. Areas of the boardwalk are also closed.
The west side of Sunnyside Beach, in front of the Pavillion, is open.
Beaches may have serious hazards. Sudden drop-offs, sharp rocks, unpredictable weather and unexpected waves heighten the risk of swimming in a lake.
Before going to a beach, users must do the Ontario Ministry of Health COVID-19 customer screening and if they do not pass the screening, they should not use the beach. Learn more about using park and recreation facilities during COVID-19.
Swim zones are marked at each end by red and yellow flags. Lifeguards know swim zones, including the:
Boats and personal watercraft are not permitted in swim zones.
Lifeguards fly coloured flags to define the water conditions.
Children must be directly supervised by their caregiver. Toddlers and young children are mobile and curious and they can be easily overwhelmed by water conditions.
According to the Royal Lifesaving Society of Canada, it only takes 10-30 seconds for a drowning to occur.
Always swim with a buddy. The person you are with may be your only lifeline for help.
Swimming conditions at Toronto beaches can be unpredictable. Unlike a predictable pool, the lake can be calm and gentle one minute before turning rough and dangerous the next. Know your limits and do not put yourself in a potentially dangerous situation.