I ranked beaches near Toronto from best to worst — so you know where to go

When summer hits in Ontario, suddenly everyone becomes a beach expert.

Everyone swears they know the best stretch of sand within driving distance of Toronto , and every conversation somehow ends with someone insisting that their beach has the clearest water, the softest sand or the least chaotic parking situation.

So naturally, I had to rank them.

Some are worth making an entire day trip out of, while others are better for volleyball, picnics, or simply watching the sunset.

And yes, one beach landed lower than I expected because I've spent my entire life convinced I shouldn't swim there.

Here's how I'd rank Ontario's best beaches near Toronto. #8.

Sugar Beach See on Instagram I know this technically isn't a beach beach, but it still had to make the list because so many people recommend it as a summer destination.

The problem? You can't actually swim there.

Instead, Sugar Beach is more of an urban waterfront park where you're meant to lounge under its iconic pink umbrellas, read a book, or take in the skyline.

It's undeniably pretty and one of Toronto's most Instagrammable spots, but when I'm craving a beach day, I want to actually get in the water.

For me, that automatically puts Sugar Beach at the bottom of the ranking. #7.

Woodbine Beach See on Instagram I know this is a city favourite, but I can get on board.

I'm still convinced you're not supposed to swim here.

Not because it's illegal, but because I've always heard people say you can't swim in that water.