Hanlan’s Point Beach: Toronto’s Gay Nude Beach (2026)
Skyline views, rainbow flags, and one of the most welcoming queer spaces in North America — Hanlan’s Point Beach is a must-do summer escape when visiting Toronto.
Located on the Toronto Islands, just a short ferry ride from downtown, Hanlan’s Point is Toronto’s official clothing-optional beach and the heart of the city’s gay beach culture. It’s social, stunningly scenic, and incredibly easy to reach — making it one of the best urban gay nude beaches in the world.
Below is your complete guide to Hanlan’s Point: how to get here, where to set up, what to expect, when to go, and where to stay for the perfect Toronto summer day.
Located on the Toronto Islands, just a short ferry ride from downtown, Hanlan’s Point is Toronto’s official clothing-optional beach and the heart of the city’s gay beach culture. It’s social, stunningly scenic, and incredibly easy to reach — making it one of the best urban gay nude beaches in the world.
Below is your complete guide to Hanlan’s Point: how to get here, where to set up, what to expect, when to go, and where to stay for the perfect Toronto summer day.
What Makes Hanlan’s Point So Special?
Hanlan’s Point isn’t just a nude beach — it’s a historic LGBTQ+ space that’s been celebrated and protected for decades.
What sets it apart:
- Official, legal clothing-optional beach
- Well-marked gay section with rainbow signage
- Jaw-dropping views of Toronto’s skyline
- Friendly, inclusive, and respectful atmosphere
- Easy access from downtown via ferry
It’s the rare combination of urban convenience and natural escape — one minute you’re looking at skyscrapers, the next you’re spread out on the sand with the breeze off Lake Ontario.
TORONTO TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning your trip to Toronto? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our travels and helping us create more content like this!
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🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our travels and helping us create more content like this!
How to Get to Hanlan’s Point Beach
Getting here is half the fun — and refreshingly simple.
From Downtown Toronto:
1. Head to Union Station
2. Walk 10 minutes to the Toronto Island Ferry Terminal
3. Take the ferry to Hanlan’s Point (about 10 minutes)
🎟️ Ferry Cost:
- ~$9 CAD roundtrip (summer season)
The ferry ride offers one of the most iconic skyline views of Toronto — cameras ready.
Plane spotting bonus: The ferry docks right next to Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, making this one of the best spots in the city to watch planes take off and land.
Once on the island, follow the clearly marked signs and rainbow flags leading toward the clothing-optional beach. Wooden boardwalks protect the natural landscape and guide you all the way to the sand.
How to Find the Gay Section
Hanlan’s Point is large, but navigation is easy.
- Follow rainbow signage from the ferry dock
- Walk or bike along the paths toward the western edge
- The gay nude section is clearly marked and widely known
You’ll see signs reminding visitors that this is a historic queer space — respectful behavior is expected and the vibe reflects that.
The crowd is a mix of locals and visitors, solo travelers and groups of friends, all sharing a relaxed, social energy.
What's the Vibe?
Hanlan’s Point feels celebratory without being chaotic.
Expect:
- Mostly nude, men-heavy crowd in the gay section
- Social but not overly cruisy atmosphere
- Friendly conversations, lounging, swimming, and picnicking
- Plenty of space — even on busy summer weekends
It’s the kind of beach where you can strike up a chat, enjoy quiet sunbathing, or simply lay back and take in the skyline.
🌟 Pro tip – We share behind-the-scenes photos and videos as well as the spicier details from Hanlan's Point Beach (and all our nudist travels) over on Patreon.
Amenities
Hanlan’s Point is more developed than many gay nude beaches — but you still need to plan ahead.
Available on-site:
- Bathrooms
- Outdoor showers
- Lifeguards (seasonal)
- Boardwalk access
Bring with you:
- Plenty of water
- Sunscreen (shade is limited)
- Snacks or picnic food
- Towel or beach blanket
- Small umbrella if you burn easily
🌟 Pro tip – There are tons of trails across the Toronto Islands — perfect for a post-beach walk or bike ride before heading back to the city.
When to Go
Hanlan’s Point is a summer-only star.
Best months:
- June through early September
Peak vibes:
- July & August (warm water, social energy)
Best days:
- Weekdays for space and calm
- Weekends for a lively, social crowd
Because the ferry runs frequently in summer, it’s easy to pop over for just an afternoon and still be back downtown in time for dinner or drinks.
Where to Stay in Toronto
Fairmont Royal York — Iconic Luxury Across from Transit
⭐ Best for: Classic luxury, unbeatable transit access & cocktails after the beach
📍 Location: Downtown Toronto, directly across from Union Station
Why We Love It:
- Historic 5-star landmark with legendary Fairmont service
- Directly across from Union Station — unbeatable for transit
- Short walk to the ferry terminal for Hanlan’s Point
- Home to Clockwork Champagne & Cocktail Bar
- Indoor pool, fitness center, sauna & steam room
Staying at the Fairmont Royal York makes a Hanlan’s Point beach day effortless. You’re steps from Union Station, a quick walk to the ferry, and minutes from Toronto’s biggest attractions — including the CN Tower, a must for first-time visitors.
After the beach, clean up and head straight to Clockwork Champagne & Cocktail Bar, one of our favorite cocktail spots in the city — perfect for golden-hour drinks before dinner.
Final Thoughts
Hanlan’s Point Beach is one of Canada’s greatest queer treasures.
Between the easy ferry access, skyline views, respectful nude culture, and social yet relaxed energy, it delivers an experience that feels both iconic and uniquely Toronto.
Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or just a sunny afternoon, Hanlan’s Point deserves a spot on every gay traveler’s bucket list.
🌟 Pro tip – Planning a trip to Toronto? From the best LGBTQ+ hotels to must-visit attractions, dining, and travel tips, find it all in our Gay Travel Guide to Toronto.
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