The Beach

Average sales price freehold (2009): $736,297; (2010): $830,829

Lowest price sold (2009): $290,000; (2010): $310,000

Highest price sold (2009): $3,150,000; (2010): $3,800,000

Average sales price condo (2009): $396,887; (2010): $422,178

Postal code: M4L and M4E

Boundaries: Kingston Rd — Lake Ontario; Victoria Park Ave — Coxwell Ave

Subway Stations: Woodbine and Main

The Beach was established in the late 1700s by the Ashbridge family. It has become one of Toronto’s most popular neighbourhoods with its laid back West Coast vibe, and family-centric atmosphere. The community has a strong support system for local businesses, giving the Beach that small town feeling. The neighbourhood comes alive in the Summer when Torontonians from all parts of town flock over to the boardwalk for all sorts of sports and Summer treats.

Kew Beach, Balmy Beach and Ashbridges Bay Park are a main attraction for families. The annual Jazz Festival also brings in loads of tourists to the area.

Real Estate: Homes in this neighbourhood have become increasingly expensive over the last few years, and many younger families have been priced out. In the early 1900s, many of the stately Edwardians and Victorians south of Queen were built as Summer Cottages. These homes display authentic charm and distinguished architecture; many of them are protected under the Heritage Act.

Newly built homes take on the clean, light and airy Beach architecture.

While older homes showcase wide porches and mature trees on well kept lawns.

The Academy Lane Lofts are an authentic conversion on Queen Street. The historic building was once a bowling/boxing club, but is now the space is divided into large, sleek two storey units with soaring 20’ ceilings and enormous windows.

Parks: Kew Gardens is one of the main public venues in the Beaches neighbourhood. It is home to a number of facilities including tennis courts, a baseball diamond, a wading pool, and in winter, a skating rink. A number of historic buildings survive, including Williams’ cottage, the bandstand, and the Leuty Lifeguard Station.

Hot Spots:

The Pie Shack — 2035 Queen St E
The new Pie Shack offers both sweet and savoury pies with awesome crust, plus unimaginable enthusiasm (for pie).

Fox Theatre — 2236 Queen St E
The Fox Theatre first opened its doors for business 1914. It is the oldest, continually running movie house in Toronto.

The Green Eggplant — 1968 Queen St E
This Green Eggplant in the Beach serves up dishes to please all palates and offers complimentary dips upon arrival. The restaurant is already a favourite amongst the locals with their combination of good, well-portioned meals and a large kids menu.