With August about halfway over, the weather and the city workers are both finally cooperating. If there’s any justice in this world, heat waves will carry us through to October. But there isn’t. Which is why you should seize the hot, hot days and get out to one of these outdoor pools now.
Alexandra Park
Families from the adjacent co-op are here through the week, but when the weekends hit, scantily clad Queen West hipsters take over.
The tip: Tell girls you’re hosting auditions for American Apparel ads…back at your place.
275 Bathurst St., 416-392-7686
Four Seasons
Bored trophy wives line this indoor-outdoor pool, and a steep entry fee keeps the riff-raff out. Fresh fruit, spa access, newspapers and place you right in the lap of luxury.
The tip: Save $60 by finding a date at the hotel bar.
21 Avenue Rd., 416-964-0411
Eglinton Park
Young kids run amok at this uptown pool, where the big waterslide is the main attraction.
The tip: Shower after you swim.
200 Eglinton Ave. W., 416-392-6591
The Radisson
The tunes are always pumping at this rooftop pool, where the view of Lake Ontario is eclipsed only by the young, tanned bikini bodies. Munch on burgers, sip Caesars and soak up the sights. (Entry, $25-$35.)
The tip: Arrive early and secure a chaise longue. Seats go fast.
249 Queens Quay W., 416-203-3333
Toronto Island
Not a pool, but the next best thing to a cottage weekend. The ambitious can rent a kayak; the bold can go nude at Hanlan’s Point.
The tip: Centre Island beach is always a good bet, but look for the blue flag, the eco-label awarded to the cleanest beaches.
Image courtesy of Incase Designs on Flickr.
