islands to visit in toronto

The Complete Toronto Island Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Posted on Published: August 23, 2022  - Last updated: April 17, 2024

Categories North America , Ontario , Travel

Toronto Island is such a unique thing to do from the city that it’s a must do while visiting Toronto.

It’s actually made up of 15 small islands on the south shores of Toronto. You can easily visit the islands on a quick boat ride across Lake Ontario from the city.

My Toronto Island guide covers what to do and how to get to Toronto Island from Toronto (and as I said, it’s really easy!).

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

Why The Toronto Islands Are Worth Visiting

There are three main areas a part of Toronto Island: Centre Island, Ward’s Island and Hanlan’s Point.

The islands offer a city escape with an unbeatable skyline view and relaxing beaches. Oh, and did I mention there’s also a hidden amusement park on Centre Island!? Needless to say, there’s more than enough to fill your day with here!

The Best Toronto Skyline View

But even if you ignore everything else, the Toronto islands are worth visiting for the Toronto skyline view alone .

You can even take the ferry to the Island, see the view, and then get right back on the next to Toronto.

Easy To Get To!

The Toronto Islands are also strangely easy to get to, considering they’re separated by a body of water.

Normally, when you think about visiting an island, it takes A LOT of planning: following a schedule, packing everything you need for an entire day…etc.

And this really isn’t the case for the Toronto Island. It was a no brainer to get to, and we didn’t plan anything in advance (I know, so unlike me!).

My only regret is not knowing about how easy it was to visit sooner. I’d love to go back to the islands every time I visit Toronto now as it’s become one of my favourite things to do in the city !

How To Get To Toronto Island

You have two options to get to any of the three of the Toronto Islands from Toronto: the water taxi or the ferry.

But first you’ll need find your way to the Toronto harbour front…

Toronto Harbour Front Cruise

One of the best things about visiting the Toronto Islands is the impressive Toronto skyline view.

But if you’re pressed for time, just head to the Toronto Harbour front and hop on a boat cruise that will give you the same Toronto skyline view with, some narration, and you’ll still pass by the Toronto Island.

See more tours in Toronto through Viator .

How Do You Get To The Toronto Harbour Front

Before deciding on which mode of water transportation is better for you, you have to get to the Toronto harbour front. You can drive, Uber, or take public transit…

The benefit of taking a taxi or Uber so you don’t have to stress about, or pay, for parking.

If you do drive to the Toronto harbour front, you can park in one of the paid lots along Queens Quay . We found an underground parking lot for the day near Aroma cafe (at the RBC parking garage ).

And finally, you can take public transit. The closest subway stop is Union station and then it’s about a 7 minute walk to the harbour front. Or the streetcar 590 or 510 have a harbour front stop.

Taking The Toronto Island Ferry

The Toronto Island ferry is the cheaper option , and ultimately, the most popular.

There are three ferries that go to each of the main Toronto Islands (Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point, and Ward’s). All the ferries leaves from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal .

Each ferry has a different schedule and start / end time though. Each one will leave every thirty minutes or so. But it’s important to not mix up the Island and the ferry time.

The ferry is under $10/ adult , and always includes a return ticket.

It’s also the same ticket for each of the ferries . So you can ride the ferry to Centre Island on your way there, but take the ferry from Ward’s Island back.

Why You Might Not Want To Take The Toronto Island Ferry

Depending on when you visit, you could have a long wait time and an extremely crammed ferry ride . But there are ways around this, you just have to be a bit flexible…

Remember, the ferry is only one of two ways to reach the Toronto Islands.

So during peak season and times, it can be pretty packed. You might even have to wait for a second ferry if there are too many people on board.

And then once you’re on the ferry, you might be packed in like sardines, standing, without a Toronto skyline view at all, which might make it a very uncomfortable 15 minute ride.

Toronto Island Ferry Hack

If you’re able to, you should aim to get to the ferry terminal as early as possible to beat the crowds (the first ferry, to Ward’s Island, can leave as early as 6:00 A.M. in the summer).

But if you aren’t a morning person, don’t worry, all the three main areas are connected .

So at the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, just choose the shortest ferry line, which is most often Ward’s Island.

Ward’s Island is the most residential of the three Islands, so because of that, the least touristy, and therefore has the shortest line. But once you’ve arrive, you can easily walk to Hanlan’s and Centre Island (and it’s not like Ward’s Island isn’t worth visiting either!).

To prove that it works, I visited mid-August at 10:30 A.M. (quite possible, the worst time, when EVEYRONE is going!), and made it on the first ferry out to Ward’s Island. I didn’t have to wait or stand, there was loads of space!

On the way back, try to leave during mid-day too, before everyone. I left around 2:00 P.M. from Centre Island and the ferry was EMPTY!

Taking The Water Taxi To Toronto Island

The water taxi is your second option for reaching the Toronto Islands. Like the ferry, the water taxi has some pros and cons as well.

The Toronto Harbour Water Taxi is a bit more expensive… about $12/ person per direction . So that will be about $24 / person for the round trip.

But depending on when you’re travelling to the Islands, it might be more worthwhile. The water taxis answer all the problem with the Toronto Island ferries…

For starters, they’re quite a bit smaller so they won’t over stuff them. So if you’re interested in the Toronto skyline view, this is the best way to get it without ever being sardined in.

P.S. If you are interested in the view of the Toronto skyline, you might want to book a combined tour with a harbour cruise as instead.

Toronto Island Guide: Which Island Should You Visit

As I mentioned, there are three main areas that make up the Toronto Islands: Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point, and Wards Island.

You never really have to decide in advance which one you want to visit because they’re all still connected.

If you end up on the wrong Island, you can always walk (or even rent bikes) to reach the other areas.

I’ll go over the differences between each areas so you can better decide which one is best for you!

Centre Island

Centre island is the most popular Toronto Island to visit.

If you’ve heard anything about the Toronto Islands, it’s probably Centre Island.

It has most of the touristy attractions (like the Toronto Island amusement park) making it perfect for families with young kids.

This is where you can also rent bikes, go to the beach, and rent any boats or kayaks.

All this also means that Centre Island is the busiest area on Toronto Island.

Ward’s Island

Wards Island is the largest Island and is mostly residential.

People actually live on this island full time , there’s actually a wait list to buy a home. But you have everything you need here: a community centre, baseball field, senior residences and even a school!

In fact, kids who live in the Toronto city centre can come to school on the Island.

This is also why the ferries to Ward’s Island have the longest working hours, and why it will also have the shortest line.

Just because it’s mostly residential, doesn’t mean you should come here.

You’ll want to visit Ward’s Island for an escape from tourists.

You can wander through the residential streets, admiring the architecture, and just taking it easy.

There’s a harbour, a cafe, and even a few beaches that are a lot less populated than the others closer to Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point.

Plus, you still get an exceptional Toronto skyline view (At Freda’s Garden & Beach)!

P.S. If you walk to Centre Island from here, I recommend walking along the boardwalk!

Hanlan’s Point

Hanlan’s Point is actually on Ward’s Island, but the opposite side of where the Ward Island ferry brings you.

This is actually the only area I haven’t visited, and there are a two reasons for this: first, my cousin who lives in Toronto had already been there.

And second, when I asked the information desk which Island to visit she said that Hanlan’s Point was mainly for the beaches… well for the nude beach anyway.

Yes, Hanlan’s Point beach has a clothing-optional area . So, needless to say, we did not visit Hanlan’s Point Island.

Hanlan’s Point is also where Billy Bishop airport is, so if you flew into Toronto, you might have already been to the Toronto Island without even realizing it!

If you decide to visit Hanlan’s point though, there’s of course still a Toronto skyline view and even lighthouse (Gibraltar Point Lighthouse).

Toronto Island Guide: How Long Do You Need?

You can spend as long or as little as you like on the Toronto Islands.

No seriously, if you’re strapped for time, you can literally hop on and off the ferry just to see the Toronto skyline view . It’s worth it for that alone!

But, if you have a bit more time, it’s worth spending the day exploring Toronto Island. Whether you just want to sunbathe on the beach, go for a long walk between islands …etc. there’s more than enough activities to spend the day.

Getting Around The Toronto Islands

Like I said, all three areas are connected BUT! you might have realized that you won’t have a car when you’re on Toronto Island. There also isn’t any public transit on the islands.

Fun fact: the Toronto Islands are the largest car-free community in North America!

So how do you get around the Toronto Islands?

You could honestly walk everywhere , it will just take a bit of time… From the Ward’s Island ferry dock to Hanlan’s ferry is just over an hour walk.

Centre Island is pretty much exactly in the middle, so from the Ward’s Island ferry dock it took about 30 minutes.

But because there aren’t any cars, it’s really an easy and beautiful walk. You’re on a walking path the entire time, and there are even a few points of interest along the way (like more Toronto skyline views!).

You could also rent bikes if you wanted to get around quicker and explore more of the island (they only have bike rentals on Centre Island, but you could also book this morning bike tour with Viator ).

Technically, you could even rent a boat (like a kayak or canoe) and take the canals through to the different islands.

Related Top 10 Things To Do In Toronto (That Aren’t The CN Tower)

Things To Do In Toronto Island

As you’ve probably realized, Toronto Island has no shortage of activities.

Each of the Islands has their own beach, of course, watch out for the clothing optional beach on Hanlan’s Point if you’re travelling with kids.

There’s also the Centreville Toronto Island Amusement Park. But you can also rent bikes, learn how to kayak or paddle board, play disc golf… just to name a few top activities!

Visit The Centreville Amusement Park

The Centreville Amusement Park is probably the most visited attraction on all the Islands.

The main attraction is the Centreville Dentzel antique carousel . It was built in 1907, making it over 110 years old!

The carousel is unique for having a wide variety of hand carved animals (52 to be exact!). But it also features some more ‘basic’ animals like pigs, cats, and ostriches that you wouldn’t normally see on a carousel.

But, Is The Centreville Amusement Park Worth It!?

If you’re travelling with kids, then I think they’ll love the Centreville Amusement Park. Most of the rides are geared towards younger children .

Think of your local travelling carnival (if you have one in your town), that’s what the Toronto Island Amusement Park is like. Smaller rides, a lot of spinning teacup types, simple roller coasters…etc.

Toronto Island Amusement Park Tips

There’s no entry to the Toronto Island Amusement Park, so anyone can walk in and see the attractions (and decide if any are worth it!).

Because entrance is free, you’ll need to buy tickets for the rides. Each ride will cost a different amount of tickets.

The perk is that rides end up without any lines but the line to actually buy tickets is insane.

So if you are interested in any rides, I would recommend either buying a day pass online or getting there early enough to buy tickets.

With a day pass, you can go on any ride you want, as many times as you want, for the entire day (they also sell family passes).

If you still want to buy individual tickets, calculate how many tickets you would need beforehand and get there early. That way, you don’t have to worry about buying more tickets later in the day.

Plan the ultimate vacation

My  digital travel planner template  has everything you need to plan your vacation: research templates, travel planner itinerary, travel budget templates…etc. . You can print it out or use it digitally on your phone, tablet, or computer.

P.S. Get an additional discount on my Etsy shop with my code ATRLOVE !

Enjoy A Picnic Lunch With A Toronto Skyline View

There are restaurants on the Island, but none of them are really that good.

So one of the top things to do in Toronto Island is to pack a picnic lunch (don’t forget your picnic blanket , like this one on Amazon !), and enjoy lunch with a Toronto skyline view.

If you don’t have time to pack a lunch, I would recommend picking up some food in Toronto’s harbour front before (it’s less expensive, probably better quality, and convenient).

Aroma is a good option at the Toronto Harbour. Or if you’re lucky, Smorgasburg Toronto might be happening while you’re visiting. It’s a bunch of food trucks with delicious unique eats over eight weekends at the Toronto harbour.

You can also order for take out at one of the restaurants on the island. At least with a picnic blanket you can enjoy lunch anywhere, with the best Toronto skyline view. There’s so much green spaces on the islands that you have to take advantage!

Walk Or Bike Through The Islands

While you’re on Toronto Island, go for a stroll through the paths and boardwalk. Or as I said, the best way to see the island is to bike it.

You can bring your bike on the ferry if you have one, or you can rent bikes at Toronto Island Bicycle Rental . You can rent simple individual bikes, but they also have family bikes for rent (like tandem and quadricylces).

You could also book an organized tour that leaves from Toronto and brings you to the Toronto Islands on a bike tour. There’s a morning bike tour , and an evening bike tour with Viator.

Never forget a favourite travel memory

Keep track of your travels every day with my digital and printable travel journal . Use it on the go on your phone or tablet, or print it out!

P.S. Get an additional discount on my Etsy shop with my code ATRLOVE .

Play Disc Golf

If disc golf is your sport, you’re in luck!

Ward’s Island has a disc golf course that you can play on! Just watch out there are your regular obstacles. and now the addition of water as well!

Water Activities On The Island

Don’t forget your bathing suits when visiting Toronto Island!

If you’re travelling with kids, Toronto Island has not only one but two splash pads (both on Centre Island).

If you’re a bit too old for splash pads, don’t worry there are some other water activities you can enjoy.

Like I said, you have your pick of beaches, but you can also rent kayaks, canoes, or SUP (stand up paddles boards).

I would recommend The Toronto Island SUP between Wards & Centre Island. They offer rentals, lessons, and group activities. Or if you’re interested in a guided tour, book a Kayak or SUP eco tour through Viator.

What You’ll Need For A Day At The Toronto Islands

Like I said, there are restaurants on the Island, but none that you absolutely have to eat at.

So as I’ve said, I recommend packing a picnic lunch and blanket so you can enjoy lunch with the Toronto skyline view wherever you are ( shop a picnic blanket on Amazon , shop picnic lunch bags on Amazon )!

If you’re interested in any of the water activities, make sure to bring a bathing suit, a towel (I’d recommend this packable travel towel that dries quickly), and of course some flip flops.

The obvious things are of course sunscreen and water! You might also want to consider anything that you’ll need for any activities you want to do while you’re there. For example, if you’re planning on renting a bike, I always like to bring a simple bandana to put underneath the rented helmet.

And of course do not forget your camera ! The pictures you’ll get from here are unbelievable. P.S. if you want the best family photo, read my tips to see how to take the best ones !

P.S. Need A Place To Stay In Toronto?

I typically stay with family when I visit Toronto but I have stayed downtown once at the Radisson Blu Downtown Toronto. Located on Toronto’s harbour front, it was a very convenient location (plus you can upgrade your room for a view!). The highlight though of the hotel is by far the outdoor rooftop pool with an outstanding view of the CN Tower. See rates & availability on Booking.com.

If you’re looking to stay in downtown Toronto, One King West Hotel might be the one for you! Located on King Street you’re a short walk to all the main attractions, there are several tram stops, and the subway is just over a 5 minute walk away. See rates & availability on Booking.com.

Staying in Toronto can be quite expensive, Home in Downtown is budget friendly option to visiting the city. Although it has shared bathrooms, you have a private kitchen to use. Plus this apartment style stay has glowing reviews! See rates & availability on Booking.com .

See more accommodation options in Toronto on Booking.com .

P.S. If you’re looking for a long term stay for your family in Toronto, Industrial Luxe on Plum Guide has a minimum 30 night stay. You’ll be living in luxury the whole time you’re here with family movie nights on the projector and bean bags! See rates & availability on Plum Guide.

What’s Plum Guide? Get The Benefits Without The Risks

Plum Guide is all about quality over quantity. They vet every single home so you don’t have to and only accept only the top 3% of house rentals.

See accommodation options on Plum Guide .

Day Essentials For Visiting Toronto Island

The ultimate digital travel bundle: travel planner & daily travel journal

My digital travel planner template  has everything you need to plan your vacation. And keep track of your travels every day with my digital and printable travel journal .

See the bundle on Esty , and use my code ATRLOVE for an extra discount!

Read More Related Posts

• Top 10 Things To Do In Toronto (That Aren’t The CN Tower)
• Toronto To Montreal Drive: 11 Fun Stops Along The Way
• 10 Things To Do In Prince Edward County That Aren’t Drinking

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Last update on 2024-06-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Toronto Island Guide

Sunday 2nd of July 2023

Great article! If your users are interested in even more information, including insider tips/tricks from long-time island residents, they can check our our Island App.

https://torontoisland.guide

Let's keep building everyone's awareness of the beauty of the Toronto Island!

Monday 3rd of July 2023

This is greta! Thanks so much for sharing this!

Friday 23rd of June 2023

Thanks, Meghan. Really very informative - like you intuitively knew what I wanted to know. Great job!

Thursday 29th of June 2023

Thanks so much Gus! Glad to hear that :D Hope you have a great trip to the Toronto Islands!

Wednesday 10th of May 2023

Very informative, everything you need to know before you go to Toronto Islands. I think you have done a great job writing this article. Thank you

Thursday 11th of May 2023

Thank you so much for your kind comment! I really appreciate it :D

Information about Toronto Island, ferry schedule, map, park, attractions & more.

Toronto island.

The Toronto Islands - also called the Island, or Toronto Island Park - is located in Lake Ontario, a 13-minute ferry ride from downtown Toronto. Boats to the Island leave from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at the foot of Bay St. and Queen's Quay. The Island is actually a group of 15 islands inter-connected by pathways and bridges. You can walk from one end of the Island to the other.

The island is approximately 5kms long from Ward's Island to Hanlan's Point.

On this website you can find information about topics of general interest such as maps and directions , island ferry schedule , activities for kids, tours , beaches , bicycle rental and more.

Kids and adults of all ages can find something to do or see on the Island. There are beautiful swimming beaches (including a Clothing Optional Beach on Hanlan's Point!), sports facilities, bike, canoe and kayak rentals, a boating marina, large grassy fields for picnics, a theatre, nature paths, EMS and fire station, an amusement park and a charming 150 year-old community of 600 people living year-round in cottage-like homes.

You can walk, run or take your bike on the island, walk your dog (on a leash), visit the 200 year old lighthouse or the trout pond or have a coffee or beer at one of the restaurants . There are lockers at several busy locations, a pier, boardwalk, formal gardens, playgrounds, artists retreat and even a public grade school.

Map & directions

View a detailed map of Toronto Islands and directions to get to the island by car, bike, train or on foot.

Ferry terminal locations, directions, ticket prices and ferry schedule to get to and back from the islands. Ferry info

Marina details for visitors and boat owners. Read basic information about Toronto's island marinas. More

Centreville amusement park

Details about the Amusement park including directions, hours, tickets and info about the rides. Amusement park

Want to go for swim? Get a nice tan? Play beach volleyball? Find information about the island beaches here.

Picnic & BBQ

Find our where and when to have a picnic on the islands and how to prepare for your picnic and BBQ. Picnic and BBQ

• Centre Island

Planning a trip to Centre Island ? Read about the most popular island to find out how to get there and what to do when you arrive.

• Hanlan's Point

Hanlan's Point is located west of Centre Island - closest to the airport - home to a beach, tennis courts and lots of open space for fun and games. Hanlan's Point

Ward's Island

The island on the east side with a lovely cafe, playground, soccer field, beaches and more. Read all about it here. Ward's Island

The park, however, is a seasonal place that comes alive in May and stays buzzing until later September. During the winter months it's eerily quiet and most facilities are closed. Take a look at holidays in Canada to find out when the island gets really busy.

Anyone interested in Toronto Islands may also find Brampton's Chinguacousy Park a great destination for relaxation and entertainment. About an hour away from Toronto Island, Chinguacousy Park has a small ski hill, a curling rink, snowtubing, a large splash pad and wading pool (that is transformed into a skating rink in the winter), a dozen beach volleball courts, a track and field stadium, a petting zoo, pony rides, winding trails and several playgrounds.

Though the Billy Bishop Airport sits at the western end of the Toronto Islands, it is serviced by a different ferry system (and new tunnel), at the foot of Bathurst St. It is not accessible to visitors to Toronto Islands.

The view to the city is georgeous and the island itself is just as beautiful - it's a photographer's paradise indeed. And the best part? There are no cars allowed! (service cars exempt). If you've never been to the islands be sure to add it to your to-do list!

The island has plenty of garbage and recycling bins to help keep the grounds free of garbage - kudos to city staff for keeping it clean!

• Map and directions
• Comments and discussion
• Ferry schedule and info
• Centreville
• Bike rental
• Wards Island
• Restaurants
• Franklin gardens

Information about the Toronto Islands. Ferry service, map, rental, picnic and other amenities. This website is not affiliated with the City of Toronto. All content © copyright 2024. Contact     Privacy policy

Toronto to Anywhere

Ultimate Toronto Islands Guide: All You Need to Know

So you’ve heard all about the Toronto Islands, and you are wondering what there is to do and how to plan your visit to one of Toronto’s top attractions, Centre Island.

Well, keep reading, because I’ve got you covered with this complete Toronto Islands guide.

Growing up in Toronto, our family went to Centre Island every year, and it continues to be one of our favourite summer activities in Toronto. For just the cost of the ferry, visitors can enjoy parks, beaches, bike rides, and more!

Having visited the Toronto Islands dozens of times, I have all the information you need to plan the perfect day trip to the Toronto Islands 

What are the Toronto Islands?

The Toronto Islands are made up of 15 different islands in total. The main islands are Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point. Centre Island is located on Lake Ontario, about 2 km from downtown Toronto.

The islands are all walkable and connected by roads and bridges, making it easy to explore the different islands while visiting. The Toronto Islands are also vehicle-free (other than service and delivery vehicles).

The park is over 560-acres and stretches 5 km wide. With a park this size, it is easy to spend an entire day here on any of the islands.

Even returning year after year, I am amazed at all there is to do for all ages and during all seasons. This is definitely a place you should consider including on any Toronto Itinerary .

Getting to Centre Island

All the Toronto islands, including Centre Island, can be accessed by the Toronto Ferry, water taxis, or private boat.

Toronto Islands Ferry

The City of Toronto operates the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, located at the foot of Bay Street at Queen’s Quay West. In the summer, you can catch a 15-minute ferry ride to Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point, and Ward’s Island.

There is year-round ferry access to the islands, but the schedule is significantly reduced during the off-season. It’s always important to check the ferry schedule before you go.

Ferry tickets can be purchased at the gate or online, and boarding the ferry is on a first-come, first-served basis. The return fare for an adult is less than $20. Children are less than $10.

In the summer, particularly on the weekends, the ferries can get very busy and crowded. In my experience, while the ferry can get busy, I have never known the Toronto Islands to reach capacity. The park is huge!

You may have to wait in line for the next ferry, but you will eventually make it over to Centre Island. Of course, arriving early will help with the crowds and lines, particularly in the summer.

Centre Island Ferry Ride: What to Expect

The short ferry ride to Centre Island is definitely a cool thing to do while visiting Toronto! The 2-kilometer ride takes just 15 minutes, and you will get to see some of the most spectacular views of the Toronto skyline from the boat.

The upper deck is perfect for capturing an amazing view of the Toronto skyline, and the lower deck is covered and protected from the wind and rain. 

The ferries are wheelchair and stroller accessible, and there are washrooms on board. Dogs are also welcome on the ferry and on the islands, but must be leashed.

Bicycles are also allowed on the ferries at no additional cost. Please note that electric scooters, e-bikes, and motorcycles are not allowed on the ferry.

Helpful Tip: Head to the back of the boat on the upper deck to capture the best views of the Toronto skyline as you head over to the islands.

Taking a Water Taxi to Centre Island

Another option for getting over to Centre Island are water taxis. There are many water taxi options available, and tickets can be purchased online or at the boat.

Taking a water taxi over to Centre Island on a busy summer day can be one way to avoid the crowds. To get back to the city, you can either pay for a return ride or you can take the city ferry back for free!

Best Things to Do on the Toronto Islands

Once you arrive at Centre Island, there are more than enough activities to keep you busy from morning to night! Whether it’s riding a bike, visiting the amusement park, or relaxing on the beach, it’s easy to spend the entire day on the islands.

1. Visit Centreville Amusement Park

One of the most popular things to do at Centre Island is a visit to Centreville Amusement Park . With 30 rides, including bumper boats, a water log ride, and the iconic swan ride, it’s a fun thing to do with kids!

Of course, a visit to this amusement park will be an additional cost. In my experience, the best option for rides is to purchase an all-day pass online for $40.71 plus tax. Keep in mind that this online pass needs to be bought at least one day in advance.

Having been to Centre Island many times with children, if you do not plan on going on the rides, I recommend avoiding Centreville all together. With so many great things to do on the island, avoiding the rides may help you save some money.

On the other hand, Centreville is often considered a better alternative for younger children than the larger Canada’s Wonderland . The rides are fun, and the park is much more compact, so it’s easier to spend just a short time in this amusement park.

2. Relax on the Beach

The Toronto Islands are home to four of the best beaches in Toronto , including my personal favourite, Gibraltar Point Beach. Here you will also find the popular Centre Island Beach which is located close to all the amenities.

Any of the island beaches are perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, or simply lounging in the sun with a good book.

You may also want to wander over to the Centre Island Pier for an impressive view of the CN Tower and then grab a famous BeaverTail from the refreshment stand.

☞ See Also: Toronto’s Best Beaches: 16 Must-Visit Spots

3. Rent a Bike

Exploring Centre Island by bike is a fantastic way to get around and see even more of the islands. You have the choice to bring your own bike on board the ferry or rent one on the island.

The Toronto Island Bicycle Rental provides various bike rental options, from single bikes to tandem bikes, catering to all preferences. Keep in mind that you’ll need a valid ID to rent a bike on the island.

During the tourist season, it’s worth noting that bike rentals operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so there might be a wait for bikes.

Additionally, if you’re taking the ferry to the Islands, you’ll find ride-share options for bikes just outside the ferry docks terminal, offering you another bike rental option.

4. Catch the Sunset

Personally, my favourite activity is to watch the sunset on the Toronto Islands . Centre Island offers one of the best views of the city skyline. Scattered throughout the islands, there are several spots to capture an iconic view of Toronto.

While a prime spot is located on the south side of the island, close to the Centre Island Ferry Dock, I find the views near Ward’s Island Ferry Dock to be even more spectacular and much less crowded.

☞ See Also: 25 Best Sunset Spots in Toronto

5. Walk the Boardwalk

Taking a relaxing and scenic walk or bike ride along the Toronto Islands’ boardwalk is a simple yet beautiful experience that allows you to enjoy the amazing views of Lake Ontario.

This 1.5-kilometer boardwalk stretches from Ward’s Island to Centre Island, providing a picturesque pathway for visitors to explore.

6. Explore all the Islands

Visiting other islands, such as Ward’s Island and Algonquin Island, is a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of the Toronto Islands. With a history spanning over 150 years, these island communities offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s enduring appeal for its 700 residents.

While over here on Ward’s Island, you may want to check out Ward’s Island Beach. This beach is a little more secluded than the beach at Centre Island and is therefore usually a little less crowded.

Additional Island Activities

Of course, the list doesn’t end here! Additional Centre Island activities include playgrounds and a splash pad , an 18-hole disc golf course , Franklin Children’s Garden , a hedge maze, and even a petting zoo at Far Enough Farm for younger children. There is truly something for everyone on this beautiful island.

Where to Eat on the Toronto Islands

No trip to Centre Island is complete without trying some of the delicious food options available on the island. These locations offer a range of food choices, but do keep in mind that they can get quite busy, especially during the summer season, and many of them close after Labour Day in September.

If you’re on Centre Island, the Carousel Café is a great option with it’s fully licensed restaurant and patio beside Centreville.

On Ward’s Island, the Island Cafe , located near the Ward’s Island Ferry dock, offers delicious coffee, tasty treats, and impressive meals with an excellent menu. They also have a charming garden patio and occasionally host live music.

Update: The Island Cafe recently experienced a devastating fire and is currently closed. There are plans to reopen this island favourite, so please support this island business and visit once they get back on their feet!

For a different experience, visit The Riviera: Ward’s Island Kitchen , which includes a large patio and is just a 5-minute walk from the Ward’s Island Ferry Dock. They welcome reservations for groups of 8 or more and have seasonal hours.

Throughout Centre Island, there are lots of opportunities to buy ice cream, pizza, BeaverTails (a fabulous Canadian treat), and several licensed patios.

Bring a Picnic to Centre Island

Of course, sometimes the best dining option is to pack your own picnic lunch and enjoy a meal with stunning views of the Toronto skyline. There are plenty of picnic areas and picnic tables throughout the island, making it easy to find a spot to sit and relax for day trippers.

Visiting the Toronto Islands in the Fall

Visiting the Toronto Islands in the fall can be a great option if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway. The weather is still comfortable, and the islands are less crowded. Some popular fall activities include biking, hiking, and taking in the beautiful foliage.

Keep in mind that most amenities are closed, including Centreville and the bike rentals. Only a couple of restaurants are open, including the Riviera and Island Cafe, so you will need to bring snacks and drinks with you! That being said, it’s a fantastic place to visit in the autumn.

Visiting the Toronto Islands in the Winter

For a unique winter experience in Toronto , a visit to the Toronto Islands is one attraction to add to your list! While all of the activities and main attractions are closed, the islands offer a serene atmosphere to enjoy a winter walk and incredible winter views of the Toronto skyline.

If you do choose to come in the winter, however, be sure to dress appropriately! While beautiful, it can be very cold on the island.

Where to Stay Near the Toronto Islands

Disclaimer:  This page contains affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy  here .

If you’re looking for accommodations near Centre Island, you have a few great options to consider:

Westin Harbour Castle Hotel : This hotel is located right beside the ferry terminal on the Toronto waterfront. This large hotel offers stunning views, an indoor pool, and a newly renovated yoga and meditation studio.

Radisson Blu: This hotel is also located on the waterfront and is within walking distance of the ferry terminal. It also has a fantastic rooftop pool with awesome views of Lake Ontario.

Sheraton Centre Hotel: This hotel, while a bit further from the Toronto Islands, is my personal favourite.

It was recently renovated and is located across from the iconic Toronto sign at Nathan Phillip’s Square and the Eaton Centre Shopping Mall. Notably, it has an awesome year-round indoor/outdoor pool, which is a fantastic feature for guests.

⭐️ For further information on hotels in Toronto, visit my other articles: ☞ Honest Review of Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel ☞ Best Hotels in Toronto with a Pool

Centre Island FAQs

Can i take my bike over to centre island.

Yes! You can take your own bike to the Toronto Islands. The Toronto Islands are bike-friendly, and many visitors enjoy cycling around the islands to explore the scenery and attractions.

You can bring your own bike on the ferry, and once on the islands, you can ride around and explore at your own pace. There are also bike rentals on the islands during the tourist season.

Are dogs allowed on Centre Island?

Yes!  However, dogs must remain leashed at all times, as there are no off-leash dog parks anywhere on the islands.

Is there a clothing-optional beach on the Toronto Islands?

Yes! Hanlan’s Point Beach is a clothing-optional beach and is located on the west end of the island. As of March 2023, the entire beach is clothing-optional.

Are the Toronto Islands Worth Visiting?

The Toronto Islands are absolutely worth visiting and are one of the best things to do in Toronto in the summer ! It is such a unique experience to venture across Lake Ontario and over to Centre Island by boat.

There is so much to do on the islands including some of the best beaches in Ontario, Centreville Amusement Park, many parks and trails. I highly recommend a day on the islands, particularly if you are travelling to Toronto with kids.

Final Thoughts: Building Memories on Centre Island

Visiting Centre Island is one of my fondest childhood memories, and I continue to love bringing my own family to explore the islands year after year.

Each time I visit, there is something new to see and do. I am constantly amazed that the Toronto Island Park exists just 15 minutes from downtown Toronto. Visiting Centre Island is definitely on my list of best things to do when visiting Toronto .

My only caution is to ensure you plan appropriately to spend a day on an island. Centre Island is the busiest and most popular of all the islands, so you will want to prepare for some crowds during the prime summer months, and you will want to pack accordingly for the weather and lots of walking!

If you keep all these tips in mind from this Toronto Islands guide, a trip to Centre Island will be an unforgettable experience for the whole family!

Before You Go: More Toronto Posts

Now that you’ve read this article describing some of the best things to do on the Toronto Islands, you may be interested in exploring more of Toronto. Read my guide to the best beaches in Toronto , my list of things to do at Woodbine Beach , and my guide to visiting the Royal Ontario Museum .

If you are looking for more places to stay in Toronto, check out my list of the  best hotels in Toronto with a pool  and my  honest review of the Toronto Sheraton Centre Hotel .

Julie is a travel blogger from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She loves to travel and has learned so much from other travel bloggers that she now wants to share her travel knowledge with others.

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16 Top-Rated Things to Do on the Toronto Islands

Written by Michael Law Updated May 11, 2023

Author Michael Law lives near Toronto and enjoys visiting Toronto Islands in the summer.

Very few cities can boast about an island paradise just a 10-minute ferry ride from the concrete canyons of downtown. Fortunately, Toronto is on this shortlist. Easily accessible from downtown, this unhurried area is a fun place to visit for just about anyone.

Step off the ferry at any one of the three landings, and you'll find four beaches, an amusement park, a petting farm, splash pads, a maze, playgrounds, restaurants, and wide-open spaces perfect for picnics. Toronto Island Park , or the Toronto Islands as they're commonly known, is made up of 15 individual islands of all shapes and sizes. The canals between them are excellent spots for paddling a canoe, kayak, or stand up paddleboard (SUP). For those less inclined to strenuous activity, the canals are some of Toronto's best fishing spots.

Plan your excursion with our list of things to do on the Toronto Islands.

1. Lounge on the Beaches

2. take the kids to centreville amusement park, 3. visit the animals at far enough farm, 4. bike around the islands, 5. paddle the canals, 6. enjoy picnicking, playgrounds, and splash pads, 7. dine on the patios, 8. get lost in the william meany maze, 9. stop in at franklin children's garden, 10. stroll through the narrow lanes of algonquin island & ward's island, 11. walk the pier, 12. go fishing, 13. see the gibraltar point lighthouse, 14. cruise to the islands and go boat camping, 15. play disc golf, 16. attend a concert or festival, map of things to do on the toronto islands.

Toronto Island Park has the distinction of having four Blue Flag beaches, a hard-to-get certification for beach excellence. What that means to you is soft golden sands, clear clean water, and fun for all ages. All the beaches have lifeguards keeping a watchful eye on bathers.

The four beaches, some of the best beaches near Toronto , are spread across the island and face in three different directions: south, east, and southwest. Centre Island beach is the busiest on a hot day. It also has the most services, including a concession stand selling fast food, a restaurant with a great patio, bike rentals, lockers, changerooms, and washrooms. This beach has a large offshore breakwater, so the water is calm and warm.

If you want peace and quiet, head to Gibraltar Point beach or Hanlan's Point. Ward's Island beach is also fairly busy and has the added bonus of having the best restaurants nearby and easy access to the boardwalk.

Note that there are three ferry routes: They all leave from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal in Toronto. The routes are: Centre Island, Hanlan's Point, and Ward's Island. Choose the right route to ensure you have the shortest walk to your chosen beach.

Centre and Gibraltar beaches are about a 10- to 15-minute walk from the Centre Island ferry terminal. Ward's Island beach is closer, only a five- to 10-minute walk from the Ward's Island ferry terminal. Hanlan's Point beach is about a 15-minute walk from the Hanlan's Point ferry terminal. No matter which beach you choose, be prepared to walk or bike, and bring a small cart if you have lots of gear.

What could be more fun than a ferry ride and a day spent at an amusement park? Well, the answer probably depends on how old you are, but if you are under 10 years of age, the answer is likely an emphatic nothing! Centreville has been eliciting shrieks of delight from children for over 50 years and continues to be a popular destination.

Centreville is set up as an old western-style town, with winding streets underneath a large canopy of trees. No fee is charged to wander around or visit one of the 14 places to eat, but if you want to go on the rides, you'll need to purchase tickets.

The park has over 30 rides and amusements. They range from a log flume to a historic carousel, right through to spinning tea cups and sedate chairlift rides on the Sky Ride . To get an idea of the entire area, take a ride on the narrow gauge train that leaves from Centreville Train Station .

Feel like parting with some money? Test your skill and try and win a plush toy prize on one of the midway games in the games booth area. Bring your bathing suit for the impressive splash pad in the center of the park, it's one of the best in Toronto. Admission to the splash pad is free.

Over 40 different animals are just waiting to meet you and your children at the Far Enough Farm. Easily accessible by walking through Centreville Amusement park, you'll know you've reached it when you see the large red barn and antique tractor.

In operation for over 60 years, this free tourist attraction is a great way to interact with friendly farm animals and birds. Wide pathways wind their way around the animal pens, and the animals are always keen to secure a pet or two. Some of the most popular residents include the pot-bellied pig; Duke the buckskin horse; a Jersey cow; Billy Gruff, the pygmy Billy goat; and Huacaya, the friendly alpaca.

Far Enough Farm is actually a fully functioning farm with real farmers going about their daily chores. If you've got a question or two, they are usually happy to answer it for you.

One of the most popular activities on the Toronto Islands is biking. Over 20 kilometers of paved pathways crisscross the island and pass by all the main attractions. Toronto Island Park is a surprisingly large area with the distance from one end to the other clocking in at 4.5 kilometers. Exploring on two wheels is the best way to maximize your time.

Bicycles are welcome on the ferries with no additional fee . If you'd like to rent one, rentals are available from the concession at Centre Island Beach. Different types are available, including traditional bikes, tandem bikes, or the unique and fun four-seater quadricycles.

A couple of highlights of any bike trip on the islands include a ride along the boardwalk running from Centre Island Beach to Ward's Island Beach. Another popular route is a leisurely pedal around the unique homes on Algonquin Island with a stop to take pictures of the Toronto skyline. If you are biking from one end to the other, be sure to stop in and see the haunted Gibraltar Point Lighthouse dating from 1808.

Toronto Island Park has 15 islands, and interspersed between them are placid canals and narrow waterways that are best explored at water level. Bring your own canoe or rent a canoe (three adults or two adults and two children) or single or tandem kayaks at the Boat House.

Rentals are available by the hour, with discounts offered for longer. No paddling experience is necessary, and the water is shallow in most of the canals. Another popular activity is stand up paddleboarding. Board rentals along with kayaks are available through Toronto Island SUP, located near the Algonquin Bridge.

Exploring the waterways is a wonderful way to see wildlife, including wading birds like herons, ducks, geese, and even swans. Also, keep an eye out for turtles basking in the sun on partially submerged logs.

If you and your family crave some wide-open green space with somewhere for the kids to run wild while you enjoy a pleasant picnic, Toronto Island Park has you covered. Hundreds of picnic tables and free BBQs are spread throughout the park under large, leafy trees. Just pick your favorite and set up, relax, and unwind.

Some of the most desirable spots are just back from Centre Island Beach, where both a playground and a splash pad are side by side. A washroom facility is also nearby as is Franklin Children's Garden.

If all your wandering around Toronto Island Park has made you hungry or thirsty, it's likely time to head to the nearest patio. A variety of restaurants offer food and cold drinks on sunny patios.

One of the best places to visit for lunch and a drink is the Toronto Island BBQ right beside the Centre Island ferry terminal. Stunning views of the city will leave you slack-jawed and snapping photos non-stop, and the coming and going of the ferry provides a pleasant distraction.

For a garden setting under leafy trees with partial views out to Cherry Beach, head to the patio at The Riviera Ward's Island Kitchen . Light meals, cold drinks, and fantastic desserts are served at well-spaced tables, where quiet conversations and birdsong are the acoustic accompaniment to your meal. Just across the lawn from the Ward's Island ferry terminal is the delightful The Island Café .

Let your children run through the William Meany Maze, or take a turn yourself. Paths framed by over 1,200 black cedar trees lead every which way in the maze. The trees are surprisingly tall, in some cases over seven feet, and they do an excellent job of concealing all participants from one another.

Have fun trying to find your way to the center and remembering the way back out again as you follow trails that seem to go somewhere but eventually end up as a dead end. The William Meany Maze is a short walk from the Centre Island ferry terminal.

Parents of small children will likely be familiar with the Franklin the Turtle book series. At Toronto Island Park, the books come to life. A favorite for the youngest set, the garden features several interesting and exciting things to see and do, including Franklin's Pollination Station, the Snail Trail, Little Sprouts Garden, and Turtle Pond, among others.

Depending on the day, special programming is offered to children; just drop in when you are here to see what might be going on, you may even see Franklin himself!

It may come as a surprise that over 750 people live on Toronto Island Park on a permanent basis. Approximately 262 homes are spread throughout the area, with the majority being on Algonquin Island and Ward's Island.

As with the entire island, the neighborhoods are car-free, and the homes are situated along wide walkways. These neighborhoods are open to the public and are delightful places for a contemplative stroll or leisurely bike ride. Many of the homes are cottages, and the owners, in many cases, have done an exceptional job of gardening.

If you are looking for that iconic photograph of Toronto's skyline, wander through the Algonquin neighborhood northwards. Eventually, you'll come to the shoreline and its expansive views of the city.

Toronto, unlike many cities that are built on a lake, is sorely lacking in piers. Although the pier extending out into Lake Ontario at Centre Island Beach is nothing like Chicago's Navy Pier, it still has quite a bit going for it.

The pier, free to access, has the best views of Lake Ontario you'll see anywhere and is a great place for a selfie. Walk out to the end where it splits into a Y, and gaze out at the lake. To your left, you'll be able to see Cherry Beach and the Port Lands; to your right, the towers of Etobicoke and Mississauga are visible in the distance.

With so many canals and waterfront areas, it's no surprise that fishing is a popular activity in the park. A wide variety of fish are lurking below and range from small panfish like sunfish and pumpkinseed right through to jumbo northern pike, catfish, and largemouth bass.

You can fish from the rocky shoreline, a boat, docks, or along the canal edges. Which lure to use is up for debate (after all, this is fishing), but the general consensus is that live bait under a float, on a spinner, or a trusty jig will pull in something for sure.

Today the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse is hidden back in the trees, its prominence as one of the most important lighthouses on Lake Ontario as dim as its now decommissioned light. However, it's well worth seeking out as you pedal or walk along the pathways of Toronto Island Park.

First built in 1808, the lighthouse is made of limestone and is 25 meters tall. The original light was powered by sperm whale oil. The lighthouse is said to be haunted by the ghost of its original lightkeeper, John Paul Radelmuller, who was murdered by drunken soldiers on January 2, 1815.

Although it would be great to be able to climb to the top and check out the views across the island and back towards downtown Toronto, sadly this is not the case. The lighthouse is locked up tight with no plans to open it to the public.

Boat camping is one of the lesser-known activities in the park. Campsites located along the concrete wall (Hanlan's Wall) have tie-ups and shore power, making it an ideal location for docking your pleasure craft. It's a sociable place, with boaters from around the lakes bunking in for a night or two.

Moorage is available for up to 150 boats, with washrooms and showers located nearby. Picnic tables and BBQs are spread about the area. From here, it's a short walk to beautiful Hanlan's Point Beach.

If you've ever wanted to try the unusual, but growing in popularity, sport of disc golf, Toronto Island Park has a PDGA-certified course. The track winds its way throughout the forest and clearings for 18 challenging holes.

Some of the more beautiful holes run along the canals and even under the chairlift for Centreville Amusement Park. All you need to play is a flying disc and the willingness to try something new. No tee times need to be booked; it's just first come, first served. The course is easy to find; it's located just past the Boat House.

All summer long, the Toronto Islands are host to a variety of music concerts and festivals. One of the most popular is the Electric Island event, where world-famous DJs come to town and spin the latest tunes and creations to an undulating and gyrating crowd.

A close runner-up is the Toronto Islands Jazz Festival taking place in late summer. The cool and relaxing sounds of world-class jazz musicians draw an eclectic mix of attendees from across the province and across Canada.

What better place to enjoy reggae music than on an island? Every August, the Island Soul Festival fires up with live music, food, and dance performances. Not to be left out, the alternative music scene also has a festival in August that features unusual music styles and out-of-this-world artwork.

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A Guide to the Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are a chain of 15 small islands just offshore from Downtown Toronto. The Islands are considered to be the largest urban car-free community in North America. I’ve personally made it an annual tradition to visit the Toronto Islands in the summer, it’s such a fun day trip! I hope you enjoy this guide to visiting the Toronto Islands.

GETTING THERE

The most popular way to get to the Toronto Islands is by ferry, which is operated by the City of Toronto. The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal is located between Bay Street and Yonge Street on Queens Quay, just a short walk from Union Station. In the summer, there is usually quite a lineup to buy tickets and board the ferry. I recommend buying your ferry tickets online and arriving at the docks in the morning.

The ferry boats travel to three different Islands: Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point . The main attractions are on Centre Island, so it is by far the most popular. However, all of the Islands are connected so you can walk from one to another. You’ll have a great view of the Toronto skyline from the ferry!

More info on the Toronto Islands Ferry: https://www.torontoisland.com/ferry.php

I usually take the ferry to Centre Island because that is where the Toronto Island Bicycle Rental is located. My absolute favourite thing to do on the Toronto Islands is to rent a bike and ride around the different islands. In the summer, wait times for bikes can be high, so I recommend renting in the morning. Single bikes, tandem bikes, 2 seater quadricycles, and 4 seater quadricycles are available – so fun!

I highly recommend biking over to Ward’s Island . There’s a great boardwalk along the water to ride on. You should also explore the little neighbourhood there – the homes are the cutest!

NOTE: A valid I.D. and a cash deposit are required for bike rental.

More info on the Toronto Island Bicycle Rental: https://www.torontoislandbicyclerental.com/

The Toronto Islands have several beaches where you can relax and hangout. There’s Centre Island Beach, Gibraltar Point Beach, Ward’s Island Beach, and Hanlan’s Point CLOTHING OPTIONAL Beach.

WATER ACTIVITIES

You can rent canoes and kayaks at The Boat House , which is located near the Toronto Island Bicycle Rental. I’ve never done this before but I would love to!

More info on The Boat House: https://www.torontoisland.com/boathouse.php

GIBRALTAR POINT LIGHTHOUSE

An interesting landmark to visit on the Islands is the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse . Built in 1808, it is the oldest existing lighthouse on the Great Lakes, and one of Toronto’s oldest buildings. The lighthouse is known for the murder of its first keeper, John Paul Radelmüller, in 1815. Local legend is that the lighthouse is haunted by John Paul’s ghost!

CENTREVILLE AMUSEMENT PARK

Once the crowds have dissipated, I like to end my day on the Toronto Islands at the Centreville Amusement Park . Most of the rides are for children, but the Sky Ride chair lift is for all ages and it has great views of the lake, the Islands, and Downtown Toronto!

More info on the Centreville Amusement Park: https://www.centreisland.ca/centreville-amusement-park

FAR ENOUGH FARMS

Located next to the Centreville Amusement Park is Far Enough Farms . Visiting the animals at the farm is one of my favourite parts of the day. In the small barns, you can pet the donkeys and piglets for a donation of your choice. They are so cute! 

More info on Far Enough Farm: https://centreisland.ca/far-enough-farm

WHERE TO EAT

Dining options are limited on the Toronto Islands but my absolute favourite place to eat is Island Cafe on Ward’s Island. This restaurant has lovely outdoor garden seating and the food is great.

Some other options are The Riviera – Ward’s Island Kitchen, Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co., The Island Greek Grill, and Carousel Cafe . There are also fast food options at the Centreville Island ferry port, the Centreville Amusement Park, and the Centreville Island Pier.

Another great option is to bring a picnic with you on your day trip to the Toronto Islands!

I hope you enjoyed this guide to visiting the Toronto Islands!

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The Ultimate Toronto Island Guide: How To Get There and Things To Do

Toronto Island , also known as the Toronto Islands , and Toronto Island Park , is a collective group of 15 islands spanning 600 beautiful acres interconnected by bridges and pathways.

A short ferry ride on Lake Ontario over Toronto Island gives you the perfect city escape with lots of things to do!

With stunning views, quiet strolls, beaches, picnic areas, and great cafes, a visit to the Toronto Islands is a fun activity for families, couples, and solo visitors!

Ferry services run to one of three main islands: Ward’s Island, Centre Island, and Hanlan’s Point, and allows frequent and convenient service back and forth between Jack Layton Ferry Terminal along the Toronto Harbourfront.

The Toronto Islands is a vehicle-free zone (aside from work vehicles) making this a great pedestrian-friendly place to visit. It’s easily walkable – in fact, the whole stretch of islands is roughly 5 km and can be walked in about an hour from point to point!

Don’t rush it though, there is a lot of fun stuff to see along the way!

Ready to visit the Toronto Islands? Check out this guide on how to make the most out of your visit and what to do on Toronto Island.

This post contains affiliate links   which means I earn compensation when you click on the links at absolutely no extra cost to you! Feel free to read my  disclosure policy .   Thank you for supporting my blog!

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Are the Toronto Islands Worth Visiting?

Toronto Island is definitely worth visiting! I can’t believe I’ve never been before, even though I lived in Toronto while I was going to school. While it’s a short ride over on the ferry, being on the Toronto Islands feels as though you’re worlds away!

With picturesque scenery, adorable architecture, the cutest cafes, beautiful, paved trails and boardwalks, lots of picnic areas, beaches, and so much more, a visit to the Toronto Islands is worthwhile!

Check out the Toronto Islands map

This inexpensive activity is a great break from the city and a great day trip without having to leave Toronto at all!

If you need a place to stay while visiting the Toronto Islands, it’s important to know that there is no place to stay there overnight. You will have to book accommodations downtown Toronto, and there are a lot of options!

It comes as no surprise that Toronto can be expensive when it comes to accommodations. Keep an eye out for Travelzoo and Groupon deals to save some money!

How To Get To The Toronto Islands

If you live in Toronto, you’ll want to head to Jack Layton Ferry Terminal . This is located along the Toronto Harbourfront, and more specifically, at 9 Queen’s Quay , which is at the intersection of Queens Quay and Bay St.

If you’re arriving from outside of Toronto, there’s a good chance you’re either driving yourself or taking the GO Train.

If you are driving to Toronto and are looking for parking near the ferry terminal to Toronto Island, the closest parking lot is located right at Harbour St and Bay St, at 30 Bay St. Pricing as of June 2023 was $25/day .

If you are arriving by GO Train to Union Station, it’s a quick 10 minute walk straight down Bay St to the ferry terminal!

P.s. Take advantage of the GO Transit promotions! If you’re travelling mid-week, you can get weekday group passes and save money vs. purchasing individual tickets. On weekends and holidays, you can purchase a $10 all-day ride pass , or if you’re visiting Toronto (or anywhere else GO Transit goes!) then you can purchase a $15 weekend ride pass.

Taking The Toronto Island Ferry

The easiest and cheapest way to get to Toronto Island is by ferry. The Toronto Island Ferries running back and forth to the Toronto Islands are available every 30-40 minutes, and you don’t need to prebook a time!

The Toronto Island Ferry departs from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal , located at 9 Queens Quay West. The easiest landmark is to look for the Westin Harbour Castle, as the ferry terminal is right beside it!

You can choose to board the ferry to Ward’s Island, Centre Island (most popular) or Hanlan’s Point. Your ticket is valid for any of the three.

You also do not have to show your ticket to return! They actually took my printed copy when we went through the gate. Tickets as of 2023 cost $9.11 per adult roundtrip . You can purchase Toronto Island tickets directly from the ferry terminal, or you can purchase online .

In fact, when you purchase tickets online, you can use them at any point during the same calendar year!

Keep in mind that if you plan to visit the Toronto Islands during the summertime, lineups to purchase ferry tickets can be quite lengthy. I’d recommend buying tickets online; there is a separate gate for those who already have pre-purchased tickets and you’ll be able to skip through any ticket lineups. 

Check out the Toronto Island Ferry Schedule for the most up-to-date departures.

The ferry is an enjoyable 10 minute ride from the Harbourfront to Toronto Island. You can get some amazing shots of Toronto from this angle from the upper deck during this smooth ride over.

There are benches available for seating, but if it’s busy there’s a good chance you’ll have to stand for the ride (which is okay if you want to get some great shots!).

Taking a Water Taxi to Toronto Island

If you want to avoid lengthy lineups for the ferry over to Toronto Island, you can opt to take a quick water taxi ride!

For only a couple dollars more ($12.50/adult), you can zip across to either Centre Island, Ward’s Island, or Hanlan’s Point. It’s important to note that pricing is per way, so if you don’t want to pay $25 round trip, choose to hop on one of the Toronto Island ferries going back to the mainland.

Bikes, strollers, and dogs are free on all water taxi services.

Toronto Harbour Water Taxi

• $12.50/person. Debit and credit card transactions are an additional $1. 
• Two locations to board at – 5 Queens Quay West and 207 Queens Quay West. 
• Goes to Hanlan’s Point, Centre Island, and Ward’s Island
• Paid parking is available at Ontario Square, Harbourfront Centre, at 225 Queens Quay West. This is a 3 minute walk from either dock.
• Monday – Thursday: 9:00am – 10:00 pm
• Friday and Saturday: 9:00 am – 11:00 pm
• Off peak (May and October) are determined day to day
• Fun tiki themed water taxi travels to Hanlan’s Point and Centre Island.
• Departs from 437 Queens Quay West (at the end of Spadina)
• $12/person. Passes available. Cash and credit card available.
• Monday – Friday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
• Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm

Toronto Harbour Tours Water Taxi

• $12.50/person. Debit and credit card transactions are an additional $1.50.
• Departs from 145 Queens Quay West.
• Weekday departures every 15 minutes, and every 5-10 minutes on weekends.

Pirate Taxi

• Pirate themed water taxis travel to Hanlan’s Point, Centre Island, and Ward’s Island.
• $12/person. Ride passes available. Tickets can be bought online .
• Debit and credit cards accepted only.
• Two locations to board at – 375 Queens Quay West and 285 Queens Quay West
• Sunday – Thursday: 10:00 am – 9:00 pm
• Friday and Saturday: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

Which Island Should You Visit: Hanlan’s Point, Centre, Or Ward’s Island?

Wondering which Toronto Island to visit? Fortunately, they’re all so close together (about an hours’ walk from end to end!) so you can visit all of them in a day!

Ward’s Island

Ward’s Island is the residential island of Toronto Island. Yes – there are people that live here year round!

Adorable cottages await you at every turn and no two are alike. English-style gardens skirt the sides of the homes and walking down the residential streets is like walking into a fairy tale!

The homes on Ward’s Island remind me of the Painted Ladies of Historic Grimsby Beach !

Fun fact: Houses rarely go up for sale on Ward’s Island. In fact, there is a lottery with 500 names on the list. Only people whose name is on the list are able to buy one of the homes on Ward’s Island. Since 1994, only 70 homes have been sold, at an average of 1-2 a year. When a home comes up for sale, offers go out to the top 150 people on the list. Interested buyers have to pay $50 annually to stay on the list!

Centre Island

Centre Island is the most popular island people go to when visiting Toronto Island.

While all three are walkable, Centre Island is the place most catered to visitors. There is close access to places to eat, washroom facilities, bike rentals, beaches, Far Enough Farm, and Centreville Amusement Park!

Hanlan’s Point

Hanlan’s Point is home to the Great Lakes’ oldest surviving lighthouse: Gibraltar Point Lighthouse.

It’s also known for its nude beach (if that’s your thing!) and lots of places to play sports. It’s the quietest of the three main islands. It’s also the best side of the island to watch the sunset. 

How Long Do You Need On the Toronto Islands?

How long you spend on the Toronto Islands is really up to you! If you’ve never been before, I highly recommend doing what we did on our first visit. Arrive early, walk from one end to the other, and stop at a few cafes to rehydrate and to refuel! 

My husband and I spent 6 hours on Toronto Island. We could’ve easily stayed longer and enjoyed the views along the waterfront for hours. Picnic benches and colourful Adirondack chairs dot the shoreline and provide amazing views of the CN Tower and city skyline. 

If you are visiting with kids during the summer and going to the Centreville Amusement Park, I’m sure they will dictate to you how long you’ll be spending there! There are all kinds of fun rides (over 30!), a petting zoo, and picnic areas that the whole family will enjoy.

Getting Around the Toronto Islands

Toronto Island is very walkable, but be prepared it is a fair bit of walking if you really want to see everything! We clocked in 20,000 steps and 14 km during our 6 hours on Toronto Island, but we really saw it all (except perhaps the nude beach!).

If walking from point to point on the Toronto Islands really isn’t your cup of tea, you can rent bikes. This is definitely something we want to do on our next visit. You can rent single bikes, tandem bikes, or even 2-seater and 4-seater quadricycles!

Bikes are rented by the hour at a reasonable $10-$38, depending on which bike you rent. If you split it between your group, it’s an economical way of getting around the Toronto Islands!

Don’t worry about getting lost, there is lots to see and enjoy if you happen to make a wrong turn. There are lots of maps posted around the islands, with great scenery along the way.

Where to Eat on Toronto Island

Before going to Toronto Island, I didn’t really expect much in the way of cafes and eateries. We were pleasantly surprised! We found a number of charming and quaint cafes that made the perfect spot to relax and soak in the views.

We stopped by the Island Cafe for a cold drink after walking around all morning and it was so spacious and colourful! There were a ton of food and beverage options here (including vegan) and had the most relaxing atmosphere to just sit and enjoy the ambience.

We also stopped by the Riviera . This caught my eye while we were walking along the boardwalk because the patio is huge and is shaded with beautiful large trees, and an old white building covered in ivy. We opted to rehydrate (😂) with their margarita pitcher! 

For lunch we stopped by Toronto Island BBQ & Beer Co based on reviews from other visitors. My husband had the burger and fries and I opted for a power bowl with brisket, which was delicious! Food is a bit pricey (as is to be expected in a tourist area right by the ferry dock) but the views were unbeatable. Watch your food items, because those seagulls can be sneaky!

For a quieter vibe, head over to the Upper Deck at the Marina, just a short walk from Toronto Island BBQ. Its peaceful patio is nestled within the marina surrounded by boats with views of the CN Tower. Prices were very reasonable here for food.

Things To Do on Toronto Island

If you’re asking “is there anything to do on Toronto Island ?” The answer is a resounding YES!

Whether you choose to take time to experience some peace and quiet and sit on some cute chairs along the shoreline, relax on the beach, soak in some views, dine at some great cafes, or take advantage of the entertainment on Toronto Islands, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Here is just a sampling of all the things to do on Toronto Island!

Visit the Centreville Amusement Park

If you don’t want to go all the way to Canada’s Wonderland for some fun rides, you can easily hit up Centreville Amusement Park on Toronto Island!

Just a short walk from Centre Island ferry dock, Centreville Amusement Park is an amazing place to visit for family fun and is open from May to September. The hours vary throughout the week, so it’s best to check their online schedule and hours in advance to help plan your visit!

Entrance to Centreville Amusement Park is free, but tickets or passes are required to ride. There are over 30 rides to pick from!

If you purchase online (at least a day in advance), all day ride passes are $40.71 + tax for those 4’ and up, and $31.64 for kids under 4’. You can also purchase season passes and family passes, so you have lots of options to pick from! You can also buy tickets and passes on-site for a slightly higher price.

Say hello to animals at Far Enough Farm

Far Enough Farm is a great interactive experience with farm animals that live on the Toronto Islands! It’s one of Toronto’s oldest attractions and has been operating since 1959. You’ll find goats, donkeys, mini horses, and lots more, even peacocks! There are 40 species of farmyard animals and exotic birds to see.

Located right beside the Centreville Amusement Park, Far Enough Farm has multiple paddocks and enclosures to view and interact with animals. Even though I grew up in the country, I always love seeing animals, and it’s an exciting opportunity for city kids to see some cute animals up close and personal!

The animals at Far Enough Farm are here during the spring summer and are brought back to their farm just north of Toronto during the fall and winter, so if you’re visiting during the warm weather months, be sure to stop by!

Admission to Far Enough Farm is free!

Snap a photo of Gibraltar Point Lighthouse

While you’re visiting Toronto Island, head over to Hanlan’s Point to visit the Great Lakes’ oldest surviving lighthouse, one of Toronto’s oldest buildings, and Canada’s second oldest surviving lighthouse! Gibraltar Point Lighthouse was built in 1808 to protect ships from running aground into Toronto harbour.

It’s made entirely of stone from Queenston near Niagara Falls and towers 82 feet high. It’s actually not located along the shore, but rather it’s situated quite a distance from the water. It hasn’t been moved since it was built, and where it’s now situated is due to a build up of sand that now puts it 100 feet from the beach!

Its lamps were fuelled with hundreds of gallons of whale oil for years before switching to coal, and eventually, an electric light was installed in 1917. The colour of the light was changed to green in 1945 to distinguish 

Gibraltar Point Lighthouse is famous for its tale of its first lighthouse keeper. JP Rademueller was murdered by two soldiers from Fork York. His body was never to be confirmed, although a skeleton nearby raises suspicions if it’s his or not. 

It’s said that his ghost returns every summer, and during the night, his howls can be heard from one end of the island to the other.

Get some sun on Toronto Island beaches

If you’re looking for an easy day trip from Toronto to a beach, just hop on a quick 10 minute ferry to the Toronto Islands!

There are a number of beaches here to enjoy with full amenities – bathrooms, changerooms, access to bike and canoe/kayak rentals, and restaurants and cafes, making it a great escape from the city!

Relax on the beach on Centre Island at Centre Island Beach (also known as Manitou Beach), which is the main beach that most people venture to. There’s a pier to walk on with close access to all the amenities you may need.

Centre Island Beach has the calmest, shallowest, and warmest water of the three main beaches on Toronto Island because of the rock breakwater built to provide a barrier from Lake Ontario.

For those seeking a bit more quiet and solitude, head over to Hanlan’s Point to Gibraltar Point Beach. It’s a stone’s throw from Gibraltar Point Lighthouse (and artist residencies!).

You also have the option to continue further to Hanlan’s Point Clothing Optional Beach. It should be noted that there is a clothing-mandatory section of this beach. This beach on the Toronto Islands has amazing views of the Toronto skyline and is one of the best spots to watch the sunset!

My favourite beach on Toronto Island is Ward’s Island Beach. You can easily follow the pathway along the islands until you reach a 1.5 boardwalk that skirts along the lake, through adorable cottages, and straight to the beach.

Which Toronto Island beach will you choose?

Enjoy a picnic with a view

When we were arriving on the ferry, I could already see how many picnic spots there were with great views of Toronto! It seemed like there were endless places to picnic along the shoreline with tons of picnic tables, Adirondack chairs, and firepits!

This trend of finding family-friendly picnic areas continued around the Toronto Islands, with lots of beautiful shaded spots to sit and relax. You’re actually encouraged to walk on the grass on Toronto Island, so there’s space for everyone to enjoy a picnic or just lounge in the sun with a gentle breeze!

Bike your way around Toronto Island

Biking around Toronto Island is a fantastic way to get around! My husband and I walked around which is entirely manageable, but in hindsight, on a 30 degree day, a bike would’ve been more fun!

You can rent a bike hourly from Island Bicycle Rental which is located right by the pier and Centre Island Beach. It’s about a 10 minute walk from the Centre Island ferry dock.

You can rent a bike daily from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. You can rent a single bike for $10/hour, a tandem bike for $19/hour, or my favourite: the tandem 2 seater!

We saw tons of these around the island and it looked like so much fun! The tandem 2 seaters are $20/hour and you can even rent a 4 seater for $38/hour.

Good to know: You will be required to leave an ID (like your driver’s license) behind while you’re out biking as a deposit.

Walk along a 1.5 km boardwalk

Toronto Island is home to the longest boardwalk I’ve ever been on! Located on Ward’s Island, this 1.5 km boardwalk stretches from close by the pier all the way to Ward’s Island Beach! 

It’s a lovely stroll along Lake Ontario with lots of little cut-throughs if you decide to hop on the main paved trail to access cafes or washrooms.

Admire the Architecture

We instantly fell in love with the homes on Toronto Islands. These little cottages are all unique and just so cute! Colourful homes and ornate gardens make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.

Take your time strolling the streets and appreciating how special these homes really are! If you’ve ever been to the Painted Ladies of Historic Grimsby Beach , you’ll notice a lot of similar qualities. While these homes aren’t of the Victorian era, they all appear as though they’ve been plucked from a child’s story book.

Soak in the views of the Toronto Skyline

There are endless spots to take amazing photos of the Toronto skyline! I took so many photos when we visited but I couldn’t decide which one I loved the most! 

All along the waterfront there are lots of opportunities to go and snap a shot. My favourite by far is from Ward’s Island. 

A tiny beach called Freda’s Garden and Beach is nestled in an adorable community and has a gorgeous garden which provides a perfect backdrop for the CN Tower and the Toronto skyline.

There is no bad view of Toronto from the Toronto Islands!

Canoe in Calm Waters

In addition to renting bikes on Toronto Island, you can also rent canoes and kayaks! The water is so calm around the islands, providing a great opportunity for a relaxing paddle. 

Canoe and kayak rentals can be found beside the bike rentals, right by the pier and Centre Island Beach.

Canoes are $30/hour and a solo kayak is $19/hr. You can also rent tandem kayaks for $38 for the first hour. 

Good to know: You will be required to leave an ID (like your driver’s license) behind while you’re out kayaking as a deposit.

You can also rent SUP boards from Toronto Island SUP ! Prices range from $30 -$90  for the first hour depending on which board you want to rent, and a smaller fee for each additional hour.

Find Toronto Island SUP at 4 Channel Avenue on Centre Island.

More things to do on Toronto Island

• Play Disc Golf at one of many nets scattered throughout the islands.
• Get lost at William Meany Maze, located right by the fountain on your way to the pier.
• Pay a visit to St. Andrew’s by the Lake church. It was built in 1884!

Toronto Island Park Tips

• Bring a hat and sunscreen! While many areas are shaded, some of the paths are not. Be mindful of the heat and be prepared! For those who love to wear ponytails, this is my absolute favourite hat to wear!
• Bring cash or card for snacks, meals, and drinks! Or, pack a picnic!
• Bikes are welcome on the ferry.
• The Toronto Islands are dog-friendly!

Related Posts

• How to get from Toronto to Niagara Falls
• 5 Fun Things to do in Collingwood this Year
• 10 Tips to Make the Most of your trip to Canada’s Wonderland
• How to Spend a Day at Scenic Caves Nature Adventures
• The Best Beaches to Visit in Niagara this Summer

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There are so many fun things to do on the islands, especially in the summer! I love the views and the lighthouse is one of my favourites! And I agree the homes on Ward’s are like the Grimsby ones.

Toronto Island definitely makes for the perfect summer getaway!

I love how just jumping on a ferry can make it feel like we are world’s away from our job and obligations. I definitely want to visit Toronto a island.

Parker can come, too! It’s a great place to visit with dogs as well 🙂

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Guide to Visiting the Toronto Islands in 2024

Looking to visit the Toronto Islands?

You’ve certainly come to the right place because I live in Toronto and have been visiting the islands for years.

This guide to visiting the Toronto Islands will allow you to get the most from your trip. This is a place I visit often, both in summer and in the colder months as it is a different world out here from the nearby city. Accessible from downtown Toronto and public transit all year round they are a gem in the city that is sometimes overlooked.

Things to do on the Toronto Islands in Summer

1. enjoy the rides at centreville amusement park.

The Centreville Amusement Park is for families with young children and is open from May to September each year. This Toronto Islands park has over 30 rides including the Beasley Bear Ride, Rockin’ Ferry, Skyride across the park, and my favourite the Log Flume Ride where you may get wet. A great family activity is the mini golf course although I find it to be pretty easy.

Right next door is Far Enough Farm, a kids’ petting zoo where the donkey craves attention but then so do the goats. Actually, there are over 40 types of animals and exotic birds to be found here. Although it is a kids petting farm I always love walking through this area.

2. Take a Toronto Island Tram Tour

A ride of about 30 minutes provides a good orientation if you have not been to the islands before. There is a taped commentary providing information on highlights along the way and the driver sometimes slows down so you can take pictures.

3. Go for a swim at one of the beaches

There are 4 beaches plus 2 splash pads located on the Toronto Islands.

• Ward’s Island Beach – I take the ferry to Ward’s Island and when I arrive I take a short walk directly across the open area to the other side in about 5 minutes where you will find the beach. Although small the beach is a favourite for many as it is cleaner and quieter with fewer people than some of the others. The water here is calm as it is protected by the Leslie Street Spit (Tommy Thompson Park) which you can see.
• Centre Island Beach (Manitou Beach) – the most popular beach is reached by taking the ferry to Centre Island ferry docks and following the paved path past a restaurant, over a bridge, and continuing by the Avenue of the Islands Gardens for about 10 minutes until reaching the pier and Manitou Beach. There are change rooms, lockers, bicycle rental, a bar, and several food outlets located here.
• Gibraltar Point Beach – a little further than Centre Island Beach taking about a 20-minute walk from the Toronto Island Ferry. It is the quietest beach and away from the crowds which is why some people prefer it. There are more waves than found at Ward’s Island Beach.
• Splash Pads – one is close to Saturn Playground and the Centre Island Beach and the Willam Meany Maze. The second splash pad is located in the Centreville Amusement Park. There is no charge to use either of the Toronto Island splash pads.
• Hanlan’s Point Beach – is not for everyone as a portion is the only clothing-optional beach in Toronto. You can access it by taking the Hanlan’s Point ferry and taking a short 15-minute walk on the paved paths.

4. Take a walking tour of the Toronto Islands

I have 2 walking routes I do on the island including one for a half day including Ward’s Island, Algonquin Island and the boardwalk described in greater detail below. This is where you will get the best views of the Toronto skyline. I also do a much longer walk that goes across the entire island but due to ferry schedules is only practical in summer and is also described below in greater detail.

5. Explore the William Meany Maze

The William Meany Maze is fun for the kids, and really not too hard although it can be muddy at times. It replaced the original maze built in 1967 for Canada’s Centennial Year which was getting a bit tired. For this newer edition, 1,200 Black Cedar trees were planted to create the winding design of the hedge maze. It is open all year long and is free for everyone. There are washrooms nearby and it can be reached while walking to Manitou Beach.

6. Visit the Franklin Children’s Garden

Inspired by Franklin the Turtle (a children’s book) there are inactive sections for kids to explore (for free). They include:

• Little Sprouts Garden – where kids learn to plant and grow a garden
• Snail Trail – which takes kids to the highest point on the Toronto Islands via a winding trail surrounded by meadows
• Hide and Seek Garden – there is a tree house, vine tunnel, and sculptures of Franklin and Rabbit
• Franklin’s Pollination Station – educational garden to learn about the role pollination plays
• Pine Grove – more sculptures of Franklin and friends plus the opportunity to collect pine cones
• Turtle Pond – a wetland with turtles, frogs, and more

7. Go for a bike ride

If you want bike rentals there is a shop near the pier on Centre Island. For more fun, you can rent tandem bikes.

However many cyclists including myself bring their own bike using the Ward’s Island Ferry (which runs all year) and then ride to Hanlan’s Point and back. As no cars are permitted on the island (except city vehicles) this is how the residents of Ward’s Island and Algonquin Island get around. Electric scooters, motorcycles or e-bikes over 40 kilograms are not allowed in the park.

There are also easy 3 1/2-hour morning and evening guided bicycle tours of the islands.

8. Play a game on the Disc Golf Course

I attempted this once but it was a bit of a challenge but was fun. Bring your own frisbee and head to the course on the eastern side of Centre Island. Idea to throw your frisbee into the next hoop and you work your way around the course.

9. Have a picnic

While there are restaurants such as the Island Cafe and food stalls around Toronto Island Park it is a great place to bring a lunch as there are numerous picnic tables scattered in different sections of Centre Island. Many organizations also rent space from the City of Toronto for group picnics.

10. Go boating on the canals

Take the ferry to Centre Island and follow the walkway just over the bridge before turning left. Here you will find the boat house which rents canoes and kayaks allowing you to roam the channels.

11. Bird Watching

Parts of the Toronto Islands are considered environmentally significant areas especially the nature reserve near the water filtration plant and a variety of migrating birds can be spotted in the spring and fall. Anytime expect to see mostly ducks.

12. Try your luck Fishing

As long as you have a valid  Outdoors Card and a fishing license tag , you can fish almost anywhere on Toronto public lands.

13. Toronto Harbour Cruise

Another way to see the Toronto Islands is to join one of the Toronto Harbour Cruises departing from the mainland. There are many choices but they basically cross Toronto Harbour and cruise the Island canals, many have meal options on board. Nothing better than a relaxing day on the water in the sunshine in summer!

Toronto Islands one-hour cruise or two-hour tall ship cruises are available. For something a bit different why not try the Sunset Canoe tour ?

Things to do on the Toronto Islands in Winter

First-time visitors to the Toronto Islands in Winter are always surprised at what a great experience a visit is at this time of year.

14. Skating the canals

Weather permitting, go skating on the canals noting where the knowledgable local residents go as there could be open water in a few sections. The residents frequently will bike over to the best spots to skate just leaving them along the shore. Also, expect some of the local residents to pull up lawn chairs on the ice to watch the action as there is sure to be a pickup hockey game.

15. Winter walking tour

Visit the cottage communities in winter, walk the boardwalk although it can get icy at times and out on the pier stretching out into Lake Ontario. You may also wish to see Gibraltar Lighthouse. See my detailed winter walking route below.

16. Cross-country ski

Be active by cross-country skiing or go on a snowshoe walk across the parklands. The distance from Ward’s Island to Hanlan’s Point is 5.25 km one way.

Relax and enjoy a coffee and dessert at the comfy Riviera Island Kitchen (formerly the Rectory Cafe) on Ward’s Island. I especially love sitting outside on the patio in summer amidst all the trees.

Toronto Islands Suggested Walking Route

Loop 1 – short version of my walking route (summer or winter).

This brief walking tour takes about 3 1/2 hours and is 9 kilometres long including a break for a snack. This is my first day walk on January 1st every year but can be done anytime all year long.

Use the Ward’s Island Ferry. Starting from the ferry dock I head to my left towards Ward’s Island community and walk up the lanes looking at all the interesting cottages and odds and ends scattered throughout the yards. The homes are close to the walkways and each other and you will see the occasional cat. There are heated washrooms located at the south end near the playing fields and beach.

After the stroll through the cottage head toward Ward’s Island Beach. The beach is named after a fisherman and his family who settled on Toronto Island in 1830. Ward’s Island Beach is far less touristy than the one on Centre Island and is good for walking, even in the winter. You will most likely see a few dog walkers along the shore.

Turn right and head across the field to the road and over the bridge to Algonquin Island. On arrival, you will see a wagon where residents trade items they no longer need, but you can walk to the left passing the houseboats parked along the shores of the canals and skaters too. Visit the lanes of this community with larger homes still packed with interesting odds and ends on their yards. There are splendid views of the Toronto waterfront as well.

Return back across the bridge and continue straight passing the Riviera Island Kitchen until reaching the Boardwalk. The view seems to change every year I do this walk.

Turn right and continue along the entire length of the Boardwalk looking out over the lake and nearby Leslie Street Spit with its lighthouse. When you reach the end continue along the road until arriving at the pier which juts out into Lake Ontario. In summer this is where you can rent bicycles.

Insider Tip : the heated washrooms located just west of the Centre Island plaza near the bridge are open all year. There are benches and a picnic shelter for a snack or lunch break.

Coming off the pier head straight towards Centre Island passing the Avenue of the Islands Gardens and on your left is the course for boat races. Cross the bridge and walk immediately to your right passing the restaurant to Far Enough Farm.

Only open in the summer there are animals such as goats, pigs and donkeys in residence. Circle through the farm and exit via Centreville Amusement Park which is a ghost town in winter but very active in winter.

Head back across the bridge turn immediately left and follow the pathway past the boathouse and St. Andrews by the Lake Church and follow all the way to the Ward’s Island ferry. Be sure you are aware of the ferry times.

Loop 2 – Longer walking tour of Toronto Islands

This walking tour takes you across the entire island and is best done in the summer when all the ferries are operating. I do loop 1 as above except after crossing the bridge I head in the opposite direction. You can stop at one of the restaurants or food stalls in Centre Island for lunch but I usually just bring my own.

Heading back over to Centre Island with some gardens and ponds in front of you. To the right are heated public washrooms, open all year. So head that way to the maze and Franklin Children’s Gardens which I tour.

In summer head out to the west end of the island. There is a garden just behind the washrooms worth a visit.

The Gibraltar Point  Lighthouse  first under construction in 1808 was originally a little closer to the shore and guarded by soldiers and is the oldest stone building in Toronto. It is Canada’s oldest lighthouse. There are rumours of a ghost as one of the soldiers died nearby.

Continue walking past the beaches (one is clothing optional) to Hanlan’s Point to catch the ferry back.

Loop 3 – Toronto Islands Tree Tour

The Toronto Island Tree Tour is a self-guided 5 km route through which you can walk or cycle from Hanlan’s Point to Ward’s Island locating the permanent tree markers. There is information about tree identification, facts and a phone app or printable map .

Getting to the Toronto Islands

The Toronto Island ferries depart from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at the foot of Bay Street which is walkable from the Union Station Subway or you can take a short streetcar ride.  Ferry schedules  vary depending on the time of year. There are washrooms located there and In colder weather there is a warming room while you wait. 

There are three routes taking a short ferry ride of about 10 – 15 minutes. The Ward Island ferry goes all year, while the Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point ferry operate on a seasonal schedule. Looking behind you there is the city skyline including the CN Tower. On a recent journey, a Porter Airlines flight flew low overhead on its way to landing at the island airport located at Hanlan’s Point on the western tip.

Some people decide to use a water taxi from the mainland to the islands particularly if carrying items over for a group picnic.

Only emergency and commercial service vehicles are allowed passage to the Toronto Islands.

Map of the Toronto Islands

Brief History of the Toronto Islands

Originally the Toronto Islands were actually not islands but a storm separated them from the mainland. Of strategic importance soldiers once patrolled them as well.

By the late 1800s, many of Toronto’s wealthiest families built beautiful Victorian summer homes along Lake Shore Avenue, east from Manitou Road to Ward’s Island and in 1884, there was the construction of an Anglican church, St. Andrew-by-the-Lake (which still remains). Four years later Island Park was established on land previously occupied by the Mead Hotel.

The cottages on Ward’s and Algonquin Islands were on short-term leases originally as the debate over the park continued. Eventually, the leases were extended which is why you see some repairs happening nowadays.

FAQs: A Toronto Islands Visit

What are the 3 toronto islands.

Ward’s Island, Algonquin Island and Centre Island. Only Ward’s Island has a year-round ferry service while in the summer Centre Island features an amusement park and the largest beach.

Can I take my dog to the Toronto Islands?

Yes you can take your dog and many do but when walking just keep in mind that there are coyotes on the island, particularly in the area near the Gibraltar Lighthouse.

Can you drive your car on the Toronto Islands?

No, only the city of Toronto and service vehicles are permitted.

How long does it take to walk the Toronto Islands?

Depending on your speed and route it can take 3 to 4 hours to walk one way across the Toronto Islands from Ward’s Island to Hanlan’s Point. In winter as only the Ward’s Island ferry is operating it would take longer.

How do you get around the Toronto Islands?

Most people either walk or use a bicycle (rentals available) but during the summer months, there is also a 35-minute tram ride.

If you want to learn more about Toronto

• Hiking trails in Rouge National Urban Park on the eastern edge of the city

Wrap-up: Visiting the Toronto Islands

A walk on the Toronto Islands offers an easy way to explore this interesting part of Toronto which offers awesome views of the city skyline.

Tom Oxby from an early age visited most regions of Canada and based in Toronto continues these travels often with an Outdoor Recreation Club (cycling, hiking, canoeing, skiing). And of course, as a blogger. writes about Canadian travel with epic road routes including both popular destinations and hidden gems you may not be aware of and how to get the most from while visiting.

10 Best Things to Do at the Toronto Islands

By: Author Jessica Lam

Posted on Published: May 31, 2022  - Last updated: December 24, 2023

Categories Ontario , Things to Do in Toronto

Looking for the best things to do on the Toronto Islands this summer?

I always forget how fun it is to spend a day at the Toronto Islands.

It’s one of those spots you overlook as a local, and it’s kind of like a mini getaway from the city when you do visit.

It’s also one of the cutest neighbourhoods in Toronto , and people actually live here!

Fun fact: the Toronto Islands is the largest car-free neighbourhood in all of North America, so you can feel safe wandering around whether you’re exploring with friends or kiddos!

You can totally make a day trip out of your visit, but I usually just visit the Toronto Islands for a half day.

There are plenty of activities and things to do on the Toronto Islands during the summer months, and I’ll be sharing some of my favourites.

Here are the best and most fun activities and things to do on the Toronto Islands!

Be sure to also follow me on Instagram and TikTok – I share a lot more content on those platforms that don’t make it to the blog!

Hotels in Toronto

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay while you’re in Toronto, these are some great options:

• Annex Hotel : a contemporary 3-star hotel in the Annex with bright and airy rooms.
• Yorkville Royal Sonesta : this chic 4-star hotel in the Yorkville neighbourhood offers up stunning views of the skyline.
• Bisha Hotel : a cool 4-star hotel in the Entertainment District with a swanky rooftop restaurant and pool offering up CN Tower views.
• Radisson Blu : a modern 4-star hotel along the Harbourfront with a rooftop pool and a close-up view of the CN Tower.
• Broadview Hotel : a historical 4-star hotel in Toronto’s east end, housed in a Victorian-era building with elegantly modern rooms.
• Fairmont Royal York : a luxurious 5-star hotel right by Union Station , newly renovated but still retaining most of its original features. The Queen is known to stay here!

You can also check out my post on the best boutique hotels in Toronto if you’re looking for a more unique stay!

More things to do in Toronto

If you’re looking for even more fun things to do in Toronto, you might enjoy these posts:

• Bored and looking for a general list of things to do? Peep out these fun things to do in Toronto or these free things to do in Toronto .
• Into more active activities? Try out one of these awesome water activities in Toronto !
• Searching for cute date ideas in Toronto? Check out my date ideas during winter , summer , or fall , or my Valentine’s Day date ideas .
• Looking for more seasonal activities? Check out my posts on things to do in Toronto during the winter , spring , or summer .
• Visiting during the holidays? Here are festive things to do in Toronto !

Local tours

Or, check out some local tours if you’re looking to do even more fun and unique activities, like these ones:

• Downtown Toronto bike tour : explore the best of downtown Toronto via bike on a guided 3.5 hour tour, which takes you through Chinatown, City Hall, and the Entertainment District.
• Distillery District segway tour : zip through the Distillery District on a guided 1-hour segway tour and learn about the history behind this super cute historical neighbourhood.
• Kensington Market food tour : taste your way through one of Toronto’s most diverse neighbourhoods on this 2.5 hour tour.

How to get to the Toronto Islands

So, how do you get to the Toronto Islands ?

You can either take a water taxi or ferry to get to the Toronto Islands.

Most people take the ferry to the Toronto Islands as it’s significantly cheaper, but it’s up to you however you want to get to or leave the island!

Water taxis

If you’d prefer to travel to the Toronto Islands without the crowds, water taxis might be a better option for you.

All of the water taxis leave from the Harbourfront area, and they’re $12 per person one-way.

So if you’re doing a roundtrip, it costs $24 each for both adults and children.

Here are a few different water taxi services you can take to the Toronto Islands:

• Harbour Tours
• Pirate Taxi

Toronto Islands ferry

The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal is located right by the water, just south of the Bay St. and Queens Quay intersection.

There’s a Bike Share rack right in front, so you can rent a bike and take the Waterfront bike trail to get here if you want!

If you have your own bike, you can bring it onto the Islands as well – it’s pretty safe as it’s completely car-free (minus service vehicles).

The ferries leave to 3 different destinations: Hanlan’s Point, Centre Island, and Ward’s Island.

Ferry tickets must be booked online , and it includes a return trip back to the city.

Below are the roundtrip ferry prices, and you can take the ferry to and from any of the 3 destinations with your tickets.

Toronto Islands ferry prices (roundtrip)

• $8.70 for adults
• $5.60 for youth (under 19) and seniors
• $4.10 for kids under 14
• Free for kids under 2

I’ve listed the hours of operation for the schedules below, which change depending on the seasons.

You can see actual departure times on the official website .

Hanlan’s Point

Departures to Hanlan’s Point:

• Weekday & weekend departures: 8 AM-4 PM

Departures from Hanlan’s Point to the city:

• Weekday & weekend departures: 8:15 AM-4:15 PM

Centre Island

Departures to Centre Island:

• Weekday departures: 11 AM-6:30 PM
• Weekend departures: 9:30 AM-6:30 PM

Departures from Centre Island to the city:

• Weekday departures: 11:20 AM-6:50 PM
• Weekend departures: 9:45 AM-6:50 PM

Ward’s Island

Departures to Ward’s Island:

• Weekday & weekend departures: 6:30 AM-11:30 PM

Departures from Ward’s Island to the city:

• Weekday & weekend departures: 6:45 AM-11:45 PM

Best things to do on the Toronto Islands

• Rent a bike

Rent some wheels and ride around the Toronto Islands in a bike, tandem bike, or even a quadricycle.

The only bike rental spot is on Centre Island, and fees range from $9.50 to $36 per hour, depending on which bikes you rent.

Of course, you can bring your own bike, skateboard, or longboard onto the ferry if you’d prefer!

If you’d rather do a guided tour, you can also do a fun 3.5 hour bike tour of the Toronto Islands , where you get to ride all around the islands and learn about the island’s 200 year history.

The tour actually includes your roundtrip ferry ticket, a bicycle and helmet, as well as snacks and water, which makes life a little easier!

And if you’re looking for even more places to ride a bike in Toronto, I’ve got a post all about the best bike trails in Toronto .

• Walk from Hanlan’s Point to Ward’s Island

Get yo’ walking shoes on and walk from one end of the Toronto Islands to the other.

Take a ferry to Hanlan’s Point, take the leisurely hour stroll to Ward’s Island, then take the ferry back to the city from Ward’s.

With stops along the way, it’ll likely be more like a two hour walk from one end to the other.

The Islands are actually made up of 15 small islands, so there’s a lot to see along the way!

You can also get all kinds of pretty views of the Toronto skyline from various points on the island (especially if you’re looking for Instagram-worthy spots in Toronto ).

It’s a lot of walking, so be prepared with a good pair of sneakers that you can walk all day in.

My all-time favourite sneakers for walking in are the Adidas Ultraboost 1.0 sneakers – they truly feel like walking on a cloud!

• Relax on the beaches

Pack your cutest swimsuit and get to sunbathin’.

You can find plenty of sandy beach spots to relax at on the Toronto Islands, whether you’re looking for something more secluded or somewhere with lots of families.

There are three main beaches on the Toronto Islands: Hanlan’s Point Beach, Centre Island Beach, and Ward’s Island Beach.

Hanlan’s Point is clothing-optional, so don’t freak out if you see unclothed people chillin’ in the sand.

Have a picnic on the Toronto Islands

Pack a picnic blanket, some sandwiches and drinks, and have a nice lil’ picnic on the Toronto Islands.

Egg salad sandwiches or grilled cheese sandwiches are both great and easy picnic lunch ideas you can pack!

If you’re not keen on packing something from home, you can stop by Farm Boy, Loblaws, or Longo’s by the waterfront for packaged meals before heading to the ferry or water taxi.

There are plenty of picnic benches and barbecue stations as well – all ya gotta do is bring your own charcoal.

• Check out the Centreville Amusement Park

The Centreville Amusement Park is a great family-friendly spot for the kiddos, with plenty of rides and even a small farm.

My parents took me here as a kid, but tbh I don’t remember any of it.

It’s closed at the moment due to restrictions, but definitely pay a visit when things open up again!

You can say hi to the chickens.

• Stop by Gibraltar Point Lighthouse

The Gibraltar Point Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes, as well as one of Toronto’s oldest buildings.

It was built in 1808, and it’s definitely a cool spot to stop by during your visit to the Toronto Islands!

It’s not in use anymore, but there’s still a keeper that looks after the lighthouse.

Rumour has it that it’s *gasp* haunted by a ghost who was murdered in the 19th century, so maybe don’t visit after dark.

Unless you want to film your own Paranormal Activity movie or something.

• Visit St. Andrew’s by the Lake Church

Another cool historical spot on the Toronto Islands is the St. Andrew’s by the Lake Church, which was built back in 1884.

It’s a beautiful church that also makes for great photos!

The church is still in operation, though right now they’re closed due to restrictions.

• Hike at Snake Island

While it’s more of a forested walk, hiking through Snake Island truly feels like a little escape from the city.

You’re unlikely to encounter any snakes while on the island, but there are definitely a lot of bugs.

As we’re not fans of snakes or bugs, we opted to take a quick peek before running off into the safety of paved roads.

Snake Island is the only place that allows camping on the Toronto Islands, but it’s only for Girl and Boy Scout groups.

• Try some water activities

If you’re looking to do some fun water activities in Toronto , the Toronto Islands is the perfect spot to do them.

You can do stand up paddle boarding (also known as SUP), kayaking, and canoeing on the Toronto Islands!

I’d recommend doing SUP for at least 2 hours on the water – time goes by really quickly!

You can rent kayaks or canoes on the Toronto Islands or rent them at the Harbourfront and kayak or canoe your way to the Toronto Islands.

It’s honestly so much fun, and you get some of the best views of the Toronto skyline!

Grab patio drinks at one of the Toronto Island cafés

There aren’t too many options for cafés or restaurants on the Toronto Islands, but it’s still fun to chill at a patio with a beer or an iced coffee.

Here’s a list of some great cafés and restaurants you can check out when things open up again:

• The Upper Deck (Centre Island)
• The Riviera (Ward’s Island)
• Island Café (Ward’s Island)

Best things to do on the Toronto Islands:

• Have a picnic
• Grab patio drinks at one of the cafés

There are plenty of fun things to do on the Toronto Islands , whether you’re interested in adventurous water activities or just chillin’ on a clothing optional beach .

You can totally check all these activities off your list in just a day, or just pick and choose things you’d like to do.

We personally love heading out in the early morning and coming back in the afternoon, but watching the sunset from the Toronto Islands is certainly worth staying late!

What are your favourite activities and things to do while visiting the Toronto Islands? Let me know on Twitter or Instagram !

More Toronto neighbourhoods

If you’re looking for more Toronto neighbourhoods to explore, check out some of my other posts on the best things to do in various neighbourhoods:

• Kensington Market
• Distillery District
• King Street West
• Liberty Village
• Harbourfront

Be sure to keep up with me on  Instagram , TikTok ,  Twitter , Facebook , and  Pinterest  if you aren’t already!

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Toronto Islands

Made up of 15 small islands linked together by connecting bridges, the Toronto Islands offers an assortment of fun activities, including water-based adventure, amusement parks and scenic lookouts.

Known by the locals as “the Island” or “Toronto Island Park,” its three main islands are Ward’s Island, Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point. It boasts 332 hectares of land that can only be explored on foot or by bicycle with 14 kilometres of trails. It’s the ideal spot to spend a full day relaxing outdoors.

Toronto Islands beckons outdoor enthusiasts, beach lovers and families.

Visit the Toronto Islands website

Toronto Islands | Destination Ontario

How to get to Toronto Islands

Location: Toronto Islands

By ferry: Take the Toronto Island ferry from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. Ferry tickets can be bought online or in person.

By water taxi: Private water taxi companies are available to transport passengers from mainland Toronto to the Island and back.

By car: Cars are not allowed on the islands. Park your vehicle near Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and ride the ferry to reach the Islands.

Know before you go

The Toronto Islands off-season runs from late October/early November to mid-April. During this time, there are limited food options and all park facilities at Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point are closed. Access to trails, cycling routes and boardwalks is open year-round.

Wait times for the ferry can be lengthy during the summer and on weekends. Travel at off-peak times to avoid the crowds.

Things to do at Toronto Islands

Discover more activities and experiences.

Hang out at an amusement park

Spend a summer’s day with the whole family at Centreville Amusement Park . This popular attraction has over 30 rides, including roller coasters, and 14 delicious food outlets .

Visit a historic lighthouse

Explore the 200-year-old Gibraltar Point Lighthouse , Canada’s oldest standing lighthouse. Learn of its spooky ghost stories as you wander around the nearby grounds.

Solve a maze

Test your escape skills at the William Meany Maze on Centre Island. This hedge maze is made up of 1,200 Black Cedars planted in a winding design and is fun for all ages.

Walk the boardwalk

Walk or bike across the 1.5-kilometre Ward’s Island Boardwalk . Take in views of Lake Ontario, Tommy Thompson Park and Ward’s Island Beach.

Spend time at a petting farm

Visit the Far Enough Farm on Centre Island to get up close and personal with over 40 different species of farmyard animals and exotic birds such as alpacas, llamas, geese and more.

Venture out onto the water

Rent canoes and kayaks at the Boat House, relax on sandy beaches, play all day at splash pads or try your luck at fishing. Find a full list of water activities and information online .

Articles and itineraries

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Toronto guide for nature lovers

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Stand up paddle boarding in Ontario

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Stunning white sand beaches in Ontario

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• Read more Visit Ontario’s historic lighthouses

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• Read more Family-friendly city beaches in Ontario

Interesting facts about Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands were originally moving sand bars in the waters of Lake Ontario that eventually shaped into islands. At one point, they were connected to the mainland via a peninsula. The peninsula was badly eroded by a storm in 1858 and the chain of islands was formed. Settlements sprung up on the islands and there is still a small population who call Ward’s Island home.

During the evenings, the ideal spot to watch the sunset is at Hanlan’s Point Beach , the largest beach on the islands.

Accessibility features

Accessible recreation trails, accessible transportation, wheelchair accessible.

Last updated:  May 17, 2024

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Travel Canada and Beyond

Toronto Islands – Read BEFORE you visit

Did you know that Toronto has a small group of islands that are easily accessible by boat and ferry? Here’s a complete guide to Toronto Islands – how to get there, where to eat, and the top things to do. Read this guide BEFORE you visit for a great experience.

Click through to relevant section

• How and when to visit Toronto Islands?

Top 20 Things to do on Toronto Islands

• Coming Back From Toronto Islands

Where are Toronto Islands?

Toronto Islands are just a 10-minute boat ride away from Toronto harbourfront. As I said before, there is not just one island, but a small group of them. Centre Island is the largest of the group and the most popular among tourists. The other islands in close vicinity are Ward’s Island, Algonquin Island, Snake Island, and Muggs Island. All the islands can be easily visited on a single trip.

Map of Toronto Island

You can find the map of Toronto Island here.

How and When to visit Toronto Islands

There are three ways to visit Toronto Islands: by ferry, guided tours, or water taxi.

Visiting Toronto Islands by Ferry

You can catch the ferry from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at the corner of Bay Street and Queens Quay . There are three ferry destinations to choose from: Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point, and Ward’s Island. All three destinations are connected by bridges or walking pathways. So, you can choose any destination. As a first-time visitor, you should pick Centre Island as the service to this ferry point is frequent and it takes you closer to Centreville, bike rentals, and other attractions.

Ferry service to the islands is seasonal. In Summer, there are departures to the Centre Island every 15 to 30 minutes from 8 am to 11 pm. During Spring/Fall, there’s a ferry every hour on weekdays starting from 9 am to 11 pm. The ferry service is closed for the winter. Check the ferry schedule for updated information.

Pros of picking the ferry

• There are frequent departures from the terminal so there’s no need to buy a ticket in advance. Buying a ticket in advance doesn’t get you priority boarding anyway.
• It’s the cheapest option for visiting the islands. Return tickets cost $8.19 for an adult, $ 5.37 for teenagers and seniors, $ 3.95 for children, and free for children under two.

Cons of picking the ferry

• The ferry is a popular way to travel to the islands among locals and visitors. This means that the ferry can be very crowded. Line-ups and wait times to board the ferry are long. Buying the ticket in advance won’t get you priority boarding.
• Since the ferry is usually crowded, and seats are limited, be prepared to stand for the journey. It’s difficult to get the best views of the Toronto skyline as you set out on the lake due to the crowd.
• The ferry service is not guided. It’s a pickup and drop-off service. There is no narration about the islands’ rich history and the role it played in native First Nation tribes. For a better understanding of the history of the islands, choose a guided tour instead.

Use Water Taxis

The tickets to the water taxis are slightly more expensive at approx $12 for a one-way ride to the islands. You can hitch a free ride on the ferry on your return or pay again for the return ride on the taxi. Like the ferry, this is a drop-off service only. However, it’s more comfortable than the ferry as the taxi takes a small group of people on board and everyone can be comfortably seated and get a view of the Toronto skyline. The taxi has services to Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan point.

Guided Tours to Toronto Islands

If you are looking for guided tours of the Islands, Viator and GetYourGuide have some interesting options.

Toronto Harbor and Islands Sightseeing Cruise

Toronto islands: morning or twilight 3.5-hour bike tour.

Toronto Islands is so fun-packed that you can easily spend an entire day there and entertain yourself and your family with a myriad of activities. Here are the top 20 things to do on Toronto Islands:

1. Bike and Sightsee

Here’s a travel tip! Viator has one of the best guided bike tour . The bikes and other equipment are included in the tour and everything is ready to go when you arrive. So, you don’t have the hassle of bringing your own bikes or renting them out on the island.

2. Sunbathe on 4 different Toronto Islands beaches

If you want a quieter, less-crowded beach, try Gibraltar point beach. This beach is located close to the Gibraltor Point lighthouse and the Artscape Gibraltor Point, artist residencies.

There are two more beaches – Ward’s Island Beach located on the east end of the island and Hanlan’s Point beach on the west. Towards the east end of the island, there’s a pretty boardwalk that leads to Ward’s Island beach. Hanlan’s Point beach is well-known for its Clothing-optional Beach. However, the entire beach is not clothing-optional, there’s a clothing-mandatory section as well. Some people tend to avoid this beach because of the clothing-optional section, however, this beach has spectacular views of the West Toronto Skyline. So, it’s worth a visit.

No matter which Toronto Islands beaches you visit, you will enjoy gorgeous views. So, take your pick!

3. Visit the Haunted Gibraltar Point Lighthouse

4. Take your kids to Centreville Amusement Park

5. Enjoy brunch at Toronto Islands restaurants or cafes

I would highly recommend packing a picnic; Toronto Islands is the perfect picnic spot. You can sprawl out under a tree overlooking the lake with a picnic basket, a blanket, and a book. The scenery is straight out of a romantic movie!

6. Photograph the Toronto skyline

7. Rent a canoe or kayak

To explore the islands by water, rent a canoe or kayak at the Boat Houseboat rentals. You can find the boat rental place just east of the formal garden promenade. Check out the spot numbered 14 on the map posted in this article for the exact location.

The lagoons and ponds surrounding Centre island are very peaceful and full of aquatic life. It’s a calming experience to canoe or kayak here. If you are lucky, you’ll spot some wildlife like turtles, herons and swans. Our trusty Canadian geese will always give you company.

In order to rent a boat, you’ll need a piece of identification like a Driver’s license or some form of id. Canoes rentals cost $30/hr, a solo kayak is $19/hr, and Tandem kayaks are $38 for the first hour.

8. Play a Round of Disc Frisbee Golf

Enjoy a game of disc frisbee golf with your mates on the island. If you are unfamiliar with disc frisbee golf, it’s similar to the game of golf, except that you throw the disc at a target. Find the disc golf course from the boardwalk on the way to Ward’s Island beach to the east of Centre Island.

9. Visit the St. Andrew-by-the-Lake Anglican Church

10. Take a Tram Tour

Other than cycling and walking, there’s another way to see the island – the tram. This tour is especially helpful if are visiting with young kids or elderly relatives. The tram tour can be fun for kids and relaxing for the weary. You can buy tickets to the tram tour at the ticket booth next to the fountain at the formal garden promenade. Check the spot numbered 12 on the map.

Note*: At the time of writing this article, the tram tour’s temporarily closed.

11. Visit the island community of Algonquin and Ward’s Islands

The Toronto Islands are home to 700 island residents. Almost all Toronto Island residents are located either in Alonguin or Ward’s Islands. You can find the bridge that leads to Algonquin Island a short walk away from Ward’s Island beach. When you visit the communities, please be considerate to the residents and keep noise levels to a minimum.

12. Watch a plane take-off from Billy Bishop Airport

Toronto Islands is home to Billy Bishop airport terminal. There are no jumbo jets at this airport which save the airport and the surrounding areas from loud noises. If you want to observe these airplanes take off and land, you can watch this from behind a protected gate and fence on the far-west side of the island. Please note that there is no direct access for passengers to the airport from Toronto Islands, you have to access the airport through the pedestrian tunnel from the mainland.

13. Play a game of Tennis

These are a couple of tennis courts on the west side of the island. You can find the tennis courts close to the Mermaid cafe and Hanlan’s Point beach. The tennis courts are free to use. However, there are some regulations. You can’t occupy the courts for as long as you like. The tennis courts have to be vacated on the hour regardless of your length of occupancy. This assures that everyone gets a chance to play.

14. Get lost in the William meany maze

I’ve always found mazes mysterious, and a lot of fun. How about you? Exploring the William Meany maze is a fun activity you can do with your kids or by yourself. You’ll find the William Meany Maze near the Centre Island fountain. Check the map for the exact location.

15. Go on a historic plaque hunt

16. Ned Hanlan Statue

Ned Hanlan or Edward Hanlan was a well-known and admired sculler who resided in Toronto Islands from 1855-1908. During his professional career, he won more than 300 races and had very few losses. He was inducted into the Ontario Sports Hall Of Fame in 2002. There’s a statue dedicated to him at Hanlan’s Point.

17. Check out the sailing clubhouses and marina

Toronto Islands has several yacht clubs. Whether you are a owner or not, it’s a delight to watch the sailboats and the floating houses line the coast of the islands. The most famous yacht club here is the Royal Canadian Yacht Club. Other places where you can see the sailboats are Queen City Yacht Club, Algonquin clubhouse, Toronto Marina, and Island Yacht club.

18. Pet the animals at Far Enough Farm

19. Rent a Paddleboard or Kayak from the SUP and Kayak rental shop

20. Get creatively inspired at the Gibraltor Artscape residences

Coming back from toronto islands.

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Toronto Islands

Price & Hours

• Facilities 4.0
• Atmosphere 5.0

When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of Canada's biggest city, you can hop on a quick, 15-minute ferry ride to the Toronto Islands. Amidst the towering skyscrapers of the city's mainland, this cluster of islands and islets provides a refreshing green oasis. The three interconnected islands – Centre, Ward's, and Algonquin – eliminate the need for constant boat transfers, allowing you to explore the entire area seamlessly. Each of these main islands offers a distinct experience, ensuring there is something unique to discover every time.

Centre Island lives up to its name by offering a variety of attractions, including picnic areas, beaches, sporting rentals and the Centreville Amusement Park. This park boasts more than 30 rides, a petting zoo and a charming boating lagoon. On the other hand, Ward and Algonquin provide a more relaxed atmosphere adorned with picturesque 1920s-style cottages and English gardens.

Located near the northeastern tip of the island, Hanlan's Point is home to unique features, such as the region's only clothing-optional beach and a lighthouse with intriguing tales of being haunted. Additionally, nestled within the Toronto Islands lies the renowned Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, where the harmonious coexistence of bustling aviation activities and the serene splendors of the surrounding natural landscape creates a fascinating and one-of-a-kind juxtaposition.

The islands are car-free, making them the perfect venue for a peaceful stroll, bike ride or picnic. And while winter brings biting winds and lots of snow, the Toronto Islands are also great for cross-country skiing and ice skating.

Many past travelers say that admiring the incredible views of the city's skyline is reason alone to make a trip to the Toronto Islands. Nevertheless, certain visitors have reported a sense of overcrowding, particularly on Centre Island. Additionally, some individuals have expressed their discontent with the higher-than-expected prices associated with amenities within and the limited food options available on the islands year-round. However, it is worth noting that most visitors, especially those accompanied by their families, have genuinely relished their experience on the island.

Entry to the islands is free, but you must pay for the ferry ride. Tickets for the ferry cost CA$9.11 (about $7) for adults, CA$5.86 (about $4.30) for seniors and youths 18 and younger (proof of ID required), and CA$4.29 (around $2) for children ages 2 to 14. For infants, the ferry ride is free. It is important to note that buying tickets online or in advance does not guarantee priority boarding or seating.

You can find the ferry to the Toronto Islands in Queen's Quay, located in the Harbourfront neighborhood in downtown Toronto, next to Union Station. The operating hours of the ferry service vary by season, with service commencing as early as 6:30 a.m. and extending until as late as 11:45 p.m. If you'd like to bike around the islands, you'll find a bike-share station on the city side of the ferry terminal or by the pier on Centre Island, which you can take with you on the ferry. For more information on what to see and do, check out the Toronto Islands  website .

Tours & Tickets

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from $ 148.57

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(880 reviews)

from $ 117.37

More Best Things To Do in Toronto

#2 High Park

High Park is a true gem in the heart of Toronto, and it's no wonder it's often considered a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Spanning around 400 acres, this expansive park offers a delightful escape from the bustling city and a sanctuary of natural beauty.

One of the highlights of High Park is its lush green spaces and well-maintained gardens. Usually, during the spring, the park boasts an impressive collection of cherry blossom trees, which bloom in stunning colors, attracting crowds of admirers. High Park offers diverse habitats for nature enthusiasts, including serene ponds, wooded areas and even a small zoo. One of the park's most beloved features is Grenadier Pond, a calm body of water where visitors can enjoy fishing or unwind by its shores.

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A Guide to Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are a chain of 15 small islands in Lake Ontario just south of downtown Toronto. The island is the largest urban car-free community in North America and is home to beaches, an airport ( Billy Bishop ), yacht clubs, a marina, a residential neighbourhood, and even an amusement park . The best part is that they are easy to get to from downtown Toronto, and it can be a cheap getaway from the city (while still technically being in the city).

The Islands are one of my favourite spots in the city. Although locals frequent them throughout the summer, I find it to be a bit of a hidden gem to tourists who either don’t know they exist, or don’t bother taking the trip. In my opinion it’s the perfect summer activity. It’s inexpensive, feels like a little vacation, and has the best views of the city skyline.

The History (I Promise, It’s Interesting)

The Islands were not always islands but continuously moving sand-bars that originated from the Scarborough Bluffs and carried west by Lake Ontario’s currents. Eroded stone of the Bluffs was carried in the currents to create islands. The sand-bars were surveyed in 1792 by the British Navy but were well known by Indigenous people already.

A number of severe storms and strong waves worked to erode the peninsula, requiring regular repairs to small gaps until 1858 when finally an island was created from a storm that completely separated the peninsula from the mainland and the gap was not repaired.

The Islands today are known as 3 distinct stops on the ferry trail – Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point.

Ward’s Island

By the 1800’s many of Toronto’s wealthiest families built Victorian summer homes on the Islands. Ward’s Island (the east side of the Islands) was named after the Ward family who first settled there around 1830. This family built the landmark Ward’s Hotel in 1882.

In 1899, there were only eight summer tenant on Ward’s Island paying $10 rent (can you imagine?) for the season. By 1913, the number of tents pitched on the Islands had increased to the point that the city had to organize the community into streets, and tents eventually evolved into a seasonal cottage community.

By 1922 the structure of the Ward’s Hotel began to deteriorate and what was left of it was converted to a grocery store and ice-cream shop until 1966 when it was demolished. The hotel created a resort in the city that attracted a ton of tourists.

Hanlan’s Point

The Hanlan family was the first year-round inhabitants on the Islands that settled at Gibraltar Point in 1862. When the Islands were transferred from the federal government to the City of Toronto in 1867, they divided the land into lots and allowed cottages, amusement areas, and resort hotels to be built. This west side of the island rapidly became a resort/vacation destination for Torontonians. In 1878 a hotel was built by John Hanlan on the north-west tip of the island, now known as Hanlan’s Point. An amusement park and baseball stadium that could fit 10K people were also built during this time and it was actually home to where Babe Ruth hit his first professional home run.

There are records stating near the Gibraltar Lighthouse, there was a one-room school that existed around 1888 as well. The school became permanent in 1896 with only a single teacher but it eventually burned down and a new school was built that was once home to up to 630 students by 1954. As of 2018, a school still operated classes for Junior Kindergarten to grade 6, a natural science program for visiting grade 5’s and 6’s and a day care centre for small children.

The Airport

In 1937 construction started on a new airport that would be on the site of the park and stadium. The construction of the airport led to the demolition of the stadium and most of the amusement park. It also was the reason for a relocation of the cottage community at Hanlan’s Point where residents could choose between moving their cottages further south at Hanlan’s Point or resettling on Algonquin Island. Algonquin Island at the time was really just a sandbar that was then expanded and in 1938 streets were laid out to accommodate the 31 cottages that were moved (by barge) from Hanlan’s Point.

The airport opened by 1939 (wow, construction was fast back then) and was used in the Second World War as a training field for pilots until it was later moved to Muskoka. This airport is still in working order today operating international flights from the city’s downtown core.

After the War

In 1947, Toronto approved the year-round occupancy of the Islands to help with the housing shortages after the war. This was meant to be an emergency measure only that would expire by 1968. At its peak in the 50s, the Islands residential community was made up of 630 cottages and homes, in addition to a movie theatre, bowling alley, stores, hotels, dance halls, etc. By 1953, Toronto Council undertook to remove the community and replace it with public parkland. With the construction of the Gardiner Expressway removing many acres of parkland along the waterfront, the Islands were to replace the acreage.

By 1955, homes and cottages whose leases had expired or surrendered were being demolished and by 1959 Far Enough Farm, Centreville Amusement Park, and a public marina were opened. By 1971, a new ferry terminal at the foot of Bay Street also was opened that allowed for a larger waiting room for visitors.

By 1963, all Islanders willing to leave had departed and those remaining started to protest against the Metro Council’s plans to remove their homes. Their efforts worked and the Toronto Island’s Residents Association (TIRA) was formed by 1969 and demolitions dwindled. 250 homes on Ward’s and Algonquin Islands had escaped demolition.

Islanders vs. Toronto

The 70s saw no further demolitions as the Metro Parks plans were delayed by year-to-year leases and elections of City Councilors were more sympathetic to the Islanders’ situation. They voted to preserve the community and transfer Island land back to the city. However, Metro Council remained opposed and the Islanders started legal challenges to Metro’s plans in 1974 to delay plans of expropriation. By 1978, Metro Council won several legal battles and obtained possession of the remaining 250 homes. The Islanders appealed to the provincial government and the province agreed to act as a mediator between the City, Metro, and the Islanders.

By July 1980, a sheriff was sent to serve eviction notices to those that remained on the island and was met by a crowd of community members who persuaded the sheriff to withdraw. By the end of July, the community won the right to challenge the evictions but lost when the Supreme Court ruled the city had the right to evict them. The province then started an inquiry into the Toronto Islands and by December 1981 they passed a law legalizing the Islanders to stay until 2005. This kept the land in Metro’s ownership, to be leased to the City who would lease it to the Islanders.

By 1993, the Premier of Ontario helped the residents of the Islands get a legislation passed that granted them continued deeds to their houses and 99-year leases on the land. A Land Trust was established to handle any transfers or sales of the properties.

As of 2018, there are 262 properties on the Islands and under this act established in ’93, the deed to a house can only be transferred to the current owner’s child or spouse. If the house must be sold, the process is handled by the Toronto Islands Residential Community Trust Corporation. The buyer must be an individual on a 500-person waiting list which is established through a lottery. The price is set by the Trust, and no bids or negotiations are allowed. This is intended to eliminate risk of the homes being on the open market and driving up prices, therefore the real estate on the Islands is technically some of the cheapest you’ll find in the GTA (or even in Ontario).

The Islands Today

Today, the Islands are no longer home to hotels, or baseball stadiums, but there is a children’s amusement park on Centre Island that is in operation, some restaurants, beautiful beaches and parkland, and even some neighbourhoods that visitors can stroll through to check out the real estate that was fought over for so long to keep.

How to Get There

Okay, now that we’ve covered the interesting history of the Toronto Islands, lets get to the good stuff. How do you get there? Well there are a couple of options.

Cheapest Option: The Ferry

There is a ferry that runs regularly throughout the summer months (less frequently in the winter) that takes you from the foot of Bay Street to the Islands in only a few minutes. The cost changes every year slightly but it ranges from around $7-$9 round-trip. Make sure you line up for the ferry that’ll take you to the part of the island you want to go because there are three – Ward’s, Hanlan’s Point, and Centre Island. If you don’t have kids, I’d avoid Centre Island as it is incredibly busy during the summer months. Ward’s is personally my favourite as it’s home to a lot of the homes you can walk by, plus it’s quieter and more serene.

Buy tickets online in advance to avoid the lines here .

Alternative Option: Water Taxi’s

There are several companies along the Toronto Waterfront that offer water taxi services that will take you from land to the islands quickly. You’ll pay more for this option (usually around $10-$12 each way) BUT you avoid line ups on busy days, and you don’t have to wait for the next ferry if you arrive at an off hour. Some companies to check out are:

• Toronto Harbourfront Water Taxi
• Pirate Taxi

Note: You do not need to buy tickets in advance for the water taxi. You can pay by card or cash when you arrive

There is a ton to do at the Toronto Islands depending on what kind of day you are looking for. Here are some options:

• Rent a canoe or kayak from The Boat House
• Rent a stand-up paddleboard or take a lesson from Toronto Island SUP
• Rent bikes for 1-4 people from Toronto Island Bicycle Rental
• Visit Centre Island Amusement Park with your kids
• Relax on one of the many beaches or parkland across all three parts of the island
• Bike or walk across the island visiting all three sections (around 5km)
• Enjoy lunch at any of the food spots across the island
• Grab a snack or drink at The Island Cafe or The Riviera at Ward’s Island
• Go topless at Hanlan’s Point’s nude beach
• Visit Far Enough Farms
• Play frisbee golf on the extensive island golf course
• Pack a picnic and cooler of cold drinks to enjoy at any of the beaches or parkland

For more inspo, click here

A few helpful tips to make sure you have the best day on The Toronto Islands:

Arrive early: If you are going on a weekend in the summer, arrive early (11am or earlier) to beat the crowds at the ferry

Buy online: Buy your ferry ticket online and there usually is a line for online tickets that moves quicker than the regular lines

Pack food and drinks: The restaurants on the island are naturally expensive and overrated, I rather pack food and drinks in a cooler for an extra cheap day. It’s not uncommon to see people bring their own grill to grill up some burgers right at a picnic table

Avoid Centre Island: If you don’t have kids, avoid Centre Island as it’s the hub and full of children-friendly activities which means chaos and less relaxation

Bring your bike: If you have a bike, you can bring them on the ferry or water taxis to bike around through the island

Don’t bring a Bike Share: Many people make the mistake of borrowing a Toronto Bike Share on the mainland and bringing it to the island. These bikes you need to dock every 30-minutes to avoid excessive charges and there is no dock on the island. This means it’s going to be an expensive bike rental day and you’re better off renting right at the place on the island

Do you have your own tips? Share them in the comments!

Other Toronto content to read:

• How to Spend a Weekend in Toronto
• My Favourite Street Art in Toronto
• Paddleboarding Toronto Island

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How To Get To Toronto Islands — Map & Directions

The Toronto Islands are centrally located, easily accessible right across the harbour from downtown Toronto, at the shore of Lake Ontario. The easiest and most common way to access the island is via the  Toronto Islands ferry service . The islands can also be accessed by water taxi, private boat, or, if you’re feeling brave, canoe or kayak. Unfortunately it’s far too dangerous to try to swim to the island, so don’t even think about it.

The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal is located at 9 Queens Quay W, easily accessible by TTC (subway, streetcar, and bus), by GO Train (a regional transit system), by car, by taxi, by Uber, by Lyft, by bicycle, or on foot.

• NOTE: So you don’t get laughed at by the locals, remember that “Quay” is pronounced as “key”.

Looking for the Toronto Islands ferry schedule?

The ferry service runs 365 days a year from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal​

Getting to the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal

Accessing the jack layton ferry terminal by ttc » bus, streetcar, subway.

The closest subway station to the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal is  Union Station  on Line 1. It is a short walk (approximately 9 minutes) from Union Station south to the ferry terminal. Union Station is served by these bus and streetcar lines:

• 121 Fort York Esplanade  bus running east-west
• 6 Bay  bus running north-south
• 72B Pape  bus running north-south
• 509 Harbourfront  streetcar
• 510A Spadina  streetcar

Additionally, the  97B Yonge  (pronounced “young”) bus travels south and along Queens Quay between Bay and Yonge, providing direct access to the ferry terminal. The aforementioned 6 Bay bus route also stops in front of the ferry terminal.

For users with accessible needs who may not be able to make the walk from Union Station south to the ferry docks, the 509 and 510A streetcars leave Union Station via a streetcar tunnel and stop at the Queens Quay/Ferry Docks Station before continuing on the rest of their route.

Accessing The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal By GO Train / GO Bus » From outside Toronto

If you’re coming from outside of Toronto proper, the GO Train or GO Bus is a great way to get into the downtown core without any hassle. Most of the Greater Toronto Area to the east, west, and north of Toronto is serviced by GO Transit with direct routes to Union Station. Check the  GO Transit website  for more information.

Accessing The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal By Bicycle » Green option

Bikes are a great way to get to the ferry terminal, as the Martin Goodman Trail runs directly in front of the terminal. The 56 km (35 mi), east-west trail runs the entire length of the waterfront in Toronto. The area immediately around the ferry terminal is often very congested, so be wary of pedestrians who absent-mindedly wander into the bike lanes. And yes,  you can bring your bike on the ferry !

If you don’t have your own bike, Toronto has an extensive  Bike Share network  available, with a docking station right outside the ferry terminal. Each Bike Share ride is good for 30 minutes before incurring large overage fees, and there are  no  docking stations on the islands — therefore it is not recommended to bring a Bike Share bike on the ferry to the Toronto Islands, as you’ll be paying an enormous amount in overage fees by the time you get back to the mainland.

Accessing The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal By Canoe or Kayak » Get some exercise

The  Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak Centre  is the place to rent a canoe or kayak if you want a little exercise getting to the Toronto Islands. Rentals begin each season once the water temperature hits 12°C. Rates start at $40 for up to two hours in a kayak, and $50 for up to two hours in a canoe.

If you regularly travel to the islands, consider buying your own kayak.  Inflatable kayaks  are sturdy and dependable, and much easier to store in small spaces where traditional kayaks won’t fit. The Intex Challenger comes with oars and an air pump in  1-person  and  2-person  models.

Accessing The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal By Uber or Lyft » Use Bay Street

Uber  and  Lyft  are the two most popular ridesharing services in Toronto. While there are designated areas around the ferry terminal for taxi cabs to wait, pick up, and drop off passengers, there are no designated places for  Uber  or  Lyft rideshare vehicles. The best places for these vehicles to drop off or pickup passengers is on Bay St rather than on Queens Quay W. Because Queens Quay W is so congested and highly trafficked, it is highly advisable that if you are taking an  Uber  or  Lyft  that you ask to be picked up or dropped off on Bay St instead.

Get a free credit for your  first ride with Lyft  or your  first ride with Uber .

Accessing The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal By Car » Not recommended

Just like any big city, driving in downtown Toronto is not recommended. It’s slow, congested, and parking is difficult and expensive. You should consider taking your car to the ferry terminal as a last resort only . However, if you must drive, the two closest parking lots to the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal are:

• 7 Queens Quay East, an outdoor surface lot just east of the ferry terminal, on the south side
• RBC WaterPark Place at 88 Queens Quay W, an indoor, underground lot just west of the ferry terminal, on the north side

Check  Best Parking  or  Parkopedia  for more options.

Toronto Water Taxis to the Toronto Islands » Ferry alternative

Toronto water taxis are a great alternative to the ferries if you don’t like people, long lines, or waiting. They can often cost more than the ferries, however, at about $10 per person each way ($5 for kids), and sometimes will require a minimum number of passengers before departing. Pets, bikes, and strollers may also incur additional fees depending on which service you choose. The main departure points for Toronto water taxis are the various slips along Queens Quay W, between York and Spadina.

If you miss the last ferry each night, some water taxis provide service after hours but may require an extra fee or an advanced reservation.

• Toronto Harbour Water Taxi
• Water Taxi Now

See more info about Toronto Water Taxis  here .

5 Responses

Why are Electric Unicycle not allowed onboard of the ferry? While It is allowed to board all other electric transportation such as electric bikes, electric scooters and electric wheelchairs. I was turned away from the ferry dock by the staff telling me that “No electric powered vehicle are allowed on board the ferry”. If it’s for safety reason, shouldn’t all electric powered transportation not allowed then??

Can I kayak from Cherry Beach to the Toronto islands and where do I dock my kayak?

You can! Check out some conversations about this on Reddit to learn more.

What are the opening hours on toronto island?

That depends… the islands are made up of many different parts, including public parks and beaches, private restaurants, an amusement park, private residences, and other types of property. There is no single set of hours that governs all these facilities.

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• North America
• How To Explore The Toronto...

How To Explore the Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are a magical spot in the city. A short hop on a ferry and the downtown core feels a million miles away. It’s the sort of place that leaves you wondering why anyone does anything else with their summer. Culture Trip is here to guide you through the different ways you can get to the islands and what you can see while you’re here.

It isn’t so much about what’s there that’s exciting; it’s how you experience it. How you get between the historic sites, artistic retreats and beaches will depend on your mood and interests, as there are a lot of different ways to move around the island – and it’s a decision that is best made before you’ve even set foot on the shoreline, so that you can make sure you pack your day bag with the right equipment. From getting there to getting around, picking the right mode of transport is the first step to designing your ideal day. Here’s a guide to help you do it.

Canoe or kayak over

The place to start, for most people, is the ferry. An early start there means you’ll avoid the lines that build up when it begins to get busy; or you can always pay extra for a water taxi. But for those looking to begin their exploration before they land on the island, canoeing or kayaking over is not only allowed, but recommended.

Rental canoes and kayaks are available at the Harbourfront Canoe and Kayak Centre and setting off on your own steam for your day’s adventure is a great way to see all around the islands, as you aren’t restricted to landing at the busy docks.

Jog along the Ward Island boardwalk

The best way of getting around the islands is to throw on a pair of running shoes, make way to the numerous boardwalks and run with the lake on one side. Hanlan’s Point and Ward’s Island offer the best boardwalks for running on and offer the feeling of seclusion that is necessary for really focusing on your body.

Best of all, running on the island means you’re never too far from the water when you need to cool off. Be sure to pack a towel, a snack, some water and a bathing suit to experience a day of perfect balance between active adventure and beach vacation.

Cycle around Centre Island

If you do go over on the ferry, you can rent a bike from a rental company on Centre Island. And with so much to do here, cycling is the best way to see it all.

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Start by heading to Centre Island Pier to take in the grandeur of Lake Ontario. After that, head to grab a bite to eat at either the Carousel Café or Toronto Island BBQ & Café to get yourself fueled up for the day. Next stop should be the frustrating or gratifying (depending on your level of success) experience of the William Meany Maze, which is like stepping into a labyrinth out of a children’s book. After finding your way out, hop back on the bike and head over to Centreville Amusement Park , hopping from ride to ride or enjoying a round of minigolf.

Stroll to Hanlan’s Point and relax the day away

Hanlan’s Point is the best spot on the islands for a quiet day of strolling. You can very easily walk from the Mermaid Café to the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse and the shifting sand dunes of Gibraltar Point Beach.

However, Hanlan’s Point’s is most famous for its clothing-optional beach. It might not be an experience for everyone, but whether you’re from the city or just visiting, it is an amazing opportunity to allow yourself to feel completely liberated and swim naked in one of the Great Lakes. With fewer people on this island, the atmosphere of the place makes you feel a little freer than normal, and taking a dip after a day of strolling makes for a memorable day.

Paddleboard through the neighborhood

The Toronto Islands have a permanent community of people who commute to the mainland for work. Almost all of the homes are situated on Ward’s Island, and hiring a paddleboard is a great way to gain an intimate view of what life on the island is really like.

The waterways snake across Ward’s Island, and it’s easy to meander through without a guide. If you’re confident on the board, packing a lunch and enjoying a bite while bobbing on the water is advisable. It’s the best way to find a quiet spot on a busy day.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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Things To Do on the Toronto Islands in the Winter

Ever popular and synonymous with hot summer days, the toronto islands are an untapped attraction in the winter..

Only a quick 10-minute ferry ride from downtown Toronto, visiting the Toronto Islands tops many to-do lists in the summer. But many people (locals included) don’t realize that the Toronto Islands also make for a great winter excursion, especially if you love outdoor winter activities. 

Just a stone’s throw from the downtown core, it is a uniquely peaceful destination in the winter as the usual crowds become non-existent. Outdoor enthusiasts will love it in the winter when they can partake in activities usually only available outside the city. 

Below are some ways to enjoy the Toronto Islands in the winter.

Cross-country skiing

The Toronto Islands are great for cross-country skiing with its wide open spaces and flat terrain. Right off the ferry dock, you can head west to Centre Island, passing through the disc-golf course, St. Andrew-By-the-Lake Anglican Church, the Royal Canadian Yacht Club, and the Centreville Amusement Park (eerily silent for the winter season and fun to walk around).  

Snowshoeing

If cross-country skiing isn’t of interest, opt to go snowshoeing instead. You can follow the same trails, but snowshoeing will allow you to venture off the trail and explore more of the island. 

Feeling ambitious? Make the 5km trek to Hanlan's Point, the Toronto Islands’ most westerly point.

ALSO READ:   Outdoor Winter Activities You Must Try in Toronto Right Now

Ice skating (when it’s safe)

A cool feature of the Toronto Islands is that the waterways and lagoons between the islands freeze during winter, creating natural skating rinks. 

You’ll regularly see the locals (about 250 people who live on the islands year-round) playing shinny games on the frozen waters. 

Note:  follow guidance from the City of Toronto and be cautious when ice skating on frozen waterways. Only go on the ice when it is guaranteed to be safe.

ALSO READ :   Ice Skating in Toronto

Photo ops on the Toronto Islands

You don’t have to burn calories to enjoy a winter day on the Toronto Islands. If you’re into photography, you’ll find many picture-worthy spots, especially after a fresh dusting of snow. 

From the 200-year-old Gibraltar Point Lighthouse to the frozen lagoons, the ice-covered shoreline, and even the iconic Toronto skyline, all make for beautiful photo moments.

ALSO READ: Best Places to Take Photos in Toronto

Tips for visiting Toronto Islands in winter

Only the Ward's Island ferry operates during the winter season. This ferry will take you to the eastern part of the islands, and from there, you can walk or bring your bike to get around. There are no bike rentals available on the island in the winter. 

All park facilities at Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point are closed except for the public washrooms  near Ward’s beach, in Centre Island and at Hanlan’s Point Ferry Dock. Also, pack some food and water, as none of the restaurants or cafés are open during the winter season. 

Explore more

11 Cheap and Cheerful Winter Activities in Toronto

Toronto’s Best Skating Rinks For Every Kind of Skater

Discover the Best Parks in Toronto for Winter Fun

Arienne parzei.

Born and raised in Toronto, Arienne Parzei is an award-winning travel videographer and photographer and has been running her travel website  and  YouTube channel for over a decade. When she’s not on the road, you’ll find her enjoying Toronto’s outdoor spaces, cycling trails and diverse culinary scene.  Favourite Toronto Neighbourhood:   The Distillery District. Instagram:   @seeusoontravel

The best places to visit in Canada from cosmopolitan cities to the Rockies

Apr 11, 2024 • 10 min read

Experience the best of Canada with these top places to visit © Hero Images / Getty Images

Visitors to Canada are equally as wowed by the wildlife and wilderness as they are by the cultural and culinary offerings in the cities that speckle this sprawling nation.

Look for polar bears on the arctic tundra of Churchill or cruise Vancouver’s curvy coastline in a canoe while gawking at the city skyline. Feast on five-star fusion cuisine in Toronto, or take in a street-side jam session in Montréal. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to experience something new, these are the best places to go in Canada. But you'll have to plan your trip ahead because this is the world’s second-largest country – you can’t see it all in just one go.

Best for diversity

A vibrant jumble of cultures and neighborhoods , Toronto strikes you with sheer urban awe. Will you have dinner in Chinatown or Greektown? Five-star fusion or a peameal bacon sandwich? In Ontario ’s coolest city, designer shoes from Bloor-Yorkville are accessorized with tattoos in Queen West, while modern art galleries, theater par excellence, rocking band rooms, and hockey mania round out the megalopolis.

This is far and away Canada’s most diverse city, as well as its largest – about half of Toronto’s residents were born in another country.

Local tip : Snap a photo of the CN Tower  (one of the top spots to visit in Toronto ). For an added thrill: check out Edgewalk, where you can shuffle around the tower’s perimeter while taking in unparalleled city views.

2. The Canadian Rockies 

Best for mountain views

The sawtooth, snow-topped mountains straddling the British Columbia — Alberta border inspire both awe and action. Five national parks – Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, Waterton Lakes and Jasper – offer countless opportunities to delve into the lush wilderness with ribbons of hiking trails , rushing whitewater and powdery ski slopes to satisfy travelers looking for mountain thrills. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Canada in winter , but there is outdoor adventure aplenty during the summer months, too.

Planning tip: For a different perspective, take the train and experience the grandeur from the comfort of your seat: luminous lakes, jumbles of wildflowers and glistening glaciers glide by as the steel cars chug up mountain passes and down river valleys en route to points east or west.

Wondering where locals go in Canada? Check out some of our writers' favorite spots .

3. Manitoulin Island

Best for Canada’s First Nations culture

The largest freshwater island in the world, floating right in Lake Huron’s midst, Manitoulin is a slowpoke place of beaches and summery cottages. Jagged expanses of white quartzite and granite outcroppings edge the shoreline and lead to shimmering vistas. First Nations culture pervades, and the island’s eight communities collaborate to offer local foods (wild rice, corn soup) and eco-adventures (canoeing, horseback riding, hiking). Powwows add drumming, dancing and storytelling to the mix for immersive experiences that connect you with the people and the land of the country that we now know as Canada.

4. Vancouver 

Best for urban life with access to nature

Sea-to-sky beauty surrounds the laid-back, cocktail-loving metropolis of Vancouver . There are skiable mountains on the outskirts, beaches fringing the coast and Stanley Park ’s thick rainforest just steps from downtown’s gleaming skyscrapers.

For the best of both worlds, pick up provisions and a cold beer and picnic at one of the amazing city parks (it’s legal to drink alcohol at most of them during the summer). 

Shop and stroll through the diverse and charming neighborhoods – you may even spot a celebrity along the way. Known as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver is the filming location for many TV and film productions shot throughout the year.

Planning tip: With its mild climate and beautiful beaches , Vancouver is definitely one of the best places in Canada to visit in summer.

5. Baffin Island

Best for Inuit art and incredible landscapes

The rugged landscape of Baffin Island is home to cloud-scraping mountains and a third of Nunavut’s human population. It’s Canada’s largest island (the fifth biggest in the world) and the ideal place for an arctic safari where you can spot narwhals, belugas and bears in their natural habitat. The island’s crown jewel is Auyuittuq National Park – its name means “the land that never melts,” and indeed glaciers, fjords and vertiginous cliffs fill the eastern expanse. The park is a siren call for hardcore hikers and climbers – and more than a few polar bears.

Local tip: Baffin Island is also a center for Inuit art; studios for high-quality carving, printmaking and weaving can be found in many of the small towns.

6. Vancouver Island 

Best for nature, surf beaches and boutique food ventures

Picture-postcard Victoria is the heart of Vancouver Island , beating with bohemian shops, wood-floored coffee bars and a past steeped in English tea culture since the 1840s.  British Columbia ’s capital city is full of charm, but it’s only the kick-off point to an island that has a bounty of natural wonders to explore.

Brooding Pacific Rim National Park Reserve includes the West Coast Trail, where the wind-bashed ocean meets a mist-shrouded wilderness, and surfers line up for Tofino’s waves. With so many outdoor adventures to try, this is one of the best places in Canada for nature lovers.

Detour: Wandering foodies will want to head to the Cowichan Valley, which is studded with welcoming small farms and boutique wineries.

Find out how to see Canada by train.

7. Whistler 

Best for skiing, mountain biking or summer paddle-boarding

This 2010 Winter Olympics venue is one of the world’s largest, best-equipped and most popular ski resorts, and it’s only a 90-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. Featuring over 200 marked runs winding down two towering mountains – Whistler and Blackcomb – this alpine village is paradise for skiers of all levels.

Skiing may be Whistler ’s raison d’être, but summer visitors with their downhill mountain bikes and stand-up paddle-boards outnumber their ski-season equivalents, making the resort a year-round hot spot for locals and visitors alike. Adding more diversity, Whistler has recently developed a thriving arts and culture scene, with highlights like the Audain Art Museum and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre taking the stage as equally appealing attractions to the famed slopes.

8. Old Québec City

Best place to visit in Canada for romantics

Québec’s capital is more than 400 years old, and its stone walls, spired cathedrals and jazz-filled cafes suffuse it with atmosphere, romance, melancholy, eccentricity and intrigue on par with any European city. The best way to soak it all up is to walk the old town’s labyrinth of lanes and get lost amid the street performers and cozy inns, stopping every so often for a café au lait and flaky pastry.

The city is also home to Québec’s scenic highway, Rte 132. Circling the Gaspé Peninsula , this road winds past the sea and the mountains, as well as charming towns. More than 700,000 people drive it each summer. Of course, it has yet to approach the romantic popularity of Canada’s “honeymoon capital,” Niagara Falls, a region that draws more than 14 million annual visitors. But head for La Gaspésie instead, young lovers. Because if you’re on your honeymoon, you don’t need 14 million other people hanging around.

9. Montréal

Best for music lovers 

As Canada’s second-largest city and the country’s cultural heart,  Montréal  is a marvel for music lovers. From June to August, Montréalers get high on sunshine in parks, beaches, mountaintop forests and endless festivals. The steamy outdoors is more alive than ever with arts-loving visitors filling the streets (and the cool of performance spaces), while rooftop bars turn into parties. The best jazz-influenced musicians in the world play to equally jazzed spectators at the annual  Montréal International Jazz Festival , where there are over 500 performances and shows to enjoy (and countless are free). Nature is also never far away in Montréal where a network of cycling paths, waterways and islands crisscross the city. No wonder Montréalers grow up jogging, paddling canals and skating in the fresh air.

Planning tip:  Check out  Tourisme Montréal  for the latest live music events, big and small, throughout the city. 

10. Rideau Canal

Best for ice skating

Opened in 1832, this 200km-long (124 miles) waterway – consisting of canals, rivers and lakes – connects Ottawa and Kingston via 47 locks. The Rideau Canal is at its finest in wintry Ottawa, where a stretch of it becomes the Rideau Canal Skateway – the world's largest skating rink.

People swoosh by on the 7.8km (4.8 miles) of groomed ice, pausing for hot chocolate and scrumptious slabs of fried dough called beavertails (a quintessentially Canadian treat). February’s Winterlude festival kicks it up a notch when townsfolk build massive ice sculptures.

Local tip: Once the canal thaws, it becomes a boater’s paradise, meaning you can appreciate it whatever time of year you visit.

11. The Prairies

Best for big-sky road trips

Solitude reigns in Canada’s middle ground. Driving through the flatlands of Manitoba and Saskatchewan turns up uninterrupted fields of golden wheat that stretch to the horizon, eventually melting into the sunshine. When the wind blows, the wheat sways like waves on the ocean, punctuated by the occasional grain elevator rising up like a tall ship.

Big skies mean big storms that drop like an anvil, visible on the skyline for miles. Far-flung towns include arty Winnipeg , boozy Moose Jaw and Mountie-filled Regina, interspersed with Ukrainian and Scandinavian villages.

12. Niagara Falls

Best for an iconic travel experience

Niagara Falls may be relatively short (it doesn’t even crack the top 500 worldwide for height), but when those great muscular bands of water arc over the precipice like liquid glass, roaring into the void below – and you sail toward it in a mist-shrouded boat – the falls never fail to impress.

While you’re there, extend your stay and head beyond the falls on a two-wheel biking adventure along the Greater Niagara Circle Route, or take a go at the Wildplay Zipline to the Falls , a pulse-pounding rush of a ride that offers unparalleled views of the falls below as you zoom through the sky.

Read on for the best experiences to be had in Canada.

13. Bay of Fundy

Best place to spot whales

It has lighthouses, boats and trawlers, fishing villages and other maritime scenery, yet Fundy is not your average Canadian bay. That’s because its unique geography results in the world’s most extreme tides, capable of reaching 16m (56ft) – about the height of a five-story building.

The tides stir up serious whale food, with krill and other plankton attracting fin, humpback and blue whales to feast, as well as endangered North Atlantic right whales, making a whale watch here an extraordinary must-do.

14. Churchill

Best for polar bear encounters

The first polar bear you see up close will take your breath away, and there’s no better place for an encounter than Churchill , Manitoba, which happens to be right on the bears’ migration path. From late September to early November, tundra vehicles head out in search of the razor-clawed beasts, sometimes getting you close enough to lock eyes with the beautiful bears. Summer lets you kayak or stand-up paddleboard with beluga whales.

15. Drumheller

Best for dinosaur enthusiasts

Dinosaur lovers get weak-kneed in dust-blown Drumheller , where paleontological civic pride runs high thanks to the Royal Tyrrell Museum , home to one of the planet's pre-eminent fossil collections. The world’s largest “dinosaur” is here, too – a giant fiberglass T-rex that visitors can climb and peer out of (through its mouth). Beyond the dino-hoopla, the area offers classic Badlands scenery and eerie, mushroom-like rock columns called hoodoos.

Planning tip: Follow the scenic driving loops; these take you past all the good stuff.

This article was first published Jul 11, 2021 and updated Apr 11, 2024.

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Auroras could paint Earth's skies again in early June. Here are the key nights to watch for.

The monster sunspot responsible for May's vibrant auroras will be facing Earth again in a matter of days, and it still appears to be active. Here's when to be alert for the next display of northern lights on the nights close to June's new moon.

If you want to glimpse the northern lights from below the Arctic Circle, be ready to drive to dark skies the first week of June. 

Earth's most powerful geomagnetic storm in more than two decades happened between May 10 and May 12, painting the skies with colorful auroras as far south as Florida and Mexico in an ultra-rare occurrence. 

This was the result of at least five solar storms that hit Earth simultaneously, all originating from a massive sunspot known as active region 3664 (also called AR3664 and AR13664), a dark patch on the sun more than 15 times wider than Earth . The barrage of charged particles collided with Earth's magnetosphere, which funneled them along magnetic field lines toward the poles, generating vibrant auroras along the way.

Crucially, the fallout from the solar storms arrived a few nights after May's new moon, when the night sky was free from moonlight — making even faint auroras easier to see. 

Because the sun rotates on its axis once every 27 days, the sunspot disappeared from view around a week later, but it didn't stop producing solar flares. On May 20 , it emitted a solar flare rated as X12, the strongest since September 2017. It was observed by the European Space Agency 's Solar Orbiter spacecraft. 

AR3664/AR13664 is now becoming visible again as the sun rotates — and it will be Earth-facing once again during the new moon on June 6. 

"It will align nicely," Ryan French , a solar physicist at the National Solar Observatory (NSO) in Boulder, Colorado, told Live Science. "As soon as the sunspot starts to appear, we will enter the window of opportunity [for solar flares]." 

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Related: 32 stunning photos of auroras seen from space

The monster sunspot will reappear in late May/early June, but when the sunspot reaches just to the right of the center of the sun, from our perspective, the sun-Earth system will be most connected. That's when our planet is most likely to be hit by solar weather, potentially resulting in another display of auroras at low latitudes.

"That's exactly where it produced all of those large flares," said French. "But in theory, if you had a large enough eruption, even if it's just to the left of the sun's center, we could still get the edge of that impact."

— Solar storm from 1977 reveals how unprepared we are for the next 'big one'

— Could a solar storm ever destroy Earth?

— 15 signs the sun is gearing up for its explosive peak — the solar maximum

June 6's new moon rises exactly 27 days after May 10, so be on alert a few nights before and after that date — just in case there's a repeat of last month's extreme geomagnetic activity. If auroras are visible near you, you'll need to get far from obscuring clouds and city lights to be able to see them.

Even after June's new moon, there may still be other chances to catch the aurora near you this year. Sunspots appear in greater frequency — and trigger more powerful solar flares — during the peak of the sun's 11-year activity cycle, known as the solar maximum. Scientists suspect that the current cycle's maximum may already be underway , hitting us sooner and harder than previously estimated. But we won't be able to determine the maximum's precise timing until after it ends, and solar activity finally quiets down again.

Update: This article was updated on May 29 to specify where to look for the sunspot after it reappears. It will be just to the right of the sun's center.

Jamie Carter is a freelance journalist and regular Live Science contributor based in Cardiff, U.K. He is the author of A Stargazing Program For Beginners and lectures on astronomy and the natural world. Jamie regularly writes for Space.com, TechRadar.com, Forbes Science, BBC Wildlife magazine and Scientific American, and many others. He edits WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com .

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