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
WHAT TO DO
BIKES
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/
BEACHES
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!
