Centre Island Beach

Photo by Andy Nystrom

Centre island is ‘“the beach” to be if you’re looking for a summer getaway. Centre Island beach is one of two out of three beaches on the Toronto Islands that has been recognized as a Blue Flag designation, which means you count on the water quality here. Just a short 15 minutes ferry ride from downtown Toronto, this is the gathering spot for beachgoers for a perfect summer’s day.

Photo by Xander Ashburn

Centre Island Beach is located by the pier, which is on the opposite side of the island from the ferry terminal. To get to the beach, you simply have to follow the path named the “Avenue of the Island”, cross the pedestrian bridge, and you’re pretty much there.

Being on the largest of the islands, you will have amenities including food outlets, lockers, bike rental, beautiful gardens, large fields of grass for a picnic, and parks, perfect for a family outing.

Photo by Andrew.O

The water you’ll find here is calm, warm, and relaxing; thanks to the rock breakwater which acts as a barrier from the open lake. However, although this is a Blue Flag beach; the water quality may occasionally vary because the rock breakwater makes it difficult for clean water to sweep in. So be sure to check the E Coli levels online before visiting.

If you’re not a confident swimmer, consider visiting when there’s a lifeguard on duty. There’s usually a lifeguard on duty every day from 11:30 am to 6:30 pm throughout the entire summertime.

Photo by Centreisland

Once you had your fun under the sun, you can grab food from the many food outlets available. Here you can enjoy a craft beer along with some tasty barbeque from Toronto Island BBQ & Beer CO., or some refreshing ice cream from BeaverTails.