Toronto Islands

Photo by: Claire Fisher, Realtor (@clairefisherrealestate) • Instagram photos and videos

The excitement of seeing Toronto’s islands and natural beauty begins with the water taxi ride. The Toronto Islands are the perfect getaway for a change of scenery from the busy city life. Center Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point are the three main islands that makeup Toronto’s islands. The Jack Layton Boat Terminal is a 5-minute ferry ride from the major city’s centre. All of the islands are connected by pathways, so it’s perfect for taking a stroll or riding a bicycle and keeping active.

Photo by: Jai (@jai_vishnur) • Instagram photos and videos

Things To do

Toronto Island offers something to do for everyone. Whether you want to go on a bike ride with your friends, play tennis, or roller skate, the island’s trails are perfect. You can have a nice picnic with your family or friends in the large green space, or you can have lunch at one of the island’s restaurants.

Children can enjoy the playgrounds or go to the Centerville Amusement Park, which is suitable for children aged 3 to 7. Rides, golf, a carousel, and many more activities are all you can enjoy. Parents must accompany their children during rids. You can purchase a day or family pass. In addition, there are food outlets nearby where you can purchase hot dogs, pizza, snacks, and drinks while spending time with your family.

The beaches on the islands are also nice since they are recognized for having high-quality water and are well-managed. The beach at Hanlan’s Point is also known as a “naked beach,” although you can still relax on the sand even if you aren’t interested in going naked. On the other hand, the central island is considerably busier than Halan’s beach and is your regular beach.

Also, canoeing and kayaking are available on Lake Ontario. You can rent a boat from the boathouse you find as you walk toward the beach on Center Island, which is a fantastic way to explore the island. Be sure to arrive early if you want to choose the best boat for you and your friends.

Photo by: Ashwin Mishra (@entradasalida) • Instagram photos and videos

If you have been to the islands before, you know watching the sunset from the island is something you can not miss. And if you also have stayed late, the view of the city at night is equally unmatched. It’s very peaceful to observe it from a distance. If you visit the island again, make sure you leave time in your schedule to stop and take in the scenery.

Photo by: Michael Connor (@mgwconnor) • Instagram photos and videos

The islands are also home to a variety of wildlife, including mammals and migrating birds, which you can enjoy watching. It is believed that there are at least 35 different fish species in the lake. You can also find Painted Turtles, beavers, herons, and nesting swans. If you’re between the ages of 18 and 64 and plan on fishing with rods, be sure you have a fishing licence and make sure you have read the fishing restrictions from the boathouse.

Photo by: Johana Aveunelly Photography (@j.ave.photo) • Instagram photos and videos

Information

Ferry price from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal is $8.50 (better if you buy online in advance for smooth sailing)
No fee for admission to the islands
You will need a picnic permit if you have a party of 25 and more
You will need a permit to use the charcoal BBQ sites
Ferries are wheelchair accessible
Dogs on leash are allowed on the islands

If you want to feel like you’ve gone on vacation without leaving your house, Toronto Island is a fantastic spot to come during the summer. While you’re there, don’t miss the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, a 200-year-old stone tower lighthouse with a fascinating history.