Toronto Islands
Toronto Islands provide an unbeatable outdoor oasis just a short ferry ride from Downtown Toronto
Toronto Islands and Toronto Island Park form a beautiful pedestrian only oasis comprised of 570 acres of small islands in Lake Ontario across from downtown Toronto. After a fun 10 minute ferry ride from Downtown Toronto, you will find there are no cars, just fabulous beaches, trails, gardens, attractions and more, making this a fantastic place to enjoy the day.
The islands were originally a long sand spit formed by a combination of erosion of the Scarborough Bluffs and currents in the lake. Storms in the 1800s opened up channels in the spit to form islands. With no intervention the islands would have eventually eroded away, but they have been protected by the extension of the Leslie Street Spit and 'hardening' of the shore lines. Land has also been reclaimed over the years by dredging up sand from the harbour.
The islands are now home to the Regional City Centre Airport along with Parkland, Beaches and over 250 homes and cottages, but no cars! Vehicle traffic is limited to service vehicles making the islands a peaceful place to spend some time strolling or cycling. There were once over 600 homes and cottages in the community, but the city wanted to convert most of the islands to parkland and, in a battle with residents that lasted for decades, expropriated and demolished the majority of the homes on the island. The battle was finally settled in 1993 with the remaining residents able to purchase a 99 year lease. Access to the islands is provided via ferry service from Queens Quay in Downtown Toronto. The ferries operate daily from morning until nighttime. For information on fares and schedules go click on the 'Map and Directions' tab. You can also contact the Ferries by phone at 416-397-2628.
Recreation on the islands includes Centreville Amusement Park, a children's turn-of-the-century themed amusement park with a miniature railroad, vintage carousel, ferris wheel. pony rides and more. It is open daily during the summer months.
Located just east of the Centreville Amusement Park you will find Far Enough Farms, a free petting zoo with over 40 species of farm animals and exotic birds on display. This is a great place to take your kids and will appeal to the kid in all of us. It is open from 10am-5pm 365 days a year.
There are several swimming beaches on the islands. Recreational boating is popular with the islands being home to four yacht clubs and the Toronto Island Marina. Canoe and boat rentals are available from Toronto Island Boathouse on Centre Island and Bike Rentals are available next to the pier on Ward Island.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes - For ferry service to the islandsAddress: Toronto Islands, St Lawrence-East Bayfront-The Islands, ON, Canada
Toronto Islands Reviews
Rated out of 5
ESCAPE FROM THE CITY
Great place to spend a day!! The ferry ride was good with excellent view of the city and river front. The Centre Island is perfect for families, with plenty of open space and bike rentals. The atmosphere is clean, green, and refreshing a great break from city noise.
Highly recommend bringing snacks, sunscreen, and your camera!
Allen Jonathan - in the last week
I absolutely love Toronto Island. Specifically, Center island has been a favorite getaway of mine for over 10 years. I’ve created countless memories here, from breathtaking sunsets and scenic views to friendly faces and unforgettable moments. It's the perfect spot for mini rides, picnics, attractions, and simply having a great time. With beautiful beaches and so much to explore, it’s a place that truly never gets old. Here are some phenomenal photos I've taken over the years. I honestly couldn’t recommend it more highly!
Christina - a month ago
It’s a beautiful place for all age groups with activities for kids and adults, rides, play area. One of the best picnic spots in Toronto…
Amulya Priya - 2 months ago
I had a wonderful experience visiting Toronto Island with friends. The island was very clean and well-maintained, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy nature. While weekends can get quite busy, weekdays are much more peaceful and not too crowded.
If you’re planning a trip, I highly recommend going early in the morning and catching the first ferry. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy everything the island has to offer — whether it’s biking, walking, having a BBQ, or simply taking a nap under the sun. It’s a perfect getaway spot right next to the cit
Arif Bahaduri - a month ago
Must visit place in toronto. Peaceful spot right in the middle of the city. A short ferry ride takes you away from the noise and into nature.
Great for walking, biking, or just relaxing by the water. Centre Island is nice for families, while Ward’s and Hanlan’s are quieter.
Clean beaches, lots of picnic areas, and nice views of the skyline.
Can get busy on weekends, so weekdays are better if you want more space. Worth visiting.
Milad Kawesh - 2 weeks ago
Directions
| Streetcar and Ferry Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Yonge-University-Spadina | Union Station | 2 MInutes |
How to get to Toronto Islands by Streetcar and Ferry
From Union Station take either the #509 Harbourfront or #510 Spadina streetcar and get off at Bay and Queen's Quay Stop. The entrance to the ferry docks is on the south side of the street. See the Toronto Island Ferry Schedule for sailing times.
The ferry trip is not included in the TTC fare. The round trip on the ferry is $7.00 for Adults, $4.50 for Seniors and Students under 19 and $3.50 for children 2-13.
Accommodations near Toronto Islands:
Photo Gallery
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A picturesque bridge in the Toronto Islands cc licensed photo by sillygwailo -
Photo Credit: daniel0685 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daniel0685 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daniel0685 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daniel0685 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daniel0685 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daniel0685 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daniel0685 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daniel0685 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: daniel0685 - cc license via Flickr
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