Toronto Islands

A fifteen-minute ferry ride from the foot of Bay Street takes you out of the city and onto a string of low, green islands where there are no cars. The Toronto Islands lie in Lake Ontario just off the downtown waterfront, sheltering Toronto Harbour, and they are one of the city's favourite summer escapes. Ferries run from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, at the foot of Queens Quay, to three main landings, the islands of Centre, Ward and Hanlan’s Point, and the ride alone gives one of the best views of the skyline.

The islands began as a long sandy peninsula that grew from material swept along the shore by the lake, and a storm in 1858 cut a channel through it and turned it into islands. For many decades, the peninsula was a resort area, with hotels, cottages and amusement parks, and some of its history is still visible. Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, built in 1808, is one of the oldest buildings in Toronto and the oldest surviving lighthouse on the Great Lakes, and local legend says it is haunted. A small residential community of about 700 people lives on Ward's Island and Algonquin Island in cottages, one of the few places in a big city where people live car-free.

Each landing has its own character. Centre Island is the busiest and most family-oriented, with the Centreville Amusement Park, a farm with animals, a pier, gardens and a long beach, and it offers the best selection of food. Ward's Island is quieter, with a beach, boardwalk, small cafés and a village atmosphere. Hanlan’s Point is on the western end, with a wide beach that includes a clothing-optional section, and the runway of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is visible across the water. Paved paths connect all three, and the whole archipelago can be crossed on foot or by bicycle in an hour or two.

Visitors can rent bicycles, canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, swim at the beaches, picnic under the trees or simply walk. Entry to the islands is free, though the ferry costs a fare, and crowds form for the ferry on hot summer weekends, so mornings are best. Pack water, sun protection and a picnic, as services are limited away from Centre Island.

The Islands suit families, cyclists and anyone who wants a view of Toronto from a distance, and the last ferry times matter, so check the schedule before the return.