If you are considering a visit to Toronto Islands during your time in the city, this is your sign to go for it! You will find the most stunning views of the skyline, peaceful, serene nature, beautiful beaches for swimming and a ton of fun outdoor activities to fill out your day. Read along for all of those precious details you are looking for!

The Toronto Islands are amongst my top 3 favorite places to visit in the city. And that says a lot. As much as I love the hustle and bustle of this charming city, I always find myself craving that bit of fresh air and peacefulness. And the Toronto Islands will give you exactly that! Visiting the islands is amongst the best things you can do on a hot summer day too. And you won’t believe how easy it is to get there from Toronto!

The Best Time To Visit Toronto Islands

Spring, summer and early autumn is by far the best time to visit Toronto Islands. This really doesn’t require much explanation: the Toronto Islands are ideal for picnics, beach swims and outdoor activities, and is obviously best enjoyed in nice weather! But be aware: this is also the most popular time for visitors, and ferries will mostly be packed! If you want to avoid the largest crowds, try to head out on weekdays or early mornings.

How To Get To Toronto Islands

Toronto Islands By Ferry

The most common way to get to the Toronto Islands is by the public ferry. The ferries depart several times per hour to 3 of the main islands: Hanlan’s Point, Center Island and Ward’s Island. Center Island is the main island, where you will find toilets, restaurants and activities just by the ferry port. But be sure to head out to the others as well! A ferry ride from Toronto harbor will only take you around 10 minutes and cost you 9CAD for a return ticket.

Toronto Islands Water Taxis

Another great way to reach the Toronto Islands is by water taxis. You will find these down by the harbor with giant banners persuading you for a ride. Although this option is slightly more expensive, it might be worth your money to have the flexibility of going whenever you want. And I am sure it makes a more enjoyable ride, as you will be able to enjoy the views along the way without a million people surrounding you on a crowded ferry!

Getting Around Toronto Islands

The easiest way to get around the Toronto Islands is by foot or bicycle. Since the 15 islands are all linked to each other by bridges, you can easily venture out from one to the next, whenever you want. However, if you want to explore more than just the three main islands, I think you will quickly reach the conclusion, that biking around is the better option! Your tired legs will thank you for it. And whats more, exploring the islands by foot is such a fun way to do it! You can either rent a bike on the island, or rent a bike in Toronto and bring it on the ferry free of charge.

The Best Things To Do On Toronto Islands

Rent A Bike And Go Exploring

As mentioned, one of the best ways to explore Toronto Islands is by bike. You can cover a lot of ground with a minimal amount of effort – and there is so much to explore! We actually rented our bikes from Toronto City, as the rental place on the islands opened too late for our liking. But do your research and choose your preference! If you are feeling in need of some adventure, you might also consider joining a biking tour of the islands with a local expert!

Have Fun At Centreville Amusement Park

When you arrive on Center Islands, you will quickly notice an area with much more activity and happenings than the rest of the area. This is Centreville Amusement Park! Although it isn’t the largest amusement parks, it has a ton of fun rides and activities especially suited for smaller children. And those who have a child inside of them!

Enjoy A Swim At One Of The Beaches On Toronto Islands

Spread across Toronto Islands are a ton of beautiful beaches for you to enjoy on a sunny day. At the biggest ones on Center Island, you will find changing-, shower and toiletfacilities and even a café to fulfill your every need. But I highly recommend venturing further out on the islands to find those serene, peaceful beaches, where you can have everything to yourself. An important note though: There are nudist beaches on the islands. So be sure to check what you get into before you go!

Play A Round Of Disc Golf

Another great thing to do on the islands is to play a round of disc golf with your friends and family! Head towards the left from the Center Island and you will quickly stumble upon these fun fields, where you can rent a game to try. And if you cant find it, google maps is your best friend!

Walk The Scenic Boardwalk

Just by Ward’s Island Beach you will find this beautifully made boardwalk along the shore. Why not go for a walk or bikeride along it and see what you find? It has some of the best views from the Toronto Islands, and I absolutely loved the initiative!

Spend Some Time With The Animals At The Petting Zoo

Another great way to spend some time on Toronto Islands is by paying a visit to their petting zoo on Center Islands! This area is free to visit and has so many cute animals to pet. I can imagine it is a great activity for families with small children. But I have to admit: I even enjoyed it on my adult-only trip! Who doesn’t like to pay a visit to some cute animals, really?

Enjoy A Peaceful Lunch Or Picnic

When visiting the islands, be sure to take advantages of the many beautiful green areas all around! Toronto Islands are such a great place to enjoy a peaceful picnic. And everywhere you look, you will stumble upon the most beautiful views. So why not bring some snacks from the city and soak it all in?

Join A Sunset Canoe Tour

Considering you have probably had the best day on the islands, why not end it with a bang with a beautiful sunset canoe tour? I wish we could have tried this during our trip, as it looks like such a great way to experience the islands from another perspective!

I hope this quick and easy guide has persuaded you to head towards Toronto Islands during your next visit to this wonderful city. I promise you won’t regret it!