Toronto Islands
A serene archipelago offering stunning city skyline views, beaches, and family fun, just a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour views
Toronto Islands
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene archipelago offering stunning city skyline views, beaches, and family fun, just a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto.
"Beautiful, scenic and relaxing! Stunning views of downtown Toronto en route by ferry to this quaint set of interconnected islands."
🚢 Ferry vs. Water Taxi
Ferry is cheaper but has long lines. Water taxi is faster but pricier.
🚲 Rent a Bike
Explore the islands more efficiently by renting a bike.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 2,003 reviews
Type
Island
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Toronto Skyline Views
Various points across the islands
Breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, especially magical at twilight.
+1
Centreville Amusement Park
Centre Island
A charming amusement park with over 30 rides, perfect for families and a nostalgic experience.
Ward's Island Charm
Ward's Island
Explore the unique artist community and its history, offering a peaceful escape and lovely city vistas.
Beaches and Boardwalks
Centre Island Beach, Hanlan's Point Beach
Relax on sandy beaches or stroll along scenic boardwalks, enjoying the fresh lake air.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry vs. Water Taxi: Beat the Crowds
Island Exploration: Pace Yourself
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry vs. Water Taxi
Ferry is cheaper but has long lines. Water taxi is faster but pricier.
🚲 Rent a Bike
Explore the islands more efficiently by renting a bike.
🗺️ Grab a Free Map
Get a map when you buy ferry tickets to navigate easily.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a full day outdoors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry vs. Water Taxi
Ferry is cheaper but has long lines. Water taxi is faster but pricier.
🚲 Rent a Bike
Explore the islands more efficiently by renting a bike.
🗺️ Grab a Free Map
Get a map when you buy ferry tickets to navigate easily.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a full day outdoors.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfy footwear.
📸 Twilight Photography
Catch the stunning Toronto skyline at twilight for amazing photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Toronto Islands for their beautiful scenery, relaxing atmosphere, and stunning views of the city skyline. It's a perfect escape for families and couples alike, offering a blend of amusement park fun and natural tranquility. While the ferry can be busy, the overall experience is highly recommended for its value and picturesque setting.
"Toronto Islands are one of the best places to visit in the city. The view of the skyline from across the water is absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunset. Whether it’s summer or fall, the islands are stunning.
There are three islands, each with its own charm. You can take a boat to any of them (check the schedule), or grab a water taxi near Harbourfront for a more relaxing ride. The return trip from the island is free even if you didn’t take the ferry.
The are a few beaches which are clean and scenic, perfect for summer days. I highly recommend going on a weekday, ideally in the morning to avoid crowds (it can be VERY crowdy on weekends). On weekdays it is quiet, peaceful, and you might feel like you have the whole place to yourself.
The best way to explore is by renting a bike through Bike Share. There are lots of them available. There is also a nice boardwalk on the opposite side of the islands (no bikes permitted though). But the best part is of course the iconic view from Centre Island. There are also a few cafes for a quick snack, plenty of picnic spots, lots of water stations.
Overall, Toronto Islands are a must-see!"
Daria Kurovskaya
"We ended up catching the ferry to Billy Bishop Airport (~10minutes). From there, we walked to Center Island. It was incredibly crowded for a weekday. Prices were high for pretty much everything. The highlights for us were the little farm, where we got to pet the ponies, donkeys, and goats. We caught the ferry back to the mainland maybe 40 minutes after exploring Center Island."
Dessi Dobrolevska
"Beautiful, scenic and relaxing! Stunning views of downtown Toronto en route by ferry to this quaint set of interconnected islands. Lovely boardwalk from Ward’s Island to Centre Island. Clean and lifeguard-supervised swimming area on Centre Island. Cute amusement park and gardens. Spend the day or just a few hours."
KS B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal in downtown Toronto. Water taxis are also available as a quicker, though more expensive, alternative.
The ferry costs approximately $9.11 for adults round trip and $4.29 for children. Water taxis are around $12-$15 one way.
The ferry ride is typically about 15-20 minutes, offering great views of the city skyline along the way.
Yes, water taxis offer a faster way to reach the islands, especially if you want to avoid ferry queues.
The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal is located at 9 Queens Quay West, Toronto, ON M5J 2H3.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need to purchase a ferry ticket to get to the islands. Once on the islands, most areas are free to explore, though Centreville Amusement Park has its own admission.
The islands are generally accessible year-round, but ferry service and attractions like Centreville have seasonal operating hours. It's best to check the official Toronto Ferry Company website for current schedules.
Yes, you can purchase ferry tickets online in advance through the Toronto Ferry Company website to save time.
Discounts are available for seniors (65+) and children. Check the ferry company's website for specific pricing.
No, the islands themselves are free to enter. The cost is for the ferry or water taxi transportation.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include Centreville Amusement Park, beautiful beaches, scenic boardwalks, gardens, and stunning views of the Toronto skyline.
Yes, bike rentals are available on the islands, which is a great way to explore the different areas.
Yes, there are supervised swimming areas at Centre Island Beach and Hanlan's Point Beach during the summer months.
Absolutely! Centreville Amusement Park, beaches, and open spaces make it a fantastic destination for families with children.
The views are spectacular from various points, especially during twilight. Walking along the boardwalks or finding a quiet spot near the water offers great vantage points.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several cafes and snack bars on the islands offering quick bites and drinks.
Picnics are welcome, making it a great option for a budget-friendly meal with a view.
You can find typical park fare like snacks, ice cream, and casual meals. Some visitors have noted mixed experiences with specific food items.
While there are casual eateries and snack bars, the islands are not known for formal restaurants. It's more about quick service and picnic-style dining.
Prices are typical for park concessions. Bringing your own food can be a more economical choice.
📸 📸 Photography
The Toronto skyline views, especially at sunset and twilight, are iconic. The charming streets of Ward's Island and the amusement park also offer great photo opportunities.
Twilight, the period shortly after sunset, is ideal for capturing the city lights against the fading natural light. Golden hour is also beautiful.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Toronto parks, including the islands, to ensure safety and preserve the park's tranquility. Always check current regulations.
A versatile lens for landscapes and cityscapes, like a wide-angle or standard zoom, is useful. A tripod can be beneficial for twilight shots.
Yes, the ferries, water taxis, and general lake activities provide dynamic subjects for photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit