Toronto Islands
Made up of 15 small islands linked together by connecting bridges, the Toronto Islands offers an assortment of fun activities, including water-based adventure, amusement parks and scenic lookouts.
Known by the locals as “the Island” or “Toronto Island Park,” its three main islands are Ward’s Island, Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point. It boasts 332 hectares of land that can only be explored on foot or by bicycle with 14 kilometres of trails. It’s the ideal spot to spend a full day relaxing outdoors.
Toronto Islands beckons outdoor enthusiasts, beach lovers and families.
Toronto Islands | Destination Ontario
How to get to Toronto Islands
Location: Toronto Islands
By ferry: Take the Toronto Island ferry from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. Ferry tickets can be bought online or in person.
By water taxi: Private water taxi companies are available to transport passengers from mainland Toronto to the Island and back.
By car: Cars are not allowed on the islands. Park your vehicle near Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and ride the ferry to reach the Islands.
Know before you go
The Toronto Islands off-season runs from late October/early November to mid-April. During this time, there are limited food options and all park facilities at Centre Island and Hanlan’s Point are closed. Access to trails, cycling routes and boardwalks is open year-round.
Wait times for the ferry can be lengthy during the summer and on weekends. Travel at off-peak times to avoid the crowds.
Things to do at Toronto Islands
Discover more activities and experiences.
Hang out at an amusement park
Spend a summer’s day with the whole family at Centreville Amusement Park. This popular attraction has over 30 rides, including roller coasters, and 14 delicious food outlets.
Visit a historic lighthouse
Explore the 200-year-old Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, Canada’s oldest standing lighthouse. Learn of its spooky ghost stories as you wander around the nearby grounds.
Solve a maze
Test your escape skills at the William Meany Maze on Centre Island. This hedge maze is made up of 1,200 Black Cedars planted in a winding design and is fun for all ages.
Walk the boardwalk
Walk or bike across the 1.5-kilometre Ward’s Island Boardwalk. Take in views of Lake Ontario, Tommy Thompson Park and Ward’s Island Beach.
Spend time at a petting farm
Visit the Far Enough Farm on Centre Island to get up close and personal with over 40 different species of farmyard animals and exotic birds such as alpacas, llamas, geese and more.
Venture out onto the water
Rent canoes and kayaks at the Boat House, relax on sandy beaches, play all day at splash pads or try your luck at fishing. Find a full list of water activities and information online.
Articles and itineraries
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Interesting facts about Toronto Islands
The Toronto Islands were originally moving sand bars in the waters of Lake Ontario that eventually shaped into islands. At one point, they were connected to the mainland via a peninsula. The peninsula was badly eroded by a storm in 1858 and the chain of islands was formed. Settlements sprung up on the islands and there is still a small population who call Ward’s Island home.
During the evenings, the ideal spot to watch the sunset is at Hanlan’s Point Beach, the largest beach on the islands.
Accessibility features
Accessible recreation trails
Accessible transportation
Wheelchair accessible
Last updated: May 17, 2024