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Bucket List: Top 12 Best Things to See and Do on the Toronto Islands, Canada
Located in the Southern part of mainland Toronto, it is a chain of 15 small islands that have long been a fan-favorite tourist destination for visitors worldwide. The Toronto Islands are located within the vicinity of the famous Lake Ontario. Aside from pristine creamy white-sand beaches, natural parks, and mesmerizing skylines, the islands are also home to some of Canada’s most famous cultural and historical landmarks.
View from Toronto Islands by yalin Kaya via Unsplash
The Toronto Islands, a group of small islands located just off the coast of downtown Toronto, offer a tranquil and scenic escape from the bustling city. Visitors can start their day by ferrying across Lake Ontario to the islands. Once there, explore the beautiful walking and biking trails that wind through the lush greenery, providing stunning views of the Toronto skyline.
Relax on one of the sandy beaches, such as Hanlan’s Point Beach or Centre Island Beach, and take a refreshing swim in the clear waters. Enjoy a picnic in one of the many picnic areas or grab a bite to eat at one of the island’s charming cafes and restaurants. For families, visiting Centreville Amusement Park is a must; offering rides, games, and attractions for all ages.
The islands also have recreational facilities like tennis courts and a frisbee golf course for outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t forget to stroll along the boardwalk and admire the beautiful gardens and panoramic views. With its natural beauty and recreational activities, the Toronto Islands provide a peaceful and enjoyable experience for locals and tourists alike.
Get ready to immerse yourself in all fun and exciting activities as we discover the 12 Best Things to do on the Toronto Islands!
Take on a Paddleboarding Class
First up! SUP or Stand Up Paddle Boarding classes are popular tourist attractions on the beautiful Toronto Islands. SUP is a unique and fun way of enjoying and reconnecting with nature. It also enables you to join a thriving community that aims to bring people together to have fun and take care of nature. Moreover, Paddle Boarding classes allow you to learn new skills and sharpen your survival skills, such as swimming and breathing techniques. So, overall it’s a win-win situation for you!
Toronto Island SUP is one of the best places to take on SUP Classes. Here, you are guaranteed to be guided by professional instructors on all things about SUP. There are also other exciting activities to look forward to, such as kayaking and other land-based team-building programs.
Cast Yourself Away on Electric Island
Next on the list is one of the highly anticipated activities on the Toronto Islands. I’m talking about Canada’s favorite Electronic Music Concert and Picnic Series, the only Electric Island! Everybody who loves to have some fun will genuinely enjoy the experience brought by the Electric Island, where amazing electronic and techno music is created and performed by countless international artists. You better not miss it!
Visit the Famous Centreville Amusement Park
Of course, who wouldn’t want to visit the famous Centreville Amusement Park? This iconic children’s amusement park that’s been operating since 1967 is home to some of the best rides and attractions in the region. There’s no doubt that the kiddos will have fun with the log flume, Ferris wheel, and the “Scrambler,” there’s no doubt that the kiddos will have fun!
Don’t Miss the Bestival!
Another highly anticipated event you shouldn’t miss is the iconic Bestival of Toronto Islands! Initially held in England, this four-day music festival came to the Toronto Islands in 2015 to bring fun and energy to Canadians. Of course, an international as grand as this one requires intense preparations, so it’s best to check out the schedules of Bestival before including them in your itinerary.
International music stars and pop icons are expected to perform in the Bestival, so be sure not to miss out!
Explore the Snake Island
Ready to take the fun to another level? Well, then you should go explore the famous Snake Island! The location has many excellent picnic sites and fire pits where you can spend the rest of the day in the wilderness and be closer to nature. You can even encounter some friendly wild animals for the sake of it! But no, it’s highly unlikely that you will find snakes here on Snake Island because the origin of its name isn’t connected to the actual snake animals. Instead, the island was named after its owner, Chief Joseph Snake.
Witness the Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival
There we have it! The Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival is another highly anticipated international event on the Toronto Islands. From its humble beginning in 1989, only 27 teams have participated in the prestigious event; the competition now caters to dozens of teams worldwide, such as Europe, America, Asia, and the Caribbean Islands. The registered teams will be welcomed at Marilyn Bell Park, so if you’re into extreme sports like the Dragonboat, there’s no better place to watch it than the Toronto Islands!
Play Frisbee on Wards Island!
If you’re looking for a secluded place to relax and enjoy nature’s peace and serenity without any distractions, then Wards Island is the perfect destination for you. The island is home to a small sandy beach where you can swim, sunbathe, or even play frisbee with friends. The beach co-exists with a small residential community. That’s why it’s more peaceful here than at Hanlan’s Point and Centre Island.
Meet the Lovely Animals of Far Enough Farm
The Far Enough Farm is another must-visit destination on the Toronto Islands. It’s actually one of the main attractions of Centreville Amusement Park, so if ever you’re near Downtown Toronto, you should pay a visit! There are plenty of friendly pets and animals to meet here at the Far Enough Farm, such as peafowl, alpacas, horses, chickens, rabbits, and many more!
Attend the Festival of India
Another highly anticipated summer event on the Toronto Islands is no other than the famous Festival of India. For decades now, the Indian Community has contributed a lot to the overall success of Canada as a country. So to honor them, the Festival of India was born, where a thousand years’ worth of tradition and heritage is celebrated on the Toronto Islands. Everyone is invited to come and participate as the community walks, chants, and sings along the streets celebrating Indian culture.
Of course, live performances, bazaars, and food stalls are available all around, serving Indian delicacies and Canadian treats. Therefore, it will undoubtedly be a fun and exciting festival for everyone!
Challenge Yourself on the William Meany Maze
Are you in for another exciting challenge? Well, then, let’s head on to the iconic William Meany Maze! Spanning a massive area of 15,000 square feet where children and adults can get lost and have fun, this playground has become a popular tourist attraction on the Toronto Islands. The maze is quite challenging, thanks to the 1,200 towering black cedars composing the William Meany Maze. I’m warning you that even the most coordinated people get lost in this maze, so take up the challenge!
Learn More About Canada on Doors Open Toronto
Doors Open Toronto is one of the region’s most unique and unforgettable events. More than 150 buildings with historical, architectural, and cultural significance to the city open their doors to the public for a massive city-wide event. It’s a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors to learn more about the Toronto Islands’ rich culture and history! So while you’re at it, don’t miss the chance to participate in Doors Open Toronto!
Fall in Love with the Scenic View of Centre Island Pier
Finally, there’s no better way to finish your trip to the Toronto Islands than to enjoy the scenic views of the Centre Island Pier. This park features an extended concrete jetty that eventually leads to a huge observation deck where you can marvel at the breathtaking view of Lake Ontario. It’s a romantic and serene place that’s perfect for viewing sunsets and taking pictures while you’re at it.
Best Time to Visit Toronto Islands
The best time to visit the Toronto Islands is during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early fall. The islands are most popular and accessible from May to September when the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor activities. During this time, you can enjoy the beaches, picnic areas, and recreational facilities to the fullest. June, July, and August are particularly busy, offering the warmest temperatures and longer daylight hours. It’s important to note that weekends and holidays can be crowded, so visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can provide a more peaceful experience. It’s also advisable to check the weather forecast before your visit, as certain activities and facilities may be affected by inclement weather.
How to get to Toronto Islands
To get to the Toronto Islands, follow these steps:
- Take the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) subway or streetcar to Union Station in downtown Toronto.
- From Union Station, walk or take the streetcar to the Toronto Harbourfront area, specifically the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. The terminal is located at 9 Queens Quay West.
- Purchase a ferry ticket at the terminal. The Toronto Island Park Ferry operates the ferry service and offers regular service to the islands.
- Board the ferry that goes to the Toronto Islands. The ferry has multiple stops, including Ward’s Island, Centre Island, and Hanlan’s Point. Check the ferry schedule and choose the appropriate destination.
- Enjoy the scenic ferry ride across Lake Ontario, offering views of the Toronto skyline and the islands.
- Once you arrive at the desired island, disembark the ferry and explore the Toronto Islands. Walking paths, bike rentals, beaches, picnic areas, and various attractions exist.
Note: The ferry schedule may vary depending on the season, so it’s advisable to check the Toronto Island Park Ferry website or contact customer service for the most up-to-date information on schedules and fares.
Our Top Hotel Picks for Toronto Islands, Canada
Searching for the best hotels, resorts, tour packages, and affordable flights in Toronto Islands and nearby cities? Check out our list of cheap Toronto Islands and resorts via Agoda and Booking.
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