Car-free island chain with beaches, bike paths, an amusement park for children and skyline views.
The Toronto Islands are a chain of small, car-free islands in Toronto Harbour, reached by ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal at 9 Queens Quay West. The ferry ride takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes and serves three main stops: Centre Island, Ward's Island and Hanlan's Point. Centre Island has Centreville Amusement Park, aimed at young children, along with pedestrian paths, gardens, a pier and bicycle rentals. Ward's Island has a small residential community of cottages and a quiet boardwalk, while Hanlan's Point has a beach and, on its far side, a clothing-optional section. Flat paved paths make cycling easy, and the shoreline looks back on the Toronto skyline, which is the most popular photograph on the islands, especially from Centre Island's pier or Ward's Island at sunset. Beaches on the lake side of the islands offer swimming in summer. Ferries run year-round on a seasonal schedule, roughly every 15 to 30 minutes in summer, with fewer sailings in winter, and the ferry fare is around CAD $9 to $10 for an adult return. Most visitors spend a half to a full day. Weekday summer mornings avoid the heavy queues for ferries that build on hot weekend afternoons, when the return line can take a long time. There are limited food outlets, so many people bring a picnic. The islands are managed as public parkland by the City of Toronto in Ontario, and the combination of beaches, trails and skyline views makes them one of the city's most popular escapes from downtown.
| Admission | Ferry about CAD $9-10 adult return (approx US$7); Centre Island rides and bike rentals extra |
|---|---|
| Hours | Ferries run year-round on a seasonal schedule, roughly every 15-30 minutes in summer; islands open daily |
| Typical visit | Half to full day |
| Best time | Weekday summer mornings |
| Getting there | Ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal; 10-minute walk from Union station |
| Address | Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, 9 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2H3 |
Location
Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, 9 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2H3
43.6205, -79.3780 View on map
Highlights
- Ferry ride with views of the Toronto skyline
- Centreville Amusement Park for young children
- Flat paths for cycling and walking
- Beaches at Ward's Island and Hanlan's Point
- Quiet residential community on Ward's Island
Tips for visiting
- Take an early ferry on summer weekends to avoid long lines.
- Check the seasonal ferry timetable before planning the return.
- Rent a bike on the islands to cover the distances easily.
- Bring food and water, since options are limited.
- Choose the ferry destination (Centre, Ward's or Hanlan's) before boarding.
- Allow extra time for the return queue on hot days.
When to visit
Weekday summer mornings are best for short ferry lines and open beaches. Winter is quiet and suited to walks.
Accessibility
The ferries and main paths are largely flat and accessible, and Centre Island has paved routes. Sand beaches and some boardwalk sections are harder for wheelchairs.
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Frequently asked questions
How long should visitors spend on the Toronto Islands?
A half to a full day is typical, depending on whether visitors cycle, swim or visit the amusement park.
Are the Toronto Islands good for kids?
Yes. Centreville Amusement Park, beaches and flat bike paths suit families with young children.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, the islands are public parkland. The best skyline views are from Centre Island's pier and Ward's Island.