1. Toronto Islands
The Toronto Islands are a chain of 15 small islands nestled in Lake Ontario, just south of downtown Toronto. They form the only group of islands in the western part of Lake Ontario, providing natural shelter for Toronto Harbour and separating the city from the vast expanse of the lake.
Ferry: The Budget-Friendly Way to Reach the Toronto Islands
The Toronto Island Ferry is the most affordable and convenient mode of transportation from downtown Toronto to the Toronto Islands including Ward’s Island, Centre Island, and Hanlan’s Point. Ferries typically depart from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, located at the foot of Bay Street and Queens Quay. The journey across Lake Ontario takes no more than 15 minutes, offering scenic views of the skyline and a refreshing lake breeze. All current fares and schedules are published on the official City of Toronto portal under the “All Ferry Schedules” section. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the amusement park, or a peaceful nature walk, the ferry is a budget-friendly and enjoyable way to reach the Toronto Islands.
Water Boat Taxi
Water boat taxi services provide a fast, flexible, and scenic alternative to the public ferry, offering quick and convenient access to the Toronto Islands without long wait times. They are faster than public ferries, typically taking no longer than 10 minutes to reach the Toronto Islands. However, they are more expensive, with fares starting at CAD $13 for a one-way trip. These taxis also operate from multiple locations along the Toronto waterfront, providing convenient access points for travelers. Moreover If a traveler prefers a unique and more personal boating experience with a small group, taking a water taxi is an excellent choice.
Popular destinations are Ward’s Island, Centre Island, and Hanlan’s Point
Centre Island
Toronto’s Centre Island is one of the most popular destinations within Toronto Island Park, offering a blend of natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and peaceful green spaces. Top places to visit on centre island are centrevillle amusement park, beach, picnic areas, urban farm, boat & bike rentals, franklin children’s garden, island café.
Ward’s Island
Ward’s Island is part of Toronto Island Park and can be reached by ferry from the mainland. The swimming beaches are regularly monitored, with water quality tested to ensure safe conditions for visitors.
Hanlan’s Point
The Hanlan family was among the earliest year-round residents of the Toronto Islands, settling at Gibraltar Point in 1862. Following the transfer of the islands from the federal government to the City of Toronto in 1867, the land was surveyed under Plan D-141, which divided it into lots and permitted the construction of cottages, amusement areas, and resort hotels. The western part of the island, then known as West Point, quickly developed into a popular resort destination for Toronto residents. It was here that the island’s first summer cottage community was established. In 1878, John Hanlan built a hotel at the northwest tip of the island, and the area soon became known as Hanlan’s Point. Today, the distance from Hanlan’s Point Ferry Dock to the Island Filtration Plant is approximately 2.48 kilometers.
2. Harbourfront Centre
PHOTO COURTESY: Harbour front Centre
Harbour front Centre stands as one of Canada’s most vibrant and inspiring cultural destinations located along the edge of Lake Ontario, in the heart of downtown Toronto. It is well known as Canada’s community waterfront, this 10-acre cultural campus blends art, education, and public engagement into a year-round experience that celebrates diversity, creativity, and connection.
Arts, Culture & Community
Harbourfront Centre is a registered charitable, not-for-profit cultural organization dedicated to the growth of Canadian and international artistry. Whether you’re strolling the boardwalk or attending a festival, the atmosphere here is alive with creativity. Each year, Harbourfront Centre hosts hundreds of events, ranging from visual art exhibitions and live music to dance performances, film screenings, and literary talks. These events span 52 weeks a year, providing seven-day-a-week access to immersive experiences that engage all ages and backgrounds.