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Toronto Island
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
27 reviews for Toronto Island
27 reviews in English
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Review from Julia B.
8/1/2011
Who knew Toronto had islands?
The weather wasn't ideal to enjoy the beach so my friends (who I was visiting over Labor Day weekend) and I just enjoyed walking around the islands. We even came across the Gibraltar Lighthouse, which is rather cute with a red door! I think it's the oldest landmark in Toronto.
From the ferry and Islands itself, you get a beautiful view of the Toronto skyline. -
Review from Lexi B.
7/24/2011
Was anyone else surprised how friggin' busy Toronto is?? I was shocked to see so many people hustling and bustling around in the downtown area. Toronto Island was fantastic in that it was a quiet escape from all this. But let me explain exactly how to find this bliss.
If you're a single 20-something, do not, I repeat do not, take the Centre Island Ferry. I made that mistake, and it wasn't life altering, but for half the day, I was like holy hell kidlettes, you are LOUD. There are three options for you to take ferries, they take you to different parts of the island. Take the Ward Ferry, it will put you on the "adult" side. Much more sane, super mellow, and a few restaurants where you can get a glass of wine.
I spent the day swimming, snacking, read an entire book, explored, walked for ever, took pictures of flowers and the incredible view. Next time, I'll rent a bike for sure. But this time, I took it real sloooowwww.....Listed in: Party of One, Toronto
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Review from Rod G.
Toronto, ON
7/21/2011
Great little getaway right next to downtown Toronto. My work place has thrown summer office BBQs out on Toronto Island for a few years, and it's always a blast. I love cycling and running around the island. I'm not much for Hanlan's, the clothing optional beach, but Gibraltar Point beach which is further down the southern shore is nice. It's on the opposite end of the island from the harbour and is cleaner.
I have fond childhood memories of running around the tiny Centreville amusement park with my cousins and sister. It seemed much bigger as a kid, but it really is small and geared towards small children.
The 262 cottages on Algonquin and Wards islands are a gem to behold. While its ongoing existence has always been politically contentious, the charm of the little island village is undeniable. Go for a stroll or bike ride through a remnant of old Toronto!
I don't agree with the claim that it is a tourist trap because you can have a blast and not spend anything more than $6.50 for the ferry ride with return. Or row a boat for free! Pack a picnic, a towel and change of clothes on your bike and you're good to go. -
Review from Hilary S.
6/22/2011
One of my favourite day trip spots (: rent a bike and relax with the beaches, greenery, and scenery! Oh and bring a picnic if you are really into the idealistic romantic shebang.
Just saying, there's a clothing optional beach. Visit for your own pleasure or at your own risk.Listed in: FAVSIES, Date, don't rape, Biking fetish
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Review from Anna C.
Toronto, ON
4/8/2011
Okay, so repeat after me: I will avoid Centre Island like the plague and instead go to Hanlan's Point! Folks, if you don't like the island because of the noisy children, shit food and crowds, you're going to the wrong part. Centre Island totally sucks unless you're six.
If you want to get away from the city and pretend that it doesn't exist for a day (or more practically, that you're on vacation), hit up Hanlan's Point. Yes it's a clothing optional beach so you will see the little old men parading up and down the beach (and yes, they do do that), but they are harmless and honestly there is something freeing about being able to be topless on the beach if you're a girl. More even tan lines for one.
So why Hanlans?
The ferry lines are much smaller and you can bring your bike, your dog, a picnic. Whatever. Plus, no screaming kids because not too many people bring their children to that end of the island.
The beach is cleaner and more pristine at that end. Less kids means less chance of warm water too if y'know what I mean. The scenery is charming and you can appreciate it because it's not totally clogged with people. There is a grassy area perfect for picnics, washrooms, trails, an abandoned lighthouse (rumored to be haunted), and the nude-y beach.
Bring your bike to get around and explore. Also great if you eat all your food and are still hungry. You can just bike to the opposite end of the island (the residential part) and eat at the absolutely adorable restaurant over there. And yes, you can take your bike back on that ferry.
Bring a picnic (and beverages of a certain nature are cool too, just don't make it tooooo obvious), an umbrella, any beach gear you might fancy really, and make a day of it!
This has been my fail-proof method of keeping what remains of my sanity intact during the summer when "vacation" is a non-existent term in my industry. I hope it works wonders for you too! -
Review from Claudio M.
9/14/2011
I went before the summer season... The island was half empty and i really think that it was what makes my visit so especial. I really enjoy the farm, by the way!!! Totally must
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Review from Michelle A.
Toronto, ON
7/12/2010
I love Toronto Island because my sister got engaged there (how cute is that? Shout outs to Danielle M.)
Also, I love Toronto Island for bike riding. You can bring your own bike across on the ferry or rent one there (but it will cost you $10 an hour. Don't get the tandem bikes - they're much more expensive, and hard to ride).
Food options on the island include Pizza Pizza, pop machines and the dicky dee man... I suggest stopping by St. Lawrence Market first and bringing a picnic.
Try and go early in the morning to avoid weekend lineups. Don't go on a long weekend, you'll be squished into a super sweaty lineup trying to get on/off the ferry. Also the City put in two new automated ticket machines that people have been praising - they suck. They're super confusing to work and people take about 15 minutes to figure out how to buy a ticket. Skip that line and just wait in the big clump of people in the middle. -
Review from Benjamin G.
Toronto, ON
Because Muskoka is too far, and dreadfully cliche, there is Toronto Island Park.
I love to getaway from the noise, pollution and crowds of the city. Sadly TIP (clever, eh) has all of those. Unless you wake up at an ungodly hour, no thank you, the first obstacle you run into is the mob of everyone else trying to get away to the island. Prepare yourself for a fight against oversized off-road strollers, large hairy men washing in sun screen, loud obnoxious bored-to-tears children, tourists yielding unnecessarily giant maps, and yes, hipsters. With no clear lines, every single impatient body just seems to mass outside the ferry ticket gates. Here's a hint, bud in. I know, I know... but it does work. This is an expert near-ninja move so use your discretion. I warned you.
So after you navigate around half the population of Toronto and pretty much every tourist in the city, you buy your ferry pass and then get to wait again. Yipee! But this time it's inside a fen with even less room to move around. Personal space invaded, check! Later there is the crowding onto the ferry, more tick tock, and then ferrying off the ferry, tick tock, yada yada yada. You get the picture. I always feel bad for sheep at this point.
After you finally land at the Island you'll be quick to discover that it too is over-crowded. I suggest bringing a bike, renting a bike (bring lots of cash), rollerblades, or some other (non-motorized) fast travel method. The island is really too big to walk in day. I know it can be done but this is suppose to be a relaxing getaway right?
Most people seem to keep to the same tourist trap area - from Centre Island ferry dock down to the pier. I refer to this as the busy middle (ok I just made that up). Try taking the Ward's Island or the Hanlan's Point ferry for something different.
Once you get away from everyone the island is really a great place. You can remind yourself that the color green really does exist.
I've had a lot of coffee today. Maybe it's a bad day to write a review. I still highly suggest regular visits to the island. I've never had a bad time. Maybe you should just consider this a PSA about the crowds. The go early, stay late method should help. Just don't miss that last ferry!
PROS:
A good mini-getaway, super close, green, beach, quad bikes!
CONS:
Can be busy, stupid high prices, you're in the hands of mother nature. -
Review from Joyees Y.
Scarborough, ON
5/7/2010
When you are overwhelmed by the stress of city life and need to relax? Go to the Toronto Islands.
Even a suburban dweller like me that lives in Scarborough thinks Toronto Islands is veeeeeeeeeery laid back.
What is there? To be honest, nothing really. Just a lot of beautiful scenery with lots of greenery and the lake. There's like four food places but like all tourist food areas I think they probably suck.
You can have a picnic, bbq, lie on the beach, go bike riding ($7/hour), take a nice walk around the island, and there is golf I think. I see a lot of boats but don't know if there's boat rentals or not. There's also an amusement park for children.
I really like the bike rides because I don't know how to ride one...and they have those two seaters where it kinda looks like a rickshaw and you don't have to know how to balance! They also come in four seaters which is probably less work and I can seat back and relax...while all my friends peddle hehehe.Listed in: When You're Bored Out Of Your…
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Review from Larry G.
8/25/2008
If you're going to the Toronto Island Park, plan to spend the whole day there. There are lots to do there!
- Amusement Park
- Wading pools
- I believe 4 beach areas, including one that is clothing-optional. (However, Lake Ontario is ewww! I wasn't gonna dip myself in there! So, I just laid out on the sand and read a book.)
- Franklin Garden
- and so much more!
To get there, you gotta ride a ferry. And you better bring cash because that's all the ticket booths will accept.
Ontario is green-friendly so you will see recycle bins everywhere.
Beautiful place to spend the day and go people-watching. And douse yourself in Off! because there are pesky mosquitos in the park.Listed in: Oh Canada!
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Review from Jes L.
Toronto, ON
2/13/2009
Heading out to the Toronto Island is one the best ways to spend a lazy summer afternoon. Something magical occurs as soon as you step onto the ferry. Stress melts out your pores and your mind is transported to vacation-mode. The pace of life slows down and the day seems infinite.
I avoid Centreville; however, that said, as a child is was better then Disney World to me. I'll remember the Scrambler until the day I die and the Antique Cars and the Sky Ride - lots of happy memories, but not a place for a childless adult.
I will also recommend selecting a spot near the beach very carefully. There are nudist beaches on the Island, and one wrong turn can be very memorable, and not necessarily in a good way. It doesn't resemble southern France - it's more like swingers meet sand.
The rest of the park is yours to discover - there are tons of BBQs (don't forget to bring your own coals) and picnic tables for use.Listed in: Park Life!
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Review from Amanda A.
Toronto, ON
8/1/2009
I love Toronto Island. The best thing to do here is rent a bike, even one of those silly 4 seaters with a group, and just go exploring. I like packing a lunch, finding a quiet spot to eat it, and just enjoying the nice weather.
This place is really family friendly - you may want to avoid the nude beach, but you won't see it if you don't want to.
This is a great way to spend the day - the only thing is I wish there were more choices as far as restaurants go. I'm not a big fan of the ones there.Listed in: Toronto's Best Spots of the…
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Review from Andrew W.
Toronto, ON
2/4/2010
The Island is a great place to go on a nice summer day. There are a lot of activities to keep everyone in the family entertained.
Getting to the Island is no issue, with ferries running roughly every thirty minutes to various parts of the island. Getting back from the island can be a little frustrating, depending on when you leave, you may have to wait in a substantial line. -
Review from Julie D.
9/12/2010
Good place to get away from it all? Humm.....I don't think so! I think we took half the city with us. All the other reviewers have pretty much covered this place. But we were almost trampled trying to catch one of the last ferries back! We were packed in the holding area with crying kids and lots of strollers, waiting to board. Then, they tryed to close the gates when they had enough passengers. Wouldn't you know, people were whining, so they let some more of us board. We were packed much like sardines! I was worried that the ferry would sink on the way back! I swear! I would plan on going early and coming back early, to beat the rush!
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Review from Melissa F.
Toronto, ON
4/1/2009
I am in LOVE with Toronto Island. It's the closest thing you get to AWAY from the city- and it's close. Coming from Vancouver, I am totally starved for greenery in Toronto. Toronto Island is a close and absolutely lovely place to end up for a weekend picnic.
It's a great place to pretend like I'm not in Toronto = ) -
Review from Vincci L.
12/10/2009 2 photos
Who knew there was something like this?!? A cool island, a short distance away from the busy city center.
On Labour Day weekend, my friend and I were visiting Toronto. We decide to visit Toronto Island, as we were staying in downtown anyways, and wanted something to do for the rest of the afternoon.
Upon reaching the ferry dock, there was a massive line up. We were about to turn around, and do some shopping in Yorkville instead, when right by the Second Cup, we see these small raft style boats. There seemed to be a much smaller line up for these, so we inquire. We believe they're private companies that also go to the Toronto Island. They would charge us $10 per person, which would take us to Hanlan's point, and then we can take the free regular ferry back to the mainland. Given there were only a few people in the line up, we joined in. The ride there was kind of fun; a small raft, driven by a young teenager..lunch in one hand.
To me, the island felt like a little escape from the tall towers in the Toronto City Center. We walk along a path, which evenutally leads us to the Amusement Park. Lots and lots of kids and families were present. This park was huge!!
There were many cool rides, and food stalls reminded me of the carnivals in the 70s. Cotton candy, hot dogs...and a new found love-funnel cake!! We got one with the 'works', sugar, whipped cream....yummy!!
Many of the rides were targeted to younger kids though. You can purchase single tickets for the rides, mulitiple tickets, or a day pass. We did go one one ride where we sit in gondolas and it goes through the park. It was relaxing.
We walked around the island a bit more. It's pretty cool; like a large park, but surrounded by water. I would like to come back to do a day of bike riding. We had no problem getting back to the mainland from the ferry on Center Island.
There's a great view of the city skyline from the island. A great little getaway from the city. We had a very fun filled afternoon! -
Review from Emily T.
Toronto, ON
12/28/2008
If you live or a visitor to Toronto, you must check out the Toronto Islands at least once! It all begins with a lovely ferry ride across the lake. People line up outside the ferry gates waiting for their turn to board; visitors with backpacks, baskets, bikes and locals stocked up with groceries!
As you board, you kind of go back in time for the ten minute ride....
There are three separate routes and boats that can take you to Ward's Island, Centre Island or Hanlan's Point. Ward's Island is the main area were the local Islanders live. It is a very quaint and ever-so-quiet. The homes are unique and charming and if you bring a bike, this is a great way to cruise around and check out the community.
Centre Island is the more popular and busy area of the Islands. This is where you'll find the amusement parks, concert venues, swimming pools and most activities and events. I've been there for Wake Stock a few years ago and the venue was great for the boarders and fun for the concert goers. Better still, it was clean and had an abundent of outhouses and wash stations (very well organized I must say!) Centre Island is the typical event venue...
Lastly, Hanlan's Point is the most westwardly part of the islands. This is where people go to swim and sun bathe in the nude. Yes, there is a nude beach there, but I've always been too chicken to check it out! (Yes, I was shocked when I found out too!) If you are a little less risque, can can check out the Gibraltar Lighthouse instead, which, I swear is haunted!
One of the best ways to check out the Islands in their entirety is to bike. You can bring your bike on the ferry during the summer and I'd recommend biking from Ward's to Hanlan's Point. The entire bike ride will only take you about an hour, but there's lots to see and places to rest at too.
I haven't been in the winter and probably won't because I'm not too sure what I'd do there, but it's a fantastic summer day getaway!Listed in: Outdoor activities in the…
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Review from Luke A.
Toronto, ON
9/13/2008 3 photos
Toronto Island Park is actually a bunch of parks and complexes stretched out over a number of small islands which are connected by bridges. It's not all for public recreation: a few people live on the islands, and there's the airport, too; it's best not to wander too far off from Centre Island.
Be mindful of the ferry schedules if you're coming here on the off-season (or near the off-season). I went to the islands around Thanksgiving once, and it was still warm and beautiful; but it also happened to be the first day of the ferry's fall schedule, so when I just missed the ferry, I had to wait another hour for the next one. -
Review from Melissa J.
Toronto, ON
12/4/2008
Going to the Toronto Island on a summer day is like a dream come true. Yes, you have to ride a ferry to get there, and you can't stay late or else you'll miss the last ferry back and be stuck there overnight, but it's an adventure! And it's all we have in the way of beaches!
There are extensive bike paths all around this place, awesome public parks, and plain old gorgeous scenery. Last summer I had a picnic here and it was a perfect day -- except for the red ants that attacked the picnic! Stay away from the bushes on the beach!
Forget Centre Island, forget all the expensive crap that the corporate world wants you to think you need...all you need is picnic food and drinks, a blanket, some bathing suits and sand toys. Yes, I brought sand toys. Bring food because everything in the vending machines and stands is wayy overpriced. And bring a bike or rent one there and you've got a day full of good old-fashioned (and cheap) fun! -
Review from Connie T.
Toronto, ON
1/1/2009 1 photo
Most locals only consider a trip to Island Park when they're forced to play tour guide or attend large music festivals. Shame!
Despite Centre Island's smattering of tourist crap, including the disappointing Centreville (http://www.yelp.ca/biz...), the park as a whole is my absolute favourite quick getaway from the city.
Ward's is the absolute best of all the Islands (http://www.yelp.ca/biz...), and I highly recommend taking the local ferry over to Ward's first, over the tourist-stuffed Centre Island behemoth. From Ward's, you can make your way over to Centre, which may take around 45 minutes to walk, but it's a pleasant one. Most of your time on Centre will involve dodging children and large families with picnic baskets, anyway, so enjoy the peace while you can.
Though it's nice and barren for serene walks in the winter, the best times to head over there are the spring and summer, especially on bike. In fact, I highly recommend you bring something on wheels here -- or rent one of those bike carts/bicycles built for two at the north end of Centre Island. It may seem cheesy, but it's absolutely the best way to cover a lot of ground, and your feet will thank you for it.Listed in: Free and cheap hangouts in…
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Review from alissa s.
9/4/2008
I literally spent a whole day (and half of another day) here.
I loved the beaches. I loved the artwork. The maze was cool. I loved Lake Ontario (hey, I'm used to dirty New York City water, so anything is a step up... yes?)... I just loved wandering around this place. It was a nice escape from the city of Toronto, which I happened to be in to escape New York City. -
Review from Alejandro A.
Toronto, ON
12/12/2008
Toronto Island is one of those places that I wish I spent more time at. Unfortunately, my laziness and need to be employed stop be from lollygagging my days away in this true Toronto treat. There is tons of park space, with plenty of room to do all your favorite park things including throw a Frisbee/baseball/football/tennis ball, kick a soccer ball and have a delicious barbecue or picnic.
There's lots of other things to do, too, including a water park, or go to a concert. I've even heard that there's a Frisbee golf course somewhere around here, although that may just be wishful thinking (but I don't think so!) There's also a haunted lighthouse (yep) that you're not allowed to climb up anymore, but it's still a fun bit of trivia. -
Review from omar k.
Toronto, ON
9/21/2010
i don't have kids and i didn't go to centreville. and that's probably why i can give centre island 5 stars.
went there today on the last day of summer (and what a beautiful day) and walked over to the bike rental shop with my family. we grabbed a quadricycle and toured the island.
this four-wheeled, four seater was perfect for the four of us -- me and my brother up front, doing the heavy pedaling, and my parents in back, peddling non-nonchalantly but clearly providing a little.
the views are gorgeous, especially of the toronto skyline and the cn tower popping up cutely wherever you go. there are so many places to just stop, sit down, and eat and drink. and marvel (but bring your own picnic, nothing worth eating on the island).
my dad loved riding past the "clothing optional" beach. he thought that was a much better name than "nude" beach. given the number of bikes parked outside the beach, my mom wondered if it was a nudist colony. but no one wanted to get off our quad and check it out.
finally, i didn't yet mention the frisbee golf and i should -- it looked fantastically fun and i will play next time. -
Review from Kara M.
Toronto, ON
7/15/2009
Rent a bike. Take a picnic. Sunbathe nude. Ride the swans. Have lunch at the Rectory. Try the hedge maze. Play in the fountains (note, not technically allowed). Walk the boardwalk. Have a dramatic moment on the pier. Stroll through the neighborhood. Bonus: getting there on the ferry is just as fun.
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Review from Mark W.
4/16/2009
There's no better place in the summertime than the Toronto Islands. Hang out, take a walk, feel the fresh breeze and the peacefulness even being this close to the city. Forget Centreville and go for the relaxation and enjoyment of an island park at its best.
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Review from Dani B.
9/9/2009
Interesting way to get out of the city. Take a cute little ferry across the lake and all of sudden you are in a quaint sea-side community. Well besides the amusement park that is a bit overwhelming. If you don't have little ones bouncing around then hit up the nice walks and the pretty seashore. I spent a day walking all around and highly enjoyed myself. If you do have a bike though I recommend taking that as transportation, you can see more faster.
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Review from Anna V.
Toronto, ON
11/5/2008
Centre Island is a tourist trap. This is where families go for fun in the sun n the summer you can bbq on one of the free ones open to the public in the parks, rent bikes for an arm and a leg, hang in the kiddie funland area, go swimming, lie on the beach, take in the extensive gardens or get lost in the mega maze (think: The Shinning). If you like kids, or have kids, this is a good spot for you in the summer. Beware that they only sell junk food and there is only one bar. It's basically Wasaga Beach but only minutes from the city. Also worth noting, they don't allow bikes on the Centre Island Ferry. In case it's your first time, ferries run every 15 minutes on the weekend, cost $6 for adults and are free to get back. It's Toronto's best kept secret, and definitely worth checking out if you're a tourist.
