One of the best trips I took in Toronto was to Toronto Islands. A 15-minute boat ride from the city centre, this cluster of islands in Lake Ontario has nudist beaches, an amusement park, cafes, lakes and a bike path. Plus some of the best panoramic views of Toronto. Fits in with the best itineraries around Toronto.
With lots of tips on attractions, understand now how to get there, boat prices and what to do in Toronto Islands, this cool and cheap tour by the standards of Ontario's capital. There are lots of photos! And if you have any questions, just ask. I always answer as quickly as possible. Booking.com
How to get to the Toronto Islands
A large ferry departs every day from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, which is near Union Station, Toronto's main subway and train station. There are ferries to Wardâs Island, Centre Island and Hanlanâs Point. For sightseeing, it's best to board for Centre Island, the island closest to the amusement park and bike rental. Ferry times to Centre Island Monday to Friday: 9am - 10am - 11am - 1pm - 2pm - 3.15pm - 4.15pm - 5.15pm - 6.15pm - 7.15pm - 8.15pm - 9.15pm - 10.15pm - 11.15pm. The ferry returns from Centre Island to Toronto always 15 minutes later. Ferry times to Centre Island on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays: 8am - 9am - 9.30am and continues every half hour until 7.30pm - 8.30pm - 9.30pm - 11pm. The ferry always returns from Centre Island to Toronto 15 minutes later.
Updated timetables and for other islands, follow the official website, where you can also buy the ticket for 7.87 CAD. It is necessary to buy only the single ticket, as the return is free, even for those who board in alternative places, such as from Toronto Harbour,where the ticket costs a little more.
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What to do in Toronto Islands
As I said at the beginning, there are many leisure activities in Toronto Islands. There are many islands, but the main ones are connected by bridges, so, getting off at Centre Island, you can get to the best activities in almost all of them.
Parks for children
For those travelling with children, there is Centreville Amusement Park, a themed amusement park with a mini-railway, pedal boats, carousel and other rides and attractions. Individual tickets for the rides cost $1.10 each, but you can also buy packages for the whole day or for an entire season. Nearby is the Far Enough mini-farm, with llamas, pigs, goats, peacocks and other animals.
Bicycle hire
I preferred to hire a bike and cycle around most of the islands. To rent one, go to Toronto Island Bicycle Rental and choose between double, single and quad bikes. Even with the current exchange rate, the price is reasonable: between 9 and 32 Canadian dollars (about R$ 30 for the simplest bike) per hour. And in one hour you can see a lot.
Toronto Islands beaches
I cycled to Ward's Island pier, from where you can see one of the best views of Toronto. Along the way, there are several typical buildings and beaches. The largest of these is Chelsea Beach, right next to the bike hire shop. I also passed the beach known as Hanlan's Point Beach. Part of this beach is nude optional, so don't be surprised if someone comes up naked in front of you.(Discover the 7 best beaches in Toronto)
(This last beach is right next to the City of Toronto Billy Bishop Airport, the closest airport to downtown Toronto. Despite being on the Toronto Islands and having an underground walkway between it and the city, there is no civilian access between the airport and the islands).
Gibraltar Point Lighthouse
Built between 1808 and 1809, it is the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes and one of Toronto's first major buildings. The intention of the work was to reduce the number of accidents with ships, very common during storms on Lake Ontario. Legend has it that it is haunted.
Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, the haunted lighthouse of the Toronto Islands
More photos of Toronto Islands
Here are some other photos of Toronto Islands, which I took on a beautiful autumn day. As it was still early in the season, the trees were not all looking that multicoloured in the leaves. Despite being less photogenic, the weather is more pleasant to visit the island, after all it was not as hot as in the summer, and not as cold as in the middle of autumn and winter.
Double bike in Toronto Islands
Toronto, view from the Toronto Islands Ferry
Wards Islands sign
Toronto Harbour Commissioners. This is where I boarded the ferry to the archipelago
Return to the Ferry at Centre Island
Carousel Coffee Island
Bridge over lake at Toronto Islands
Ferry to Toronto Islands
Where to stay in Toronto
Choosing Your Ontario Accommodation: Hostels and Comfort at Doubletree By Hilton Toronto Airport
When planning a visit to Ontario, Canada, it's essential to find the right accommodation that fits your preferences and budget. Ontario offers a range of options, from budget-friendly hostels to more luxurious hotels. Let's explore two fantastic choices for your stay.
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If you're an adventurous traveler seeking an affordable and sociable atmosphere, Ontario hostels are a fantastic option. These budget-friendly accommodations not only provide a comfortable place to rest but also offer the opportunity to meet fellow travelers from around the world. Hostels in Ontario often organize activities, creating a vibrant and engaging environment for guests.
2. Comfort and Convenience at Doubletree By Hilton Toronto Airport
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Experience Ontario's Diversity
Ontario is a diverse and exciting province, offering everything from bustling city life to stunning natural beauty. From exploring vibrant Toronto neighborhoods to visiting picturesque lakes and parks, there's something for everyone in Ontario. Your choice of accommodation can enhance your overall experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the culture, history, and natural wonders of this incredible region.
Whether you're opting for the social atmosphere of Ontario hostels or the comfort of Doubletree By Hilton Toronto Airport, your accommodation choice can shape the memories you create during your Ontario adventure. So, select the option that best fits your travel style, and get ready to enjoy all that this fantastic province has to offer.