The Little Paper

Beat the Rush: Toronto’s Island Paradise Beckons…it’s but a Boat Ride Away

Step onto a century-old wood-paneled ferry and leave the city behind. Breathtaking vistas, shady picnic groves, sandy beaches and tons of family activities-Toronto’s Islands have it all.

Ward’s Island
If you’re looking for a bohemian and tranquil setting, head to Ward’s Island, dotted with lovely Victorian cottages, bountiful gardens and a 2.5km lakeside boardwalk. The exceptional Rectory Café lives here, offering a kids menu, extensive tea, and if you’re so inclined an Ontario-friendly wine list. The Gravity Coffeehouse (416-203-6460) is your stop for many stylish hotdogs (including veggie), coffee and ice cream. There’s also a free 18-hole Frisbee Golf Course (BYOF) beside the Firehouse.

Centre Island
In the mood for an action packed day? Look no further than Centre Island. Its main attraction, Centreville, is a picturesque old-fashioned amusement park with rides geared to younger kids-no behemoth rollercoaster’s here. The painted ponies, ostriches and cats on the 1907 Antique Carousel are sure to delight and the Log Flume Ride is a misty respite on a hot June day. It’s open all summer long, but if you can go in June, go! Better yet, try a weekday. There’s a $55 season pass option, affordable all-day ride passes and individual ride tickets. Enter The Little Paper contest and you might just get in for free.

Centre Island is also home to Far Enough Farm, which houses a number of barnyard animals including horses, donkeys, pigs, peacocks and rabbits. Rumour has it that during the summer months donkey rides are offered for children…but, don’t hold us to it, ‘cause after all, it’s only a rumour. There’s a bike rental place, starting at $7/hr (416-203-0009) and If you’d like to skipper a vessel, The Toronto Boathouse (416-397-BOAT) offers up rowboats, paddleboats, sea kayaks or canoes for $15-$22/hr. Getting lost in the hedge maze is also a lot of fun.

Beaches
There are great beaches on Ward’s and Centre Island with nearby bathrooms and change rooms. The water quality is generally good since it faces south and away from the mainland. Check www.toronto.ca/beach or call 416-392-7161 for daily updates on water quality. If you are headed to the long stretch of beach at Hanlan’s Point, take note before you stake your claim, that a portion of this beach is clothing-optional.

Camps
A couple of notable camps run on the island. The Toronto Island Canoe Club’s camp for 7-14 year olds and Waterfront Montessori camp for 4-6 year olds. In addition, Franklin’s Children’s Garden has a Drop-in Program and Storytelling and Toronto Parks and Recreation run some Island camps as does the YMCA.

Goings-on
As you might expect, the Islands are a perfect place for events. Much goes on throughout the summer. June events include: 12 June, Toronto Tree Festival; 12-13 June, Viking Boat Races & Festival; 19 June, Toronto Island Festival, all ages concert; 19, 20 June, Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival and the 20 June, St Andrew-by-the-Lake Strawberry Festival and Blessing of the Boats Service. By the way, if you’re thinking of doing something crazy…like tying the knot or holding a family reunion, the beautiful St Andrews historic church is the place to do it.

Getting There
The Toronto Island Ferry Docks rest at the foot of Bay St and Queen’s Quay. Boats go to Centre Island, Ward’s Island and Hanlan’s Point all summer long from morning to evening, check the schedule. The cost:  $6.50/adults, $3/2-14yrs, Free/under 2yrs. New this year, the City of Toronto is running a café inside the ferry terminal. Feeling sneaky? Toronto Island Marina operates a tender service to Centre Island for its members and guests that departs from Queen’s Quay Terminal at York St. And, last but not least, If you get stranded on the island try calling a water taxi: Toronto Harbour Water Taxis (416-203-TAXI).