Toronto Islands: The City's Backyard Beach Escape

The Toronto Islands — 15 small islands just a 13-minute ferry ride from downtown — offer the city's most beloved warm-weather escape: car-free paths, sandy beaches, and city skyline views from across the water. Ward's Island and Algonquin Island house a small permanent community of 600 people in charming cottages — the most unusual neighbourhood in North America. Centre Island is the family hub with Centreville Amusement Park. Hanlan's Point maintains Toronto's only clothing-optional beach. Ferries from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal run every 15–30 minutes for around $9 return. The skyline view with the CN Tower rising over the water is arguably the best in the city.