Having had a couple of days in Toronto already, I’d been recommended countless times to go and see Toronto Islands. Since moving to the GTA, Jordan hadn’t actually had a chance to go out and explore them either. For this reason, we set off bright and early on a particularly sunny and lovely day in the city.
How to get to Toronto Islands
It’s super easy to get over to the Toronto Islands. Simply head to the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal on the waterfront. $7.50 and 10 minutes later (if you’re lucky and there’s a boat waiting), you’ll soon be on the islands. You can choose from three islands – Centre, Ward, or Hanlan’s Point, although helpfully each can be walked to from the others. We picked Centre Island with a view to exploring the others.

Of course, that skyline is a huge drawer for tourists like me!


Where to go on the Toronto Islands
We started on Centre Island. It’s pretty and feels quite European once you push past the commercial chain of Subway once you land! There’s even a small bridge that looks rather like that in Monet’s famous garden, a river, and plenty of parkland.

We set off in search of lunch, prepared to get in our steps that day on the Toronto Islands. We took a long boardwalk that offered sprawling views across Lake Ontario. With the mist that day, it was hard to believe it was just a lake and not actually the ocean.


Where to eat on the Toronto Islands
We stumbled across The Rectory Cafe, surrounded by cute flowerbeds. Here, we stopped to refuel on pulled chicken sandwiches and chips.

Having settled up, we agreed it was time to walk off those calories. We slapped on some sunscreen and set off along the waterfront of Ward Island, our second of the Toronto Islands that day. It boasts the most incredible views of the city. It’s also amazing to think some people live there and enjoy them every single day.


Turning the corner, we found another adorable cafe. This one had rows of colourful tulips, an allotment, and an island vibe. Appropriate then, I guess, that it was aptly called the Island Cafe. We grabbed a quick iced coffee to go, and I vowed I’d be back there for food – watch this space shortly!

Heading to the north of the Toronto Islands are the beaches. It was a scorching hot day so we were both pretty grateful to paddle in the (albeit icy cold) lake.



After a little cooling off in the shade, we decided to head back to the city. I had one priority: to find an icy (and slightly stronger) drink or two.

Where to drink in Toronto
I wanted somewhere with a view of the skyline, so let me introduce you to the Thompson with its rooftop bar, offering some of the most magnificent views across the city.

Yes, it even has a pool for those looking for a dip with their cocktail. I’d definitely go back. It’s very cool and chic, and an awesome meeting spot for suits in search of a drink after work.

Getting a little peckish, we went to explore the bars of the hipster street of King Street West. This street quite frankly puts Vancouver to shame when it comes to unique bars and restaurants. In other respects, however, it does have some cool street art.

Digging some tapas, we popped to Patria, a new Spanish joint boasting the title of one of Toronto’s top 10 newest restaurants. Firstly, of course, we opted for our second sangria of the evening and a few dishes. Everything was delicious and the staff are super friendly too. I’d urge anyone seeking a bite to eat in the Toronto area to pop along!

Exploring more of the Toronto Islands
Heading home shortly after following a long yet brilliant day of exploring, I found myself back on the Toronto Islands a few days later. This time with different company! One of my oldest friends, Becky, and Vanessa were visiting Toronto so we made sure our trips coincided. In search for a day of sun, I headed back to the Islands with them.


We found different viewpoints, met other tourists, snapped pictures, and went back to the Island Cafe for food.


We grabbed cool glasses of Sauvignon Blanc, quesadillas, fish and chips, and of course – dessert.


We ended it all with this wonderful view across the Toronto skyline.

The Toronto Islands are a wonderful retreat from the craziness and beeping horns of downtown Toronto. They’re definitely somewhere I’d highly recommend visiting.
Have you been to the Toronto Islands? What did you get up to there?