You know that feeling when you step outside of a bustling party, and you’re greeted with a total sense of calm – as though you’ve stepped into another world? You’ve found this serene hideaway where you can catch your breath and watch the trees sway, yet still see the raucous party through the window. It’s a brief moment of respite before re-entering the fray.
That’s Centre Island…a slice of tranquillity just off the bustling shores of Toronto. And every weekend and summer evening, the island welcomes throngs of Torontonians looking to escape the party, unwind, and recharge.
In this article, Harvey Kalles Real Estate helps you plan the perfect escape. We explain why Centre Island is one of the city’s preeminent destinations, tell you how to get there, what to expect, and even where to go about finding real estate on the island.
Set your email auto-replies to “OOO” and let’s sail away.
In a Nutshell: What to Know About Centre Island
Part of the Toronto Islands, Centre Island is a serene escape that is technically still within the city limits. It’s roughly two kilometres off the inner harbour of Lake Ontario from Toronto’s downtown waterfront. While the other two islands (Ward’s Island and Hanlan’s Point) skew toward a younger demographic eager to party their weekends away at the beach, Centre Island is decidedly more family-focused.
Once you arrive, you’re immediately greeted by picturesque landscapes and car-free streets. Poke around a little, and you’ll discover that the island is a mix of lush greenery, sandy beaches, and family-friendly activities like amusement parks, rides, and fair-style eateries.
How to Get There: The Centre Island Ferry
Getting to Centre Island can be half the fun.
The most common way to reach the island is via regular ferries from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, located at the foot of Bay Street just south of Queen’s Quay. It’s a quick 15-minute jaunt, though, on popular summer weekends, you may find yourself waiting in line for a sailing or two. (Ditto for the return trip). The trip costs a weirdly random $9.11 for adults, $5.86 for seniors and youths, $4.29 for juniors, and free for the under-two crowd; these prices include the return trip.
Alternatively, if you just can’t wait to escape, hail a water taxi to take you to Centre Island. Toronto Harbour Tours lists their services at $13 a head for a one-way taxi to the island. Or you can take a sightseeing boat ride that hits a few different spots before landing on the Islands.
Either way, the trip is an attraction unto itself. With a beautiful, unobstructed view of Toronto’s picturesque downtown skyline, it ranks among the best places to take pictures in Toronto.
What to See & What to Do on Centre Island
Centre Island offers a heady mix of attractions and activities that cater to various ages and interests. It’s ideal for families, but kids aren’t a requirement. There’s plenty to do or see regardless of how old, young, or young-at-heart you are. A sample day-trip itinerary might include visits to Centre Island’s:
- Expansive Green Spaces: You can find countless spots for a picnic or a leisurely stroll through the island’s lush parks. The open, grassy areas are ideal for relaxing or throwing a leisurely frisbee around.
- Centreville Amusement Park: The nostalgic amusement park offers over 30 rides, including a vintage carousel, log flume ride, and charming train around the park.
- Franklin Children’s Garden: Inspired by the children’s character Franklin the Turtle, this interactive garden was crafted so kids can explore nature and gardening in a quiet setting. It’s also just a great place to sit in the shade on sweltering days.
- Cycling and Hiking Spots: Centre Island features flat terrain, which is ideal for cycling and day trekking. BYOB (bring your own bike) or rent one on arrival at the family-owned (and plainly named) Toronto Island Bicycle Rental.
- Kayaking, Canoeing, and Pedal Boating: Centre Island is an ideal destination for water activities in Toronto. If you’re itching to get your “sea legs,” rentals are available to paddle through the island’s serene waterways.
- Fishing Spots: Fish for carp, pike, and bass at one of the island’s designated spots. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty – and you might even come home with dinner. Just ensure you procure a license in advance.
- Mini-Golf at Centreville: A terrific first date—or 500th date—the miniature golf course at the Centreville Amusement Park is one of the only courses of its kind left in Toronto’s downtown core.
- The William Meany Maze: Looking to really lose yourself on Centre Island? This hedge maze adds a little challenge to your day and a little shade.
- Cafes and Eateries: When it’s time to refuel, visit one of the island’s cafes, like the aptly named Island Café. Alternatively, there’s a row of classic fairground grub, like pizza slices, beaver tails, funnel cakes, ice cream, etc.
What’s Next? Venturing Outside the Centre
A short walk or bike ride from Centre Island lands you at Ward’s Island, a quieter residential area with quaint cottages, beautiful views of the city skyline, and relatively uncrowded beaches.
Hanlan’s Point, another nearby island, is known for its clothing-optional beach, one of only a few in Canada. It’s a unique spot that adds a bit of edge to the otherwise family-friendly vibe of the islands. Little known fact, for what it’s worth: a young Babe Ruth hit his first homer at the Hanlan’s Point Stadium in 1897; it soared into Lake Ontario, where it remains to this day.
Also, if you’re after some culture, check out the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse on Hanlan’s Point, one of Toronto’s oldest landmarks.
Real Estate on Centre Island
You’ve spent the day on Centre Island, and now you want to make it a permanent escape. What are your options?
Real estate inventory on the Toronto Islands is notoriously rare, featuring a tightly controlled market, steep price tags, and strict rules around ownership and residency. But never say never. If there’s one company that can find properties in Toronto that are rare and in-demand, it’s Harvey Kalles Real Estate. Speak with our realtors about staking your getaway spot in this highly sought-after island retreat.
For more ways to explore the city, check out the Harvey Kalles Real Estate blog, where we routinely post neighbourhood spotlights, activities lists, and must-see goings on.
