Toronto Islands, Island group in Lake Ontario, Canada
Toronto Islands is a chain of 15 connected islands in Lake Ontario, stretching five kilometers and offering beaches, green spaces, and walking trails. The islands lie just minutes south of downtown and include Ward's Island in the east, Centre Island with its amusement park, and Hanlan's Point at the western tip.
The islands were originally a peninsula formed by sandbars from the Scarborough Bluffs. A storm in 1858 broke through the land connection and turned the area into the island chain seen today.
Residents move around by bicycle, wagon, and handcart, as only emergency vehicles are permitted to use motors. This way of living creates a quiet rhythm where neighbors meet on narrow paths and children play freely on streets without traffic.
Ferries depart year-round from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal on Harbour Street and reach the islands in about 13 minutes. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, as the islands are spread out and involve a lot of walking.
The Gibraltar Point Lighthouse from 1809 still stands at the western channel and is one of the oldest structures here. It was built by hand from local limestone and guided ships entering Toronto harbor.
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