Toronto Islands Photo Essay

By Elli Davis, July 12, 2012

People get ready for departure at the Island Ferry Docks

Click individual photos to enlarge and enter the full Lightbox Gallery.

We are introducing a brand new series of Photo Essays! Have a look at amazing Photo Sets all shot by talented photographers. Explore the vibe of the city, its hidden treasures, meet the Torontonians! This time, let's have a look at Toronto through the lens of Carlos Bolivar!

Which one would you like to take?

The Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are a chain of small islands in Lake Ontario just 15 minutes away from Toronto’s downtown. They are a popular weekend and recreational destination for many Torontonians and tourists. Besides being home to the largest urban car-free community of 262 homes in North America and the Billy Bishop Airport, the islands are used by the Royal Canadian Yacht Club. When you want to take the most beautiful snapshot of the Toronto skyline, this is the place to go! You will have a clear view of the financial district and the CN Tower.

There are four public ferry routes with regular service and other water taxis connecting the islands with downtown, departing from the terminal on the waterfront. The Toronto Ferry Docks, recently renamed in honour of Jack Layton, are located at the foot of Bay Street at Queen’s Quay, just west of the Westin Harbour Castle hotel. Take your bike with you and explore this little, beautiful piece of land or rent a kayak to explore its many channels. Your kids will love Centerville, a children’s 1900s-style turn-of-the-century amusement park with a miniature railway and antique carousel. Or you can visit some of the beaches on the islands or sit down for some quality picnic time with your friends, if that is more your style!

The Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival (TIDBRF)

The Dragon Boat Festival is global event, now held annually in over 40 countries. Since 1988, the two-day dragon boat regatta has been held in Toronto, attracting a large number of visitors and contestants to Centre Island every year. Each race spans a distance of 500 metres, and as well as the finals there are also the so-called "industry finals“ for teams representing different categories such as universities, charities, and hospitals. Come and see the celebration of sport, team spirit, and community! In 2012, the Festival celebrated its 24th year, and was once again one of the most exciting summer events in Toronto.

Leaving Toronto Harbour

Occasionally, you might pass a sailing boat heading from the Toronto Harbour

The Islands provide a peaceful setting for group meetings

Welcome to the Islands, a green oasis just 15 minutes from the city

The perfect spot for observing the Dragon Boat Race Festival

People team up and head for the victory

The Centreville Pet Farm faces some serious financial problems and is currently in need of some donations.

Exploring Centreville Toronto Islands

In the mood to see the Islands from the bird's view? Check out the Centreville Chain Lift Ride!

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Meet the Photographer

Carlos Bolivar

Colombian photographer based in Toronto, started with analog Photography in 2003, then jumping to the digital wolrd in 2005. His photographic areas are mainly street, landscapes, portrait and beauty.

Posted in Lifestyle, Toronto Photos, Toronto Real Estate News | 2 Comments »