From Kayaks To Cruises: How To Hit The Water On Toronto’s Harbourfront

Looking for a getaway without having to get away? Only a 10-minute walk from Union Station is Lake Ontario, and getting on the water has never been easier with all the different activities available.

So grab your sunglasses, soak up the sun and enjoy the water right here in downtown Toronto.

1. Kayaking and Canoeing

Enjoy a day of kayaking or canoeing along Toronto’s inner harbour, or paddle through the serene Toronto Islands. Enjoy the sun and Lake Ontario water while taking in stunning city views.

Toronto Islands: If you prefer paddling through the scenic Toronto Islands, then check out Toronto Island SUP for all of your kayak and canoe needs
Toronto Inner Harbour: Rather paddle in Toronto’s inner harbour? Harbourfront Canoe and Kayak Centre is a great option closer to the downtown core.

First time kayaking or canoeing? Lessons are also available. The Toronto Island Canoe Club has a series of classes throughout the summer for all experience levels. To register, contact @torontoislandcanoeclub on Instagram!

2. Sailing Excursions

Get ready to set sail on Lake Ontario this year! Choose a chartered sailboat or a group sailing excursion and experience unforgettable views of the CN Tower, Toronto Islands, and the city skyline. It’s an experience you will never forget.

Private or Public Sails: Gone Sailing Adventures offers packages to fit every need, budget and occasion, providing the perfect summer adventure!
Sailboat Rentals, Charters, or Lessons: Toronto Harbour Nautical Centre offers sailboat rentals, private charters, or sailing courses!

3. Boat Tours and Harbourfront Cruises

Plan your perfect afternoon on Toronto's waterfront! Scenic cruises offer a relaxing way to enjoy dinner and a view, accompanied by the city's iconic sights, or learn about Toronto’s harbourfront history from expert guides on a tour around the harbour

Here are some of the available tours and cruises on Toronto’s Harbourfront (and see all of them here)

Everything Happening on Toronto’s Waterfront

Get the inside scoop on events, festivals, new businesses, and must-try activities along Toronto’s waterfront. No spam, just the good stuff 🏖

4. Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Explore the serenity of the Toronto Islands while enjoying a light workout with standup paddleboarding. It’s a fun and accessible way to enjoy the water.

Toronto Island SUP offers paddle board rentals, lessons and also group meetups throughout the spring and summer seasons.

5. Patios

Patio season is officially here, and if you prefer to be by the water versus on the water, then sitting back and relaxing on a waterfront patio makes for the perfect afternoon.

Check to make sure these patios are open before going (patio open times vary by location):