8 Kayaking Toronto’s Iconic Waterways: A Guide
Let’s discover the best kayaking Toronto spots, where urban and natural beauty are combined to create the most exciting kayaking experience. You will not only get to paddle in with the panoramic view of the city but also enjoy a diverse range of travel activities. Locations near the city offer calm waters, while the rivers boast secluded channels where adventures await, with wavy waters to sharpen your skills.
With our insights, you will discover stunning launch points, where to rent your kayak and how to make the best out of your paddling journey.
DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a kayak location, ensure that the location still allows for kayaking and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.
Why Toronto is a Great Place for Kayak Lovers?
Kayaking Toronto is a dream for many. There is something for everyone. Beginners can enjoy the slow-moving water of spots just a quick drive from downtown Toronto. Challenge-seekers can take on ocean waters or big lakes with choppy waves.
Source: Unsplash
With 43 kilometers of Lake Ontario’s waterfront and various access points to nearby rivers, bays and sheltered lagoons, it’s like the city never fails to surprise you with new stunning launch spots.
The average summer temperature ranges from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), so swimming is an ideal activity besides kayaking. That’s not mentioning the 1500 parks in the area to take a short hike or have a lovely picnic after a paddle.
With well-navigated water trails, you can easily go kayaking in Toronto either alone or with your family and friends. Coupling all of these features with friendly locals and a vibrant culture, Toronto is easily one of the best destinations to kayak.
8 Kayaking Destinations in Toronto
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, these 8 kayaking Toronto spots below are a must for anyone going kayaking in Toronto!
1. Lake Ontario
Most of Lake Ontario is kayak-friendly, but kayaking Toronto on the Outer Harbour gives access to quiet waters and incredible sunrise views.
Source: Flickr
There are other spots in the list that flow into Lake Ontario, creating a fantastic network to fully explore Toronto by kayak.
The nearby Tommy Thompson Park lets you dock and enjoy a picnic or a birdwatch between paddles.
⇒ Check out our article on Best Spots for Paddle Board in Ontario
2. Humber River
Right in the city’s backyard, Humber River is not to be missed when kayaking in Toronto.
The stretch between Old Mill and the Humber Marshes is where locals love to launch. The wetlands are rich in wildlife, and the currents are gentle.
It’s also a well-known night kayaking Toronto spot.
3. Toronto Islands
Toronto Island kayaking is a thrilling experience for island-hopping lovers. Choose one or more from this collection of 15 small islands and take a ferry to one of them.
There are scenic water trails that lead right into Lake Ontario.
Source: Unsplash
Centre Island, Ward's Island, and Hanlan's Point are the highlights, with lots of access points, beaches, picnic areas, lagoons with calm waters, and lovely gardens.
4. Credit River
It’s only 27 minutes from downtown to Credit River, making it a perfect kayaking Toronto spot for a busy day.
Source: Unsplash
This scenic waterway offers a mix of gentle stretches and class I-II rapids.
An enchanting launch point is Port Credit Memorial Park at the mouth of the river. Erindale Park is also a lovely spot further upstream when the water’s high.
5. Grand River
This kayaking Toronto spot is big enough for a kayaking trip ranging from 1 day to 1 week in slow-moving water.
Source: Unsplash
Nearly 300 kilometers long, it runs through scenic access points in the Caledonia dam area, the quaint town of Paris and other historic communities.
6. Lake Erie
It’s a great spot for kayaking near Toronto. The open waters offer a mix of calm currents and strong waves perfect for challenge seekers.
Source: Flickr
Long Point and Port Dover are locally loved access points. There are plenty of other water trails, filled with sandy beaches and scenic towns, which run from one national park to another.
7. Cherry Beach
It’s a tranquil spot to kayak in Toronto for all skill levels.
You can launch from the eastern end, where the currents are gentle, then kayak to Toronto Island, which is just around the curve.
At night, try paddling a route on a LED-lit glow in the dark kayak and be in awe of the twinkling city skyline.
8. Georgian Bay
The Toronto kayaking experience can never be without the world-famous Georgian Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and rugged landscapes. Along with Cherry Beach, it’s one of the best destinations for kayaking near Toronto.
Source: Unsplash
It’s home to 30,000 islands, some of which offer sheltered water and stunning rock formations. You can find calm inlets nestling in between challenging open waters.
Where to Rent a Kayak in Toronto?
When planning for a kayaking Toronto experience, there are several kayak rental Toronto options as well as kayak storage Toronto services. Here are some you can consider for your next launch:
1. Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak Centre (rental)
- Rate per hour: $25 CAD for a single kayak and $40 CAD for a tandem.
- Near Toronto's downtown waterfront and Toronto Islands.
- Rate per hour: varied, depending on kayak size and duration.
- Near the Humber River
- Rate per tour: from $85 CAD, depending on quantity.
- Easy access to Toronto Islands and Centre Island’s ferry dock.
However, if you plan on making Toronto kayaking a permanent part of your travel, getting your own kayak can provide a better experience.
Even better if it’s a nice quality inflatable kayak, like iROCKER’s! It’s perfect for storage during the winter months or for transport from one access point to another.
Plus, owning your kayak means you’re not limited by rental availability. Hit the water whenever you like!
Enjoy Perfect Kayaking in Toronto with iRocker
These best 8 kayaking Toronto spots take you on adventures through diverse waters and local charms. From locations right near downtown Toronto to waters for kayaking near Toronto, each has unique features that make the city a haven for kayakers of all levels.
To elevate your kayaking Toronto experience, consider the iROCKER Inflatable Kayak. You get more than just a kayak! You will get the freedom of transport, performance and the ability to share the fun with your kayaking partner.
It packs down small and light, so you don’t have to rush traffic getting that first slot at the rental next time you kayak in Toronto.
Let’s dive into your next kayaking adventure with iROCKER and make every moment as comfy as ever!
