Toronto/Islands

From Halal Explorer

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The Toronto Islands is a large park with a small residential community in the City of Toronto.

Toronto Islands Halal Travel Guide

The Toronto Islands (commonly called the Toronto Island Park) are an island community that is a popular summertime daytrip for Torontonians who want to get away from the hustle of the city. They provide a spectacular view of Toronto’s impressive skyline, and with no cars allowed and the area a favourite for cyclists, walkers and rollerblade enthusiasts. The many lagoons and waterways are populated by ducks and swans, and some areas are off-limits to people, designated as “wilderness zones” for migratory birds. Their charm extends to the residential neighbourhoods, year-round home to some 250 families, containing cottages from the 1920s and featuring English-style gardens.

There are three major islands, eight islands with names and several without names. Despite its name, Ward's Island is not an island but a peninsula of Centre Island and the main island. To add to the confusion, Centre Island Park is on Middle Island rather than Centre Island.

Each island has its own atmosphere, with Centre Island -- which features huge picnic areas, an amusement park, greenspace, a maze, a beach, a chapel and award-winning gardens -- the most popular.

Winter

The island ferries are on a very reduced winter schedule from about late October to about mid-April. With the winter schedule, only the ferry to Ward's Island operates. Expect no eateries to be open in winter on the island.

Shoulder season

WikiCentre-island

The shoulder season is from about mid-April to the Victoria Day weekend (in late May), and from after Labour Day to about late October. The ferries service all 3 terminals on the island but not as frequently as in summer. The only eating establishments open may be the Rectory Cafe and perhaps a Pizzas Pizza stand at Centre Island. Bicycle rentals are available from May to September. However, as the month of May progresses, more establishments start opening mostly near the Centre Island ferry terminal.

Travel as a Muslim to Toronto Islands

GPS: 43.632|-79.372 Access to the islands is only via ferry, taxi or private yacht, and there is no access between the Toronto Island Airport and the rest of the Toronto Islands.

  • Jack Layton Ferry Terminal - Toronto Island Ferry Docks Terminal - Toronto Ferry Docks GPS: 43.640398, -79.375252 at the foot of Bay Street and Queens Quay; 509 or 510 streetcar to Queens Quay Ferry Docks Terminal. - Return fare: $7.71 adults, $5.05 students/seniors, $3.72 children; no extra charge for bicycles; TTC fares/passes not accepted All ferries to the islands depart from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. From the mainland Ferry Docks and there are three destinations on the islands. During peak hours, it usually will take between 15 and 90 minutes just to buy ferry tickets. It may be quicker to buy tickets online instead.
  • Centre Island Ferry Docks | Avenue of the Island GPS: 43.622468, -79.378370 Opening Hours: No winter service; last ferry leaves the island at 11:45 pm in summer Price - This is the most popular island destination and its dock has the most frequent ferry service. The Centre Island docks are actually on Middle Island. Taking the ferry back at sunset offers a spectacular view.
  • Ward's Island Ferry Docks | Bayview Ave (not the same as Bayview Ave on the mainland) - GPS: 43.631546, -79.357856 Opening Hours: Year-round service - The small cottage community on Algonquin Island and at Ward's Island uses this route year-round. Ward's Island is not an island per se but rather the eastern-most peninsula of Centre Island.
  • Hanlan's Point Ferry Docks - GPS: 43.627908, -79.389062 Opening Hours: No scheduled winter service - The western-most docks on Centre Island. In the Toronto/Islands#Shoulder season|shoulder season and the last ferry leaves in late afternoon. If you miss it, you need to take a water taxi to the mainland, or walk to the Centre Island ferry dock (4km).
  • Toronto Harbour Water Taxi - GPS: 43.6395, -79.3801 York Street Slip ☎ +1 416-203-8294 is a more expensive alternative to the ferries.

How to get around in Toronto Islands

Walking is the main means of getting around on the islands. The distance between the Hanlan's Point and Ward's Island ferry docks is about 6 kilometers or about 90 minutes on foot, but this excludes any detour to visit the Centre Island Park on Middle Island.

Bicycle Rentals are available on Centre Island south of the Centre Island Ferry docks.

In summer and there is a Tram Tour (really a tractor train).

What to see in Toronto Islands

  • Boardwalk | Lakeshore Ave GPS: 43.619605, -79.366205 from Ward's Island Beach to the intersection with Cibola Ave - Most of the eastern section of Lakeshore Ave is on a boardwalk over 1 kilometers long along the lake's edge. You may see boats entering and leaving Toronto Harbour via the Eastern Gap. On the inland side, between the trees and bushes, you may see short walkways leading to cottages long since demolished; the island community was once much larger.
  • Cherry tree blossoms - GPS: 43.6182, -79.3747 southern end of Avenue of the Island near the fountain - Japanese cherry trees were planted in 2011 near the fountain at the south side of the bridge to Centreville. The trees bloom in late April or early May (depending on weather) and blooming lasts for only one or two weeks. There is a web page to find more precise information about when cherry trees bloom in Toronto.
  • Far Enough Farm - 21 Avenue Of The Islands East GPS: 43.620601, -79.373539east side of the Centreville Amusement Park Opening Hours: Open year-round Free admission A petting farm with over 40 different species of farmyard animals and exotic birds.
  • Gibraltar Point Lighthouse - Lakeshore Avenue GPS: 43.613648, -79.385351 western half of Centre Island Gibraltar Point Lighthouse - Gibraltar Point lighthouse has stood since 1808 and quickly became home to one of Toronto’s oldest mysteries when, in 1815, its first keeper, J.P. Radan Muller, disappeared. A subsequent lighthouse keeper found skeletal remains years later. Believed to have been beaten to death by soldiers from nearby Fort York, Muller is said to haunt the lighthouse, as a plaque on the grounds will attest to.
  • Ned Hanlan statue and tugboat - GPS: 43.6276, -79.3895 Hanlan's Point ferry dock Ned Hanlan (tugboat) - Monument to champion rower Ned Hanlan (1855-1908) plus a 1902 tugboat named in his honour, now mounted on a pedestal.
  • Olympic Island - GPS: 43.622528, -79.375244just east of the Centre Island Ferry Docks - Olympic island offers great views of the Toronto skyline. The island also is home to the Lagoon theatre and has a large field for picnics and BBQ.
  • St. Andrew's by the Lake Church - 102 Lakeshore Avenue GPS: 43.620266, -79.370079north of the intersection of Cibola Ave and Lakeshore Ave ☎ +1 416-203-0873 - St. Andrew-by-the-Lake is an Anglican church serving the islands' residents and visitors. This cute church of semi-Gothic/Medieval style was built in 1884.
  • Toronto Fire Station 335 | 235 Cibola Ave GPS: 43.625181, -79.359200west of Ward's Island Opening Hours: Active fire station; interior not open to public Although built in 1995, this fire hall has a quaint old-fashioned look.
  • Toronto Centre Island Pier | at the foot of Avenue of the Island GPS: 43.6158, -79.3712directly across the island from the Centre Island Ferry Dock - View of the CN Tower from the lake. View of boats on the lake.

Wards Island house

  • Toronto Island Community - - GPS: - This is one of Toronto's oldest residential communities. Island residents own their homes but lease the land. The small picturesque cottage-style homes sport some beautiful gardens and more cats per square metre anywhere, except possibly the Coliseum in Rome. There island community is clustered in two areas as follows:
  • Ward's Island - GPS: 43.632588, -79.355392 NE of Ward's Island Ferry Docks - Ward's Island offers views of the eastern side of the harbour which is more industrial on the other side of the water.
  • Algonquin Island - GPS: 43.628221, -79.359417west of Ward's Island Ferry Docks - There is a footbridge connecting Centre Island to Algonquin Island. The north side of the island has great views of the Toronto skyline.

What to do in Toronto Islands

  • Beaches:
  • Centre Island Beach | 1 Avenue of the Island GPS: 43.616487, -79.371909straddling Lookout Pier on the south-centre side of Centre Island - Ward's Island Beach and Island Beach - Main beach on the island.
  • Gibraltar Point Beach - - Lakeshore Avenue GPS: 43.6125, -79.3819just east of the Artscape Gibralter Point building
  • Hanlan's Point Beach - GPS: 43.621495, -79.395664east of Hanlan's Point on the south side of Centre Island Hanlan's Point Beach - Hanlan's Point Beach is the only officially recognised clothing-optional beach in the City of Toronto. It was first approved as clothing-optional in 1894 but this approval was repealed in 1930 due to the protests of citizen's groups. The official status was restored in 2002 following a three year pilot project.
  • Ward's Island Beach | Lakeshore Ave GPS: 43.630067, -79.354115 Southeast of the Ward's Island Ferry Docks - Ward's Island Beach and Island Beach
  • Centreville Amusement Park - GPS: 43.620701, -79.374855 Opening Hours: Open at 10:30am June to Labour Day and all weekends in May and September Free admission to park grounds but charges for rides Centreville Amusement Park An amusement park geared towards families with young kids, it has some 30 rides, an antique carousel, a petting zoo featuring farm animals and pony rides, and picturesque swan boats circling a small lagoon.
  • Antique Carousel - GPS: 43.6207, -79.3749 N/W corner of Centreville - The Antique Carousel was built by the Dentzel Company in 1907 and is one of only 125 of its type still operating. The 52 animals used on the ride are all hand-carved.
  • Franklin Children's Gardens - GPS: 43.616130, -79.376280 North of the intersection of Lakeshore Ave and The Mall A themed garden based on characters from "Franklin the Turtle" stories, it contains many bronze statues of Franklin's friends, many plants, a turtle pond, small benches and paths for kids to explore.
  • Toronto Island Bicycle Rental - Lakeshore Ave, Centre Island GPS: 43.617207, -79.371961south of the Centre Island Ferry Docks ☎ +1 416-203-0009 - Cash only - Traditional bicycles are $8 for the first hour and they also offer two and four seat options. Open only during the summer months.
  • Toronto Island Garden Tour - - Ward's Island At the gazebo next to the Ward's Island Ferry Docks Adults $10, Seniors $8, Children $2 - This is an annual event held on a weekend in June to tour the beautiful gardens maintained by the Island Community. See the website for details. Even if you can't attend the tour, many gardens are in the front yard of cottages and are easily viewed from public walkways.
  • Toronto Island Tram Tours - Avenue of the Island GPS: 43.618696, -79.373976departs regularly from the south side of the Manitou Island Bridge Opening Hours: Daily in summer, week-ends in late spring/early fall, from noon to 6 or 7pm Price Adult $9, senior/student $6.50, child $5 - 35-minutes guided tour of Centre Island and Hanlan's Point operated by Toronto Parks and Recreation. The "tram" is really a rubber-tire tractor train.
  • William Meany Maze - Avenue of the Island GPS: 43.6178, -79.3748 West of Avenue of the Island, south of bridge from Centreville - Revived by the namesake, Mississauga businessman William Meany. Meany has always enjoyed this maze as a child and he donated $200,000 towards the revival of the maze. The maze is built with fences between small evergreen trees to prevent shortcuts.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Toronto Islands

Despite the presence of the island community and there are no shopping opportunities on the Toronto Islands.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Toronto Islands

Toronto Islands - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Toronto Islands, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Toronto Islands. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Toronto Islands and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Toronto Islands. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Toronto Islands. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inToronto Islands: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Toronto Islands.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Toronto Islands: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Toronto Islands, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Toronto Islands.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Toronto Islands, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Toronto Islands, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Toronto Islands and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Toronto Islands, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Toronto Islands, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Toronto Islands without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Toronto Islands is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Toronto Islands.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Toronto Islands is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Toronto Islands, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Toronto Islands Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Toronto Islands

eHalal Group Toronto Islands is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Toronto Islands. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Toronto Islands.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Toronto Islands ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Toronto Islands. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Toronto Islands, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Toronto Islands are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Islam in Toronto

Here, we explore some notable mosques in Toronto that reflect the diversity and unity within the Muslim community.

1. Masjid Toronto @ Adelaide

Address: 86 Adelaide St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1K6, Canada

Masjid Toronto @ Adelaide is a prominent mosque situated in the heart of downtown Toronto. The mosque, with its distinctive architecture, serves as a spiritual haven for worshippers in the bustling urban landscape. Its central location makes it accessible to both residents and visitors, fostering a sense of community in the heart of the city.

2. Toronto Islamic Centre & Community Services

Address: 817 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4W 2G9, Canada

The Toronto Islamic Centre & Community Services is not just a place of worship but a hub for community engagement and social services. The center emphasizes the importance of not only spiritual growth but also the well-being of the community at large. Its central location on Yonge Street makes it a focal point for various community activities and events.

3. Madinah Masjid

Address: 1015 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1M1, Canada Phone: +1 416-465-7833

Madinah Masjid stands as a symbol of the diversity within Toronto's Muslim community. Located on Danforth Avenue, the mosque is known for its inclusive atmosphere, welcoming worshippers from various cultural backgrounds. The mosque also plays an active role in community outreach and charitable initiatives.

4. Masjid Toronto

Address: 168 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5G 1C6, Canada Phone: +1 416-596-0507

Masjid Toronto, situated near Dundas Street West, serves as a spiritual and cultural anchor for Muslims in the city. With a commitment to fostering understanding and tolerance, the mosque is not only a place of worship but also a venue for educational programs and interfaith dialogue.

5. Masjid Darussalam

Address: 4 Thorncliffe Park Dr, East York, ON M4H 1H1, Canada Phone: +1 416-467-0786

Masjid Darussalam, located in East York, exemplifies the community spirit embedded in Toronto's mosques. The mosque serves as a center for both spiritual and social activities, fostering a strong sense of unity among its diverse congregation.

6. Muslim Prayer Room at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

Address: 2075 Bayview Avenue ECG 05, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada

Within the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, a Muslim Prayer Room provides a quiet space for prayer and reflection, catering to the spiritual needs of both patients and healthcare professionals. This inclusion reflects the city's commitment to accommodating diverse religious practices in various settings.

7. Turkish Canadian Islamic Trust

Address: 336 Pape Ave, Toronto, ON M4M 2W7, Canada Phone: +1 416-469-2610

The Turkish Canadian Islamic Trust, located on Pape Avenue, is a cultural and religious center that promotes the Turkish heritage within the Muslim community. Beyond serving as a mosque, the trust is actively involved in cultural events, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives.

Halal Restaurants in Toronto

For those adhering to Halal dietary restrictions, the city offers a plethora of options that cater to various tastes and preferences. In this article, we will explore some noteworthy Halal restaurants in Toronto, each offering a unique blend of flavors that reflect the city's rich cultural diversity.

Umi's Kitchen: Halal Caribbean Delights

Located at 346 Dundas St E, Umi's Kitchen stands out as a gem offering Halal Caribbean cuisine. The restaurant takes patrons on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, all while adhering to strict Halal guidelines. From jerk Chicken to flavorful seafood dishes, Umi's Kitchen is a delightful spot for those craving a taste of the tropics while maintaining their dietary preferences.

Naan Kabob Afghani: A Culinary Journey to Afghanistan

For Afghani cuisine enthusiasts, Naan Kabob at 691 Yonge St is a must-visit. Known for its authentic Afghani flavors, the restaurant boasts a menu that showcases the diverse and rich culinary heritage of Afghanistan. The warm ambiance and aromatic dishes make Naan Kabob a favorite among those seeking a taste of Afghanistan in the heart of Toronto.

Shah's Halal Food: A Downtown Halal Haven

Situated at 65 Duncan St, Shah's Halal Food has earned a reputation for its delicious offerings and convenient downtown location. With a diverse menu that includes Kebab, biryanis, and other flavorful dishes, Shah's Halal Food caters to a broad range of tastes. The restaurant's popularity is reflected in its impressive 4.1 rating, as reviewed by 272 satisfied customers.

Chamsine Authentic Halal New Cuisine: A Taste of the Mediterranean

Found at 235 Queen St E, Chamsine Authentic Halal New Cuisine transports diners to the Mediterranean with its delectable offerings. The menu features a fusion of Mediterranean flavors, showcasing dishes inspired by Lebanese and other regional cuisines. The restaurant's commitment to using only Halal ingredients ensures that patrons can enjoy their meals with confidence.

Sizzler Kabab: A Spadina Avenue Sensation

Nestled at 381 Spadina Ave, Sizzler Kabab is a go-to spot for those craving mouthwatering Kebab and Middle Eastern delights. Boasting a menu that includes a variety of grilled meats, falafel, and flavorful Sauces, Sizzler Kabab provides a satisfying Halal dining experience in the heart of Toronto.

Lahore Grill & Fast Food Halal Restaurant: (Pakistani) Culinary Delights

Located at 1274 Gerrard St E, Lahore Grill & Fast Food Halal Restaurant is a haven for fans of (Pakistani) cuisine. From succulent Kebab to aromatic biryanis, the restaurant offers a diverse array of dishes that capture the essence of (Pakistani) flavors. The welcoming atmosphere and authentic preparations make Lahore Grill a standout choice for Halal dining.

Almadina Bistro: Casual Afghani Fare in Yorkville

Situated at 10 Edward St, 2nd Floor, Almadina Bistro offers a casual yet sophisticated spot for those seeking Afghani cuisine. With a diverse menu that includes Kebab, stews, and flavorful Rice dishes, Almadina Bistro brings the authentic taste of Afghanistan to Yorkville. The second-floor location provides a cozy and intimate setting for a delightful dining experience.

Toronto's Halal restaurant scene is a testament to the city's multicultural vibrancy. From Caribbean delights to Afghani and (Pakistani) specialties, each restaurant on this list offers a unique culinary journey for those seeking Halal options. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring Toronto's diverse neighborhoods, these Halal restaurants provide a taste of the rich cultural tapestry that makes the city a global culinary destination.

Muslim Friendly hotels in Toronto Islands

Cope

There are three winter washrooms open to the public year-round:

  • Ward's Island Washrooms | Lakeshore Ave GPS: 43.6313, -79.3538about 300 metres east of Ward's Island ferry dock
  • Center Island Winter Washrooms | 1 The Mall GPS: 43.6175, -79.3757 400 metres N/W of Centre Island Pier
  • Hanlons Point Ferry Unisex W/C | 760 Lakeshore Ave GPS: 43.6274, -79.3894near Hanlan's Point ferry docks

Other public washrooms are closed during winter. More washrooms are open in the warmer months especially in summer.

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