Best places to kayak in and around Toronto

Summer is here, and it’s a great time to get out on the water for a kayak or standup paddleboard ride.

For those who are new to the sport, there are several places in and around Toronto to test the waters.

Paddlers should take safety precautions — always wear a life jacket and check the weather forecast for high winds or storms. New paddlers should take a lesson before heading out on the water for the first time.

More information on kayaking, canoeing and standup paddleboard courses can be found on the Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association website.

Here are five spots for kayaking in and around Toronto:

Humber River

The Humber River is one of the best spots in the city for a beginner kayaker. The water is typically calm and there are two easy launch points near Old Mill Station.

Paddlers can explore marsh areas, see waterfowl, beavers and deer along the route. Those with enough time and energy can journey out to the Humber Bay Arch Bridge toward Lake Ontario. However, the water can get choppy and there are more speedboats and jet skis at the mouth of the river.

Deer along the Humber River. Photo: Karen Longwell

Toronto Adventures rents kayaks and provides lessons underneath the bridge at Old Mill Station. People can also bring their own kayak or stand-up paddle board and launch from the same spot.

If you have a vehicle and your own kayak, you can launch from Kings Mill Park.

Most paddlers head south along the river as it is often too shallow north of Old Mill Station. There are also several weirs or low-head dams.

Toronto Islands

Paddling in the quiet channels around the Toronto Islands is also a good choice for a beginner. There are several places to explore, and if you are lucky, you could see turtles, herons and beavers tucked away in the less-travelled areas. There are also great views of the Toronto skyline.

Unless you have a foldable or inflatable kayak/paddleboard that you are able to carry on the ferry, you will need to rent one on the island or paddle across from Cherry Beach (not for beginners).

View of the skyline from Toronto Islands. Photo: Karen Longwell

Toronto Island SUP has kayak and paddleboard rentals, and also offers lessons and guided tours.

People who bring their own board or kayak can launch from a small beach area next to Algonquin Bridge Road, a short walk from the Ward Island ferry dock.

Cherry Beach and Biidaasige Park

Toronto’s newest park, Biidaasige, has a boat launch area and is a pleasant spot for a paddle at the mouth of the Don River. Don’t Mess with The Don, an environmental stewardship organization plans kayak tours in the park in July.

Kayaking in Biidaasige Park. Photo: Karen Longwell

Nearby Cherry Beach may not be the best for new kayakers, particularly on a windy day. But the area is generally a scenic and safe environment, away from the busy Toronto harbour. Paddlers can stick to the shore or head across to Tommy Thompson Park. If you don’t have a boat, you can rent one from Toronto SUP & Kayak.

Credit River in Mississauga

Like the Humber, the Credit River is typically a good place for an easy paddle. The views from the harbour include the iconic Port Credit lighthouse. After paddling under the Lakeshore Road and rail bridges, the river becomes quieter with chances for wildlife sightings.

Swans on the Credit River. Photo: Karen Longwell

Many kayakers use the public boat launch at 21 Front St. S. in Port Credit.

Rockwood Conservation Area

Located near Guelph, this conservation area is known for its towering limestone cliffs, caves and glacial potholes. You can paddle around islands, past the cliffs and through narrow channels in the Rockwood reservoir.

People can bring their own kayaks or boards, or rent one from the conservation area.

Limestone cliffs seen from a kayak at Rockwood Conservation Area. Photo: Karen Longwell

Before heading out, people should check the website, as the total number of daily visitors is limited and access may be restricted.