Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak Centre

What visitors say

Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak Centre launches from downtown Toronto's waterfront, just below the CN Tower, and many visitors call it the best thing they did in the city. Paddlers head across the harbour to the Toronto Islands, where reviewers describe calm lagoons, birds and turtles, and a mix of secluded channels and more open water.

Courses are a big part of the appeal. Reviewers describe small groups with plenty of individual attention, instructors who know local wildlife and history, and sessions adjusted or rescheduled when storms or whitecaps are forecast. Options range from half-day canoe lessons and one-day kayak courses to multi-evening performance paddling workshops. Renters say booking and sign-in are efficient, and staff are flexible with last-minute changes, handing out water bottles, maps and dry bags.

The centre also runs guided social paddles on some weeknights, and corporate groups have taken large voyageur canoes over to the islands with a guide. It suits beginners, visitors, and locals looking to build skills. Several reviewers suggest paying for the water taxi option to reach the islands more easily.

Complaints are few. One course participant noted that some rental kayaks are a bit banged up, and day-course students should bring their own lunch since there's nothing to buy at the stopping point. Parking nearby is paid, and a hat, sunscreen and water are essential on sunny days.

Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 713 Google reviews. Details change — confirm hours, prices and bookings with Harbourfront Canoe & Kayak Centre directly.