Toronto Water Bikes Review: What to Know Before You Go for a Memorable Summer Experience 🚲 🌊

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Hi loves, if you have been searching for exciting activities to do in Toronto this summer, you’ve likely come across Toronto Water Bikes. It looked like one of those experiences that was incredibly unique and worthwhile, so a few days ago, my mom and I decided to spend an evening together and see if it lived up to the moment.

We ended up trying both the water bikes and the kayaks in the same evening, which gave me a really well rounded perspective on the experience. Since there were a few things I genuinely wish I had known before booking, I thought I’d share my honest review to help you decide whether it’s worth adding to your own Toronto summer bucket list.

Overall, I would probably rate the experience somewhere between a 2.7 and 3 out of 5. I genuinely enjoyed the evening and I’m glad we went, but there were a few unexpected surprises that definitely shaped my experience.

Water Bikes vs. Kayaks, One My Clear Favorite

We originally booked the water bikes from 8:00 to 9:00 PM, then decided to add the kayaks afterward from 9:30 to 10:30 PM. I’m really glad we did both because it gave me a much clearer comparison between the two.

If I had to describe each of them, I would say water biking felt more like a true workout, but also much more memorable. You’re constantly pedaling, and depending on the current, it can feel like properly exercising rather than having a casual ride. I actually ended up enjoying that more than I expected because I was doing something active while still taking in the beautiful skyline.

The kayaks, comparatively, were more relaxed in nature, allowing for a more laid back experience where you could take your time and enjoy being on the water. The beautiful glow of the lights surrounded the kayak, and it was a dreamy view seeing everyone out experiencing it as well, especially seeing the city from that perspective.

If I had to choose just one, though, I would book the water bikes again without hesitation.

A Bit More Than Just a Scenic Ride

I had fully convinced myself this was going to be one of those slow, relaxing summer activities where you casually pedal around the harbor while admiring the views and summer breeze.

Water biking had other plans for me…

Since my mom hadn’t arrived yet, she told me to go ahead and start the experience while she joined me a little later. To make things more interesting, I spent the first part of the ride on a tandem bike by myself.

Between the current pushing against me and the weight of the bike, I was genuinely exhausted after about half an hour.

One thing I will mention, though, is the seat.

After a while, it did start to feel a bit uncomfortable, especially since you’re constantly pedalling. Nothing major, but it’s something to keep in mind. If you can, I’d recommend wearing something with a bit more cushioning to stay comfortable throughout the ride.

Once she got on the bike with me, everything became much easier and actually made sense. If you are going on your own, they do have single bikes specifically for the occasion. You will likely have a much smoother and more enjoyable experience that way.

A Few Things I Certainly Wish I Knew Before Going

As far as my outfit goes, I kept it sporty and chic, wearing my white sunglasses, shorts, waterproof shoes, a few gold accessories, and a gingham lace collared navy blue shirt. The outfit worked perfectly for the bikes, but if I were doing the kayaks again, I would definitely make one change.

By the time we got to the kayaks later in the evening, the mosquitoes had become quite noticeable. They were constantly surrounding the kayak while we were on the water, which definitely took away from the experience.

If you are deciding on a time slot for kayaking, I would personally lean toward an earlier window. Water biking allows for more flexibility.

The next thing was the water itself.

The lake water isn’t exactly something I’d recommend letting touch your skin if you can help it. It’s fairly murky, and while we were out on the kayaks, water kept splashing onto my legs, as I was wearing shorts.

Unfortunately, my skin became extremely irritated afterward. I ended up with redness all over my legs that lasted a while after the experience.

That being said, I would honestly recommend wearing lightweight pants if you are planning to kayak. It’s a small detail, but it could make a huge difference and potentially save you a lot of irritation.

For the bikes, though, shorts are completely fine since you don’t really come into contact with the water in the same way.

The Practical Details (That You’ll Actually Appreciate)

There were a few small details that made the experience easier that I believe is worth mentioning.

For the bikes, waterproof shoes are definitely the way to go. Your feet will almost certainly get wet while getting on and off, so it’s best to be prepared for that.

If you are planning to kayak instead, you’ll actually have to go barefoot, which is something worth knowing before arriving.

They also had a secure enclosed storage area where everyone left their belongings during the activity. I felt at ease during my time on the water, and everything was exactly as we left it when we came back. Also, your phone will be placed into a protective waterproof case with a neck attachment that you can still easily use to capture your lovely memories while on the water.

Additionally, The bikes have baskets attached to the front that comfortably fit a medium sized handbag and water bottle, which was a really convenient touch.

Where the Experience Truly Shines

The Toronto skyline is breathtakingly beautiful from the water, especially in the evening. Even though I had a few critiques regarding parts of the experience, I can’t deny that the views were stunning and made it all worthwhile.

The music they play in the evening undeniably adds to the ambience and makes it all so lovely. They played “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay, one of my favorites, and it made the night feel softer and almost dreamlike.

If you enjoy creating content or simply love capturing moments while exploring, I would say this is definitely where the experience shines.

I also really appreciated that the staff took photos and videos for guests whenever they had time. It’s such a small thing, but it makes a huge difference when you’re trying to actually enjoy the moment as well. If you’re booking later in the evening like we did, I would recommend bringing a phone light or digital camera.

Once the sun begins setting, the lighting changes quickly ( I certainly wish I had brought mine).

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/4c1230_14e6ad1380ef4d36a0b0d2f178dfd724/file

The Cutest Spot Before Your Ride Begins

Another thing I really loved was the waiting area to enjoy before your booking begins.

They designed a set up that actually felt like part of the experience, including a half length mirror that was perfect for outfit photos, adorable pink beach chairs, surfboards, and fun summer themed props, along with a cute dessert display that added to the beachy aesthetic before heading out onto the water.

When Our Evening Almost Didn’t Happen

Our original booking had actually been cancelled because of the wildfire conditions a few days earlier.

Thankfully, rescheduling was handled quickly and professionally by the staff, and everyone we interacted with throughout the evening was kind and helpful.

That definitely left a positive impression.

If I Were Planning the Perfect Evening

If I were doing this again, I would turn it into more of a full evening experience.

I would arrive at least an hour earlier, walk around the surrounding park, grab a coffee or a snack from a nearby café, and just enjoy the waterfront before heading over.

I’d also spend a little more time relaxing in the waiting area since there are nice places to sit and unwind before everything begins. I think slowing the evening down would make the whole experience feel much more enjoyable rather than moving immediately from one thing to the next.

Apparently Someone Broke the Streak…

The day we visited, someone happened to break the five year streak of nobody falling into the water using the water bikes.

Thankfully…

It wasn’t me. 😂

Would I Visit Again?

Looking back, I’m genuinely glad we went. The views were beautiful, the staff were kind, things felt very organized, and I loved spending a summer evening on the water with my mom. Would I book the kayaks again?

It’s highly unlikely.

The water bikes, however, are something I would absolutely consider once more, especially on a day when I’m in the mood for a fun workout. I think this is one of those experiences that becomes much more enjoyable when you know exactly what to expect.

If you’re mainly going for memories, the skyline, and a unique way to experience Toronto, I do think it’s worth trying at least once.

For me, it was less about finding my new favorite activity and more about spending a beautiful summer evening in the city while exploring something new.

And honestly, those are the moments I treasure the most.

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Have you tried Toronto Water Bikes before, or is it on your Toronto summer bucket list? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments, or answer any questions you might have about the experience.

I hope you found my review insightful.

And if you love honest reviews, dreamy summer plans, and discovering beautiful experiences both in Toronto and beyond, don’t forget to subscribe to the TravelwithCamillaT newsletter.

Love,

Camilla T. ✨

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