The island was named so due to its intriguing serpentine shoreline that snakes around in the water. The ancestors of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation were inhabitants of the Lake Simcoe region long before the arrival of white settlers.

Snake Island, part of the Toronto Islands chain, is named after its physical geography and historical inhabitants rather than any current infestation. Historically, the island was home to a high population of harmless garter snakes, which the indigenous populations and early settlers noted. Furthermore, its original serpentine, narrow shoreline "snaked" through the harbor area, giving it a distinctive shape. In 2026, it is a peaceful, less-crowded part of the islands, primarily used for its beautiful parkland and views of the city skyline. While you might still spot a garter snake in the tall grass, the name is mostly a nod to its natural history. It is a favorite spot for boaters and picnickers who want to escape the more tourist-heavy areas of Centre Island and enjoy the quiet, shaded trails.