Hanlon's Point Beach, Toronto Island
Summer is officially over and Google marked the first day of fall with a nice little red and gold leaf logo at their pages.
On the weekend, we went to the island by bicycle – quite a hike from High Park and Bloor – and explored the islands from west to east. I finally got to the infamous nude beach! (Officially called a ‘clothing optional’ beach). It looked to be packed with throngs of people enjoying themselves in their b-day suits. We stuck to the regular beach at Hanlon’s Point, where kite boarders were launching into a strong wind and streaking across the horizon. We were envious of their grace and speed as they danced across the shimmering waves. The beaches were separated from the park area by dunes. It was a little reminiscent of places like Sandbanks in eastern Ontario.
We carried on through Centre Island and enjoyed the view from the pier. Then we travelled east to Ward’s Island and caught the ferry back to harbourfront. It was a fabulous day and perfect t-shirt weather. What an amazing way to cap off an eventful summer. The ferry ride to the islands transports you to another world, away from the stress and pace of the city. As we approach October we will have our share of ‘Indian Summer’ days and I suggest you pack a blanket, towel and picnic lunch and try to hit the islands before fall really sets in and Lake Ontario’s chilly blasts make the islands a no-man’s land.
