How to get around: Catch the Ward's Island ferry from docks at the foot of Toronto's Bay Street. Walk or cycle but avoid pricey Bixi bike rentals in favor of those behind the Sheraton on the harbor Once at Ward's pick up a Toronto Island Grannies in Spirit bike tour pamphlet for a toonie (that's two Canadian dollars). Explore historic houses the boardwalk unique feshwater coastal dunes Toronto's oldest landmark (Gibraltar Point Lighthouse) and the nude beach at Willow Gate (among thers).
What to read before you go: A Magical Place: Toronto Island and Its People by Bill Freeman (1999) tells the islands sometimes fraught history and includes archival and currents photographs.
When to go: Summer is prime time for beaches the boardwalk and Centreville Amusement Park. Still the hush of midwinter brings brilliant skating on lagoons that link all 15 Toronto Islands.
Where to stay: Live like an islander in one of a handful of B and Bs or rental cottages on Ward's or Algonquin. The Boathouse at 5 Third Street or Ward' s Islands is a compact home away from home apartment with Kitchen washer dryer bedroom and bath minutes from the water.