Island Spirits Eco-Friendly Retreat

1. Hangout with the Animals 

That’s right, this island is home to a bunch of cute critters to help welcome you to the island! From miniature donkeys and a miniature horse to chickens, pigs, Silkie hens, and a few affable alpacas, you will have an opportunity to meet a variety of friendly animals that will have you trying new things. Forgot the eggs at home? No worries, go to the nearest chicken coop and get your own fresh eggs. Have leftover food? You can feed it to the pigs. Want to groom the donkeys? Brushes are available for you to do just that. This island's full-time summer animal residents are excited to meet you (especially if you happen to bring along a pocket full of carrots, celery or lettuce).

2. Hammock Snoozin’, Sunset Zennin’ 

Discover ultimate relaxation at the newly added Hammock Snoozin’ and Sunset Zennin’ area at Island Spirits. This tranquil haven features a collection of hammocks strategically placed to overlook the sparkling waters, offering the perfect spot for a serene escape. Sway gently in the warm breeze as you nap under the shade of lush trees or unwind with a good book while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. As the day draws to a close, these hammocks transform into the best seats in the house to find your zen and watch a mesmerizing sunset.

3. Have an Outdoor Shower 

Completely solar power operated and eco-friendly, Island Spirits offers not just one but two outdoor showers. Whether you’re rinsing off at the end of the day or getting ready in the morning, these showers offer a rejuvenating experience blending seamlessly with the natural environment. Constructed with sustainable materials designed to minimize water usage, these showers provide a unique experience to get a fresh start on your adventures or cool off after a day of exploring the island. 

4. Wrestle in the Mud Pit 

You read that right. Few experiences are as unique as Island Spirits' very own mud pit. It’s not just about the sport; it’s about the laughter, camaraderie, and the unforgettable memories made as you slip, slide, and wrestle your way to victory. Whether you are travelling with friends or making new ones on the island, a mud pit wrestling match is sure to be a highlight of your trip, leaving you with stories to tell and a smile on your face long after the mud has washed away. 

5. Make your own Pizza in the Pizza Oven 

What could be better than a chimney-style, wood-fired pizza oven stationed right on the island? Knowing the history of course! This delicious addition to the experience is Grasshopper Island's very own tribute to its history. Its origins start near the main public docking point, where a traditional chimney, previously used by pioneers, stands as a testament to enduring craftsmanship and tradition. In the spirit of this uncovered gem, Island Spirits built the double-sided, traditional, wood-fired pizza oven for guests to honour and enjoy a piece of the past. It's now an island highlight so pack your pizza ingredients and prepare for a timeless and tasty Island Spirits experience.

6. Play Games & Spot Signs

Outdoor fun is the name of the game here. Volleyball, badminton, horseshoes, hopscotch, and life-size checkers are just some of the activities you can enjoy while staying on the Island. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to enjoy a friendly game, these courts are perfect for everyone. 

From creative signs written by Captain TJ herself to the naming of outhouses, every element of Island Spirits has been carefully crafted to add a personal touch. During your next stay, be sure to take notice of all the unique outhouse names, each with a quirky nod to nature and humour. A couple of my favourites are "caca castle" and "holy crapper", but the rest are for you to uncover. There are over 10 outhouses on the island, add those to the rest of the signs and the island and you've got a great opportunity for a hilarious scavenger hunt! 

7. Try a New Water Sport or Hit the Beach! 

There is no escape quite like getting out on the water. One of Island Spirits' most enjoyed amenities is the free access to a variety of water activities. Whether you prefer to kayak, paddle board, or canoe, Captain TJ has lots of options to choose from and more than enough to go around. Unwind, relax, and start your day out on the water. Don’t worry about a thing – the life jackets, boats, boards, and paddles are all covered. Just bring your bathing suit and water shoes and prepare for some fun on the water. Access to these free amenities will give you the chance to explore the surrounding waters at your own leisure or scope out your next hangout spot. If you're more of an on-land adventurer, you can enjoy the benefits of the beach and the wonders of the water at the inland beach. This sunny and sandy spot provides opportunity for family fun or the perfect "book & beach blanket" kind of afternoon.

8. Dance! 

There are surprises around every corner on the island so it shouldn't be too surprising to find a custom dance floor nestled into the centre of the island underneath the stars. Complete with poles for the most creative and fun dance options you could want, the stage is carefully placed to provide quieter guests some space at night while the night owls can be noisy. The dance floor provides an opportunity for endless laughs and unforgettable memories with your friends and family. Have your own concert and dance like nobody is watching at this striking and unique addition to the heart of the island. 

9. Enjoy an Ice Cream Delivery 

No summer getaway is complete without ice cream – from big to small, and it's a hit with people of all ages. Every Saturday at 2:00pm it’s time for Island Spirits’ Ice Cream Social. Ontario’s own Kawartha Dairy ice cream is delivered on the island to make your stay that much sweeter. Classic chocolate and vanilla, Nanaimo bar, moose-tracks, and dairy-free raspberry are just some of the options you can choose from during your summer 2024 stay. 

10. Stay in an Eco-Friendly Cabin  

Part of Island Spirits' charm is its ability to seamlessly blend paradise with social responsibility. Each cabin is eco-friendly, providing you with an opportunity to enjoy your vacation while making an environmentally positive impact. Every cabin is operated by solar energy allowing for light inside the cabin and a USB charging port for your phone. With a mix of single beds or custom bunk beds in every cabin, you are sure to have endless laughs at nighttime with your friends and family. A tip for your visit, be sure to pack your own linens and sleeping bag, but don't worry, Captain TJ has a comfortable mattress and pillow ready for your stay. 

11. Unwind on Your Own Private Dock or Stationary Boat  

There’s nothing quite like having your morning coffee on a dock overlooking the water. Out of all the amenities and carefully crafted features Island Spirits has to offer, this one is a stand out. Many cabins have their own private dock perfect for lounging, fishing, soaking in the views, and enjoying a coffee in the morning. Whether you prefer to watch the sunrise or the sunset, your dock is your own personal sanctuary that you do not need to share. If you prefer a group hangout, be sure to check out The Golden Girl, a stationary barge which is a perfect spot to host larger groups. According to Captain TJ, The Golden Girl is also the best spot for fishing on the island so be sure to bring your fishing gear and check it out! 

12. Relax with Nature 

Sometimes the best things in life are the simplest. The best part of Island Spirits? Disconnecting from the stress and chaos of day-to-day life and simply camping and connecting with nature. Have a fire, barbecue together, go swimming, make s’mores, sunbathe, go on a hike, read a book, watch the sunset from your private dock, have laughs, and make memories.