Paddle Pirates Glow in the Dark at Cherry Beach!

Paddle Pirates' Glow in the Dark experience at Cherry Beach is one of the most unique evening activities for families in Toronto. Participants head out onto Lake Ontario on paddleboards or kayaks equipped with LED glow lights after sunset. The effect is striking — you're floating on dark water with colourful lights beneath your board while the Toronto skyline glitters in the background.

This activity is best suited for kids aged 8 and up who are comfortable around water and have enough balance and strength to handle a paddleboard or kayak. Younger children don't have the physical capability, and the evening timing means it runs past most little kids' bedtimes anyway. Teens and tweens love it because it feels like a genuine adventure, not a watered-down kid version of something.

Paddle Pirates provides all equipment including boards, paddles, life jackets, and the LED lights. A guide leads the group, provides a quick on-land lesson, and stays with you on the water. No prior paddleboarding experience is needed, though it helps. The water near Cherry Beach is calm and sheltered, which makes it manageable for beginners.

Sessions run in the summer months when the weather and water temperature cooperate. You'll want to book in advance — the glow-in-the-dark sessions are popular and fill up, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. The experience typically lasts about 1.5-2 hours including the land briefing and on-water time.

Cherry Beach is at the foot of Cherry Street in Toronto's east end. There's parking at the beach, though it can be limited on summer evenings. Bring a towel and a change of clothes — you may get splashed or fall in. The water near the beach is shallow, but wearing a life jacket is mandatory and provided.

This is a memorable family experience that older kids will talk about long after. It photographs beautifully too — the glowing boards on dark water make for incredible shots.