The weather is indeed here which means it's time to embrace the warmth of the sun, get outside and relax.  Island style.  However, before settling down at one of the island's beautiful waterfront restaurants, check out all that this quaint little island in the western basin of Lake Erie has to offer for outdoor enthusiasts. 

1. Bring Bicycles - Alliteration aside, any busy traffic day can be avoided with the use of two-pedaled transportation and bicycles are especially useful if you plan to bring the young ones on an island voyage (Check out the new mileage map if you're worried about the length of your journey).  Don't own bikes?  That's okay, Island Bike Rental near the top of Lime Kiln dock has you covered and the Miller Ferry even has a special coupon for you on their website.  

2. Explore the State Park - South Bass Island State Park is truly one of the island's hidden gems.  It's not that people don't know it's there, it's just that a lot of island visitors never make it off the main drag to go check it out.  Surrounded by woods with a stone swimming beach on the front doorstep, this tranquil location is something every person must experience at least once.  It also faces southwest and you don't need a compass to figure out that's the direction of the sunset.  Enjoy. 

3. “Park” the Kids - Do you know where Will's Playground is located?  Bet your kids do.  Well maybe not by name, but they know that it's tucked away on the east end of DeRivera Park on the lakefront in the heart of the Village.  Lucky for you the central location is perfect.  Let's see here — the Boathouse, T&J's Smokehouse and Roundhouse are all ideally situated so you can enjoy that post-dinner cocktail all while keeping an eye on the kiddos.   

4. Walk on Water - Scheef Park, albeit a little less popular that South Bass Island State Park, is just as cool and contains a very large, explorable reserve complete with a walking trail.  In fact we'll let you in on a little secret.  If that water level is low, you can even cross a reef to a tiny neighbor island named Buckeye.  Now go, impress your friends with your newfound geography knowledge. 

5. Spread the Island Love - One island not enough?  The Sonny S and Boardwalk water taxi both depart from The Boardwalk and will take you to either Middle Bass or Gibraltar Island.  Roam around Middle Bass or educate yourself on OSU's private science island, it's your choice.  And don't worry about leaving Put-in-Bay, it won't get jealous.  You have to come back before nightfall. 

6. Kayak the Bay - Made up of mostly solid limestone, South Bass Island is full for rock formations and cliffs that are quite picturesque from the perspective of a kayak.  Before you set off on a boat from Kayak the Bay make sure to ask about threading the Gibraltar needle and the best paddle routes around the island.  The many paddling options include shoreline, open water crossings and islands, day paddles to ten different islands, and historical sight visits. 

7. Paddle Boarding - Kayak not challenging enough?  Test your balance by renting a paddle board from Captain Jason of Put-in-Bay Parasail.  Secluded as a natural cove, Put-in-Bay Harbor's naturally serene setting makes it perfect for beginner paddle boarders.  Of course you could always just parasail too. 

Travel Tip:  Getting to the island is easy and affordable via the Miller Boat Line.  At just $14 RT, it's budget friendly to bring along the whole family or a large group of friends.  Want to bring the pup?  It's dog friendly as well.