i love ward's island. went again a few weeks ago for a "beach day", and it was wonderful. the beach was nice and clean, and there are nice spots where you can find a little shade from the trees (on the really sweltering days) but still be really close to the water. we found a perfect half-sun, half-shade spot about 10 metres from the water. and the water was beautifully clean-- verified by the blue-flag program.
it's a really nice alternative to the usually crowded woodbine beach. in the city, i think it's as good as it gets.