Paddling Apostle Islands, WI
50 launch points · 3 water bodies · Best June through September
The Apostle Islands on Lake Superior are home to some of the most dramatic sea cave kayaking in North America. Twenty-one islands and 12 miles of mainland shoreline feature sculpted sandstone caves, arches, and pillars carved by waves over thousands of years. Sea kayaking here ranges from calm island-hopping to challenging open-water crossings on the largest freshwater lake in the world.
Why Paddle Apostle Islands
- ✓Paddle through sculpted sandstone sea caves along the mainland shore
- ✓Island-hop between 21 islands in Lake Superior
- ✓Ice caves accessible by foot in winter, by kayak the rest of the year
- ✓Pristine clear water with exceptional snorkeling and diving
Where to Paddle in Apostle Islands
Mainland Sea Caves
IntermediateThe Meyers Beach sea caves along the mainland are the most popular destination. Paddle through massive sandstone caverns, arches, and honeycombed rock. Best on calm days — Lake Superior swells make cave entry dangerous.
Inner Islands
IntermediateStockton, Basswood, and Madeline Islands are the closest and most accessible. Stockton Island has its own sea caves and excellent camping. Madeline Island has a ferry and small town.
Outer Islands
AdvancedDevils Island, Sand Island, and the outer chain require longer open-water crossings. Devils Island has the most dramatic sea caves in the archipelago. For experienced paddlers only.
Top Launch Points
Meyers Beach
Wisconsin · 8.9 mi
Gile Flowage - North
Wisconsin · 39.9 mi
Thompsons West End Park
Wisconsin · 21.0 mi
Washburn Marina
Wisconsin · 20.4 mi
Kreher Park
Wisconsin · 24.7 mi
Hot Pond Overlook
Wisconsin · 25.6 mi
Bell Marina - Cornucopia
Wisconsin · 21.3 mi
Silver Bay Safe Harbor
Minnesota · 37.8 mi
Local Tips for Apostle Islands
- 1.Lake Superior is dangerously cold year-round (40-60°F). Wear a drysuit or wetsuit even in summer. Hypothermia is the primary safety risk.
- 2.Check the marine forecast before every paddle. Conditions on Lake Superior can change rapidly — 2-foot swells can build to 6+ feet in an hour.
- 3.The sea caves are safest when swells are under 2 feet. If waves are pushing into the caves, do not enter — the surge inside is amplified and unpredictable.
- 4.Camping on the islands requires a permit from the National Lakeshore. Reserve through Recreation.gov during summer months.
- 5.Launch from Meyers Beach for the mainland sea caves, from Little Sand Bay for the inner islands, or from Bayfield for longer crossings.
Activities
Difficulty Levels
Gear for Apostle Islands
Make sure you have the right equipment for paddling in Apostle Islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can you kayak the Apostle Islands sea caves?
June through September offers the warmest conditions, though water remains cold. The caves are most photogenic on calm mornings with low swells. July and August have the warmest water temperatures (still only 55-65°F).
Can beginners kayak the Apostle Islands?
The mainland sea caves are accessible to guided beginners on calm days. Several Bayfield outfitters offer guided sea cave tours suitable for first-timers. Solo beginners should stick to sheltered bays near Madeline Island.
Do I need a guide to kayak the sea caves?
Not required, but strongly recommended for first-timers. Lake Superior demands respect — guided trips include safety equipment, instruction, and knowledge of current conditions. Solo paddlers should have sea kayaking experience and cold-water gear.
How cold is the water at the Apostle Islands?
Lake Superior water temperatures range from 38°F in spring to 65°F at peak summer. A wetsuit (summer) or drysuit (spring/fall) is essential. Immersion without thermal protection can cause incapacitation within minutes.
Where do I launch for the Apostle Islands?
Meyers Beach is the primary launch for the mainland sea caves (3-mile paddle each way). Little Sand Bay provides access to the inner islands. Bayfield has the most outfitters and is the main staging town for island trips.