Two people fishing from a boat at sunrise.
Photo by Chris Riggs on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Lily Bay Park

Sturgeon Bay, WI · Boat Ramp · Public

Lily Bay Park is a public boat ramp on Lake Michigan - Lily Bay near Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Bay

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing Lake Michigan - Lily Bay near Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. sheltered and tidal conditions.

Paddlers looking for protected waters in Wisconsin can launch from Lily Bay Park into Lake Michigan - Lily Bay.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular here when winds are light, especially in the morning hours.

You can expect sheltered and tidal water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Sturgeon Bay, Lily Bay Park is a convenient option for Sturgeon Bay-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make Lily Bay Park ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Bring binoculars — bays are excellent for bird and marine wildlife viewing.
  • Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.
  • Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions.
  • Watch for boat traffic, especially in narrow channels and near marinas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Lily Bay Park?
Lily Bay Park is a public boat ramp in Wisconsin. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Lily Bay Park?
Lily Bay Park supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Lily Bay Park?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Lily Bay Park?
The best time to paddle at Lily Bay Park is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Lily Bay Park?
Water conditions at Lily Bay Park include sheltered, tidal.
Is Lily Bay Park good for beginners?
Yes, Lily Bay Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 44.8499, -87.2631

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Sturgeon Bay
Get Directions

44.8499, -87.2631

Best Paddling in Wisconsin

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Lily Bay Park

Sign In