Apostle Islands Wisconsin: 1st Time Visitor Guide
Apostle Islands Wisconsin offer an unforgettable mix of adventure, solitude, and raw natural beauty. With 21 islands and over 70 miles of rugged coastline, this remote gem is perfect for kayaking, hiking, camping, and marveling at sea caves and historic lighthouses. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full week of exploration, this first-time visitor guide will help you make the most of your Apostle Islands adventure.
Overview
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, managed by the National Park Service, protects both the archipelago of islands and a scenic stretch of mainland shoreline. The area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and photographers. Highlights include:
- Dramatic sandstone sea caves
- Pristine beaches and hiking trails
- Old-growth forests and scenic overlooks
- Some of the best kayaking in the Midwest
- Historic lighthouses on remote islands
Bayfield, Wisconsin, is the primary gateway to the islands and offers all the amenities needed to prepare for your journey. Kayaking and boating are the most popular things to do here, although guided tours are really the only way to explore the islands. You can rent a boat or kayak on your own but that requires additional fees and passing other requirements to do.
Photos
How to Get There
By Car: Bayfield is the main access point. From Minneapolis, it’s about a 4.5-hour drive northeast. From Madison or Milwaukee, plan on about 5.5-6.5 hours.
By Air: The nearest major airport is in Duluth, MN (2 hours away). Regional airports in Ashland and Ironwood offer limited flights.
By Ferry or Kayak:
- Madeline Island Ferry runs from Bayfield to Madeline Island (the only inhabited island not part of the National Lakeshore).
- Guided kayak tours, water taxis, and private charters offer access to other islands.
Best Times to Visit
- Summer (June–August): Best weather for kayaking, camping, and boating. Warm days, cool nights.
- Fall (September–early October): Fewer crowds and beautiful fall foliage.
- Winter (January–March): Visit the famous ice caves if Lake Superior freezes solid enough (check with the NPS for safety updates).
- Spring (May): Quiet and peaceful, but some services may not yet be open.
10 Best Things to Do in Apostle Islands Wisconsin
Among these 10 best things, I also recommend this Tripadvisor post on Apostle Islands for even more awesome ideas!
- Kayak the Sea Caves: Paddle through sculpted sandstone sea caves along the mainland or Devils Island (boat tours only). See tour options.
- Explore Madeline Island: Visit Big Bay State Park, the Madeline Island Museum, and hike along scenic bluffs.
- Hike the Lakeshore Trail: A 4.5-mile route along the mainland with access to cliff overlooks and beaches.
- Take a Boat Tour: Scenic cruises from Bayfield offer narrated tours of the islands and lighthouses (view tours).
- Visit Raspberry Island Lighthouse: One of the most accessible and photogenic lighthouses in the park.
- Camp on a Remote Island: Pitch your tent on Sand Island or Oak Island for a truly wild experience.
- Go Sailing on Lake Superior: Charter a sailboat or join a sailing tour for a different perspective.
- Snowshoe to the Ice Caves (Winter Only): A rare and magical experience if conditions allow safe lake access.
- Fish or Swim Off the Docks: Some islands and shorelines have great spots for swimming or casting a line.
- Take a Sunset Cruise: Witness a fiery Lake Superior sunset, some of the best in the Midwest.
Hidden Gems
- Stockton Island Tombolo Trail: A lesser-known trail through dunes and forest connecting beach and bay sides.
- Sea Stack at Devils Island: A towering sandstone column rising from the water, a paddler’s secret treasure.
- Little Sand Bay Beach: A quiet mainland beach near the Apostle Islands Visitor Center, perfect for a picnic and swim.
- Mawikwe Bay Sea Caves: Often overlooked in favor of Meyers Beach, these offer amazing formations with fewer people.
1–5 Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1:
- Arrive in Bayfield
- Explore the town and its harbor
- Take an evening cruise or walk along the shoreline
Day 2:
- Kayak the sea caves from Meyers Beach (guided recommended)
- Relax at Little Sand Bay
- Camp or stay in Bayfield
Day 3:
- Take the ferry to Madeline Island
- Hike Big Bay State Park trails
- Visit the Madeline Island Museum
- Return or overnight on the island
Day 4:
- Join a boat tour to Raspberry or Sand Island
- Explore a lighthouse and hike inland trails
- Optional camping on an island
Day 5:
- Visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Visitor Center
- Hike the Lakeshore Trail
- Drive scenic byways and depart
Packing List
You can get a majority of the following items on my Amazon gear store:
- Waterproof dry bags (especially for kayaking or boating)
- Layers (it can be warm during the day and chilly at night)
- Rain jacket
- Hiking shoes or sandals with grip
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- Water filter or purification tablets (if camping)
- Map, compass, or GPS device
- Camping gear (if overnighting on the islands)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Snacks and meals (no services on remote islands)
Where to Stay
View hotels around Apostle Islands
Things to Know Before You Go
- Permits required for camping in the National Lakeshore, book well in advance.
- Weather changes fast, especially on Lake Superior. Always check forecasts and lake conditions.
- There is limited cell service in many parts of the islands.
- Fires only allowed in designated areas and sometimes restricted during dry periods.
- Wildlife is abundant so store food properly and follow Leave No Trace ethics.
- Winter visits require caution and you should only explore ice caves if officially deemed safe by the NPS or via a guided tour.
Related
Final Thoughts
A visit to Apostle Islands Wisconsin is like stepping into a secret wilderness of cliffs, caves, and calm waters. Whether you’re kayaking through sea caves, hiking serene island trails, or stargazing from a remote beach, the experience is unforgettable. Prepare well, embrace the solitude, and you’ll discover why so many travelers return to this hidden gem of the Midwest year after year.
