Full-Day Kayak Through the Apostle Islands Mainland Sea Caves
From Meyers Beach, spend 6–7 hours threading Lake Superior’s sandstone cathedrals—lunch included.
Lake Superior wakes early and on its own terms. At Meyers Beach, the lake lifts a gentle shoulder of swell against the red sandstone cliffs, testing your balance before you even touch water. Guides sort paddles along the sand, wetsuits whisper as they’re zipped, and gulls heckle from above like impatient timekeepers. When you push off, the lake says go—and you go—gliding toward the famous Mainland Sea Caves, where arches inhale, grottos blink, and echoing chambers dare you to paddle deeper. This is the Sea Caves Full Day tour, a 6–7 hour tandem kayak journey that strings together the most intricate shoreline on the Apostle Islands mainland. It’s not rushed. It’s not a sprint. It’s a generous circuit through geology that moves at a wave’s pace.
Trail Wisdom
Dress for the lake, not the air
Superior stays cold year-round; pack quick-dry layers and be prepared to wear a wetsuit if conditions require it.
Sync your strokes
Tandem kayaks reward rhythm—match cadence with your partner and let the boat’s glide do the work.
Respect the caves’ mood
Only enter features your guide approves; surge can change quickly at cave mouths even on calm days.
Mind the stairs
There are flights of stairs to reach Meyers Beach; carry what you need and lend a hand with boats if you’re able.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Mawikwe Bay Overlook on the Meyers Beach Trail for a bird’s-eye view of the caves
- •Lost Creek Falls, a short inland hike with a walk-behind waterfall near Cornucopia
Wildlife
Peregrine falcons, Bald eagles
Conservation Note
This shoreline is protected by the National Park Service—pack out all waste, avoid landing on fragile ledges, and give nest sites wide berth.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore was established in 1970 to protect 21 islands and a sculpted mainland coast long stewarded by the Ojibwe (Anishinaabe).
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer crowds, Crisp visibility
Challenges: Cold water, Changeable wind, Limited warm days
Expect cold water and variable weather; dry layers and wind protection are critical. Tours run as conditions allow.
summer
Best for: Warmest air temps, Calmer morning paddles
Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, Higher visitation
Peak season with the best odds for stable lake conditions. Book early and target morning departures.
fall
Best for: Vibrant shoreline colors, Clear, crisp air
Challenges: Stronger winds, Shorter daylight
Cooler days and punchier winds demand solid layers and flexible timing. Spectacular color contrasts on sunny days.
winter
Best for: Land-based views, Regional ice cave updates
Challenges: No sea kayaking tours, Extreme cold
Sea kayaking pauses for winter. Watch NPS alerts for rare ice cave access by foot and explore local trails above the cliffs.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Neoprene water shoes or bootiesEssential
Protects your feet during launches and landings and keeps them warmer than sandals.
Synthetic base layersEssential
Quick-drying tops and bottoms keep you warm under a wetsuit and comfortable in variable temps.
Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+ reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses with strap)Essential
Reflection off the lake intensifies sun exposure; a brimmed hat and sunscreen prevent burn and glare fatigue.
Phone dry case
Pairs with the provided dry bag to keep your device accessible for photos without risking water damage.
Common Questions
Are wetsuits required?
Guides may require wetsuits based on water and air temperatures. Lake Superior is cold even in summer; the goal is warmth and safety.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Dogs aren’t permitted in tandem sea kayaks for safety and permit reasons. Ask about local doggy daycare options in Bayfield.
Can I rent kayaks and go without a guide?
Generally no. Due to rapidly changing conditions, unguided rentals require a safety course and approval. Guided tours are the safest option.
Do you offer single kayaks?
Tours use tandem kayaks for stability and efficiency, which is safer in varying lake conditions.
What happens if weather cancels the trip?
Trips may be canceled for high wind, waves, or thunderstorms. You’ll be rescheduled when possible or refunded if not.
Are there restrooms at the launch?
Vault toilets are available at Meyers Beach. There are no facilities on the water, so plan accordingly before launching.
What to Pack
Quick-dry base layers to wear under a wetsuit; closed-toe water shoes for launches and landings; brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses for sun and glare; 1–2 liters of water in a reusable bottle for a full day on the lake.
Did You Know
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore contains the largest and most complete collection of historic lighthouses in the National Park System.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a morning departure for calmer conditions; Allow an extra day in Bayfield to hedge against weather changes; Bring cash or card for Meyers Beach parking fees; Cell coverage drops near the launch—download maps and confirm logistics in town.
Local Flavor
After paddling, refuel in Bayfield with house-made pastries and coffee at Cafe Coco (your lunch caterer), fresh-catch dinners at The Copper Trout, and a lakeside pint at Adventure Club Brewing. If the evening is clear, catch a show at Big Top Chautauqua for a uniquely Northwoods night under canvas.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Duluth International (DLH), ~2 hours by car; Trailhead: Meyers Beach parking on County Hwy C near Cornucopia; Drive time: ~30–35 minutes from Bayfield; Cell service: Spotty to none at the beach; Permits/fees: NPS day-use parking fee at Meyers Beach; outfitter holds required guide permits.
Sustainability Note
These caves sit within Apostle Islands National Lakeshore—pack out all trash, use reef-safe sunscreen, and maintain distance from nesting birds and fragile ledges. Let the rock and lake keep their natural rhythms.
Continue Reading
Gold Mountain Trail: Big Bear’s Badge-of-Honor Jeep Ascent
Climb Big Bear’s Gold Mountain Trail, a Jeep Badge of Honor route that blends technical rock crawling with high-country views and a living slice of California history. Guided spotters, named obstacles, and a steady pace make this advanced 4.5-hour ascent both challenging and surprisingly approachable.
Big Bear Lake, California
Riding TourZilla: Big Bear Lake’s Off‑Road Safari Into History
Trade pavement for pine-scented air on a guided 1.5-hour safari through Big Bear’s backcountry. TourZilla blends mountain views, mining lore, and flexible routes—from lake loops to Pioneertown—for an easy, memorable way to meet the San Bernardino Mountains.
Big Bear Lake, California