Discover Wisconsin's maritime history on a scenic kayak tour along Lake Michigan's rugged shoreline. Paddle past historic shipwrecks and striking sandstone bluffs in this unforgettable outdoor adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with some previous paddling experience recommended.
Wildlife
History
Ellison Bay was historically a bustling shipping port, and remnants of shipwrecks along the shoreline tell stories of Wisconsin's maritime past.
Conservation
Door County Kayak emphasizes environmentally responsible practices, including minimal shoreline disturbance and wildlife protection.
Door County Kayak
Discover Wisconsin's maritime history on a scenic kayak tour along Lake Michigan's rugged shoreline. Paddle past historic shipwrecks and striking sandstone bluffs in this unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Door County Kayak operates from Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, offering a mix of guided kayak tours, e-bike and quad bike rentals, plus unique self-guided art experiences. The company organizes short rentals (one to three hours) and longer guided trips (half-day and approximately four-hour outings) that highlight local landmarks such as Cave Point County Park, Whitefish Dunes, Door Bluff County Park, and Cana Island Lighthouse.
Guided kayak tours use stable sit-on-top kayaks with instruction and safety guidance included, making tours accessible to beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Highlighted experiences include the Door Bluff Shipwreck tours with views of the Schooner Fleetwing and Native American pictographs, Cave Point kayak excursions exploring caves and coves, and the Cave Point / Whitefish Dunes half-day paddle that includes a locally sourced picnic. E-bike offerings include single-hour rentals and the Cave Point Fat Tire E-Bike Tour along scenic overlooks and lakeshore roads. Quad (surrey) bike rentals accommodate two- and four-person bikes for family or couples’ rides.
Door County Kayak emphasizes safety with pre-ride and pre-paddle briefings and provides guided interpretation of local history and natural features. Bookings commonly specify tour duration, meeting location in Sturgeon Bay, and included equipment. The mix of rentals and guided options allows visitors to choose self-paced exploration or narrated tours for deeper local insight.
Location
Sturgeon Bay, WI
Base in Door County, on Lake Michigan
Tours Offered
11
Guided tours and rentals available
Tour Lengths
½–4 hours
Short rentals to half-day trips
Group Options
Singles to groups
2- and 4-person surrey bikes included
Reserve guided paddles, half-day excursions, or flexible e-bike rentals from Sturgeon Bay — limited group sizes, popular tours fill fast.
Wear appropriate sun protection
Apply sunscreen, and wear a hat and sunglasses to stay comfortable during the trip.
Check weather conditions
Always review the forecast before heading out, as wind and waves can affect safety and enjoyment.
Bring a waterproof bag
Protect your valuables and electronic devices from water exposure during the paddle.
Arrive early for safety briefing
Participate in the safety overview and equipment check before launching.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A well-fitting PFD is crucial for safety on the water.
Sunscreen
Wear to protect your skin from sun exposure during extended outdoor time.
summer
Waterproof camera or phone case
Capture photos of the scenic shoreline without risk of water damage.
Layers and weather-appropriate clothing
Adjust your clothing based on the season for comfort and warmth.
spring|fall|winter