Discover the stunning waters around Ellison Bay with the Rock Island Kayak Tour. Perfect for all skill levels, this guided adventure offers scenic views, wildlife encounters, and a chance to explore hidden spots along Wisconsin's Door County coastline.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic paddling skills recommended but not required.
Wildlife
History
Ellison Bay and the surrounding islands have a rich maritime history, once serving as bustling fishing hubs and shelters for pirates.
Conservation
Kayak tours emphasize Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact and preserve the area's natural beauty.
Kayak Guide Justin, LLC.
Discover the stunning waters around Ellison Bay with the Rock Island Kayak Tour. Perfect for all skill levels, this guided adventure offers scenic views, wildlife encounters, and a chance to explore hidden spots along Wisconsin's Door County coastline.
Kayak Guide Justin, LLC. is a Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin kayak outfitter offering guided paddling trips across Door County. Led by a certified Wisconsin Master Naturalist on select tours, the company provides custom kayak tours and a curated schedule of themed excursions that highlight local ecology, geology, and history.
Tours range from half-day adventures to three-hour trips, including excursions to Rock Island State Park, Newport State Park, Peninsula State Park, Cave Point, Whitefish Dunes, Cana Island, and the Mink River Estuary. Highlights across trips include guided interpretation of limestone cliffs and sea caves, exploration of ancient fossils, viewing of historic structures such as the Thordarson Boathouse, and visits to the Cana Island Lighthouse. Several tours incorporate lakeside picnics, opportunities to see shipwreck sites such as the Schooner Fleetwing, and seasonal sunset paddles in Ellison Bay.
The business emphasizes personalized experiences with custom-designed itineraries that match skill level and interests, from challenging routes to relaxed family outings and celebration paddles. Safety and local knowledge are core priorities: guides provide route planning, on-water instruction, and environmental interpretation rooted in regional natural history. Small-group formats and certified naturalist guidance support educational experiences like the Mink River Estuary eco-tour, which focuses on wetland ecology and species observation.
Kayak Guide Justin, LLC. serves paddlers seeking an immersive Door County kayaking experience, combining outdoor adventure, education, and scenic exploration from a Sturgeon Bay launch base. Booking options include private charters and scheduled departures during peak season, with equipment and logistics arranged for each trip. Experienced local guidance.
Location
Sturgeon Bay, WI
Door County launch point
Certified Guide
Wisconsin Master Naturalist
Guided interpretation and ecology
Tours Offered
9
Diverse routes and durations
Tour Lengths
Half-day & 3-hour
Options for every schedule
Reserve a custom or scheduled tour from Sturgeon Bay and explore Rock Island, Cave Point, Cana Island, and more with certified naturalist guidance.
Wear layered clothing
Weather can change quickly on the water, so dress in layers that you can add or remove as needed.
Bring waterproof gear
Protect your electronics and belongings with waterproof bags or cases during the paddle.
Start early in the day
Morning paddles often have calmer waters and fewer boats, providing a more peaceful experience.
Respect wildlife distances
Observe animals quietly and keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing their natural behaviors.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A properly fitting PFD is required for safety during the kayak trip.
Sun protective clothing
Protects against sunburn and keeps you comfortable during sunny days on the water.
summer
Waterproof camera or phone case
Capture your adventure without worry about water damage.
Hat and sunglasses
Provides shade and reduces glare for better visibility and comfort.
summer