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Sea Cave Kayaking Adventure at Sand Island, Bayfield - Duluth, MN

Sea Cave Kayaking Adventure at Sand Island, Bayfield

Bayfieldmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–5 hours

Fitness Level

Good upper body strength and stamina required to paddle in variable lake conditions.

Overview

Paddle through billion-year-old sea caves off Bayfield’s Sand Island and uncover a rare sandstone wonderland. This sea cave kayaking tour offers unmatched adventure on Lake Superior’s shores.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Sand Island Sea Cave Tour

Starting at $108 | 5 Hour Tour | 12pm

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Adventure Photos

Sand Island Sea Cave Tour photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable kayaking adventure to Sand Island, where you'll paddle through stunning sea caves that form a unique interconnected tunnel. Marvel at the mesmerizing billion-year-old sandstone, rich in iron banding, while enjoying the serene beauty away from the crowds. Don't forget to pack a lunch for this extraordinary experience!

Rates

  • Single Kayaks (For one paddler) - $108
  • Tandem Kayak (For two paddlers) - $196

About

These are the best caves, on an islands, that we can get you to on a day tour, Meyers Beach has better caves but Sand gets you away from the crows.

Requires 8 miles of paddling with a 3 mile open water crossing.

The sandstone on Sand Island is mesmerizing, rich iron banding and smaller granular size makes them appear as an abstract masterpiece, this billion year old sandstone is truly an awe inspiring natural wonder. The sea caves on Sand Island are unique because they act like one inter-connected tunnel cave, weaving from one cave to another with the incredible sounds of the caves reverberating off the walls. It is suggested that you pack a lunch for this tour.

Adventure Tips

Check Wind and Wave Conditions

Lake Superior’s waters can change rapidly; always review weather forecasts and avoid kayaking during high winds or rough waves.

Use a Dry Bag

Keep electronics and food dry with a waterproof bag for a worry-free day on the water.

Wear a Personal Flotation Device

Life jackets are mandatory for safety in open water paddling around islands and caves.

Bring a Lunch and Hydration

Plan to have snacks and water as you'll likely spend several hours away from facilities.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagle
  • Common loon

History

Sand Island is one of the Apostle Islands, protected as part of the National Lakeshore established in 1970 to preserve this unique freshwater archipelago.

Conservation

Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and avoid disturbing nesting birds and fragile cave formations to protect this delicate environment.

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Adventure Hotspots in Duluth, MN

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sit-on-Top Kayak or Touring Kayak

Essential

Stable and maneuverable kayaks suit the sea caves and lake conditions.

summer specific

Paddle Leash

Essential

Prevents losing your paddle in swift currents or waves.

summer specific

Waterproof Dry Bag

Essential

Protects belongings and food from splashes and possible capsizing.

summer specific

Sun Protection Hat and Sunscreen

Essential

Exposure on open water demands effective sun protection.

summer specific