moderate
3–5 hours
Good upper body strength and stamina required to paddle in variable lake conditions.
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.
Starting at $108 | 5 Hour Tour | 12pm
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!
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.
Lake Superior’s waters can change rapidly; always review weather forecasts and avoid kayaking during high winds or rough waves.
Keep electronics and food dry with a waterproof bag for a worry-free day on the water.
Life jackets are mandatory for safety in open water paddling around islands and caves.
Plan to have snacks and water as you'll likely spend several hours away from facilities.
Sand Island is one of the Apostle Islands, protected as part of the National Lakeshore established in 1970 to preserve this unique freshwater archipelago.
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and avoid disturbing nesting birds and fragile cave formations to protect this delicate environment.
Stable and maneuverable kayaks suit the sea caves and lake conditions.
summer specific
Prevents losing your paddle in swift currents or waves.
summer specific
Protects belongings and food from splashes and possible capsizing.
summer specific
Exposure on open water demands effective sun protection.
summer specific