Explore the stunning Mainland Sea Caves on a guided 2-hour sea kayaking tour from Bayfield, WI. Perfect for those short on time, this adventure offers breathtaking views and close encounters with nature.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners and intermediate paddlers; basic upper body strength and balance help but are not essential.
Wildlife
History
The sea caves were carved from sandstone over thousands of years by Lake Superior’s waves, serving as landmarks for the Ojibwe people.
Conservation
Trek & Trail practices eco-friendly tours, emphasizing minimal impact on natural habitats and educating paddlers about local preservation efforts.
Trek & Trail
Explore the stunning Mainland Sea Caves on a guided 2-hour sea kayaking tour from Bayfield, WI. Perfect for those short on time, this adventure offers breathtaking views and close encounters with nature.
Trek & Trail is a Bayfield, Wisconsin–based outfitter specializing in guided sea kayaking tours and kayak camping in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The company offers a range of guided experiences from half-day paddles to six-day expeditions, including family-friendly Sea Caves tours, full-day sea cave trips, and multi-day traverses that visit Sand Island, Stockton Island, and Devil’s Island sea caves.
Trips launch from Meyers Beach and Bayfield shoreline access points, using high-quality sea kayaks for comfort and stability on Lake Superior. Several tours are explicitly designed for beginners and families, while longer expeditions challenge paddlers with open-water crossings and overnight camping.
One popular option is a four-day Stockton Island base camp with a water-taxi transfer and provided camping gear, eliminating daily campsite setup. The Sea Caves Family Tour highlights intricate sandstone formations at a relaxed pace, and the Sea Caves Full Day adds a gourmet beach lunch and extended paddling time. Multi-day trips such as Paddle Through Time and the Outer Ring Traverse combine brownstone cliffs, historic lighthouses, shipwreck sights, and waterfront campsites.
Trek & Trail’s programs emphasize safety, accessibility, and immersive nature experiences, pairing knowledgeable route choices with prepared equipment lists and on-water guidance. Families, beginners, and experienced paddlers can select itineraries that match skill level and adventure appetite. The outfitter’s location in Bayfield makes it a convenient base for exploring the Apostle Islands by kayak. Reservations, group bookings, and seasonal schedules are easily available through the company's online booking system, with detailed trip descriptions and packing lists provided.
Base Location
Bayfield, WI
Launches from Meyers Beach and Bayfield
Trip Lengths
Half-day–6 days
Options from half-day to multi-day trips
Tours Offered
11 Tours
Guided kayak and camping experiences
Family Friendly
Beginner-friendly
Trips suitable for families and beginners
Choose a Sea Caves half-day, full-day paddle, or multi-day island camping trip — book seasonal departures from Meyers Beach and Bayfield.
Wear quick-dry clothing
Opt for moisture-wicking, quick-drying layers to stay comfortable on the water.
Bring waterproof storage
Secure your phone and valuables in a waterproof dry bag to protect them from splashes.
Arrive early for check-in
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your tour to complete safety briefings and gear fittings.
Listen closely to your guide
Follow all safety instructions carefully to navigate the caves safely and enjoy the experience.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Safety is paramount; always wear a PFD while kayaking.
Waterproof dry bag
Protects your belongings from splashes and accidental wetting.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protect yourself from the sun’s rays while on open water.
summer
Light windbreaker
Keeps you warm and blocks wind during cooler paddling conditions.
spring|fall