Things to do in Bayfield and Madeline Island
Bayfield
-
Apostle Island Cruises
Apostle Islands Cruises operates out of Bayfield and provides narrated sightseeing boat rides, hiking and camping shuttles, and water taxi services. Their “Grand Tour” is the most popular and takes passengers on an informative 55-mile scenic cruise. It provides amazing views of historic lighthouses, incredible sea caves, and other natural wonders.
-
Explore Wineries & Orchards
Located in far northern Wisconsin on the shores of Lake Superior, Bayfield’s unique disposition to the lake creates a unique microclimate which allows fruits and berries to flourish. Surrounded by berry farms and orchards of the Fruit Loop, Bayfield is known as the Berry Capital of Wisconsin. Visit an orchard to pick your own berries or a winery to enjoy a refreshment.
-
Visit Museums, Shops, and Galleries
Bayfield’s vibrant arts community comes alive in summer. Wander galleries, meet local makers, and check out the many shops downtown to snag souvenirs and art to remember the trip. While you’re at it, checkout the historical sites and any of the four museums to learn more about the area’s history and culture.
Madeline Island
-
Relax on the Beach
Madeline Island has many beautiful beaches to post up, put your feet in the sand, and collect rocks along the shoreline. We have fond memories at the beach ay Big Bay Town Park, which has beautiful sand, clear water, and free canoes that you can grab to explore the lagoon. Big Bay State Park also has a quieter beach with hiking trails to some of the famous cliffs on Madeline Island.
-
Kayak the Apostle Islands
Adventure Vacations, located in La Pointe on the island, offers guided sea kayak and boat tours in the Apostle Islands. Tour the Apostle Islands by powerboat, view ship wrecks and tour historic light houses. Boat tours leave twice daily, water taxi and custom trips are also available. Guided kayak tours bring you paddling to the Madeline Island cliffs where you can marvel at the massive sandstone boulders and explore underwater tunnels and enchanted sea caves, beginners welcome.
-
Hike the Island (or Cliff Jump!)
Madeline Island has many gorgeous hikes that will take you along the shoreline cliffs, through the gorgeous northern forests and down to the sandy beaches. We recommend going to Big Bay State Park for the best trails, but there are great ones around the entire island. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can try cliff jumping at State Park! There are two spots to jump, the higher one Jess loves, while Mary Laura sticks to the lower. Ask us how to find it and be safe if you attempt.