BAYFIELD KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Crossing to Sand Island: A Full‑Day Sea‑Kayak Through Lighthouses and Sea Caves
An 7–8 hour guided tandem sea‑kayak from Bayfield that crosses open water to Sand Island, explores Lake Superior sea caves, visits the Sand Island Lighthouse, and includes a gourmet beach lunch.
Crossing to Sand Island: A Full‑Day Sea‑Kayak Through Lighthouses and Sea Caves.
This full‑day paddle out of Bayfield threads open water crossings, brownstone cliffs and intricate sea caves into a single excursion to Sand Island, with time ashore at a historic lighthouse and chances for light hiking along the trail system.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Open‑water crossing and sea caves
The trip includes an open water crossing to Sand Island and paddling along some of Lake Superior’s most intricate sea caves—an all‑in‑one route that showcases the Apostle Islands’ dramatic shoreline.
Historic Sand Island Lighthouse and brownstone cliffs
Sand Island’s lighthouse anchors the day, and the shoreline is dotted with eagle nests perched over brownstone rock—features that give the paddle a strong sense of place and history.
Gourmet beach lunch and light hiking
After exploring on the water, you’ll enjoy a spread of gourmet sandwiches, crostini and dip, fresh fruit, cookies and lemonade on the beach or at the lighthouse, with opportunities for light hikes on Sand Island’s trails.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
This is a full‑day guided sea‑kayak that blends an open water crossing, guided navigation through sea caves and a relaxed lunch ashore at Sand Island’s historic lighthouse—designed to deliver scenic variety and memorable moments in a single 7–8 hour outing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a full‑day outing that runs approximately 7–8 hours; scheduled departures run daily at 8:00 and the group typically returns to Trek & Trail by 4–5 PM.
Meet at Trek & Trail about 15 minutes prior to your tour start. After meeting the guide there will be a shuttle to Little Sand Bay to begin the on‑water portion.
Bring a water bottle, sunscreen, hat, thin quick‑drying layers for under a wetsuit (swimsuit, shorts, leggings, t‑shirt), a windbreaker or rain jacket for cool or windy days, and footwear that can get wet and be used for light hiking.
Tours use tandem sea kayaks; guests must meet equipment sizing guidelines. Guests over 250 lbs should do a fit test before the tour; guests over 275 lbs are prohibited.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Are wetsuits required?
Wetsuits are required by permit when air and water temperatures fall below the operator’s threshold; on hot summer days wetsuits may be optional and guides decide based on real‑time water temperature data.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Dogs are not permitted on tours due to safety and permitting concerns; the operator can provide local contacts for doggy daycare on request.
Can I just rent kayaks and go unguided?
Generally no. Renters must pass a 3‑hour safety course to rent and go unguided; the operator emphasizes guide‑led trips because Lake Superior conditions can change rapidly.
Do you have single kayaks?
No. The operator exclusively uses tandem kayaks for tours for added stability and safety.
What if I am a solo traveler or my party is odd‑numbered?
Solo guests will be paired with another guest or a guide in a tandem kayak; trips require a minimum of two participants to run—if a single‑guest booking isn't allowed it indicates that trip/time is currently empty.