Paddle Sturgeon Bay: Under three bridges, past the working waterfront, and into park-side swim spots

STURGEON BAY KAYAK FIELD GUIDE

Paddle Sturgeon Bay: Under three bridges, past the working waterfront, and into park-side swim spots

A single-kayak rental from Door County Boat Rentals that lets you paddle beneath three iconic bridges, visit the working waterfront and Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill, and scope the outskirts of Potawatomi State Park—this guide helps you plan gear, timing, and safety for the outing.

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Paddle Sturgeon Bay: Under three bridges, past the working waterfront, and into park-side swim spots.

Duration
From 2 Hours to 4 Weeks! • For 1 person
Location
Sturgeon Bay
Operator
Door County Boat Rentals
Category
Kayak
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Sturgeon Bay opens differently from the water: a narrow city channel threaded by three iconic bridges, the bustle of a working waterfront, and calm stretches that skirt Potawatomi State Park. Single kayak rentals from Door County Boat Rentals put you at the center of that scene—ease in for a short paddle or extend into multi-day cruising while stopping at waterfront bars and quiet anchorages.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

Glide under three iconic bridges

A defining feature of the Sturgeon Bay paddle: you will pass beneath three bridges as you thread the channel, a sequence that structures the route and frames the waterfront views.

THE WATERFRONT

Past the working waterfront and Waterfront Mary's

The route moves alongside Sturgeon Bay’s active working waterfront and includes a recommended stop at Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill for a break before you continue.

THE PARK

Outskirts of Potawatomi State Park

The outing skirts the edges of Potawatomi State Park—areas noted as good for fishing, floating, or dropping anchor to jump in for a swim.

What the day feels like

What the paddle feels like

Whether you opt for a brief two‑hour spin or a much longer stretch, the single kayak rental centers on simple, waterborne exploration: paddling under the trio of bridges, moving past the working waterfront, making a refreshment stop at Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill, and circling the calmer margins near Potawatomi State Park where anglers and swimmers find suitable spots.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this single-kayak rental fits—and who should consider alternatives.

1
Solo paddlersSingle kayaks are set up for one person, making this rental ideal for independent paddlers looking to explore the channel and waterfront on their own.
2
Families with childrenFamilies can use rentals here, but note age and safety requirements; children under 12 are required to always wear personal flotation devices and caregivers should plan accordingly.
3
Flexible-duration rentersThe rental offering covers a wide range of durations—from two hours up to multi‑week rentals—providing flexibility for brief paddles or extended stays.
4
Independent day trippersDay trippers who can manage their own route, equipment, and basic navigation will find this format straightforward; the rental is for a single occupant rather than a multi-seat craft.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration & Booking

Rentals are available from 2 hours to as long as 4 weeks; single kayaks are for one person.

What to Bring

Bring swimsuits, coolers and snacks, sunscreen, sandals, and hats.

Meeting Point

Arrive at Door County Boat Rentals at 3662 N. Duluth Ave., Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 for paperwork and orientation.

Check-in

Please arrive 20 minutes before your reservation start time for paperwork and orientation.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

When should I arrive for my rental?

Please arrive 20 minutes before your reservation start time for paperwork and orientation.

Are children required to wear life jackets?

Children under 12 are required to always wear PFDs.

Can I bring my dog on a rental?

Pontoons, speedboats, fishing boats, and tandem kayaks are dog-friendly.

Can I bring a grill or coolers?

Grills are not allowed; coolers and snacks are welcome.

Is towing or pulling behind a rental allowed?

Towing or pulling behind any rental is not permitted; however, tubing and skiing charters are offered with licensed captains.

Where is the operator located?

Meet at Door County Boat Rentals, 3662 N. Duluth Ave., Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235.