STURGEON BAY KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Under Three Bridges: Tandem Kayak Days on Sturgeon Bay
Paddle a tandem kayak from Door County Boat Rentals under three bridges, past Sturgeon Bay’s working waterfront and along the outskirts of Potawatomi State Park—this guide orients you to the route, logistics, and what to pack.
Under Three Bridges: Tandem Kayak Days on Sturgeon Bay.
Adventure brief
Under Three Bridges: Tandem Kayak Days on Sturgeon Bay
Set out from Door County Boat Rentals and thread a tandem kayak under three bridges, skimming past Sturgeon Bay’s vibrant working waterfront and scenic points near Potawatomi State Park. The route opens options to fish, float, anchor and swim, with stops such as Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill punctuating a day on the water.
Discover the charm of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, with a tandem kayak rental from Door County Boat Rentals. Paddle underneath three iconic bridges and take in the stunning waterfront views that define this lively harbor town. This private kayaking adventure offers a unique chance to experience the calm waters while soaking up local culture and natural beauty. Pause for a refreshing break at Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill, a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike. After recharging, explore the peaceful fringes of Potawatomi State Park, where the shoreline offers perfect spots for fishing, floating, or simply unwinding on the water. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a first-timer, tandem kayaks provide a fun and collaborative way to explore the bay. Expect gentle currents and scenic surroundings that make this activity ideal for relaxation and light exercise. The combination of urban charm and natural beauty makes Sturgeon Bay an exceptional location for a memorable kayaking trip. This experience is perfect for friends, couples, or families wanting a flexible and private outdoor adventure, with great opportunities for wildlife spotting and local sightseeing along the way.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic & Key Stops
A typical paddle threads under three bridges, follows the working waterfront, and includes shoreline stops and scenic loops near Potawatomi State Park.
Bridge Passages
Paddle under three bridges that span parts of Sturgeon Bay, a defining element of the route.
Working Waterfront
Move past the active docks and commercial waterfront areas that line parts of Sturgeon Bay.
Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill
A convenient shoreline stop to tie up briefly and refresh before continuing the paddle.
Potawatomi State Park Outskirts
Circle around the outskirts of Potawatomi State Park to take in shoreline scenery and quieter paddling stretches.
Anchor & Swim/Fishing Spots
Select areas along the bay suitable for anchoring to fish, float, or jump in for a swim.
Tandem kayaks are rented for up to two people; note that children under 12 are required to always wear PFDs—operators may adjust routes or requirements as needed for safety and conditions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Three Bridges and Waterway Passage
The paddle takes you under three bridges, offering a close-up sense of Sturgeon Bay’s working waterway as you move through its channels and protected stretches.
Working Waterfront and Local Stops
Glide past the active docks of Sturgeon Bay and pause at waterfront destinations such as Waterfront Mary's Bar and Grill for a break along the shore.
Anchor, Fish or Jump In
The bay offers great areas to fish, float, or drop anchor and jump in for a swim, turning a paddle into a flexible day of recreation on the water.
What the day feels like
What the Paddle Feels Like
Expect a versatile outing: steady tandem paddling through the bay’s channels, close-range views of an active waterfront and easy opportunities to stop—whether to fish, swim, or tie up at a shoreline bar. The route is as much about relaxed exploration as it is about covering water beneath three bridges and around the edges of Potawatomi State Park.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Meet at Door County Boat Rentals: 3662 N. Duluth Ave., Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235. Please arrive 20 minutes before your reservation start time for paperwork and orientation.
Rental durations range broadly—from 2 hours to extended multi-day options; tandem kayaks accommodate up to two people.
Pack swimsuits, sunscreen, sandals and hats for comfort on the water.
Coolers and snacks are welcome; grills are not allowed. Dogs are permitted on tandem kayaks. Towing or pulling behind rentals is not permitted, though tubing and ski charters are available with licensed captains.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When should I arrive before my reservation?
Arrive 20 minutes before your reservation start time for paperwork and orientation.
Are life jackets required for children?
Children under 12 are required to always wear PFDs.
Are dogs allowed on tandem kayaks?
Yes—pontoons, speedboats, fishing boats, and tandem kayaks are dog-friendly.
Can I bring a grill or cook onboard?
No — grills are not allowed.
Can I tow a tube or pull someone behind my rented kayak?
Towing or pulling behind any rental is not permitted, but tubing and skiing charters are offered with licensed captains.
How many people fit in a tandem kayak?
Tandem kayaks are rented for up to two people.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:12:36.079Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.