Apostle Islands
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3.8(59)yelp
IslandCoastBoatingKayakingFamilyOutdoorOcean ViewMust-See
Overview
The Apostle Islands are a spectacular jewel-like archipelago of 22 islands in Lake Superior, known for their wild, untouched nature and rich maritime culture. Except for Madeline Island, these islands are protected as part of a national lakeshore. Travelers venture here to explore historic cliffside lighthouses, sail across the expansive freshwater sea, camp under starry skies, and discover pristine sandy beaches.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration1-2 days
Best TimeJuly and August are ideal for summer island-hopping and camping due to stable weather and favorable lake conditions. Alternatively, during exceptionally cold winters (typically in February), when the ice thickness complies with safety metrics, you can trek across the frozen lake to witness the rare winter ice caves laden with massive icicles (check NPS safety advisories before going).
Getting ThereAccessible strictly via water routes in summer or across ice in winter. In summer, rent a sea kayak or board the passenger ferry from Bayfield's downtown harbor to Madeline Island (the only inhabited island with scheduled ferry service). For the other 21 wild islands, private charters are necessary. In winter, if ice caves open, drive to the end of Meyers Road and hike over the ice.
Travel Tips
- If navigating the islands via private boat or rental yacht, a mandatory public docking/mooring fee applies for daytime tie-ups or overnight stays at NPS-managed docks. Spaces are strictly first-come, first-served with no reservations accepted; slots typically fill up by 2 PM during peak summer weekends.
- The historic lighthouses scattered across the islands (such as Raspberry and Outer Island) only allow interior access during the peak summer ranger-led tour season (typically mid-June through Labor Day). Outside this window or when unmanned, access is restricted to the exterior grounds and surrounding paths.
- Once clearing the Bayfield shoreline, cellular service drops to near-zero across the outer islands (like Devils and Cat Islands). Never rely on standard mobile data or online maps. Download offline GPS marine charts before setting sail, or carry a dedicated Marine VHF Radio tuned to Channel 16 for emergency Coast Guard contact.
Reviews
Positive
- The 22 islands each have distinct characters; pristine forests, active wildlife, and quiet beaches fulfill all wilderness adventure fantasies.
- The starlight here is magnificent with near-zero light pollution; camping on the islands to watch the sunset and Milky Way is unforgettable.
- The core value lies in its untouched purity—no commercial gift shops, just the sound of the wind and waves crashing on rocks.
- Water activity equipment rentals are professionally managed with experienced guides, making you feel safe even in chilly waters.
Heads up
- Convenience is too low for general tourists; it lacks accessibility features, and boarding boats or hiking island trails requires good fitness.
- In summer, mosquitoes, biting flies, and gnats are rampant; without heavy-duty insect repellent, the trip becomes painfully miserable.
- Islands lack drinking water refill stations and simple toilets, and maintenance is limited by season, making it tough for families with kids.
- Without booking ferries or private charters months in advance, it's impossible to get to the islands in peak season; access is highly seasonal.