Apostle Islands

APOSTLE ISLANDS TOP 10 KAYAK OUTFITTERS

Top 10 Kayak Outfitters in the Apostle Islands (2 You Should Avoid)

Apostle Islands – Wisconsin

Boozhoo, Bonjour and welcome to the Apostle Islands! This page serves as an informative guide for anyone planning a visit to this breathtaking archipelago located in Lake Superior, Wisconsin. Known for its pristine natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, the Apostle Islands offer a truly unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you are interested in exploring the captivating sea caves, embarking on a kayaking adventure, or simply immersing yourself in the tranquility of the island’s beaches, this guide provides essential information, insider tips, and recommendations to make the most out of your trip. Discover the rich history, unique geology, and abundant wildlife that make the Apostle Islands a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable escape into nature.

Insider Tips

Things they don’t want you to know

Expect a 50% chance of cancelation if you booked a Kayak Tour to Sand Island or Meyers Beach

At the end of 2023, the number reported for cancelations at Meyers Beach was 70%. Tours that are on the West side of the Bayfield Peninsula have a much higher chance of cancelation than tours that are on the East side. The West side is a more dangerous place to paddle because it is exposed to large waves and deep water that can create dangerous conditions Tours on the East side have about a 10% chance of cancelation because they are not as exposed and there are more islands to provide protection.

Meyers Beach is Crowded

Most days of the week it is too wavy to take an average tourist to the Mawikwe Bay sea caves, so when the conditions are finally right it can be extra crowded with those who picked that day and those who rescheduled to that day. Meyers Beach parking lot becomes a circus on weekends in July and August. If you’re interested in doing the walking trail at Meyers Beach, it is much easier to do if you start at the end of Mawikwe Rd. If you came here to avoid crowds but you’re trying to access Mawikwe Bay then I suggest you familiarize yourself with Mawikwe Rd. You’ll need 4-wheel drive.

ferry, crossing, boat trip-1977254.jpg

Don’t Miss The Ferry!

If you are going to or from Madeline Island make sure you know the ferry schedule. Many vacations have been altered due to a late or missed ferry. Give yourself extra time. Here is their website. www.madferry.com. There is no bridge to Madeline Island, if you miss the ferry you’re last chance is to hope a water taxi can help you.

Visit the Small Towns

There are many beautiful things to find in nature on the mainland when you get off the beaten path. Bayfield has the shopping but if you want adventure and a chance to get away from the crowds, try Washburn, Herbster, Port Wing, Cornucopia, Russel, and Red Cliff. Red Cliff has the Frog Bay Tribal National Park which is open to the public. Little gems like that reside all over the peninsula once you get out of Bayfield.

Where are the Apostle IslandsHow many Apostle islands are there? Where are they located? How did the Apostle Islands get their name? Apostle Island. How to Get to the Apostle IslandsHow to get to the Apostle Islands by Plane, Boat, and Car. Cool things to see along the way. Where to Stay in the Apostle…

Where are the Apostle Islands How many Apostle islands are there? Where are they located? How did the Apostle Islands get their name? Apostle Island. How to Get to the Apostle Islands How to get to the Apostle Islands by Plane, Boat, and Car. Cool things to see along the way. Where to Stay in…

Top 10 Kayak Outfitters in the Apostle Islands (2 You Should Avoid)

The Apostle Islands are one of the most iconic kayaking destinations in North America. But with so many tour operators in the region—and not all of them playing fair—it’s important to know who you can trust and who you should absolutely avoid. This list ranks local outfitters based on safety, experience, ethics, and community reputation. The last two? Steer clear.


1. Bayfield Kayak Co. – Personalized, Professional, Local

Small-group tours led by highly trained local guides. Known for safety, flexibility, and a deep connection to the islands. Transparent pricing, no games, and an excellent reputation for customer care.
Location: Bayfield
Website: bayfieldkayak.com

2. Trek & Trail – The Classic Apostle Experience

The original Apostle Islands outfitter. They offer multiday expeditions and have decades of experience on Lake Superior. A solid choice for seasoned paddlers and overnights.
Location: Bayfield
Website: trek-trail.com

3. Wilderness Inquiry – Quality with a Mission

A nonprofit committed to making the outdoors accessible for everyone. Their Apostle Islands trips are professionally run and deeply inclusive.
Location: Various launches
Website: wildernessinquiry.org

4. Stevie Waters – Small-Scale, Big Heart

A rising name in the Apostle Islands scene, Stevie Waters offers intimate tours with a personal, grounded feel. Great for folks looking to paddle with someone who knows the area, not just the map.
Location: Bayfield area
Website: steviewaters.com

5. Animaashi Sailing Company – Tribal-Owned & Treaty-Focused

A unique operation led by a Red Cliff tribal member that blends sailing, kayaking, and Indigenous education. For those who want more than a paddle—a cultural and historical lens into the islands.
Location: Red Cliff
Website: animaashi.com

6. Whitecap Kayak – Youth Outreach and Expeditions

Perfect for beginners, students, or families. Educational and expedition-focused, with a strong emphasis on leadership development and water safety.
Location: Washburn
Website: whitecapkayak.com

7. South Shore Adventures – Honest and Grounded

Operating on the quieter side of the bay, this small outfit is known for its no-BS approach, fair pricing, and real connection to the land and water.
Location: South Shore region
Website: southshoreadventures.com

8. Adventure Vacations – Mixed Tour Offerings

If you want a mix of kayaking and sightseeing, this company offers paddle tours along with boat rides and private charters. Good for families, but not the purist’s pick.
Location: Bayfield
Website: adv-vac.com

9. Apostle Islands Rustic Makwa Den – Negligent and Dangerous

In 2024, this outfitter launched a tour during an active Small Craft Advisory on Lake Superior. Customers were put in direct danger as waves and wind created rescue-level conditions.
This is not a one-time lapse—this is a reckless disregard for human safety.
Status: Still operating, despite public safety concerns.

10. Lost Creek Adventures – A Business Built on Betrayal of Fiduciary Duty

Greg Weiss, owner of Lost Creek Adventures and Northland College professor, built his business by stealing the business idea from a former student. After working one summer as a guide at the student’s company, he proposed starting a business together—then launched a near-copy behind their back.

He’s stayed afloat thanks to a corrupt permitting system in Cornucopia that blocks fair competition.
Though he teaches ACA courses, he’s been known to sabotage students who work for his competition.
Location: Cornucopia
Status: Operating on stolen ideas, protected by politics