Apostle Islands

Famous red sandstone sea caves, crystal clear Lake Superior waters and overlooks showcasing vibrant greenery at every stop — you’ll experience the unforgettable at the Apostle Island National Lakeshore in Bayfield county. Home to incredible views, distinct rock formations and historic lighthouses, this archipelago has 21 islands along 12 miles of the mainland coast.

Being known as the largest and cleanest of the great lakes, Lake Superior’s pristine waters are a place to uncover hidden beauty. Shipwrecks and sea caves make the Apostle Islands a popular area to scuba dive, kayak and sail.

Endless Apostle Island Exploration

The Grand Tour boat cruise takes you on a 3-hour trip with 55 miles of scenery. Bluffs, greenery and overlooks make hiking a highlight of this island with 50 miles of trails to choose from. Trails are easy to reach as there are day-hiking cruise ship shuttles operating each day from Bayfield to Stockton. Beaches and exploring historic lighthouses are another way to soak up the sun, renew and recharge after the endless adventures. And there are more lighthouses on these islands than on any other site in the national park service.

Superior Shoreline Accommodations

Dreamy cabins, hotels and campsites align each of these islands making it a top-notch lodging destination. This classic Wisconsin trip also has camping sites on 19 of the 21 islands with campfire areas for late-night s’mores. With many lodging options, you can kayak or water taxi to island-hop and take in as many sights as possible.

Cruise to home-away-from-home and endless memories with a car full of smiling people. Being an ideal blend of culture and nature, the Apostle Islands is the perfect destination to unwind and reconnect with the people that matter most.

Explore the Area

1
Santa Arrives on the Ferry 12/14/2024 Bayfield - 2.37 miles away
2
Bayfield Winter Festival 3/01/2025 - 3/02/2025 Bayfield - 2.39 miles away
3
Bike Across the Bay 2/16/2025 Washburn - 9.43 miles away
4
Bay Days Festival 7/18/2025 - 7/19/2025 Ashland - 13.89 miles away
5
Book Across the Bay 2/15/2025 Ashland - 14.22 miles away
6
Ashland Fireworks 7/04/2025 Ashland - 19.21 miles away
7
Northern Pines Sled Dog Race 2/08/2025 Iron River - 34.33 miles away
8
Northern Pines Sled Dog Race 2/08/2025 Iron River - 34.33 miles away

Average Weather

From soaking up the summer sun to hitting the trails after a fresh snowfall, Wisconsin has no shortage of activities for every season. Here's an idea of what the weather in this area is like to help get your planning started!

Summer

High 79° F
Low 56° F

Winter

High 24° F
Low F

Fall

High 56° F
Low 35° F

Spring

High 54° F
Low 31° F