In short
- Use a 16-foot sea kayak with sealed bulkheads.
- Wear a wetsuit or drysuit and a Personal Flotation Device.
- Carry a marine VHF radio to monitor sudden weather changes.
In this article
Paddling to the sea caves requires more than a standard recreational kayak. Average water temperatures in May and June remain in the 40s Fahrenheit. Sudden squalls can create dangerous waves near the mainland cliffs. You need proper equipment to stay safe.
What are the Apostle Islands kayak rules?
The park enforces strict safety guidelines regarding weather and requires paddlers to avoid sea caves during rough conditions.
Visitors must monitor marine weather forecasts before launching. The sea caves act like a washing machine in rough seas. You must avoid the caves when conditions are not calm. Always check the real-time wave camera before leaving Meyers Beach.
Why do you need a 16-foot sea kayak?
A 16-foot sea kayak with sealed bulkheads prevents the boat from sinking if it flips.
Recreational kayaks under 16 feet easily swamp in open water waves. Sea kayaks feature sealed compartments that trap air. This keeps the boat afloat and allows you to re-enter it after a capsize. You also need a spray skirt to keep cold waves out of the cockpit.
What clothing do you need for Lake Superior?
You need a wetsuit or drysuit to protect against extreme cold.
Lake Superior water temperatures remain in the 40s Fahrenheit throughout May and June. Hypothermia sets in quickly in water this cold. A Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is required for everyone on the water. Pack warm layers to handle sudden temperature drops and chilling lake breezes.
How do you monitor the weather on the water?
Carry a marine VHF radio to track forecasts and contact emergency services.
Cell phone service is unreliable across the 21 islands and mainland shoreline. A marine VHF radio ensures you receive up-to-date weather warnings. It also provides a direct line for emergency contact if you capsize or get stranded.
What else should you pack for a kayak trip?
Bring waterproof bags for electronics and bear-resistant food containers if you plan to camp.
Keep your phone and safety gear in waterproof cases. If you paddle to the islands or the mainland backcountry site, you must secure all food. Use the provided bear-resistant lockers or carry an approved container. Stockton Island has a dense population of black bears.
Are there alternatives to kayaking?
You can take a guided boat cruise from Bayfield to see the caves without paddling.
The Apostle Islands Cruise Service operates a 3-hour Grand Tour. This narrated boat ride provides a safe and comfortable way to view the sea caves and historic lighthouses. It is a reliable option if you lack the required gear or experience for Lake Superior.
Questions travellers ask
Is it safe to kayak the Apostle Islands?
It is safe only if you use a 16-foot sea kayak, wear a wetsuit, and paddle in calm weather. Rough seas make the sea caves highly hazardous.
How long does it take to kayak to the Meyers Beach sea caves?
Plan for a half-day to full-day trip. Launch from the Meyers Beach parking area and paddle along the mainland cliffs. Always check the wave camera first.
When is the best time to visit Apostle Islands National Lakeshore?
June through August offers the best conditions for boating and kayaking. Water temperatures are slightly warmer, though proper cold-water gear is still recommended.
