A Unique Island Experience

Visit Madeline Island

About the Island

Madeline Island is the biggest of the 22 Apostle Islands and the only one not classified as wilderness. Visitors will find plenty to see and do while visiting Madeline Island. There are miles of pristine shoreline to be discovered and enjoyed. The bay on the island's east side is the perfect place to kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. Be sure to check out some of the local businesses during your visit; you'll find hand-crafted goods made right on the island!

Things to Do on Madeline Island

Big Bay State Park - This 2,350-acre park has 1.5 miles of beach, camping sites, and picnic areas. The park also contains over 7 miles of hiking and nature trails. The beaches are wheelchair accessible and offer an easy place for kayakers and canoers to unload their boats.

The trails in the park are well-maintained and most are loops that will lead back to the main marking area. Depending on the trail, visitors can walk along the shoreline and the marshes or more inland. Trails range from 1 to 2 miles in length.

Big Bay Town Park - This park located right on Big Bay is a great jumping off point for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and paddleboarding. There are great stretches of beach that are popular beachcombing areas and are great for relaxing with family and friends.

Fun on the Water - The bays of Madeline Island are great for swimming and personal watercrafts. The shallow, calmer water makes it safer than the main lake during wind or other weather conditions.

Just because you didn't bring your own kayak or canoe, doesn't mean you can't enjoy time on the water. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy Lake Superior. The Following activities and services are available on Madeline Island:

Boat tours
Kayak tours (guided)
Motor boat rentals
Standup paddle board rentals
Sailing tours

Fun on Land - Madeline Is a nature lover's paradise. If you visit the Madeline Island Wilderness preserve, you'll have access to miles of trails winding through the beautiful island forests and may even see some of the local wildlife. If you visit in season, you'll also be able to pick wild berries and hunt on the wilderness preserve.

Madeline is also a great place to stargaze, snowshoe, and birdwatch. If you'd rather stay in town, there are plenty of great indoor activities such as the Madeline Island Museum, the Heritage Center, a golf club, and plenty of different art classes, galleries, and specialty shops.

Shopping on Madeline Island

Madeline Island Candles - Handmade candles with delicate, purposeful scents. The candles are made in the onsite workshop!

Island Carvers - The two person team behind Island Carvers uses a combination of hand tools and chainsaws to create their unique art that is for sale in their gallery.

Flame and Stone - This shop sells beautiful handmade pieces of jewelry that can be made customer to order, too!

Dockside Giftshop - Stop by the Dockside Giftshop to commemorate your visit to Madeline Island. You'll find a wide assortment of great gifts for friends, family, and yourself.

Ricky Rocks and JEM - Whether you want jewelry or just gems, you'll find them here. Custom handmade necklaces, earrings, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is the Apostle Islands Area Campground from the ferry?
-Just over 1 mile

Can I walk onto the ferry?
-Yes

Can I bike onto the ferry?
-Yes

Can I bring my pet onto the ferry?
-Yes, dogs ride free. As long as the pet is on a leash, in a cage, or in your vehicle.

Can I take a day trip to Madeline Island or just for the afternoon?
-Yes, the Madeline Island Ferry makes several trips to and from Bayfield,WI each day

How much does it cost to take the ferry?
-It depends on the number of passengers and type of vehicles, but you can find their pricing guide on the Madeline Island Ferry website

What Visitors are Saying...

Amazed

We took the sunset cruise out of Bayfield and were amazed by the formations that had been carved by Lake Superior over time. The crew at Apostle Islands Cruises was attentive and friendly. The captain was entertaining and informative. His level of seamanship gave us up close views of the power of the water.

-Jim Witte

What's Not to Like

Biking, camping, swimming, hiking , walking... Surrounded by Lake Superiors glistening waters..
what's not to like?

-Elizabeth Ellis

A lot to Offer

La Pointe is where the Madeline Ferry docks on Madeline Island. It is a quaint little community a lot to offer. It is a slow paced relaxed kind of environment. There are several good art galleries and unique shops. There also some cool boat tours of the Apostle Islands as well as canoe and kayak rentals. There are also some good bars and restaurants.

-David Carlson

Image may be subject to copyright

Ready to Relax?
Check the dates below

Explore Other Local Attractions

Your Guide to the
Apostle Islands

Learn More

Other Local Attractions