If you’re dreaming of gliding through towering sandstone cliffs and paddling into impressive sea caves along Lake Superior’s shoreline, the Meyers Beach Sea Cave Kayak Tour might just be your best bet. Offered by South Shore Adventures, this three-hour excursion promises a close-up view of some of Wisconsin’s most captivating natural features, with expert guides leading the way.
What we love about this tour is how accessible the adventure is, even for beginners, thanks to the comprehensive kayak tutorial at the start. Plus, the chance to explore caves and crevasses right from your kayak delivers a uniquely intimate perspective. The only hitch? The weather has a say in whether you get to paddle into the caves — so flexibility is key. Still, if you’re into nature, wildlife spotting, and an active outdoor experience, this tour is a fantastic choice, especially for small groups seeking a more personal touch.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery of limestone sea caves and sandstone cliffs at Meyers Beach
- Small-group experience with a maximum of six participants ensures personalized guidance
- Learn from knowledgeable guides about the area’s wildlife and geological features
- Weather-dependent cave access can influence the overall experience
- All gear provided, so no need to worry about bringing your own equipment
- Perfect for beginners and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a memorable paddle adventure
An In-Depth Look at the Meyers Beach Sea Cave Kayak Tour
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bayfield Wisconsin.
Starting at Meyers Beach State Park
The adventure begins at Meyers Beach State Park, an easily accessible spot that’s known for its rugged shoreline and scenic views. The guides meet you at the bottom of the parking lot next to the South Shore Adventures truck, making it simple to find your starting point. After a quick and friendly kayak tutorial, you’re ready to hit the water. Whether you’re new to kayaking or have some experience, the instructions are clear, and the guides are attentive, ensuring everyone feels comfortable before setting out.
The 3+ Mile Paddle to the Sea Caves
Your journey takes you roughly three miles along the shoreline, a distance that strikes a nice balance — enough to see a variety of scenery but not so long that it becomes tiring. During the paddle, you’ll get your first glimpse of the towering sandstone cliffs and the iconic sea stacks that dot the shoreline.
The guides often share insights into the area’s geology and history, enriching your understanding of the landscape. The paddle itself is generally smooth and manageable, even for beginners, thanks to the calm waters typical of Lake Superior’s protected bays. Still, it’s wise to bring weather-appropriate clothing and sunscreen, as you’ll be exposed to the elements during your adventure.
Exploring the Sea Caves and Crevasses
Once you arrive at the caves, things get exciting. The caves sit at the base of cliffs carved out over thousands of years by wind and water. When weather conditions permit, you’ll get the opportunity to paddle into the caves, experiencing their grandeur from the inside.
The caves are particularly photogenic, with dramatic openings and formations that make for incredible photos. Visitors rave about how the caves appear especially mesmerizing when sunlight streams through, illuminating the sandstone walls with warm tones.
More Great Tours NearbyWildlife and Natural Beauty
During your paddle, keep an eye out for local wildlife. Bald eagles are a common sight overhead, soaring high above the cliffs. Some reviews mention spotting other birds and even small aquatic creatures that inhabit the shoreline. The guides are knowledgeable about the area’s flora and fauna, and they make sure to point out notable features along the way.
Returning to Meyers Beach
After exploring the caves, your group will paddle back along the shoreline to the starting point. The return trip offers different perspectives of the scenery, and many find the experience of paddling along the cliffs in reverse equally captivating. The total trip lasts about three hours, including the tutorial, paddling, exploring, and returning.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Intimate, Small-Group Setting
Limited to just six participants, this tour allows for a more personalized experience. The guides can tailor their advice and ensure everyone stays comfortable, making it especially appealing for those new to kayaking or outdoor activities. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated the attention from guides, noting their depth of knowledge about the local environment.
All Equipment Included
The tour provider supplies all necessary gear, including kayaks, paddles, and safety equipment. This setup simplifies planning, as you don’t need to rent or bring your own equipment, and it guarantees you’re paddling with well-maintained, suitable gear.
Authentic Experience with Expert Guides
The guides are not just instructors; they’re storytellers with a genuine passion for the area. They share insights into the geology, wildlife, and history, enriching your understanding of this unique landscape. Reviewers often highlight how friendly and informative the guides are.
Considerations Before Booking
While the tour offers awe-inspiring views and a memorable experience, it’s weather-dependent. Rough waters or strong winds can prevent safe access to the caves. It’s crucial to be flexible with your schedule and keep an eye on the weather forecast. The tour does offer a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, which adds some peace of mind.
Also, remember that food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water and perhaps a snack if you want to stay energized, especially in warmer weather.
The Value of This Experience
At $71 per person, this guided kayak tour offers excellent value for a nature-focused adventure that combines physical activity with natural beauty and education. The small-group format maximizes personal attention, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a personalized experience.
The combination of stunning scenery, expert guides, and the opportunity to paddle into caves makes this tour a standout activity in the Apostle Islands region. It’s not just about seeing the landscape; it’s about experiencing it firsthand from a unique vantage point.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits outdoor lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a good adventure without needing advanced kayaking skills. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, hands-on encounter with Lake Superior’s shoreline. If you’re comfortable being on the water and prepared for outdoor conditions, you’ll find this tour both enjoyable and memorable.
People wanting a guided experience with a knowledgeable crew will appreciate the depth of insight provided. Conversely, those looking for a more relaxed or flexible experience might prefer other activities, especially if weather conditions threaten cave access.
Final Thoughts
The Meyers Beach Sea Cave Kayak Tour offers a genuine taste of Wisconsin’s rugged coastline and the natural artistry of Lake Superior. The guides’ expertise and the small-group approach ensure a safe, informative, and personal adventure. While weather can influence the experience, the scenic paddling along cliffs and into caves, combined with wildlife sightings, makes this a compelling activity for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
If you’re yearning for a hands-on way to explore the Apostle Islands’ spectacular shoreline, this tour delivers breathtaking views and a memorable outdoor outing for a reasonable price.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a kayak tutorial, making it accessible for beginners. The guides are attentive and ensure everyone is comfortable before starting.
What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. All gear is provided, so just dress for the conditions.
How long is the kayaking?
The total experience lasts about three hours, including the tutorial, paddling, exploring, and returning.
Can I paddle inside the caves?
Weather permitting, yes. The guides will assess conditions and determine if it’s safe to paddle into the caves.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of six people, ensuring a small-group experience with personalized attention.
What happens if the weather isn’t good?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions prevent cave access, the guide will advise on safety and may reschedule or issue a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You should plan to bring water and a snack if desired.
Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at the bottom of the parking lot at Meyers Beach State Park, next to the South Shore Adventures truck.
Whether you’re an outdoor novice or an experienced paddler, the Meyers Beach Sea Cave Kayak Tour offers a memorable way to connect with Lake Superior’s stunning natural beauty. Just remember to check the weather forecast and come prepared to enjoy this unique Wisconsin adventure.
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