Live Wandering

Hello Wanderers!

While living along the coasts of the United States for six years spoiled me with endless beach days, there’s something uniquely enchanting about the Midwest. This July, I celebrated my 30th birthday with a summer escape to Bayfield, Wisconsin, where I embarked on an leisurely cruise through the Apostle Islands—a laid-back yet fascinating adventure. Though the vibe was more family-friendly than luxurious, it was the perfect way to immerse myself in the beauty and history of this hidden gem on Lake Superior.

Bayfield: A Quaint Starting Point

Before the cruise, we arrived in Bayfield, a charming lakeside town that serves as the gateway to the Apostle Islands. Parking in Bayfield can be tricky, with limited two-hour street spots, but after some searching, we found a convenient $10 lot for the day. From there, we made our way to the dock and boarded the boat, ready for a day of exploration.

Despite its small size, Bayfield has a lot to offer, with local shops, cozy cafes, and scenic views. It’s the perfect place to stroll around before or after your Apostle Islands adventure, adding a touch of small-town charm to your day trip.

A Fun-Filled Apostle Islands Cruise

Our Apostle Islands cruise kicked off at 10 a.m. and the excitement onboard was palpable. Especially with the families and kids who were just as eager to set sail. While this cruise wasn’t the height of luxury, it was a thoroughly enjoyable and educational way to explore the islands.

The boat took us on a couple-hour tour, offering close-up views of the stunning sea caves and the iconic lighthouses that dot the islands. Our friendly captain provided fun and informative commentary on the area’s history, including tales of shipwrecks, lighthouse keepers, and the geological forces that shaped the islands. It was an engaging way to learn about the area, with plenty of interesting stories to keep everyone entertained.

Highlights of the Cruise

The sea caves were one of the standout moments of the trip. Even from the boat, their intricate formations and the crystal-clear waters surrounding them were mesmerizing. I can only imagine how magical it must be to kayak through them, though our guide noted that even from a distance, these natural wonders were breathtaking.

The historic lighthouses were another highlight. These tall, stoic structures have stood the test of time, and seeing them up close added a sense of history and timelessness to the cruise. Learning about the lives of lighthouse keepers who once lived on the islands, isolated from the mainland, was one of the more fascinating aspects of the tour.

Though the boat ride itself was family-friendly, with plenty of kids on board, it still offered a peaceful experience for those who wanted to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The boat had both indoor and outdoor seating, and while the day was sunny and warm, the breeze on Lake Superior kept things cool and comfortable. I opted to sit on the deck, soaking in the sun and the fresh air as we sailed along.

More Than Just a Cruise: Bayfield’s Charm

While the cruise was a fun way to explore the Apostle Islands, Bayfield itself is a destination worth visiting. After the cruise, I had the chance to explore the town’s quaint streets, filled with charming shops, cozy cafes, and even a few hidden gems like a crystal shop and a local bookstore. It was the perfect way to wind down after a few hours on the water.

By late-afternoon, we wrapped up our Bayfield adventure and hit the road, making it home just in time for a sunset at our own leisurely pace. The day was a perfect mix of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm—an ideal birthday celebration.

Plan Your Own Apostle Islands Adventure

If you’re planning a trip to Bayfield and the Apostle Islands, I highly recommend adding the cruise to your itinerary. While it’s not an over-the-top luxury experience, it’s a relaxing, informative, and scenic way to experience one of Wisconsin’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re traveling with family or simply looking to enjoy some downtime on the water, the Apostle Islands cruise is a fantastic way to explore the region.

Stay tuned for my upcoming Duluth and Bayfield itinerary, where I’ll share more details on how to make the most of your time in this charming lakeside town. From the Apostle Islands cruise to Bayfield’s hidden gems, this itinerary will help you plan a chic yet laid-back summer getaway.