Why Come to Bayfield, WI?
Image Source: NPS
Bayfield serves as the getaway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Located in the northern tip of Wisconsin, this iconic destination includes 21 stunning islands and a scenic 12-mile stretch of mainland shoreline along Lake Superior. While views of this Great Lake are breathtaking, even from the shore, the only way to truly experience the magic of the Apostle Islands is by viewing the archipelago from the water.
Where to Stay Near Apostle Islands Cruises
The Bayfield Inn
Image Source: The Bayfield Inn
Distance to Apostle Islands Cruises: A 1-minute walk (less than 0.1 miles).
What’s nearby: The Bayfield City Dock, the Madeline Island Ferry Line, and dozens of downtown shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Woodside Cottages of Bayfield
Image Source: Woodside Cottages of Bayfield
Distance to Apostle Islands Cruises: 1 mile south (a 2-minute drive).
What’s nearby: The Brownstone Trail for scenic walking, Apostle Highlands Gold Course, and Bayfield’s famous fruit orchards and berry farms.
Wild Rice Retreat
Image Source: Wild Rice Retreat
This is a high-end wellness resort tucked into 100 acres of peaceful Northwoods. It features beautiful Scandinavian-style architecture, daily yoga classes, a sauna, and an environment designed entirely around relaxation and resetting.
Distance to Apostle Islands Cruises: 2.7 miles south (a 5-minute drive).
What’s nearby: Mount Ashwabay (great for hiking and mountain biking) and the Port Superior Marina.
Legendary Waters Resort & Casino
Image Source: Madeline Island Chamber of Commerce
Distance to Apostle Islands Cruises: 3.6 miles north (a 6-minute drive).
What’s nearby: Frog Bay National Park, which offers pristine hiking trails through a boreal forest right down to the sandy shoreline.
The Inn on Madeline Island
Image Source: Travel Wisconsin
This hotel is located on an actual island in the Apostle archipelago. Madeline Island is the only inhabited island in the chain, and staying here gives you a true island-vacation feel. The inn offers beachfront access, private rental homes, an outdoor pool, and incredible sunset views from its on-site restaurant, The Pub.
Distance to Apostle Islands Cruises: A four-block walk from the inn to the Madeline Island ferry dock, followed by an approximately 25-minute ferry ride to Bayfield.
What’s nearby: Big Bay State Park (famous for its dramatic sandstone cliffs and sand beaches) and the Madeline Island Museum.
Plan Your Apostle Islands Getaway Today
