Ultimate Apostle Islands Elopement Guide
If you want an elopement that’s all about adventure and tossing tradition to the wind, an Apostle Islands elopement is a great choice. Located on the shores of Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore offers stunning cliffside views, sea caves, sandy beaches, and plenty of quiet spots for your special day. As a Wisconsin elopement photographer who has spent decades exploring this beautiful state, I would love to help you plan the perfect elopement experience full of hiking, kayaking and adventure. Continue reading for a sampling of the information I’ve collected about this northern Wisconsin gem.
Why I love the Apostle Islands
Iconic Landscapes: The Apostle Islands are known for their rugged cliffs, beautiful beaches, and famous sea caves. Lake Superior’s crystal-clear water adds an extra layer of magic, creating opportunities for adventure both on and off the water.
Your Unique Adventure: With 21 islands and more than 60,000 acres of lakeshore, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a nature lover's dream with more than enough space to explore. You can hike, paddle, or boat to secluded locations, ensuring your elopement feels private and uniquely yours.
Top Spots for Your Apostle Islands Elopement
Sea Caves on the Mainland
The Apostle Islands’ sea caves are iconic and accessible by both land and water. If you want a dramatic setting, these cliffs and caves are the perfect spot for that! In the summer, you can explore the caves by kayak, or, in winter, if Lake Superior freezes over, you can actually walk to them. A sunrise or sunset ceremony here offers amazing lighting and unforgettable views.
Sand Island
Sand Island is known for its sandy shores, lush forest, and historic lighthouse, making it a fantastic addition to your elopement day itinerary. The Sand Island Lighthouse dates back to the 1880s and adds a charming, rustic element to your day. Plus, you’ll have access to beautiful, secluded spots for your ceremony with fewer visitors than the mainland caves.
Stockton Island
Stockton Island offers more variety in landscapes, from beaches and forests to bogs and unique rock formations. It’s one of the larger islands, and a great option if you want to do some hiking as part of your elopement day. Julian Bay’s beach, known for its “singing sands” (yes, it actually sings when you walk on it!), is a must-see.
Devil’s Island
Devil’s Island is known for its remote beauty and rugged sea caves. While it’s farther from the mainland, the extra travel is definitely worth it if you’re looking for an extra quiet spot. Plus the 1890s lighthouse here adds a classic touch, which you can tour too!
Activities to Add to Your Apostle Islands Elopement
Kayaking Through Sea Caves: Many couples choose to kick off or wrap up their elopement by kayaking through the Apostle Islands’ famous sea caves. This adventure brings you up close to beautiful rock formations and adds a special touch to your day. Multiple local vendors offer guided kayak tours if you’re not bringing your own gear.
Hiking Trails on the Islands: The Apostle Islands are full of hiking trails that lead to amazing views and hidden beaches. On Stockton Island, for example, the Tombolo Trail offers a great hike through the forest and along the beach.
Lighthouse Tours: Many of the islands feature historic lighthouses, each with its own story and scenic views. Touring one of these adds a neat element to your day, and the cliffs near each lighthouse make for great photo ops!
Where to Stay for Your Apostle Islands Elopement
In addition to super cute AirBnbs and Vrbos, there are so many inns and B&Bs in the surrounding area. Here are some local favorites:
Old Rittenhouse Inn: This Victorian mansion in Bayfield is a great semi-formal choice, offering luxury with a cozy Northwoods feel. Each room is uniquely decorated, and the inn provides beautiful lake views. It’s ideal for couples who want a touch of elegance with easy access to the harbor.
Bayfield Inn: Located on the waterfront, Bayfield Inn offers cozy boutique style rooms, as well as full vacation rental homes if you’re planning on bringing more guests with you. Plus, the inn is only a block from the main ferry that goes to Madeline Island.
Madeline Island’s The Inn on Madeline Island: If you’d like to stay on one of the Apostle Islands, Madeline Island has a few options, including this charming inn. Staying on the island gives you a head start to exploring and lets you extend the elopement vibes with a night right in the heart of the Apostle Islands area.
Best Places to Eat After Your Apostle Islands Elopement
End your day with a romantic dinner just the two of you or have a celebratory meal with your guests! Here are some of my favorite local spots:
Harbor Table: Located in Washburn, Harbor Table is on the shores of Lake Superior overlooking the Washburn Marina. It’s a local favorite with plenty of room for a large party or a romantic dinner for two.
Cafe Seiche: If you’re looking for a cozy spot on Madeline Island with a focus on locally caught and farmed food, Cafe Seiche is a great choice. It’s the perfect spot to stop after a day exploring or for a Sunday brunch.
Landmark Restaurant: Located within Old Rittenhouse Inn, Landmark Restaurant is an iconic stop in Bayfield. For an upscale American and French cuisine, their made-from-scratch menu items never disappoint.
Tips for Planning Your Apostle Islands Elopement
Choose Your Season: Each season offers a different experience in the Apostle Islands. Summer and early fall are the most popular, with warmer temperatures, calmer waters, and colorful scenery. Winter brings the chance to explore ice caves if conditions allow, and really embrace the winter wonderland vibes.
Plan for Additional Travel: Remember, some of the islands are remote, so access may require a boat rental or ferry. If you’re hoping to explore multiple islands, plan ahead and consider a boat or kayak rental to make sure you can access your chosen spots.
Pack for Adventure: You’ll be outdoors and possibly hiking or kayaking, so bring along weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes, especially if planning a hike along the rocky shores. The weather temps can fluctuate quite a bit along the lake so I highly recommend layers for exploring.
Whether you two want to kayak through sea caves, hike to a secluded cliffside, or share a quiet lakeside meal, an Apostle Islands elopement gives us the freedom to design a custom experience with your favorite activities. Ready to start planning an unforgettable adventure?
