Look for the most popular kayak landings of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and you’ll find the best places for kayaking day trips. In this case, the National Park service, recognizing two of the most popular sites, has developed and improved two such landings. And they provide a perfect destination for a long weekend of kayak/camping trip.

The first is Little Sand Bay. With a nice sandy beach; launch areas; sheltered harbor; picnic areas; campground; huge parking lot; and visitor center, this is an ideal base camp for a long weekend. From here you can paddle a day trip to Sand Island. Check weather reports with the ranger before you make the long crossing (2.5 miles) to the sea caves on southeastern Sand Island. After, exploring the caves, have lunch on one of two beaches and stretch your legs with a hike to the lighthouse (which has tours on weekends). Water is available at the island campground. Then, decide on circumnavigating the island, or retrace you path to re-explore the sea caves in further detail, before heading back across Little Sand Bay. Once back, you can visit the historic Hockenson Brothers fishing museum; relax in the campground; or enjoy the beach.

Meyers Beach Landing on Squaw Bay, 4 miles northeast of Cornucopia, is the newest improved kayak landing. It has a huge beach; adequate parking; outhouses; information kiosk and a picnic area. No water and no camping are available here. It’s a nice destination in itself for the lakeshore hiking trail, but most people come to kayak to the sea caves.

Launch from the beach and paddle about 1 mile east to the sand stone cliffs rising from the water. Many years of waves have produced some incredible formations and caves are best viewed from the water. Start early and take your time exploring the 2.5 miles of caves, arches and grottos until you end up at a beautiful, deserted beach where you can stretch your legs, relax, swim, sunbath, explore and have lunch. Then, enjoy it all again on the paddle back to Meyers Landing. Choose a day with light wind and waves to safely paddle near the cliffs.

If time permits or weather prohibits safe kayaking, visit Cornucopia, Bayfield and Washburn for smoked fish, dining, shopping, hiking, biking and other great beaches and museums.

The Madeline Island Ferry, in Bayfield, is an inexpensive way to visit the city of La Pointe. Take your bike and peddle out to Big Bay State Park.

Finally, be sure to plan some time to experience the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center at the Hwy 13 & 2 intersection. Paddle safely: 1-Before you leave check the weather reports. 2-Paddle with partners. 3-Have adequate safety gear, maps and drinking water. 4-Leave a trip notice/paddling plan. 5-Know your limits/follow your plan. 6-Know how to rescue yourself and others. 7-Keep an eye on the weather.