Stroll the sandy beaches and relax to the rhythm of waves rolling in. Watch and feel the breezes blowing through the towering pines. Immerse yourself in history. Savor the beautifully prepared local fare served up with a side of lakeshore views. Shop the galleries, stores, and cultivate your artistic spirit. Hike, bike, kayak, swim, canoe, golf, nap, read, shop, and dine. It’s all here for you on beautiful Madeline Island!
You can explore and experience Island history for yourself in many ways. The most comprehensive exploration of Island history can be found at the Madeline Island Historical Museum. Take a step back in time! Ride the ferry over from Bayfield. Experience more than 300 years of Madeline Island history. Discover the magic that has drawn people to Madeline Island’s legendary shores for centuries. Of course, the original museum and grounds from 1958 are a large part of the experience.
Open year ’round, Big Bay State Park features over 7 miles of pristine hiking trails with dramatic views of sandstone cliffs and rock formations. Picnic sites are located near beaches and trails, handicap accessible.
No doubt Big Bay Beach at Town Park is the perfect spot to loll away the day on a hot summer afternoon. Walk the miles of sandy beach, hike the boardwalk, or canoe (available for rent at the park) or kayak the inland lagoon. Fish the lake or lagoon, or relax on the beach. Picturesque views await you at every turn.
When you visit Madeline Island, you are sure to be amazed by the variety of dining options available to you. Virtually all our dining locations offer a sunset view overlooking the lake, and some can claim every seat in the house is a window seat! Eat indoors or outdoors at most places on the island and expect live music on a regular basis during the summer months.
As you can imagine, Madeline Island is the stuff vacations are made of! Stay for a few days, or longer, at one of our many lodging options. Once you’re on Madeline Island, you’ll want to stay a while. Whether you’re camping under the stars; relishing a getaway in a modern vacation home with glittering lake views; or reconnecting with loved ones in a cozy cabin setting, you’ll find a variety of rental options for quiet retreats, romantic getaways or family reunions, or weddings.
