If you’re dreaming of an intimate, meaningful elopement surrounded by Lake Superior, Madeline Island is the perfect choice. It’s the largest of the Apostle Islands and offers a variety of scenery from hiking trails, to beaches, to rocky overlooks.

As a Madeline Island elopement photographer who has spent countless hours helping couples plan their day here, this guide covers everything you need to know, from getting to the island and choosing the best time of year, to what to wear and how to include guests.

Why Elope on Madeline Island

Out of all the beautiful locations Wisconsin has to offer, Madeline Island is quite possibly my favorite. It feels different from anywhere else in the state. You can watch the sunrise over Lake Superior, go kayaking, or have your ceremony on the shore with the sound of waves in the background. It’s accessible yet feels secluded enough for a getaway. My husband and I also had a Madeline Island elopement, so it’s an extra special place to me!

How to Get to Madeline Island

Madeline Island is located off the Bayfield Peninsula in northern Wisconsin. Getting there is part of the experience.

The Ferry

The Madeline Island Ferry Line runs from Bayfield to La Pointe, the only town on the island. The ferry operates on a regular schedule from early spring through late fall, running every half hour during daylight hours in the summer for peak tourist season. During the winter the ferry schedule is dependent on the weather and ice. You can find the ferry schedule here! The ride is about 20 minutes and you can bring your vehicle, which I would recommend to explore the island freely.

The ferry does not start running until after sunrise, so if you’re eloping in the early morning, you’ll want to take the ferry over the day before.

Best Time of Year to Elope on Madeline Island

The best time of year for your Madeline Island elopement is May through mid-October. I don’t recommend eloping here during the winter due to unpredictable weather and the possibility that the ferry won’t be running.

• May to mid-June: The island starts to wake up after winter. Trees are full, but tourism hasn’t peaked yet. A great time for privacy but the weather could still be on the chillier side.
• Late-June to early-September: Summer is my personal favorite season for Madeline Island elopements. The weather is warmest for swimming, kayaking, or sailing, and the days are long with plenty of sunlight. It’s also the busiest time, so plan to elope on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
• Late-September to mid-October: Fall colors start to show and peak mid October. The weather starts to cool down, and most tourists are gone after Apple Fest which is typically the first week of October.

From late October onward, many local businesses close for the season, so it’s best to plan your elopement before mid-October if you want access to restaurants and lodging.

Best Time of Day for Your Madeline Island Elopement

Sunrise is the best time to elope on Madeline Island. The best locations on the Island face east, so you’ll have that beautiful morning light coming up over the lake. Even in the busiest months, you can have complete privacy by beating the crowds and saying your vows at dawn.

Sunset ceremonies are beautiful too, but you’ll likely have more people around especially during the summer months. If privacy matters most, plan for sunrise.

Where to Elope on Madeline Island

There are a few great locations on the island for elopements, whether it’s just the two of you or a few guests.

• Big Bay State Park: Hiking trails, rocky cliffs overlooking Lake Superior, boardwalks, and a sandy shoreline. You’ll need a Wisconsin State Park pass and a permit is required (I can help you with that!). The shoreline and boardwalk connects to Big Bay town park.
• Big Bay Town Park: A bit less accessible due to the stairs you have to take to get down to the beach. However, I think the beach here is nicer than the one at the state park! There is a lagoon here with canoe and kayak rentals perfect for a fun activity to include in your day.
• Private Rentals: Some cabins and VRBOs on the island sit along the shoreline or have a nice property and allow small ceremonies. Check with hosts before booking to confirm permission for events.

Activity Ideas

I always recommend including activities in your elopement so your day doesn’t just feel like a big photoshoot and is more of an experience.

• Hiking
• Private vows
• Picnic
• Kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding
• Champagne pop
• Swimming
• Ceremony with family/friends
• Cake cutting
• Campfire and s’mores
• Get ready together
• Stop at a brewery
• Sailboat ride
• Private chef dinner
• First dance
• Watch the stars
• Cliff jumping

Example Madeline Island Elopement Timeline (Sunrise)

5:00 AM – Photo coverage starts. Get ready at your lodging.
6:00 AM – Drive to Big Bay State Park.
6:15 AM – Walk to your ceremony location and set up.
6:30 AM – Sunrise vows overlooking Lake Superior.
6:45 AM – Portraits, time to explore, and take it all in.
9:00 AM – Breakfast picnic on the beach or back at your cabin.
10:00 AM – Kayak or canoe in Big Bay Lagoon, take a walk on the boardwalk.
12:00 PM – Grab drinks and lunch in town.
1:00 PM – Photo coverage ends.

Your elopement doesn’t need to be rushed. Plan activities that feel like you, whether that’s hiking, sailing, or simply relaxing with each other.

What to Wear for Your Madeline Island Elopement

Madeline Island weather can change quickly, especially near the lake. Dress in layers and bring extra clothing in case of wind or rain.

• For brides: Choose a dress that you can move freely in and can handle sand or light hiking. Flowy fabrics work well, but avoid long trains that collect debris (unless you don’t mind a dirty dress!). Bring a jacket or wrap for cooler mornings.
• For grooms: Lightweight suits or neutral outfits photograph well. Consider linen or wool blends depending on the season.
• Footwear: Comfortable shoes are a must. Heels are not a good idea here. Wear shoes that you are comfortable walking in. For brides, I recommend Tevas, Chacos, or other sturdy sandals during the warmer months, and boots like Blundstones or hiking boots for the cooler months. Shoes like Converse or sneakers also work well here if that’s more your style.
• Extras: Don’t forget bug spray in summer and hand warmers in spring or fall.

Including Guests

If you want to invite a few guests, it is totally doable! There are a few locations that would work well for larger groups, but if you have guests with accessibility issues, you’ll probably want to have your ceremony at a VRBO. Most locations require a least a little walking.

• How many guests: I recommend no more than 10-15 guests. If you have more than that, you’ll likely have to have your ceremony at a VRBO.
• Reception: If you’d like to host a reception, rent a cabin or VRBO where you can host a meal together or hire a private chef. The Beach Club, The Pub Restaurant, and Café Seiche are great local options for group dining if you prefer to go out.
• Transportation: Make sure guests understand the ferry schedule and build in time for parking in Bayfield if they don’t plan to take their car, as the lot fills quickly in summer.

Hiring Vendors

Even though Madeline Island feels remote, there are plenty of great vendors who service the area.

• Photographer: That’s me! Since I know the area well, I’ll be able to help you plan your day seamlessly from creating a flexible timeline, choosing locations, finding the right place to stay and more. Learn more about the elopement experience here!
• Officiant: You can bring your own, or have a friend or family member officiate. Some photographers (including myself) are ordained and can legally officiate if you prefer a more private, self guided ceremony.
• Florist: Wild Hollow Farm is my go to florist for Madeline Island elopements!
• Hair and Makeup: Most stylists travel from off the Island, so confirm ferry timing in advance. Some of my favorite hair/makeup artists to work with are Victoria Laessig and Norther Bridal Artistry.
• Catering: Many of the local restaurants on the Island also cater. You can also hire a private chef from off the Island to come and cook for you.

Permits and Legal Requirements

• Marriage License: You’ll need a Wisconsin marriage license, even if you’re residents of another state. There’s a waiting period, so apply at least a week before your elopement. You can get your license from any WI county clerks office.
• Park Permits: For state park ceremonies or photography, contact Big Bay State Park to obtain your permit. I will take care of this for you as your photographer.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you bring, avoid walking off established trails, and respect other visitors and wildlife.

Lodging

There are plenty of options on the Island for lodging. From VRBOs to Inns and motels to camping. Many couples who choose to invite guests have their ceremony with family at their lodging for simplicity. Check with the host before finalizing plans.

• The Inn on Madeline Island
• VRBO and Airbnb
• Camping at Big Bay State Park

How Much does is Cost to Elope on Madeline Island?

The cost will vary depending on a lot of different factors! This is the average most couples will spend on a full day experience.

Full Day Elopement Experience

Photographer – $5,800

Ferry Tickets for Two Plus Standard Vehicle – $80

Marriage License – $100-$120

Permit – $50

2 Night VRBO Stay – $650

Bouquet & Boutonniere – $250

Hair + Makeup – $400 + Travel to the Island

Dinner for Two at a Restaurant – $200

Dress & Accessories – $1,200

Suit – $500

Total: $9,250

Madeline Island Elopement Photographer