15 Best Beaches In Alaska To Visit

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Did you know that besides its rocky terrain and subarctic climate, Alaska also features some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world? Alaska beaches provide a one-of-a-kind and beautiful experience, whether they are quiet coves or expansive stretches of sand.

Spanning across 3 million islands, the Alaskan coastline offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Are There Any Beaches In Alaska?

Yes, there are indeed beaches in Alaska. A fun fact about Alaska is its coast is longer than all the other 49 states combined! The state is well-known for its rough coastline, scattered with numerous gorgeous beaches. 

Alaska beaches provide opportunities for many recreational activities both on land and water, including fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

Ketchikan Beach, Whittier Beach, and Kenai Beach are just some of the well-known beaches in Alaska. With spectacular and diverse views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and woods, Alaska’s shores offer a different yet fantastic experience.

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Can You Swim At Beaches In Alaska?

Due to the climate in the state, many people wonder, Is It Warm Enough to Swim In Alaska? Yes, you can swim at some Alaskan beaches, but bear in mind that the water can be freezing, with powerful currents, especially in the ocean.

It is always advisable to check the currents and swim cautiously, particularly in locations with strong tides and currents.

Some of Alaska’s more sheltered beaches around lakes/rivers offer safer swimming conditions. To stay warm in the freezing seas, it is advisable to bring appropriate protective clothing, such as a wetsuit and watershoes.

Here are some of the best beaches in Alaska that you should consider visiting when traveling in the last frontier.

Best Homer Beach, Alaska Beaches

Homer Spit Beach, Homer

Homer Spit Beach in Homer, Alaska, is a popular destination for beach-goers due to its location featuring stunning views and extreme convenience.

Situated on a narrow strip of land that extends 4.5 miles into Kachemak Bay, Homer Spit Beach offers scenic views of glaciers, mountains, and the surrounding waters. 

It’s a prime location for fishing, kayaking, whale watching, and simply enjoying a picnic on the sand.

One of the best things about this Alaska beach is its proximity to Homer town which offers a range of activities and amenities. There’s always something to do in Homer, such as trying out tasty dishes, shopping, and visiting art galleries. 

Additionally, the beach is home to several popular fishing charters and tour companies. This means you have the opportunity to experience so much more beauty when you get out on the water.

Homer Spit Beach is one of the top beaches in Alaska because of its natural beauty and recreational outlets. Even if the goal is to explore the local area, this beach is perfect for spending a relaxing day on the sand.

Land’s End Resort offers breathtaking views of the picturesque Kachemak Bay. You also get to appreciate the view of the surrounding mountains, adding to your experience on Homer Beach.

Kachemak Bay State Park, Homer

Boasting a high level of biodiversity, Kachemak Bay has been designated a critical habitat area. 

The park is home to various wildlife, including marine mammals like whales, sea lions, and sea otters. Other giant land mammals like moose, black bears, and many sea and terrestrial birds are also common in the region.

The landscape consists of sandy and stony beaches, as well as lush alpine forests. Further up, you’ll even find glaciers and ice fields. 

If your idea of a good time is the icy landscape and glaciers that Alaska is so known for, then this is one of the best Alaska beaches you should not miss.

One of the best places nearby to stay during your visit is Otter Beach Lodges.

Bishop’s Beach, Homer

Bishop’s Beach, located near Homer, Alaska, is regarded as one of the best beaches in Alaska. 

It’s one of several beaches in Alaska with many natural attractions and wildlife. Visitors can investigate the numerous tidal pools on the beach. They can also unearth a wide variety of marine life and intriguing artifacts on the beach during low tides.

In addition, the beach is home to several bird species, some of which are endemic to the region. As a result, it is a popular location for bird watchers.

Visit Bishop’s Beach in Homer, Alaska, if you’re searching for a tranquil spot to unwind. The scenery is also ideal for an exciting excursion to explore the area’s one-of-a-kind tidal pools.

Accommodation Near Bishop’s Beach: Homer Inn and Spa

Seward Beach, Alaska Beaches

Beluga Beach, Seward

Beluga beach, near the town of Seward, is one of the most beautiful Alaska beaches. This is credit to the many breathtaking mountains in the surrounding area. 

Beachcombing, kayaking, and fishing are just some of the most common activities you can enjoy at Beluga Beach. 

If you plan to fully enjoy Alaska’s natural environment, Beluga Beach is the ideal place with its strategic location on the Kenai Peninsula. 

If you are lucky, the pristine waters of the Kenai River gives you a clear picture of the Beluga whales swimming beneath. Due to that high water visibility, you can easily spot various aquatic life forms, making this beach an excellent destination for nature lovers.

Hotel Near Seward: Alaska Sundance Retreat B&B

Seward Beach, Seward

Seward Beach is a hidden gem amongst the beaches in Alaska that are often overlooked.

The beach is located on the edge of the Kenai Fjords National Park, with exciting views of the glaciers and mountains. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to escape the crowds and experience Alaska’s natural beauty in a more intimate setting.

At low tide, visitors can explore the nearby tidal pools and discover diverse marine life, including starfish, crabs, and anemones. One of the unique features of Seward Beach is its proximity to the Exit Glacier. Exit glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that you can hike up to.

Take a short hike to the glacier and see the stunning, massive ice walls up close. For avid hikers, the surrounding area offers miles of trails through the mountains and forests. These trails provide ample opportunity to immerse in Alaska’s natural beauty.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the tidal pools, or hike through the nearby wilderness. Seward Beach is one of the Alaska beaches to check out if you are traveling in the area.

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Other Popular Beaches In Alaska

Kenai Beach, Kenai

Kenai Beach is a popular destination for locals and tourists. It is famous for its expansive sandy shoreline and breathtaking views of the nearby mountains.

The beach is surrounded by verdant trees and nature, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and other sports. 

One of the definite highlights at Kenai beach is the wildlife. You can observe marine life such as sea otters, seals, and whales from the shore or on a boat tour. 

In addition, on a warm day during the summer, the beach is excellent for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying a picnic all at the same time. 

It comes as no surprise that this is regarded as one of the top beaches in Alaska, given its breathtaking surroundings and plethora of opportunities for leisure activities.

Need a place to stay during your visit? You can check out Kenai Airport Hotel.

Deadhorse Beach, Prudhoe Bay

Deadhorse Beach, located in Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, is known for its impeccable beauty. It is often considered one of the best beaches in Alaska for several reasons.

Firstly, its location within the Arctic Circle makes it a genuinely remote and serene destination. Its secluded location offers visitors a chance to escape everyday life activities. The beach is surrounded by stunning tundra landscapes, adding to its appeal as a peaceful and quiet escape.

Another reason Deadhorse Beach is so unique is because of the presence of wildlife. Visitors may have the chance to spot exotic birds and even the occasional polar bear strolling about. This makes the beach an ideal destination for those seeking a safari experience.

Finally, Deadhorse Beach is also famous for its abundant fishing opportunities. Anglers come from around the world to try their luck at reeling in various fish species that thrive in the area’s icy waters.

Deadhorse Beach is one the most exciting beaches in Alaska for those looking for an unforgettable and unique beach experience.

One of the best places to stay during your visit is Brooks Camp.

Whittier Beach, Whittier

Whittier Beach is located at a remote Kenai Peninsula cove. 

It’s just a half-hour drive from downtown Anchorage, yet its appearance gives a calming outer world feel. The interesting fact about the beach is that it’s only accessible by automobile.

Whittier beach is lovely, with tall trees towering over its sand. There are plenty of rocks visitors can explore and places for swimming or snorkeling for those who want to be out on the water.

Wild salmon breed on the seashore every spring, and other aquatic life from the ocean lays their eggs on the rocks. If you take a walk along the shore, you can easily spot them.

Accommodation Near Whittier: Ski Inn

Other Family-Friendly Beaches In Alaska

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Lena Beach, Juneau

One of the most beautiful beaches in Alaska is Lena Beach in Juneau. You can reach this nature’s paradise by traveling down Lena Cove.

The beach’s proximity to the heart of Juneau contributes to the beach’s high level of popularity among both residents and visitors. You can walk or bike along the coast on one of the two parallel trails.

This beach has lifeguards and concessions, so you can relax and enjoy your time there, even when you go with kids. This makes it an excellent location for families on vacation within the state.

In addition, Lena Beach has many facilities and conveniences, including a restaurant, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.

 Hotel Near Lena Beach: Super 8 by Wyndham Juneau

Ketchikan Beach, Ketchikan

Beachgoers should have Ketchikan Beach at the top of their bucket list. Outdoor enthusiasts can relax and explore the Tongass National Forest and Tongass Narrows from this beautiful beach.

Additionally, because the Tlingit people have lived there for thousands of years, the beach has a rich cultural past visitors can also explore. If you want to learn more about this indigenous group, Sitka National Historical Park is one of the famous landmarks in Alaska to visit.

The ease of accessibility makes Ketchikan Beach one of the best Alaska beaches;  it is just a short walk or drive from downtown Ketchikan. The white sands are perfect in the summer for sunbathers and nature lovers. The beach also has lots of parking spaces for its visitors.

Swimming and kayaking are common on Ketchikan Beach’s calm waters. It’s also a fantastic beach for young families due to its shallow waters. The beach’s lush woodlands make it ideal for trekking and birdwatching.

Hotel Near Ketchikan: My Place Hotel 

Best Wildlife Beaches In Alaska

Elias Beach, Sitka

Another well-known beach destination in Alaska is Elias Beach, located in Sitka. It is renowned for its beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and the Tongass National Forest.

At Elias Beach, guests can have a picnic, go beachcombing, and observe the diverse local wildlife, including whales, sea lions, and bald eagles. Kayaking, fishing, and adventuring through the local trails and woodlands are all enjoyable activities visitors could try on the beach.

Hotel Near Sitka: Aspen Suites Hotel Sitka

Kasilof River Beach, Kasilof

The Kasilof River Beach, located in Kasilof, Alaska, is a well-known site for people who enjoy fishing and other forms of outdoor activity.

The beach can be found near the Kasilof River. The lake is renowned for its sport fishing and is home to one of southwestern Alaska’s largest king salmon fisheries.

However, the number of sockeye salmon, pink salmon, and chum salmon in the lake dramatically outnumbers the number of king salmon. This makes it the ideal destination for anyone interested in fishing on Alaska beaches.

Along the sandy shoreline, visitors can enjoy picnics and look for treasures on the beach. Furthermore, the surrounding Chugach National Forest offers a variety of options for outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and other pursuits.

Accommodation Near Kasilof: Escape For Two B&B Guesthouse

Dutch Harbor Beach, Unalaska

Dutch Harbor Beach in Unalaska is excellent for visitors looking for beaches in Alaska that combine beauty and adventures.

On this beach on the rocky Aleutian Islands, you’d find all the Sea otters, harbor seals, and migrating birds. These mammals and aquatic life love the clean waters and rocky shorelines.

Dutch Harbor Beach’s history and culture make it unique in Alaska, and it still serves as a commercial fishing harbor. Visitors can explore historic canneries and fish processing factories or visit the Unalaska Native Cultural Center to learn about Aleut’s culture.

Dutch Harbor Beach has something for history, nature, and outdoor enthusiasts. Travelers must see Alaska for its natural beauty, cultural legacy, and outdoor adventure. They can also enjoy the volcanic landscapes and snow-capped peaks surrounding the beach.

Wrangell Beach, Wrangell

Wrangell Beach in Wrangell, Alaska, is a hidden gem that allows tourists to explore the Alaskan coastline without crowds. This remote beach is stunning, with high cliffs, unusual rock formations, and waters full of sea lions and seals.

Rich cultural heritage distinguishes Wrangell Beach from other Alaska beaches. The Tlingit have lived in the area for thousands of years, and their petroglyphs and fishing sites dot the shore. Wrangell Beach is a great destination for anyone interested in Alaska’s indigenous culture.

Pack your beach bag, camera, and head to Wrangell Beach for an unforgettable Alaskan experience.

Clark’s Point Beach, Nome

Clark’s Point Beach in Nome, Alaska, offers visitors a one-of-a-kind and spectacular beach experience. This beach is less crowded than other Alaska beaches, allowing tourists to appreciate its tranquillity in isolation. It overlooks the Bering Sea and mountains and is flanked by tall rocks.

The area’s cultural heritage includes the late 1800s gold rush. Clark’s Point Beach visitors can fish, boat, and explore the area’s history. Clark’s Point is among the beaches in Alaska to check out if you want a unique and quiet beach experience.

Enjoying The Best Beaches In Alaska

Alaska is a beautiful and unique destination that offers an array of beach experiences for travelers. 

From the Kasilof River Beach to Clark’s Point Beach in Nome, each beach has something special to offer visitors looking for adventure or those who just want some peace and quiet. 

Whether it’s fishing, kayaking, hiking, or simply taking in scenic views of nature’s beauty – there is no shortage of activities at any one of these amazing Alaskan beaches

Pack your sunscreen and towels, and explore the alluring beaches in Alaska, which offer an opportunity to relax, unwind and enjoy a wonderful day at the beach.


PIN THESE ALASKA BEACHES FOR LATER!

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Welcome To NomadsUnveiled
This is Rax. For over a decade, I have traveled to over 60 countries - from a budget backpacker to a business traveler, expat and then a digital nomad. You can find insights and perspectives from myself and other world travelers that will inspire your journey of discovery.

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