Resurrection Bay: Where Fjords Breathe and Ice Speaks
A vivid, practical guide to Seward’s wild waterway—what to see, when to go, and how to experience it responsibly.
The first thing Resurrection Bay does is make you small. From the deck of a boat or the cockpit of a helicopter, the water sits like black glass, reflecting knife‑edged peaks that fall straight into the sea. A gull squawks, and somewhere upvalley a glacier groans—an audible reminder that the landscape here is still very much in motion. In Seward, Alaska, Resurrection Bay is both entrance and destination: a deep, sheltered fjord that channels the rawness of the Kenai Peninsula into an intimate, marine playground.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for variability
Bring a waterproof shell plus fleece layers—weather shifts quickly on the water and at altitude.
Respect wildlife distances
Keep at least 100 yards from whales and 50 yards from seals and sea lions; allow animals to dictate approach.
Time for tides
Check local tide charts for kayak launches; low tide can expose dangerous kelp and rocks near shore.
Book longer cruises for glaciers
Half‑day cruises are great for wildlife; choose full‑day or Northwestern routes for better glacier and calving chances.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tonsina Point ghost forest and salmon viewing beach
- •Lowell Point’s private launch sites for quiet paddling
Wildlife
Sea otter, Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Kenai Fjords National Park protects the bay’s glaciers and marine habitats; supporting park fees and following Leave No Trace keeps sensitive shorelines healthy.
Seward was named for U.S. Secretary of State William H. Seward; the region developed during late‑19th‑century resource booms and later conservation efforts.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Gray whale migration, Early seabird nesting, Off‑peak quiet
Challenges: Cooler temps, Unpredictable weather, Limited kayak launches early season
Spring brings migrating gray whales and early bird activity—expect cool, changeable weather and good wildlife viewing from boats.
summer
Best for: Humpback and orca watching, Kayaking and hiking, Salmon runs (late season)
Challenges: Peak visitor season, Variable rain, Busy docks and tours
Warmest, most reliable period for marine life and beach launches; book cruises and kayaks in advance for July–August.
fall
Best for: Autumn light for photography, Fewer crowds, Salmon spawning streams
Challenges: Cooling temperatures, Shorter daylight, Increased rain and wind
Fall offers dramatic light and salmon runs; expect cooler, wetter conditions and fewer tour slots.
winter
Best for: Aurora viewing from shore, Spring gray whale arrival (late winter), Quiet landscapes
Challenges: Limited boat and heli ops, Heavy snow in alpine zones, Short daylight hours
Winter is quiet and stark—boat tours are limited but spring migrations begin late winter; check operator schedules.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof rain jacketEssential
Protects against coastal drizzle and wind on open water.
Layered fleece or insulated midlayerEssential
Keeps you warm during chilly boat rides and alpine landings.
Sturdy waterproof bootsEssential
Useful for beach landings, rainforest walks and slippery glacier beaches.
Dry bag (10–20L)
Keeps camera, snacks and extra layers dry during kayak trips or beach landings.
Common Questions
When is the best time to see whales in Resurrection Bay?
Humpback whales are most commonly seen from June through mid‑August; gray whales migrate past the bay in spring. Longer cruises increase your chances of sightings.
Are kayaking trips suitable for beginners?
Yes—many operators run guided, beginner‑friendly excursions from Lowell Point and private beaches; they provide instruction and safety gear.
Can you see glaciers from a day trip?
Yes—Kenai Fjords cruises visit tidewater glaciers like Aialik and Holgate; full‑day or Northwestern itineraries maximize glacial and calving viewing time.
How do I get to Resurrection Bay from Anchorage?
Seward is about a two‑hour drive from Anchorage along the scenic Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm; shuttle and transfer services are also available.
Are overnight options available on Bear Glacier?
Yes—operators offer helicopter‑supported glamping yurts at Bear Glacier Lagoon with food and guided activities included.
What should I do to minimize my impact?
Use certified guides, follow wildlife distance rules, pack out waste, stick to marked trails and avoid disturbing haulouts or nesting cliffs.
What to Pack
Waterproof jacket (rain protection), insulated midlayer (warmth on open water), waterproof boots (shore and rainforest walks), dry bag (protect electronics and essentials)
Did You Know
Kenai Fjords National Park was established in 1980 to protect the Harding Icefield and its outlet glaciers, which feed many fjords including those in Resurrection Bay.
Quick Travel Tips
Book cruises and kayaks well in advance for July–August; bring motion‑sickness meds if you’re prone; respect wildlife viewing distances; have flexible plans for weather delays.
Local Flavor
Seward’s small harbor community centers around sustainable seafood, with local eateries serving fresh salmon and halibut—pair a day on the water with a waterfront dinner and local craft beers.
Logistics Snapshot
Where: Resurrection Bay, Seward, AK. Getting there: 2‑hour drive from Anchorage via Seward Highway. Best for: Wildlife cruises, kayaking, heli‑views, glamping. Book: Summer months early. Permits: Park fees may apply for some activities.
Sustainability Note
Choose small‑group operators, pack out all waste, avoid single‑use plastics on tours, and follow guides’ wildlife distance rules to lessen disturbance to marine mammals and seabirds.