Paddle the rocky shoreline of Resurrection Bay, explore a ghost forest, and watch for sea otters and eagles on a full-day kayak and rainforest walk from Seward. This guided outing blends coastal paddling with a picnic beach stop and short rainforest hike.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The morning air along Resurrection Bay bites with a clean edge; the water fog lifts in ribbons as a small group unloads two-person kayaks on a private stretch of Lowell Point. Paddles dip quietly, and the shoreline—rocky, steep, framed by jagged ridgelines—unspools like a living map. Sea otters pop up like punctuation; bald eagles wheel above. The beach at Tonsina Point waits with a ghost forest of bleached stumps and a late-season salmon stream that murmurs inland, a place where ocean and temperate rainforest trade breath.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate—should be able to paddle for several hours and handle short walks on uneven terrain
Wildlife
History
Resurrection Bay and surrounding shorelines have long been used by Indigenous Dena’ina people and later supported fishing and homesteading communities that shaped Seward’s maritime culture.
Conservation
Guide services emphasize leave-no-trace practices and wildlife-distance rules to protect spawning salmon and sensitive shoreline habitats; sticking to marked paths minimizes streambank erosion.
Reserve your spot on the Tonsina Point Kayak and Exploration today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers and expect wind
Bring a warm base layer and windproof mid-layer; the operator provides splash gear and neoprene mitts if conditions require them.
Respect wildlife and salmon streams
Observe otters, eagles and spawning salmon from a distance and follow your guide’s instructions to avoid disturbance.
Secure parking and arrive early
Use the City of Seward pay lot across the street and arrive 10 minutes early—do not park in Kenai Fjords Tours lot (2-hour max).
Protect your camera and electronics
Bring a waterproof case or dry bag; spray and unexpected waves can soak unsecured gear quickly.
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps camera, phone, and layers dry during paddling and shore breaks.
Neoprene booties or warm socks
Protects feet from cold surf when launching or exploring the beach in cooler months.
spring
Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down)</
Retains warmth during windy open-water paddling and post-lunch rest stops.
summer
Polarized sunglasses and sun protection
Reduces glare off water and protects eyes during bright, reflective conditions.
summer