Alaskan Swells

Although Alaska might not have the warm and tropical temperatures as other volcanic shorelines, it has elements that you cannot experience anywhere else. These rocky beaches and brisk cold waves connect you with breathtaking scenery and natural wonders, and offer you a view of wild ecosystems like you haven’t seen before.
Whether it’s a day trip or a short multi-day experience with a helicopter or boat, this will be an experience to remember. Some of the best destinations include Seward, Kodiak, and Sitka. When it comes to planning, we recommend the spring and fall seasons. These segments of the year offer enough sunlight and balance between the elements to navigate the water and swells so that you can get out there.
Another way to set yourself up for success is to look at some tidal charts and temperatures before you go so you can get an idea of the tidal exchanges and the extremes you can experience in Alaska, and how to effectively navigate them. A couple of resources and references by United States standards for these elemental dynamics would be USGS and NOAA.

Surf Guides, Gear, and Shops

If you don’t feel like bringing your gear, or maybe you’re ready to buy a new set-up, there are shops and guides to help you out along the way. One guide shop, Alaska Surf Guides, is based out of Seward and is a go-to for remote surfing adventures. They offer a day-long helicopter-supported trip where you’ll get the opportunity to explore and surf a unique remote beach. With the helicopter trip, you get the perk of having some scenic flight time on the way back. You can even take a retired commercial fishing boat on a multi-day expedition if you’d like.
Need some local help and advice? One shop located in Yakutat is a small family-run business and a must for anyone curious about surfing in the natural beauty of Alaska. Stop by to rent wetsuits, surfboards, and SUP boards. These folks can point you to nearby beaches, and the locals are usually friendly. Please be respectful of the beaches and take the appropriate amount of time to learn about the community and culture here.
If you happen to be flying into Anchorage, Ocean Swell Ventures is there to help with boat-based surf trips. They also offer SUP trips and operate a surf shop in Seward.
Turnagain Arm mountains
Person surfing near snowy mountains

Exploring the Beaches

Some popular spots to check out would be Cannon Beach in Yakutat. It is said to have that squishy bottom, but it’s located on the mainland, so you don’t have to island-hop as much. This beach is optimal in the summer months because of the offshore wind. Fossil Beach of Kodiak Island is another choice beach. You’ll have to access this shore by plane or boat. This swell has a cobblestone bottom to break on, so you can expect a more consistent wave set there.
In Sitka, there is a shoal wall to enjoy nice rollers. It is a 30-minute boat ride from the shoreline. This set can have some large swells, some even up to 15 ft. (Mooring Lodge)While in Sitka, check out the Sea Lion Cove for another set if you’re up for it. Caveat: you do have to take about an hour-long walk to get to the shore by the Sea Lion Trail. This cove has two sides; the north side is for big swells that can crank in at 20 ft., (Deepswell) while the southside has way more beginner-friendly sets to check out. If you are looking for road-accessible sites in Sitka, there is Sandy Beach just down the road.
  • couple running into water at sunset with surfboards
  • Norwegian Beach Surfing
  • tube surfing

Surfing with the Alaskan Elements

Surfing in Alaska is like no other for a variety of reasons. As mentioned before, optimal times to plan this destination surf experience are in the fall and spring seasons. This is due to the light available and ice sheet formations.
And yes, the water is quite brisk, and temperatures can dip into the thirties. Another notable feature to consider is the lower salt quantity, so you will have less buoyancy while you’re out. (UAF) Consider a board with more float when you head out.
On the bright side of the cold temperatures, you won’t have to worry about reef wave breaks as much. Alaska’s shoresides do have sandbars and point breaks to be considerate of, though. (Yeeew)
This kind of ocean will have you looking at cold-water gear along with all the attachments. That means 5mm wetsuits, hoods, and gloves. The whole nine yards. The name of the game is to reduce skin exposure as much as you can.

 Swell Ideas

If you’re into some high adventure, experience with some of the Arctic elements, and looking to integrate and hone your skills in the ocean and within the water, a surfing trip to Alaska might be a lovely addition to your bucket list. Let the smell of brine draw you in, the boats tow you out, and find that you can navigate your way through the variety of wave sets these different shorelines offer. It is a great way to have some adventure in the ocean and get to know the beauty of Alaska.
You’ll be able to spot lots of wildlife, enjoy the charm of quaint fishing towns along the way, and adapt to the nuances and differences this region encompasses. This is a great way to connect with the beautiful landscapes and oceanside ambiance that Alaska shorelines have to offer.