The 4 Best Canoe & Kayak Experiences in Seward
Seward is a prime spot for outdoor water adventures. Its stunning coastal scenery, abundant wildlife, and rugged landscapes make it a natural choice for paddling trips. Whether you’re after a relaxed tour with plenty of wildlife sightings, a full-day adventure combining kayaking with historical exploration, or a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight over glaciers, Seward offers options for all levels of paddlers. The region’s resurrection bay, historic sites, and glacier views provide a diverse backdrop for unforgettable experiences on the water.
What makes Seward especially appealing is its location on Resurrection Bay, just close enough to Anchorage but far enough into wilderness to feel like a true wilderness escape. The variety of tours listed here shows the different ways visitors can enjoy kayaking—whether it’s a short, family-friendly paddle, a challenging small-group expedition, or a high-end helicopter flight with kayak stopovers. Read on to discover the best options for your trip.
1. Tonsina Point Kayak in Resurrection Bay
At number 1 on our list is the Tonsina Point Kayak in Resurrection Bay. This half-day guided tour is perfect if you want a manageable, wildlife-rich experience. You’ll paddle about 1.5 miles along beautiful Resurrection Bay, heading toward Tonsina Creek, with a guide leading the way. Along the shore, expect to see a variety of Alaskan wildlife including otters, eagles, sea lions, and possibly a bear during spawning season.
This tour shines because of the combination of scenery and wildlife, with a snack break at Tonsina Creek giving you time to relax and soak in the views. The included snacks and warm beverages make it family-friendly, and transportation from your hotel simplifies logistics. Many guests emphasize the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see bald eagles and sea otters up close, describing it as “the highlight of their trip.”
Bottom Line: This tour offers an accessible, wildlife-packed introduction to kayaking with excellent guides and a focus on scenery. It’s ideal for families or first-timers wanting a shorter, relaxed paddle.
2. Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort
Number 2 is the Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort in Alaska. This full-day adventure combines a hike to Fort McGilvray at Caines Head with a kayak trip to Miller’s Landing. It’s perfect if you want to blend history, wildlife viewing, and physical activity.
The tour starts with a guided hike to explore the remnants of the WWII-era fort, where you’ll learn about the area’s military significance. Then, you’ll don your gear for a kayaking session observing sea otters, bald eagles, and even humpback whales. The trip includes all gear and training, making it accessible to all skill levels. Tour guides like Isaac and Ron are praised for their knowledge, safety-conscious approach, and ability to make everyone feel confident on the water.
Bottom Line: This tour is suited for active travelers interested in combining history and wildlife with a full-day outdoor experience. It’s a bit pricier but offers a comprehensive adventure that balances land and sea.
3. Tonsina Point Kayak and Exploration
Coming in at number 3 is Tonsina Point Kayak and Exploration. This small-group, full-day tour is designed for those with moderate fitness levels who want a more immersive experience. It features paddling in two-person kayaks, combined with onshore exploration of temperate rainforests, ghost forests, and waterfalls.
The tour begins with a scenic drive from Lowell Point along Resurrection Bay, narrated by your guide about local history and ecology. Once on the water, you’ll paddle past marine life like sea otters, eagles, and salmon, enjoying the majestic mountain views. The highlight includes a visit to Tonsina Point, with its ghost forest and salmon stream, plus a picnic lunch and possibly a visit to a waterfall. The guide emphasizes personalized attention and safety, providing waterproof boots and flotation devices.
Guests appreciate the intimate atmosphere and the chance to see wildlife and forest sights in one trip. It’s a great pick for those looking for a full-day, moderate challenge that offers a deeper connection to Seward’s natural surroundings.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting to combine kayaking with land-based exploration, this tour offers a well-rounded day in the outdoors.
4. Bear Glacier Flight & Kayak Adventure Tour
Finally, the Bear Glacier Flight & Kayak Adventure Tour is a high-end, private or group experience that combines a helicopter flight, guided paddling, and spectacular glacier scenery. For around $979, you get a 4-hour adventure starting with a helicopter ride from Seward to Kenai Fjords National Park, landing near Bear Glacier.
Once on the ground, you’ll paddle in calm waters near the glacier, capturing photo-worthy views of icebergs and rugged ice formations. The tour includes lunch, and the helicopter provides a rare opportunity to see remote glaciers inaccessible by land. There are no reviews listed, but the unique combination of flight and kayak makes it an extraordinary experience for adventure-seekers and nature lovers willing to invest in a memorable day.
Bottom Line: This is the most exclusive, visually stunning kayak trip—best suited for travelers who value premium experiences and want to combine helicopter views with glacier paddling.
How to Choose the Best Seward Kayaking Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and what kind of experience excites you most. If wildlife viewing is your priority, the Tonsina Point Kayak offers a relaxed, wildlife-rich paddle, perfect for families. For those eager to combine history, wildlife, and physical activity, the Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort provides a full-day adventure. If you want a more immersive experience with land and sea, the Tonsina Point Kayak and Exploration is ideal, especially for active travelers. Finally, for a luxury experience with glacier views and helicopter access, the Bear Glacier Flight & Kayak Adventure offers a once-in-a-lifetime trip, though at a higher price point.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the full-day or premium glacier tours, as they tend to fill up quickly. Consider the type of experience you prefer—whether it’s wildlife observation, historical exploration, or glacier vistas—and tailor your choice accordingly.
Seward’s kayaking options span the spectrum from relaxed wildlife viewing to full-day adventures and glacier flights. For a family-friendly half-day paddle, the Tonsina Point Kayak offers excellent value. History buffs and active travelers will appreciate the Kayak and Hike to Historic WW2 Army Fort, while those seeking a premium, scenic experience should consider the Bear Glacier Flight & Kayak. No matter your choice, booking ahead ensures you don’t miss out on these memorable Seward adventures.