Kayaking in Juneau: Humpback Whale Feeding Grounds

Glide past glaciers and explore tide pools on a remote Juneau island

Kayak the Inside Passage near Juneau in a guided activity that starts with a boat ride to Channel Islands State Marine Park, then puts you in a double kayak to paddle through humpback whale feeding waters. The outing runs six hours total, includes all paddling and rain gear, snacks on a remote island beach, and a professional guide. Pickup from downtown is included. Suitable for ages eight and up with moderate fitness, and you'll need to be a confident swimmer who can paddle for up to two hours.

Step-by-step itinerary

Kayak adventure in Inside Passage

• Transport to Auke Bay Harbor
• Board motor boat and travel to Channel Islands
• Disembark and kayak in whale feeding grounds
• Enjoy snack and explore island tide pools
• Return transport back downtown

The experience

The day starts with pickup from downtown Juneau and transport to Auke Bay Harbor, where you'll get outfitted in paddling gear and rain gear, then board a small motor boat. The boat heads up the Inside Passage toward Channel Islands State Marine Park, the heart of Southeast Alaska's humpback whale feeding grounds. Once you reach the remote island where the kayaks wait, you'll gear up and launch into double kayaks to explore the feeding waters from the water itself. Actual paddling time depends on marine conditions, wildlife location and your group's ability, but you should expect to paddle confidently for up to two hours.

The kayaking takes you through waters where humpbacks, sea lions, porpoises and eagles are active during feeding season. Federal regulations keep all boats and kayaks at least 100 yards from marine mammals, so sightings are never guaranteed (this is wild Alaska), but the waters themselves are the draw: lush temperate rainforest lines the shore, snow-capped peaks rise in the distance, and flowing glaciers feed into the channels. After you've finished paddling, you'll return to the island beach for a high-quality snack, time to stretch, and a chance to explore the tide pools before heading back to the boat for the return journey to downtown.

All paddling and rain gear comes with the booking, along with bottled water, snacks, and Forest Service permits. A professional guide leads the group throughout. Groups run small and require a minimum of four people to operate. If that threshold isn't met, your reservation may change or be cancelled. The trip runs in all weather conditions unless conditions become unsafe, so dress for Alaska's climate and be prepared for rain.

What’s included

• All paddling and rain gear.
• bottled water.
• snacks and a high-quality snack on the island beach.
• Forest Service permits.
• professional guide throughout.
• pickup from downtown Juneau and return transport.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 4 May 2027

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (8 to 85 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 11 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 8 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Above and Beyond Alaska

Is this one for you?Six hours is the full commitment, which rules out combining this with other activities the same day but gives you a complete immersion in the Inside Passage's whale feeding waters. The small-boat format and remote island setting mean you're paddling in genuine wilderness, not a marked route near town.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. No refund if you cancel.

What's the kayaking like if I've never paddled before?

The activity suits all experience levels, but you'll need moderate fitness and confidence in the water. You must be able to swim and paddle steadily for up to two hours. The guide will assess conditions and your group's ability to set the actual paddling time on the day.

Will I actually see whales?

Channel Islands State Marine Park is the richest humpback whale feeding ground in Alaska, so sightings are common during feeding season, but they're never guaranteed. This is wild Alaska. Federal law requires all kayaks to stay at least 100 yards from marine mammals, so you'll observe from a respectful distance.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The trip operates in all weather conditions as long as conditions stay safe. The operator determines if conditions become unsafe and may cancel. Dress warmly and bring layers, because rain is common and you'll be on the water for the full six hours.

Are there weight or size limits for the kayaks?

Double kayaks accommodate a maximum torso diameter of 52 inches and a combined weight limit of 600 pounds including gear. People taller than 6'2" may find the rudder pedals tight, though paddlers as tall as 6'6" have successfully used the kayaks.

What's included in the price?

All paddling and rain gear, bottled water, snacks, Forest Service permits, a professional guide, and pickup from downtown Juneau are included. Gratuities are not included.

Who shouldn't book this activity?

The operator does not recommend this trip for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnant travelers, or those with poor cardiovascular health. You must disclose any medical conditions, allergies or physical limitations when you book. Minimum age is eight years old.