Kayaking in Sitka: WWII Bunkers and Wildlife

Paddle to concrete bunkers, explore underground passages with a flashlight, spot wildlife along the way

Kayak tour in Sitka that combines paddling through coastal waters with guided exploration of preserved WWII fortifications: bunkers, secret passages, and munitions depots accessible only by water. A certified local guide leads groups of no more than a handful, starting with a safety and paddle introduction for first-timers. Four hours total. Bottled water and snacks included.

The experience

You start with a paddle and safety briefing on the water, so even if you've never kayaked before, you'll feel ready to go. Then you paddle through Sitka's serene coves and bays toward a historic site where towering concrete bunkers and hidden fortifications rise from the shoreline. These structures, built to defend Alaska during World War II, sit exactly where the war touched this coast, and they're preserved well enough that you can paddle right up to them.

Once you arrive, your guide hands out flashlights and leads you into the bunkers themselves. You'll navigate through secret passages, dark rooms, and a rare multi-story underground complex that most visitors to Sitka never see. The guide explains what each space was built for and what happened here during the war, turning the concrete and steel into a real piece of Alaska's history. Along the paddling route, you'll also spot wildlife typical to Southeast Alaska's coastal waters.

The whole outing runs four hours. You get kayak equipment, paddles, personal flotation devices, and a spray deck. The operator provides bottled water and snacks. Public transportation options are available nearby if you're staying in town without a car.

What’s included

• Kayak, paddle, personal flotation device, and spray deck.
• bottled water and snacks.
• certified guide leading a small group.
• paddle and safety introduction for all paddlers.
• flashlight access to explore the bunkers and underground passages.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 9 Jun 2027

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (6 to 12 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Southeast Alaska Adventure

Is this one for you?Public transportation reaches the launch point, so you don't need a car or a ride to get there. Book this if you're staying in Sitka without wheels and want to spend a free afternoon on the water and in history.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 12 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Is this kayaking tour suitable if I've never paddled before?

Yes. Every tour begins with a thorough paddle and safety introduction, and the route is beginner-friendly. The guide is a certified local instructor who provides personalized attention in a small group setting.

What exactly is inside the WWII bunkers we explore?

The site contains towering concrete bunkers, secret passages, dark rooms, and a rare multi-story underground complex. You'll use provided flashlights to explore munitions depots and fortifications built to defend Alaska during World War II.

How long is the paddling part, and how much time do we spend at the bunkers?

The entire tour is four hours. You paddle through Sitka's coastal waters to reach the historic site, then explore the bunkers and fortifications with your guide once you arrive.

What's included in the kayaking tour?

Kayak equipment, paddles, personal flotation devices, spray deck, bottled water, and snacks are all provided. Your guide is a certified local instructor who leads the entire experience.