Looking for an authentic Alaskan adventure rich in Indigenous culture and jaw-dropping scenery? I say, head to Hoonah—you won’t forget it! Tucked on Chichagof Island in Southeast Alaska, Hoonah gave me one of the most memorable travel experiences I’ve ever had. You’ll find a coastal village full of heritage, where the Tlingit people’s culture runs deep and wildlife seems to surround you at every turn. I watched whales breach just offshore, and ziplining over the treetops? Absolutely thrilling. If you're craving a destination that feels untouched and deeply rooted, this is the kind of place I’d tell anyone to explore at least once.
Best Time to Visit
From my own trip, I’d say May through September is your best window. You’ll get the longest days, mildest weather, and the best shot at spotting whales, bears, and bald eagles in their element. I visited in June and had more daylight than I knew what to do with. Summer also brings a buzz to Icy Strait Point—when cruise ships dock, the little harbor comes alive, but it still keeps that laid-back, local feel. Trust me, you’ll enjoy the energy without the crowds of bigger Alaskan ports.
How to Get There
- Flying in? I flew into Juneau International Airport (JNU) and hopped on a 30-minute flight with Alaska Seaplanes. It’s quick, scenic, and honestly part of the adventure. You’ll be flying over islands and fjords the whole way.
- Taking the ferry? The Alaska Marine Highway System offers seasonal service, and I loved how peaceful it was. If you’re not in a rush, the ferry’s a beautiful, budget-friendly way to travel and soak in the views.
- Cruising in? Many cruises now stop at Icy Strait Point, just a mile from town. I talked to folks who came ashore for the day and were blown away by how much they could see—whales, rainforest trails, and local art all in one stop.
Where to Stay
- Icy Strait Lodge – I stayed here and found it super welcoming. The rooms are cozy, and the staff helped me book a bear-watching tour that I’ll never forget. It’s rustic but full of character—just what you’d want in a place like Hoonah.
- Hoonah Hideout Cabins – If you’re after privacy and that deep-in-the-woods feel, I’d recommend these cabins. A friend of mine stayed here and couldn’t stop talking about waking up to misty forest views and total quiet.
- Local B&Bs and Guesthouses – One of my favorite parts of staying in Hoonah is the warm, local hospitality. I’ve chatted with travelers who stayed in small, family-run guesthouses and loved the home-cooked meals and storytelling. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve made real connections.
Top Attractions
First: Icy Strait Point
Walk along the boardwalk and explore native culture on an exciting summer trip.
Second: Huna Tribal House
Admire hand-carved totems and learn local history on an unusual cultural experience.
Third: Warehouse Shops at Icy Strait Point
Browse Alaskan crafts and pick up unique stuff on an easy shopping stop.
Fourth: Icy Strait Point - Whale & Marine Mammals Cruise
See humpbacks breach and spot sea lions on a thrilling wildlife adventure.
Fifth: Hoonah Travel Adventures
Go off-road and explore remote trails on an exciting nature-filled trip.
Sixth: Icy Strait Whale Adventures
Watch for whales and enjoy expert guides on a family-friendly boat tour.
Seventh: The Crab Station at Icy Strait Point
Savor fresh crab legs and enjoy harbor views on a delicious lunch stop.
Eight: The Cookhouse - at Icy Strait Point
Taste local dishes and admire oceanfront scenery on an affordable dining escape.
Top Attractions
- Tlingit Cultural Experiences – If you’re curious about the Indigenous heritage of Hoonah, you’ve got to check out the storytelling performances and traditional carving sheds. I loved learning about the Tlingit culture firsthand, and the experiences are deeply moving and educational.
- Whale Watching & Wildlife Tours – You can’t visit Hoonah without going on a whale-watching tour. I’ve seen humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and even bears. It’s an unforgettable experience, and the guided tours really bring the wildlife to life.
- Hoonah Harbor – I always make a stop at Hoonah Harbor. It’s such a peaceful spot, watching the fishing boats and spotting sea life. The views across Port Frederick are stunning, and it’s the perfect place to relax and take in the natural beauty.
- Hiking Trails – If you love getting outdoors, the Cannery Road Trail and Game Creek Trail are must-dos. I’ve hiked these trails and always see plenty of wildlife while soaking in beautiful views of the forest and mountains.
More Places to Eat
- Oso Gordito – If you’re craving something different, this local food truck is the place to go. I tried their Alaskan-Mexican fusion dishes, and it was a great way to enjoy some unique flavors while out on the go.
- The Fisherman’s Daughter – This pop-up café by the harbor is perfect for grabbing a quick coffee, pastry, or fresh bite. It’s got that perfect cozy vibe, especially when you’re looking for a bite with a scenic view.
If you are interested in local events:
- Hoonah Founders Day (May) – If you’re in town in May, I highly recommend attending Founders Day. It’s a fantastic celebration of the town’s founding with food, cultural presentations, and a real sense of community.
- Summer Artist Markets (June–August) – The summer markets are a great way to support local artists. I loved browsing Tlingit art, jewelry, and unique souvenirs. You’ll definitely want to pick up something special.
- WhaleFest Celebrations (Summer) – If you’re a whale fan like me, WhaleFest is a great way to dive deeper into the whale migration. The festivities are casual but informative, with plenty of opportunities to learn about marine conservation.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Hoonah, Alaska:
- Point Adolphus (by boat) – For the ultimate whale-watching experience, I recommend heading to Point Adolphus. It’s one of the best spots in Alaska for seeing humpback whales up close during the summer.
- Port Frederick Inlet (by kayak or boat) – If you enjoy kayaking or boating, this is a must-do. The fjords and pristine wilderness make it a peaceful getaway, and I’ve even spotted bears along the shore!
- Hoonah Bear Viewing (10–30 min) – For a true Alaskan adventure, I took a guided trip into the forest to spot coastal brown bears. It’s an unforgettable way to safely see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
- Excursions from Icy Strait Point – Whether you’re into wildlife safaris, ATV tours, or fishing trips, Icy Strait Point offers it all. I’ve booked some amazing excursions from here that really allowed me to explore Hoonah’s surrounding beauty.
- Game Creek Trail – If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, Game Creek Trail is the perfect hike. I loved the views of waterfalls, the mountains, and the dense old-growth forest—it’s truly a special place to get lost in nature.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Question: What unique features does the city of Hoonah offer?
Answer: Hoonah offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences, from towering glaciers to a deep dive into the history and culture of the native Tlingit people. You’ll get a true sense of the Alaskan way of life here. - Question: Why is Hoonah a popular destination for Alaskan cruises?
Answer: Many Alaskan cruises stop in Hoonah, offering visitors the chance to explore unique attractions like whale watching, Tlingit cultural sites, and the famous Icy Strait Point ZipRider—the world’s longest zip line. - Question: What are some must-do activities in Hoonah?
Answer: For me, a few must-do activities in Hoonah include visiting the Huna Tribal House, whale watching on the Icy Strait, and riding the Icy Strait Point ZipRider. These are classic Hoonah experiences that make the trip unforgettable!
Plan Your Trip
