Beaches in Alaska

1. Black Sand Beach

Out in Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska, Black Sand Beach is named due to the beautiful black sands found here.

They’re not quite as soft to touch as the sort of sands you’ll find on white or golden beaches, but they’re incredible to look at. Visitors will also be able to marvel at the magical views in every direction, with snow-capped mountains and stunning icy spots all around.

The views at this beach are quite possibly the best in all of Alaska and you'll definitely want to bring your camera along to snap some photos to share with your friends. This beach is also a good camping and kayaking spot, so there are plenty of activities to enjoy here. Black Sand Beach Map

2. Fort Abercrombie State Park

Stretching out over 182 acres in total, Fort Abercrombie State Park is one of the best and most beautiful recreational areas in all of Alaska.

The park is filled with a wide variety of landscapes including forests, hiking trails, rocky areas, and sandy beaches.

You can even find a lot of old World War II military outposts dotted around the park, making it a nice spot for explorers and history enthusiasts, and there's plenty of fascinating flora and fauna to be admired as well.

As for the beaches themselves, they all offer soft sands and outstanding views, and since the park is so large, you can almost always find a little private spot just for you and your friends. Fort Abercrombie State Park Map

3. Schooner Beach

Schooner Beach is a very special beach for several reasons. The first thing that makes this beach special is the presence of the Satsuma Maru, a schooner that crashed onto the shore many years ago and still remains as an exciting wreck to admire and explore.

You'll also find some really good surfing conditions at this beach, so if you've got the skill and courage needed to brave the Alaskan waters, this is a great place to ride some waves.

Even if you're not interested in surfing, it can be thrilling to sit on the sand and watch the surfers out on the water, taking photos and strolling along the sands as the day passes by. Schooner Beach Map

4. Yakutat Beach

Yakutat Beach is one of the most untouched and little-known beaches in all of Alaska.

It's also one of the state's best-kept secrets. Once you visit this beach for the first time, you'll be instantly captivated by its unique beauty and charm.

The sands here are littered with old bits of driftwood and pretty little shells, so it's a super spot to do some beachcombing, but if you're looking to do something a little more intense, the waves here can get quite big and pose a fun challenge to even the most experienced surfers.

5. The Homer Spit

One of Alaska's best known beaches, The Homer Spit is a highly popular fishing and boating area.

You'll see dozens of different boats in the local docks and out on the waters at every time of day and night, and the local area is equipped with lots of useful stores, restaurants, rental places, and more, so there's always plenty to do at this Alaskan beach.

The town is also known as one of the best places in all of North America to go fishing for halibut, and the beach is dog-friendly too so you can bring your four-legged friend along for some fun in the sun. The Homer Spit Map

6. Whittier Beach (Head of the Bay)

A hidden gem of Whittier is its charming Head of the Bay. Literally the head of the bay, this shore greets the beautiful water of the Prince William Sound and is every nature photographer’s dream.

Head of the Bay is characterized by its beach of flattened rocks. Enjoy picnics out on the beach, take long walks along the shoreline, or enjoy animal-watching care of the mountains around you.

From the head of the bay, visitors can also enjoy a nice view of the downtown area. Locals often enjoy evenings by the firepit at this beach as well as tide pooling during the warmer months. Whittier Beach Map

7. Captain Cook State Recreation Area

The Captain Cook State Recreation Area is a hidden gem of the Kenai Peninsula. Virtually unknown and relatively undiscovered by those unfamiliar with Kenai, this recreation area is a serene and peaceful outdoor destination that features thriving forests, a huge lake, many streams, and saltwater beaches. As its name states, Captain Cook State Park has a few recreational activities to enjoy.

Stormy Lake is great for bird watching, berry picking, and canoeing during the summer months, while also being a top ice fishing location during the winter. Wildlife enthusiasts can catch glimpses of beluga whales, moose, bears, harbor seals, and more, while other activities like camping, hiking, and biking are also available.

Address: Kenai Spur Highway, Nikiski, Alaska 99611, Phone: 907-522-8368

8. Kasilof River Beach

At the western end of the Kenai Peninsula lays the Kasilof River Beach, a popular recreational destination in the fishing town of Kasilof. With fishing being the lifeblood of this town, it only makes sense that the Kasilof River Beach would be best known for its incredible fishing opportunities.

With 30 acres of land, the beach has a boat launch for guests who want to fish away from the shore. Meanwhile, the Kasilof River beach also has great wildlife viewing opportunities with many lynxes, black and brown bears, as well as moose roaming the area. For first-time fishers, fishing guides can be booked at the boat launch.

Address: Kasilof, Alaska 99610

9. Bishop’s Beach

If you’re looking for a place to spend some time enjoying the view in Homer, Bishop’s Beach is a great choice. Though it isn’t a swimming beach, there are plenty of activities to enjoy here such as beach combing and leisurely walks. Those who want to enjoy a hike after stopping by can access the Beluga Slough Trail.

Bishop’s Beach is a great place to enjoy a picnic with several fire pits, grills, and picnic tables available for rent. Meanwhile, the beach is also nearby other Old Town attractions including public artwork, shops, art galleries, and other similar Homer establishments.

Address: Homer, Alaska