Southwest Alaska Travel Guide

Venture out into a region characterized by windswept archipelagos, forested hills teeming with wildlife and a diverse array of historical attractions.

Southwest Alaska promises a true wilderness experience to the intrepid traveler. Untouched islands and peninsulas bursting with nature at its wildest make the region an inviting and adventurous destination for those wanting to visit the far corners of America. Hop between volcanic islands, watch bears roaming the woodland and stop in charming towns that maintain a strong sense of local culture.

Learn about Alaska Native culture in the towns of Southwest Alaska. Visit the Alutiiq Museum and Archaeological Repository on Kodiak Island for an informative insight into indigenous culture in the region.

Bring your binoculars and watch the horizon for a sighting of the bears that live in the region. Ride a boat to Kodiak Island, home of the Kodiak bear, and join a wildlife-spotting excursion into the wilderness. Katmai National Park and Preserve is one of the best places in Alaska to watch the salmon run and the feast that it provides for the park’s furry residents.

Explore the Aleutian Islands, a long archipelago of striking volcanic outcrops that stretches all the way to Russia. Stop in Unalaska, a large island that features the Cathedral of the Holy Ascension, a Russian Orthodox building that houses a large collection of religious artwork. The island also has the Museum of the Aleutians and the Aleutian World War II National Historic Area.

Southwest Alaska’s extensive coastline makes it a popular destination for seafood enthusiasts. Bring your own rod and tackle to catch salmon and trout in tranquil, scenic settings or come for a feast at Kodiak’s crab festival.

Alaska Airlines and Era Aviation both run flights to airports across the region or you can charter a flight to Southwest Alaska. This part of the state experiences a complete range of seasonal temperatures. Visit in the summer months of June, July and August to explore the region on long, sunny days. Wrap up warm for a winter visit, when the lows are well below freezing but the days promise thrilling activities in snow-covered landscapes.