Tonsina Point Kayak and Rainforest Exploration in Resurrection Bay
Spend a day paddling Resurrection Bay from Lowell Point to Tonsina Point—sea otters, bald eagles and a ghost forest set against glacial mountains. This guided kayak and rainforest walk combines steady paddling with a beach hike to a salmon stream and picnic.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for changeable weather
Pack a warm midlayer under the provided splash jacket—temperatures can swing quickly on the water.
Protect wildlife and yourself
Keep at least 50 yards from sea otters and hauled-out seals, and follow your guide’s instructions for viewing distances.
Footwear for beach landings
Wear sturdy, closed neoprene booties or water shoes—beaches are a mix of cobble, wet driftwood and slippery logs.
Hydration and sun
Bring a refillable water bottle and reef-safe sunscreen—Alaskan sun can be intense even on cool days.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small waterfall and pool accessible by a short forest walk from Tonsina beach
- •The ghost forest—rows of bleached stumps exposed at low tide and on older shorelines
Wildlife
- •Sea otter
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Operators follow marine mammal protection and leave-no-trace practices; keep noise low and pack out everything to protect eelgrass beds and salmon streams.
Seward grew as a gateway to the Kenai Peninsula’s fisheries and national park access; ancestral Dena'ina and Alutiiq people have long histories reading tides and salmon runs here.
Photographer's Notes
- • The beach at Tonsina Point looking north toward the glacial peaks
- • From the kayak line along the shoreline for otter and eagle shots
- • The ghost forest stumps at low tide for abstract foregrounds
What to Bring
Waterproof dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, camera, and extra layers dry during paddling and beach stops.
Neoprene booties or waterproof shoesEssential
Useful for landing on cobble and for wet hikes through the rainforest.
Layered insulating jacketEssential
Warm midlayers are critical during cool, windy sea crossings or drizzle.
Small binoculars or telephoto lens
Helps spot distant wildlife and observe salmon or seabirds without disturbing them.
Common Questions
What is the minimum age and weight?
Minimum age is 8 and 50 lb; guides assess each paddler’s ability to sit and paddle for extended periods.
Are meals provided?
A picnic lunch is included; notify operator 24 hours in advance for vegetarian options.
What if weather cancels the trip?
Trips can be canceled for unsafe conditions; this operator lists tours as all-sales-final but will cancel in bad weather and may reschedule when possible.
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No—guides provide instruction and paddle in pairs; basic fitness and the ability to use a paddle are required.
How close will we get to wildlife?
Guides maintain safe viewing distances—expect to observe otters, eagles and seals from 50+ yards to avoid disturbance.
Where do we meet and park?
Meet at Lowell Point/Seward meeting location; use the City of Seward pay lot across the street and avoid Kenai Fjords Tours lot (2-hour limit).
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 hours
Location
Seward, Alaska
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate endurance and basic upper-body stamina for continuous paddling and short hikes; suitable for most active travelers.
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