Things to do & places to visit in Whittier, Alaska, United States

Whittier city in Alaska, United States. Timezone: America/Anchorage, current date and time: Thursday, May 09, 2024, 17:14.

Top things to do (22)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Crazy Rays Adventures (451 reviews)
- Awesome Guide
Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

Great trip! This trip could have flopped with any other outfit. On August 10, my son and I were on the six person boat with Manny as our guide. In route to the fishing area we had to turn back due to bad weather and a rough sea state. Manny found a protected spot where we fished for several hours and the boat caught its limit of yellow eye. The weather cleared in the afternoon and Manny moved locations and we caught halibut, cod and then Silver Salmon. Some fishing boats didn’t leave Whittier due to the morning weather. I highly recommend Crazy Rays’s and Manny. They have excellent fishing equipment and Manny is a top-notch a guide who knows where the fish are and how to catch them. My number one choice in Whittier! See more..
5.0 Lazy Otter Charters (319 reviews)
- Best of Prince William Sound boat tour: truly the best
Boat Tours

If you want to spend a day experiencing Prince William Sound, Lazy Otter Charters is the boat service to use. The boat was small – our tour had a total of 6 people – and our excellent captain, Matt, guided us to see the things we all wanted to, stopping so that we could watch a fishing boat haul in a purse net full of salmon, track a whale, and check out seals and otters, and sailing close into inlets to inspect glaciers up close and listen to them crack nearby. The trip was totally personalized, unlike, we assume, the trips in the larger boats. We highly recommend this trip and this well-run company, and Matt especially, with his knowledge and enthusiasm. We had a spectacular day. See more..
5.0 Saltwater Excursions (139 reviews)
- Outstanding Crew and fishing experience
Thursday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

Favorite part of the trip besides catching unbelievable halibut was the attention the crew gave me to my seasickness issues. Boat Captain was a delight and her knowledge of fishing in the ocean is second to none. Salt water fishing can be a little tough on me do to my sensitive sea sickness issues. The Captain and Crew were attentive to the water conditions as to minimize my potential sea sickness concern. The Fishing was wonderful!!! I will be booking a trip with Salt Water Excursions every year and will Highly recommend all my friends to book with them. It as a very memorable trip. Thank you Kristen and the crew of Salt Water Excursions. Sincerely long time resident of Alaska, Victor Rod Demoss. See more..
5.0 Glacier Jetski Adventures (121 reviews)
- Amazing Adventure and staff
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Waterskiing & Jetskiing

First trip to Alaska and this was our first choice of excursions once we flew in and it didn’t disappoint us!! Wife was alittle uneasy about seadoos in the ocean but after 20 min you couldn’t pull her off.. The staff is patient and truly love their jobs.. The machines, dry suits etc are all top of the line as they buy new water craft every year.. You running on the water for 3 hrs with stops along the way allowing plenty of time to see the sights. If it’s real cold or just cold blooded ask for a onesy fleece suit to wear under your dry suit. You have the choice to drive your own ski or ride 2 up if your not sure about controlling your own ski. I would highly recommend this adventure!! See more..
5.0 Alaska Sea Kayakers - Day Trips (80 reviews)
- GUSHING WATERFALLS, JUMPING SALMON, STUNNING SCENERY & MORE!
Kayaking & Canoeing

Alaska Sea Kayakers was a perfect way to spend an afternoon in Whittier! They were organized, on time, the gear was great and they provided helpful instruction to both novices and longtime kayakers alike. The 360 degree views while you're on Prince William Sound - of glaciers, waterfalls, inlets and more, was unbelievable. Our guide was awesome and was able to quickly read the group and understand that we were up for more than just your standard trip. He provided just enough information about the area and what we were looking at, but not too much that it distracted us from our own adventure and discoveries. I loved this so much I even bought a sweatshirt to bring back to Brooklyn, NY to show off! Not to mention, we ran into our guide a few hours later and he took us on a hike in the area just for fun! See more..
5.0 Paddlers' Realm (69 reviews)
- Go here
Kayaking & Canoeing

I don’t always review tour agencies, but when I do, it’s because I think you should rethink your entire itinerary to include kayaking. It was a cold rainy summer morning in Whittier. We loaded the kayaks in a boat, wondering if it was foolish to go chasing glaciers in a kayak while the rain showed no signs of stopping. I looked at Ryan, our guide, as he smiled with a “we got this” smirk that can only be achieved after years of hard earned experience. By the end of the trip, the rain was just background white noise that made the whole experience even more relaxing. That’s the hallmark of a good guide, they can refocus your attention in such a way that even the cold and the rain are things you enjoy. If you’re looking for a kayak trip, book here. If you’re not, also book here and thank me later when you find yourself in the middle of the Sound, surrounded by wild life and admiring how the glacier has polished the walls of rock over millions of years. See more..
5.0 Tundra Adventure Charters (54 reviews)
- Killer Unique Ski Trip
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Boat Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Stand Up Paddleboarding • Kayaking & Canoeing

I live and play in Alaska and I've seen and done many of the normal day trips. I had the opportunity to have Capt John and the Tundra bring us on a back country ski trip in Prince William Sound. I've toured around many of the south central ski areas, but this place is incredible. I can't say enough good things. Deepest snow contrasted by Sitka Spruce and tidal lagoons. Pillows, glaciers, you name it. To make it even better, we would come back to the Tundra, and Capt John would have large meals eating for us. All while situated alone in a remote bay with no one else in sigh. There was plenty of room to sleep and lounge. I will 100% do this trip again. the only thing I would change is booking a 4+ day trip instead of a 2 day trip. See more..
5.0 Bear Valley Road Runner (42 reviews)
- Excellent, reliable service between Anchorage and Whittier
Thursday: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Taxis & Shuttles

Whittier's only locally owned shuttle company. Providing all of your transportation needs whether it be a local shuttle, an hourly tour, or excellent service getting you to or from any destination on your itinerary. Seward - Anchorage & Alyeska are regularly traveled routes. Knowledgeable, professional staff with years of experience working in the transportation and tourism industries. Top of the line vehicles from Mercedes SUV's to Sprinter vans. We work around your schedule and needs. Offering both private and shared options. Our schedule is based on a first come, first serve basis. See more..
5.0 Sound Paddler (31 reviews)
- Great one-day kayak rental
Thursday: 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Kayaking & Canoeing

Just had an amazing kayak rental experience with Sound Paddler in Whittier. We've rented kayaks in various places in Alaska, including Whittier, and this was by far the most enjoyable. Easy to work with. Understanding. Helpful. We planned on a morning kayak, arriving through the tunnel at 10:30. However, in Whittier the wind was blowing and the water was pretty choppy. Sound Paddler called ahead to let us know, and once we arrived they were happy to accommodate putting off our rental for later in the day. No hassles. First, Sound Paddler offers one-day kayak rental, which is not the case with all outfitters. Also, with the 2020 pandemic ongoing, we were able to get 30% off the regular one-day double kayak rental rate, which was amazing. Bottom line: use Sound Paddler, you won't be disappointed. See more..
5.0 Portage Pass Trail (18 reviews)
- Beautiful hike
Hiking Trails

What a beautiful hike! The views from the top of Portage Pass are stunning, both looking forward towards Portage Glacier and looking back towards Whittier. We didn't go all the way to Portage Lake, but we did go about 15-20 minutes past the "Portage Pass Elevation 800'" sign to the overlook where you can see Portage Glacier spilling into Portage Lake. It's definitely worth going to that overlook. The entire hike took us 2 hours and 20 minutes (roundtrip), including plenty of stops for pictures. Bring some water as the first part of the hike up the mountain is pretty strenuous (but well worth it). We did this hike in the morning before catching the "26 Glacier Cruise" from Whittier in the afternoon-- it was a fantastic day. See more..
5.0 Tidewater Taxi (17 reviews)
- Best tour ever!!
Waterskiing & Jetskiing • Ferries • Dolphin & Whale Watching • Stand Up Paddleboarding

It sounds cliche, but this was really the highlight of our 10 day trip to Alaska! Gabe is so friendly and knowledgeable and he was willing to customize our 8-hour tour along the way. He mentioned a remote island where oysters are harvested and we asked to go there. No prob! He not only took us there but he shucked oysters for us as we floated in the calm waters of Prince William Sound. We saw otters, seals, bald eagles, porpoises, and puffins but the most incredible part of the day was when Gabe brought us to Surprise Glacier where we watched in amazement as the glacier calved several times. I was a bit nervous as the first few minutes out of the harbor seemed rough (it wasn't), but the rest of the ride was smooth and the 8 hours flew by in Gabe's comfortable boat! Do not hesitate to book this adventure!! See more..
5.0 Alaskan Luxury Cruises (15 reviews)
- Captain Jeff, Kate and the Master Chef Outstanding
Multi-day Tours • Private Tours

To my friends in the Travel Advisor community, I highly recommend Captain Jeff and his beautiful yacht, Sea Mist. The time on the yacht was part of a very intricately planned tour of Montana and Alaska. No details were left undone, including movie night popcorn, and my clients had a fantastic time on the yacht thanks to Capt. Jeff, Kate, and Dave. Be a hero to your clients, and book with Alaskan Luxury cruises. See more..
5.0 Paddlers' Realm Day Tours (7 reviews)
- Great Guide! The trip Exceeded my expectations!!
Boat Tours

Ryan took me and three other guests on a "never to forget" kayak adventure on Blackstone Bay! I am so lucky that I came across his business as he is extremely knowledgeable about Alaska and the Prince William Sound area. He made our trip run so smoothly and had every kind of gear needed to make it a safe and memorable day. Thank you also to Portia, a guide who joined us and who helped us to enjoy the experience. Both Ryan and Portia share their joy in being part of nature. We went up close to three separate glaciers and many waterfalls, saw sea otters playing, seals peeking at us from the water, and many birds including Kittiwakes and a pair of Eagles! Ryan provided a delicious lunch, after which we walked to a nearby glacier then more wonderful time paddling on the Bay. It was the best way ever to celebrate my 70th birthday! Thank you Ryan!!! See more..
5.0 Decision Point State Marine Park (1 review)
- Wonderful site
State Parks • Bodies of Water
The site is situated at the entrance to Passage Canal, great tent platforms with some lovely beach camping. outstanding view onto Price William Sound See more..
4.5 Phillips Cruises and Tours (2.886 reviews)
- Wonderful Experience
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Boat Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Rail Tours • Day Trips

The entire experience was amazing. We got there a couple hours before the cruise was going to leave so we walked around Whittier which was so fun. Going through the tunnel to get to Whittier was also pretty exhilarating! The cruise itself was perfect (26 glacier tour). We saw a lot of wildlife (whales, otters, seals and dolphins) and the cruise was so smooth. Our ship was from NYC and had a lot of history which was really interesting. Thankful they shared that history with us. No one got sea sick because the ship rides so smooth but also travels at 36 knots which is a pretty healthy speed. We got great pictures of the glaciers and really enjoyed the chowder that was provided for us. I highly recommend experiencing the 26 glacier tour in Whittier, as I have no negative feedback about the entire experience! See more..
4.5 Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel (573 reviews)
- Set timed schedule
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

This is the only way to get to Whittier from land (from Girdwood and parts farther like Anchorage. There is a set schedule; you need to plan to be there according to any plans like a boat trip. We entered the 10:30 am south opening and it was right on schedule. Our wait was only about 15 minutes since we knew schedule and planned accordingly. The train goes first, if it is there, then bigger vehicles and cars. It’s a 2 1/2 mile tunnel that you drive 25 mph through and it’s well lit to take a video and photos. Cost is $13 to include both directions. It was pouring rain when we were there so the mountains had tons of large waterfalls. It rained 4” the day before and another 3”;the day we were in Whittier so the river and waterfalls were in full action mode! See more..
4.5 Prince William Sound Museum (72 reviews)
- Great Hidden Gem
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Speciality Museums

Please check our website for imaging and description. Thank you See more..
4.5 McKinley Explorer (39 reviews)
- Anchorage to Denali
Sightseeing Tours

We took the train from Anchorage to Denali as part of our Holland America cruise package. • Great experience. Our coach guide, Samuel, was terrific. Very knowledgeable, friendly, approachable. Right balance of narration, quiet time. Saw black bear, beaver lodges, bald eagles. Dining car directly below domed coach in each car. Very good menu for breakfast or lunch. • Tip – bring some snacks. Drinks are prepared by a bartender in your coach See more..
4.5 Horsetail Falls Trail (18 reviews)
- Great hike and view above Whittier
Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails • Scenic Walking Areas

A beautiful hike to gorgeous views over Whittier and Passage Canal. As an avid Alaska hiker, I wouldn't call this an "easy hike" as I've seen on other reviews (you are climbing up most of the way), but I would say it is generally enjoyable for anyone in decent hiking condition. The first portion of the hike is much easier than after it turns uphill (and you are left to do a little bit of route-finding). In late July, we got to experience berry picking (both salmonberries and blueberries) and some up-close bear viewing (with a contented black bear munching on trail side blueberries). The planks make for a pretty easy time through through what could be wet conditions. As a previous comment stated, there is basically no signage on the trail. And it doesn't really need any ... there is one trail and you can't really get lost. Pretty much Alaska hiking. See more..
4.5 Epic Charters - Day Trips (14 reviews)
- Exceptional Captain!
Boat Tours

I have used Epic Charters for years as my water taxi to travel to a wide array of places in Prince William Sound. Captain Brook has always taken the time to help me plan our trip and followed through with the best service ever. He is always ON TIME, Really helps with the loading and unloading process (Kayaks, gear, food, etc.), parks and secures our vehicles, has excellent water taxi prices, and is extremely competent and congenial. Best water taxi in Central Alaska. See more..
4.5 Alaska Ferry (6 reviews)
- Ferry won't serve Whittier again until next summer
Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Ferries

State budget cuts have decimated the ferry system. Service to Whittier is no longer year round and many other communities are season as well. See more..
4.5 Emerald Cove Trail (3 reviews)
- Muddy but fun
Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails

This trail is always muddy. I would consider this trail Moderate to hard because of the terrain the waterfall is amazing and the cove is just beautiful. Definitely go when the tide is low to be able to explore more of the area See more..
4.0 Whittier Harbor (237 reviews)
- Worth the visit
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Whittier is definitely worth the visit. The 2.5 mile tunnel to the town only opens every half hour and costs a $13 toll (credit cards accepted), so it's important to plan your visit carefully. You can walk around the whole town in about 2 hours. Very quiet and pretty. There are restaurants around the harbor and coffee shops where you can warm up. The people in the town are very friendly and open to questions about living in such a small town. See more..
3.5 Sultana Water Taxi (2 reviews)
- Excellent experience for fishing, sightseeing, and boating - captain Mike is the best
Spent More than 3 hours Taxis & Shuttles • Ferries

Water taxi providing transportation to Prince William Sound. We provide service to all of Prince William Sound including access to the Chugach and State forest service cabins. Sultana Water Taxi is licensed & insured to provide hunter transportation within the Sound. See more..
3.0 Begich Towers Incorporated (20 reviews)
- an interesting place to visit
Military Bases & Facilities

A 14-story housing complex with shops, restaurants, a library, church and laundromat. See more..
Granite Bay State Marine Park (0 review)
State Parks
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Ziegler Cove State Marine Park (0 review)
State Parks • Bodies of Water
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South Esther Island State Marine Park (0 review)
State Parks • Bodies of Water
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Bettles Bay State Marine Park (0 review)
State Parks • Bodies of Water
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Surprise Cove State Marine Park (0 review)
State Parks • Bodies of Water
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