A short trail curves around a dense thicket of salmonberry bushes, perfect for grabbing a fresh, juicy midsummer treat before opening to the rocky beach around the corner. Just past the shore,
a forested island comes into view.
This is Magic Island, a place quite perfectly named.
At low tide, a sand and rock land bridge emerges like magic from the chilly water, exposing an easy crossing to the island. Once there, visitors enjoy the delights
of this small piece of Alaska teeming with life: narrow paths that weave under and over moss-covered trunks and around berry bushes, eagles calling out from above and soaring closer to settle into their nests, tide pools forming in rock formations, and purple and orange sea stars and sea anemones waiting to be discovered.
Take a break on one of the rock ledges
to regard the whales frequently seen in the distance and the sea lions that swim closer to shore. Look for sea glass, warm up by the firepit, or follow the low tide beach and the trails in the adjoining woods to the neighboring Halibut Point State Recreation Site. Easily accessible and stunningly beautiful, this is where local children go for a swim on sunny summer days (usually in their swimsuits) and visitors scuba or snorkel (usually
in their wet suits). Check the tide charts and pack a picnic because you’re going to want to stay for a while.
Magic Island
Beyond an unassuming parking lot just off Halibut Point Road and north of town lies one of Sitka’s most beloved natural treasures.
Photos: Nancy Neel
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