ACTIVITIES
BIRDING
Flock to Sitka
Sitka offers some of the best birding in Alaska, from seabird cliffs offshore to estuaries just minutes from town.
A trip around St. Lazaria Island, part of the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, is a highlight for birders. This 65-acre volcanic island is home to more than half a million breeding seabirds, with puffins stealing the show. Deep surrounding waters make for excellent viewing from small boats when conditions allow.
John Dunlap, owner of Alaska Wild Coast, spent 27 years helping launch tours with Allen Marine Tours before starting his own small business. For him, St. Lazaria never loses its wonder.“ What I love most is how it transforms from one visit to the next,” he says.“ Even after an hour, when we’ re departing, I’ m already looking forward to the next visit.” The options for exploring Sitka’ s waters are nearly endless, but John’ s personalized trips are just one way to experience this wild coast. Visitors can also head out with Cpt. Gary’ s Sitka Adventures, Sitka Expeditions, or Sitka Paladin Tours to bird.
Closer to town, the Starrigavin Estuary features an ADAaccessible boardwalk and viewing platforms where ducks, sandpipers, and songbirds gather with the tides. Wherever you go, Sitka rewards birders with striking glimpses of wild coastal life.
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