Thorne Bay - Image 1
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Thorne Bay Alaska

4.6
·18 reviews·, New Zealand

A serene Alaskan harbor on Prince of Wales Island, known for incredible fishing, unique floating homes, and a welcoming, island-paced community.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer Mornings

Calm waters, best light

CrowdLow
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Thorne Bay - Image 1

Thorne Bay Alaska

Best Time

Summer Mornings

Calm waters, best light

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Alaskan harbor on Prince of Wales Island, known for incredible fishing, unique floating homes, and a welcoming, island-paced community.

4.6
(18 reviews)

"Experience the tranquility of a hidden Alaskan harbor, where fishing is world-class and life moves at a gentle pace."

Vertical photo
TIP

⚓ Embrace the Local Hub

Don't miss 'The Port at Thorne Bay' for coffee, errands, and local vibes.

🎣 Pack for Fishing

If you love fishing, Thorne Bay is your paradise for salmon and halibut.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.6 · 18 reviews

Type

Natural Feature

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Port at Thorne Bay

The Port at Thorne Bay

Community Hub

More than just a post office, this is the island's social and commercial heart. Fuel boats, grab coffee, shop for essentials, and pick up packages.

Instagram
Serene Harbor Views

Serene Harbor Views

Thorne Bay Harbor

Peaceful waters with fishing boats gently swaying, surrounded by lush forests. A truly serene and hidden gem.

Instagram
World-Class Fishing

World-Class Fishing

Local Waters

Experience incredible salmon and halibut fishing. Many visitors come specifically for the angling opportunities.

Instagram
Unique Floating Homes

Unique Floating Homes

Thorne Bay Waters

Witness the extraordinary lifestyle of families living on floating homes, a unique aspect of life in Thorne Bay.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Island Pace

Thorne Bay operates on island time. Expect a relaxed atmosphere where errands might involve fueling your boat and grabbing an espresso at the same spot. Plan for potential weather delays, especially during stormier seasons, and be prepared for a slower pace of life. Instagram+1

Prepare for the Elements

Alaska's weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers and waterproof gear, as you might encounter stormy conditions even in summer. Locals are accustomed to it, but visitors should be ready for anything. Instagram

Best Times

When
Summer Mornings
Why
Calm waters, best light
Crowd
Low
When
Late Summer Evenings
Why
Quieter, beautiful sunsets
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How we run errands on the island! The cutest little post office is called “The Port at Thorne Bay”. It’s the cutest little one stop kind of shop where you fuel up your boat, order up an Espresso at the cafe, or even a milkshake!!! There’s also clothing, gifts, convenience store, propane, and the post office where you also pick up your Amazon packages & such 🛥️🎣🌊📪📦 #princeofwalesisland #alaska #th...
cici_treks
25 likes • 936 views

⚓ Embrace the Local Hub

Don't miss 'The Port at Thorne Bay' for coffee, errands, and local vibes. Instagram

🎣 Pack for Fishing

If you love fishing, Thorne Bay is your paradise for salmon and halibut. Instagram

5 days in Thorne Bay, 4 fenders protecting the boat from bashing on the dock, 6 lines holding us on, patiently waiting out 2 gales. Our first week in Alaska has been pretty stormy and more akin to winter according to locals. We finally get a break tomorrow and can get off this dock to motor further north! #seaksummer24 #insidepassage #princeofwalesisland #thornebay #stormyweather #kadeykrogenyacht...
mvfortitude
113 likes • 3K views
📌 Thorne Bay, Alaska #thornebay #thornebayalaska #alaska #googleearth #googleearthdiscoveries #abandoned
randomtownz
238 likes • 10.1K views

🧥 Layer Up Always

Alaska's weather is famously unpredictable; pack layers for all conditions. Instagram

🛥️ Dinghy Adventures

Explore nearby coves and anchorages with a dinghy for a true Alaskan experience. Instagram

Some old footage … Docking in Thorne Bay, Alaska. The only slip left was small for the 64. But we managed and the weather was okay. Behind us was a Nordhavn 60 and down the dock a N46 and a N62. When you need them the thrusters on the N64 do the job! #nordhavndreamers #nordhavnonly #nordhavn_yachts #yacht #boat #insta360
n64_kariwa
109 likes • 2.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⚓ Embrace the Local Hub

Don't miss 'The Port at Thorne Bay' for coffee, errands, and local vibes. Instagram

🎣 Pack for Fishing

If you love fishing, Thorne Bay is your paradise for salmon and halibut. Instagram

🧥 Layer Up Always

Alaska's weather is famously unpredictable; pack layers for all conditions. Instagram

🛥️ Dinghy Adventures

Explore nearby coves and anchorages with a dinghy for a true Alaskan experience. Instagram

🏠 Unique Floating Homes

Keep an eye out for the fascinating floating homes that dot the waters. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(18 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Thorne Bay for its stunning natural beauty, peaceful harbor, and unique community spirit. The exceptional fishing opportunities and the chance to witness unconventional lifestyles like floating homes are major draws. However, some note the limited amenities, such as a lack of public restrooms and parking, and the unpredictable weather can sometimes impact travel plans.

"almost a private beach within the city. It is well worth the walk over the rocks to get to and relax on a small beach without waves and calm for a dip in the cold water here."

plinio jr favaro

"Clean little beach hidden from the public. Has the distinctive lava rocks next to the ocean. Beautiful view of the Rangitoto."

Prateek Sachdeva

"Beautiful place to go for a swim"

Cristian Baldassarre

What People Like

Peaceful harbor setting
Abundant fishing
Unique community vibe

What People Dislike

Limited amenities
Unpredictable weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Thorne Bay is located on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska. Access is typically by boat or small aircraft. Many visitors arrive by ferry to Ketchikan and then arrange for further transport, often by floatplane or by chartering a boat. Instagram

While Prince of Wales Island has some road systems, Thorne Bay itself is primarily accessed by water. If you're bringing a vehicle, you'll likely need to transport it via a barge service. Instagram

Boats are the primary mode of transport for many residents and visitors. For exploring the immediate harbor area, a dinghy is very useful. Instagram

There isn't a direct ferry service to Thorne Bay itself. You would typically take the Alaska Marine Highway System ferry to Ketchikan and then arrange onward travel. Instagram

Travel times can vary significantly depending on your starting point and mode of transport. Flights from major hubs like Seattle to Ketchikan are common, followed by a floatplane or boat journey to Thorne Bay. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Thorne Bay is a community, not a ticketed attraction. Entry to the town and harbor is free. However, activities like fishing charters or lodge stays will have associated costs. Instagram

As a community, Thorne Bay doesn't have set operating hours. However, businesses like 'The Port at Thorne Bay' will have their own hours of operation. Instagram

No, there are no entrance fees to visit Thorne Bay. It's a living community and a beautiful natural harbor. Instagram

Thorne Bay is part of the natural landscape of Prince of Wales Island and Southeast Alaska, but it is not a designated national park or protected area with specific entry requirements. Instagram

Yes, Thorne Bay is a year-round community. However, weather conditions can significantly impact travel and activities, especially during winter months. Instagram

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Outdoor Adventures

Thorne Bay is renowned for its excellent salmon and halibut fishing. Many visitors come specifically for these sport fishing opportunities. Instagram

Yes, there are fishing lodges in and around Thorne Bay that offer guided fishing trips and accommodation. Anderson Lodge is a well-known option. Instagram

Besides fishing, you can enjoy boating, kayaking, exploring nearby coves and anchorages, and experiencing the unique Alaskan wilderness. Instagram

The surrounding wilderness offers opportunities to see various Alaskan wildlife, though sightings are never guaranteed. Keep an eye out for marine life and birds. Instagram

Pack waterproof and warm clothing, sturdy footwear, fishing gear (or plan to rent/buy), sunscreen, and insect repellent. Instagram

🎫 🏠 Accommodation & Services

Accommodation options include fishing lodges like Anderson Lodge, and potentially some smaller inns or rental properties. Many visitors also arrive by boat and anchor in the harbor. Instagram+1

The Port at Thorne Bay serves as a central hub for essentials, including a post office, convenience store, cafe, and fuel. Instagram

Dining options are limited and often associated with lodges or the cafe at 'The Port at Thorne Bay'. It's advisable to check with your accommodation for dining recommendations. Instagram

Wi-Fi availability can be spotty in remote Alaskan locations. 'The Port at Thorne Bay' might offer some connectivity, but don't rely on it for critical tasks. Instagram

'The Port at Thorne Bay' is a multi-functional establishment that includes a post office, cafe, convenience store, and fuel dock, serving as a vital community point. Instagram

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