
Auke Bay Harbor Juneau
A scenic working harbor in Juneau, Alaska, offering prime opportunities for whale watching, wildlife viewing, and exploring the stunning Alaskan coast...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for whale sightings

Auke Bay Harbor Juneau
Best Time
Best for whale sightings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic working harbor in Juneau, Alaska, offering prime opportunities for whale watching, wildlife viewing, and exploring the stunning Alaskan coastline.
"Beautiful scenery and just a really cool place to visit and experience Alaska, very close to Juneau and glaciers."

Book Whale Tours Early
Popular whale watching tours fill up fast, especially in summer. Book ahead to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Dress in Layers
Alaska's weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Whale Watching Tours
Auke Bay Harbor
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to witness humpback and orca whales in their natural habitat.

Bald Eagle Sightings
Surrounding Auke Bay
Marvel at majestic bald eagles soaring overhead and perched in the trees, a common sight in this scenic area.

Scenic Harbor Views
Auke Bay Harbor
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the harbor, mountains, and the tranquil Alaskan waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Wildlife
Getting to Auke Bay
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Whale Tours Early
Popular whale watching tours fill up fast, especially in summer. Book ahead to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Dress in Layers
Alaska's weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Visit Eagle Beach
Don't miss Eagle Beach, a short drive away, for stunning scenery and potential wildlife encounters. :camerawithflash:
Kayak Adventures
Rent a kayak and explore the calm waters of Auke Bay at your own pace. :kayak:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Whale Tours Early
Popular whale watching tours fill up fast, especially in summer. Book ahead to guarantee your spot! :ticket:
Dress in Layers
Alaska's weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Visit Eagle Beach
Don't miss Eagle Beach, a short drive away, for stunning scenery and potential wildlife encounters. :camerawithflash:
Kayak Adventures
Rent a kayak and explore the calm waters of Auke Bay at your own pace. :kayak:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Auke Bay Harbor, highlighting the incredible opportunities for whale watching and spotting bald eagles. The harbor is described as a clean, organized, and beautiful place to experience Alaska, with many recommending a visit to nearby Eagle Beach for its exceptional scenery.
"Went out whale watching here. Had a great time and saw several whales."
Jonathan Clark
"Beautiful scenery and just a really cool place to visit and experience Alaska, very close to Juneau and glaciers. We have seen flocks of bald eagles. You can see mountains surrounding the bay."
Avram Liebowitz
"This is where we have taken a whale boat out on 2 different occasions. And the people are very nice. It's very organized. It's clean and it's beautiful and if you have a chance, drive up the road a bit and go to Eagle beach. You do not want to Miss Eagle beach. It is the most beautiful place I have ever seen in the world."
Margaret Albright
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Auke Bay Harbor is about a 15-20 minute drive north of downtown Juneau. You can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or the local bus system (check the Capital Transit schedule for routes and times). Many visitors also opt for tours that include transportation from cruise ship docks.
Yes, Capital Transit, Juneau's public bus system, serves the Auke Bay area. Route 3 typically goes towards the harbor. It's a budget-friendly option for reaching the harbor from downtown Juneau.
Absolutely! There is parking available at Auke Bay Harbor, making it convenient for those with rental cars or who prefer to drive themselves. The drive itself offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Cruise ship passengers can take a taxi or a pre-booked tour that often includes pick-up and drop-off services. Some tours might even depart directly from the cruise ship docks. Check with your cruise line for available options.
Auke Bay Harbor is located south of the Juneau International Airport (JNU). The drive between the airport and the harbor is approximately 10-15 minutes, making it a convenient stop if you have time before or after your flight.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Auke Bay Harbor itself is a public area and does not require an entrance fee. However, if you plan to go on specific activities like whale watching tours or kayaking, you will need to purchase tickets for those excursions.
Prices for whale watching tours can vary depending on the operator, duration, and type of boat. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200+ per person. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
Parking at Auke Bay Harbor is generally free, especially for those heading out on tours or visiting the facilities. However, it's always a good idea to check for any posted signage regarding parking regulations.
While some tour operators may have kiosks or offices at the harbor, it's often best to book your whale watching or kayaking tours in advance online or by phone to ensure availability and potentially better pricing.
Operating hours for businesses like kayak rental companies and tour operators at Auke Bay Harbor typically align with the tourist season, generally from May through September. Hours can vary, so it's best to check directly with the specific business.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Auke Bay Harbor is a hub for various activities including whale watching tours, charter fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the scenic waterfront. You can also find local seafood vendors and enjoy the beautiful Alaskan scenery.
You have a great chance of seeing humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and numerous species of seabirds. Bald eagles are also frequently spotted in the trees surrounding the harbor.
Yes, restrooms are available at the front entrance to the docks at Auke Bay Harbor. They are generally well-maintained, which is a plus for visitors.
Absolutely! The harbor offers stunning photographic opportunities with its picturesque mountain backdrops, active marine life, and beautiful sunsets. Don't forget your camera!
While charter fishing boats operate from Auke Bay Harbor, recreational fishing directly from the docks might be limited. It's best to book a charter for a dedicated fishing experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining options near Auke Bay Harbor. 'Devils Hideaway' is mentioned as being in the former Hot Bite location, and local seafood is often available, especially during crab season.
During crab season, you can often buy fresh Dungeness crab directly from vendors like Worthy Seafoods at Statter Harbor in Auke Bay. Keep an eye out for local fishermen selling their catch.
You can expect to find casual dining options, often featuring fresh Alaskan seafood. Some places might offer quick bites, while others provide a more sit-down experience.
While specific restaurants with direct harbor views aren't detailed, the general atmosphere of Auke Bay Harbor is scenic, and many nearby establishments likely offer pleasant views of the water and mountains.
Yes, the scenic beauty of Auke Bay Harbor makes it a great spot for a picnic. You can pick up supplies in Juneau and enjoy your meal with a view of the water and surrounding mountains.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire harbor offers fantastic photo opportunities. Focus on the boats, the water, the surrounding mountains, and any wildlife you encounter. The docks and waterfront areas provide great vantage points.
Sunrise and sunset often provide the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow over the harbor and mountains. Midday can also be good for capturing wildlife activity.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm or similar) is great for capturing both wide harbor scenes and closer wildlife shots. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant marine life. Don't forget a polarizing filter for water shots!
Capturing the bald eagles, the bustling activity of the boats, and the stunning mountain vistas are must-dos. If you're lucky enough to see whales breaching, that's a prime photographic moment!
Drone usage is often restricted in harbors and near wildlife for safety and privacy reasons. It's crucial to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the Auke Bay area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond boat tours, the scenic beauty of the harbor and the chance to spot bald eagles can captivate children. Consider packing binoculars for them to get a closer look. The nearby Eagle Beach is also a great spot for families to explore, with tide pools and open spaces for kids to run around.
🎣 Anglers and Fishermen
If you're visiting during crab season, you might have the opportunity to purchase fresh Dungeness crab directly from local vendors at the harbor. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the local catch. Remember to check the specific dates for crab season and be prepared to transport your catch safely.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the majestic bald eagles in flight or perched on trees, and don't miss the chance to photograph whales if you take a tour. The changing light throughout the day, especially during sunrise and sunset, can create breathtaking scenes. Consider bringing a versatile lens to capture both wide landscapes and detailed wildlife shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters: Whales and Eagles
Beyond the marine life, the skies above Auke Bay are often filled with bald eagles. These majestic birds are a common sight, perched in the trees or soaring overhead. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the harbor area; you're almost guaranteed to spot them. The combination of marine and avian wildlife makes Auke Bay a truly special place for nature photography and observation.
For the best wildlife viewing opportunities, consider booking tours during the peak whale watching season, which generally runs from May through September. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the most active wildlife. Remember to dress in layers and bring binoculars for a closer look.
Exploring Auke Bay by Water
Beyond kayaking, Auke Bay Harbor is a bustling center for boat tours and charters. Whether you're interested in whale watching, fishing, or simply cruising the scenic waters, there are numerous options available. Many visitors choose to embark on multi-hour excursions that take them further into the surrounding fjords and inlets, offering a comprehensive taste of Southeast Alaska's stunning coastal landscapes.
If you're looking for a longer adventure, consider a sailing trip departing from Auke Bay Harbor. These trips can range from day excursions to multi-day voyages, allowing you to explore the Inside Passage and experience the magic of sailing in Alaska. It's an immersive way to see the region's remote beauty and create lasting memories.
The Local Vibe and Community
During crab season, the harbor comes alive with activity as local vendors like Worthy Seafoods sell fresh Dungeness crab directly to the public. This offers a unique opportunity to taste the local catch and support local businesses. It's a vibrant scene that highlights the connection between the community and the rich marine resources of Alaska.
Some visitors have noted the welcoming nature of the locals, with some finding themselves embraced by the community. This sense of local connection can enhance the travel experience, making it feel more personal and authentic.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit