Beach Camping in Alaska
Discover the best beach camping across Alaska. Camp where the land meets the water. Ocean breezes, sandy shores, and stunning sunsets await.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Settler&Apos;S Cove State Recreation Site
The rare sandy beach along Clover Passage delivers front-row access to Southeast Alaska's maritime wildlife theater, where bald eagles soar overhead and seals surface in nutrient-rich waters.
Twelvemile Cabin
The cabin's estuary shoreline transforms into a wildlife amphitheater where sandhill cranes stalk the tidal flats and black bears prowl for salmon during seasonal runs.
Shelikof Cabin
This remote cabin opens directly onto endless sandy shores where Pacific swells crash and brown bears patrol during salmon runs. Ancient spruce and hemlock frame your front-row seat to Shelikof Bay's dramatic seascape, with driftwood-strewn beaches stretching endlessly for beachcombing...
About Beach Camping in Alaska
Beach camping Alaska offers an extraordinary coastal wilderness experience unlike anywhere else in North America, where temperate rainforests meet pristine shorelines, and dramatic tidal ranges reveal hidden beaches and abundant marine life. From the sheltered coves of Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage to the wave-swept shores of Prince William Sound, Alaska's beach campgrounds provide access to some of the most remote and spectacular coastal landscapes on the continent.
Best Time
The prime beach camping season in Alaska runs from late May through early September, when temperatures are mildest and daylight hours extend well into the evening, providing ample time for beach exploration and coastal activities. July and August offer the warmest weather with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, though Southeast Alaska's maritime climate means rain is possible any time and visitors should prepare for wet conditions regardless of season.
Scenery Highlights
- Oceanfront and lakeside sites
- Sandy beaches and swimming
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views
- Water sports and fishing
Explore Beach Camping in Alaska
Browse 10 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve remote cabin permits through recreation.gov exactly six months in advance, as popular locations like Twelvemile Cabin and Shelikof Cabin book within minutes of becoming available, and always have backup dates and alternative locations ready.
- 2Bring comprehensive rain gear including waterproof jackets, pants, and boot covers, as Southeast Alaska can receive over 150 inches of annual rainfall and multi-day rain events are common even during summer.
- 3Pack tide tables for your specific location and plan beach activities around low tides to access the best beachcombing, clamming, and tide pooling opportunities—many Alaska beaches transform completely between high and low tide.
- 4Bear safety is critical at all Alaska beach campgrounds, so carry bear spray, use bear-resistant food containers, and never leave food or scented items unattended, as both black and brown bears frequent coastal areas especially during salmon runs.
Beach Camping in Alaska FAQ
We've ranked 10+ beach campgrounds in Alaska based on water access, amenities, and user reviews. Top options include oceanfront and lakeside sites with sandy beaches and swimming access.
Beach camping in Alaska is generally best from May through September when water temperatures are warmest. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and milder weather.
For beach camping in Alaska, bring sun protection, beach chairs, water toys, and sand-friendly gear. Wind stakes for your tent are essential, and consider a shade structure for daytime comfort.
Popular Alaska Campgrounds Book Fast
The best beach camping in Alaska book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Settler&Apos;S Cove State Recreation Site
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