The great state of Alaska has 33,904 miles of shoreline, but most of that is rough, rocky coast that isn’t very hospitable for picnicking. True beaches are few and far between, and they are almost exclusively coarse black sand full of rocks. But the Gulf of Alaska boasts a rare treat: a remote sandy beach. Granted, the sand is not as white as a Hawaiian postcard, nor are the breezes tropically warm, but Cannon Beach in Yakutat has the beach with the finest sand in Alaska. Explore this incredible beach that features historical sites, Alaskan wildlife, stunning views, and even surfing!
Cannon Beach stretches out on the coast of the Gulf of Alaska. The sand is made soft and silky from glacial silt. The beach is in Yakutat, a small town of 700 residents on the coast between the Inside Passage and Prince William Sound of southern Alaska.
There is no road or rail access, but daily commercial jet service, chartered boats and the Alaska Marine Highway frequent this area. Yakutat is surrounded by the Tongass National Forests, Wrangell St-Elias National Park and Preserve, and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.
Cannon Beach is named for the World War II cannons that were installed to protect the area and are still in place. It was also a site for gold mining in the 1880's.
This beach is a surfer's dream with miles of uninterrupted waves. You can rent gear locally and get all the info you need at The Far North Shore surf shop.
Everyone enjoys a day on the beach, even Brown Bears. The area is frequented by other wildlife as well including bald eagles, moose, and lots of different birds.
The gulf is packed with Pink Salmon in the coastal waters. Sport fishing is a major industry in the town and you can easily spend a day catching food for the winter.
Cannon Beach in Yakutat is a true sandy beach escape and a beautiful place to visit on the Gulf of Alaska. Visit Yakutat to explore the beach, see the cannons, and maybe even watch someone catch a wave!
