*If you have any questions that aren't answered in this post, please leave them in the comments section where I do my best to answer all Alaska related questions directly!
My Essential Alaska Travel Resources :
There are a lot of travel companies out there, but some are better than others. These are my favorite websites and resources to help plan an incredible trip to the 49th State. For flights, I recommend using WayAway or Hopper to compare the cheapest dates to travel to Alaska. Car rentals, arguably the best way to see Alaska, are best through Discover Cars! I always use AGODA for hotels. They have an easy-to-use platform where you can compare the best rates. To keep cell phone service if you're traveling internationally, I always use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required). For fun things to do, I recommend Viator to find the best tours in the area, otherwise Klook also does the trick. Just in case, Safetywing is the insurance I always use for travel insurance. Lastly, my Alaska packing list for your travels to the Last Frontier. Tips for your Stay in Alaska
A visit to Alaska is unlike a visit to any other place, and so there's a few tips to keep in mind during your stay. The most important thing to keep in mind is local Alaskan wildlife. Depending on which place you're visiting in Alaska, you could see bears, moose, and other animals and critters on the property - so it's important to stay vigilant and stay aware of your surroundings at the property. You might even consider carrying bear spray.
Also, depending on the season, it could be a little chilly - especially if you plan to stay in one of the cabins. I always recommend bringing some slippers and cozy sweaters with you if you plan to visit during the winter, fall, or spring months. Lastly, you'll want to book in advance. Most stays, especially in peak summer months, book up quickly - they could even be full 6 months ahead of time. To get the dates you want, I recommend checking their calendar when it releases, and signing up for their newsletter for any last minute stays. My most important recommendation, of course, is to bring your camera. ;)
A few of my favorite tours in Alaska :
- Katmai National Park Bear Viewing - Major Marine Tours Wildlife & Glacier Cruise - Sixmile Creek Whitewater Rafting 25 Best Stays in Alaska
1. Salted Roots Cabins, Seward
The Salted Roots set of cabins sits right along the shores of Resurrection Bay, the area of water surrounding Seward. Over the past few years they've grown their set of cabins, and now have a collection of 12 unique options. In addition to an epic stay, they host weddings and have an incredible sauna, yoga studio, and fire pits onsite. If you have a large group you can also book out the entire property!
2. Resurrection Lodge on the Bay, Seward
With 3 unique stay options, the Resurrection Lodge has epic views of Resurrection Bay. Although not as modern as Salted Roots, this cozy stay in Seward is exactly what you would picture as a typical Alaskan cabin. They offer incredible views, fishing from your front door, and access to a fish freezer and outdoor grill - as well as a complementary shuttle service from town.
3. Orca Island Cabins, Seward
The Orca Island Cabins in Seward are some of the most unique I've ever seen. Their yurts are located on a private island right on Resurrection Bay, and just like their name suggests - you even have the chance to see orcas right from your stay! Although on the higher price end of my collection of places to stay in Alaska, the price includes your round trip water taxi, paddle boards, row boats, fishing gear and wet suits!
4. Shearwater Cove, Seward
Similar to the Orca Island Cabins also located in Seward, the Shearwater Cove's yurts also have incredible waterfront views. The price also includes your water taxi to the stay as well as access to their sea kayaks! Right from shore (if you're lucky enough) you can even see orcas, sea otters, and seals!
5. Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge, Seward
Located on Fox Island out of Seward, the Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge is only accessible via a 12 mile boat ride from Resurrection Bay, included in your stay. Not only will you be staying on a totally secluded island, but you'll have incredible wildlife viewing opportunities and it'll be the perfect place to relax and unwind. Even though they're only open in the summer months, they also have a sauna onsite and offer guided kayaking!
6. Sewards Woodland Cottage, Seward
This small Airbnb is perfect for solo travelers or couples looking to explore the Seward area and the Kenai Fjords National Park. Just 10 minutes from downtown Seward, this modern cabin is the perfectly cozy stay to enjoy a rainy day in Seward.
7. Eagle River Nature Center, Eagle River
The Nature Center itself might not be a great place to stay, but they have some pretty epic yurts onsite that offer incredible views. These are the perfect place to stay for anyone looking for a simpler, more "outdoorsy" stay. Our personal favorite yurt is the Riverside Yurt, but they have a few options you can choose from. To get there you'll have to hike in about a mile and bring all your belongings with you - the yurt comes equipped with a bunk bed, wood burning stove, a table, and two chairs. Because you'll be in bear country it is essential to store your food accordingly, and stay bear aware when you explore the area.
8. Alyeska Resort, Girdwood
One of the best places to stay near Anchorage is the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood. With endless skiing, biking, and hiking trails for all seasons, this is the perfect place to recharge and relax with a getaway. Not only do they have many onsite dining options, but they've also just finished remodeling their newly opened Nordic Spa and Veilbreaker Skybridge - which are great additions to their many amenities - like their Aerial Tram!
9. Jeremey's Mountain Chalet, Girdwood
This incredible Airbnb is the perfect place to rent out if you have a large group. With enough room for 16 guests and incredible views of the area, it's the perfect spot for bachelorette parties, family reunions, or other events - plus Girdwood is one of my favorite cities to explore - just keep your eyes open for the black bears! ;)
10. Crow Pass Cabin, Girdwood
Crow Pass Cabin is not a stay for the lighthearted, although this hidden A-Frame Cabin is absolutely stunning, it requires a bit of prep and planning - and to get there you'll have to hike 3 miles in with all your gear. As a secluded dry cabin in the mountains, I haven't been lucky enough to score reservations yet, but I've heard that they occasionally have last minute cancellations. You can reserve this cabin here.
11. Between Beaches, Seldovia
These secluded, remote, and beachfront cabins are located across the Kachemak Bay from Homer - technically located in Seldovia. The Between Beaches stays have a wood fired sauna and hot tub onsite, and even have excellent tidepooling! With incredible views of the bay, your stay includes access to their paddle boards and kayaks and a fishing float for a chance to catch some halibut!
12. Homer Inn & Spa, Homer
With incredible views of Kachemak Bay, the Homer Inn & Spa boutique is definitely the place to go if you're looking to relax and enjoy the views. They have 3 different room options and plenty of services to choose from their spa as well. You can also add on a halibut or salmon fishing excursion and a bear viewing experience as well!
13. West Wind Cabins, Homer
This stunningly modern set of cabins is one of my most recent finds when looking for an epic place to stay in Alaska. Because it's only 3 minutes from downtown Homer, this is the perfect place to stay if you want to explore Homer, head out on a bear excursion to Katmai, or see the Northern Lights!
14. Second Star Mansion, Homer
This luxury mansion is in a league of it's own, and not just because of the price. Their all inclusive packages include enough room for 24 guests, a private charter flight from Anchorage to Homer, and a personal chef for your entire stay. Not to mention the entire 2nd floor is inspired by Neverland from Peter Pan to encourage adventure! Did I mention the Bucketlist Family stayed here on their trip to Homer?! If you're looking for a once in a lifetime, epic Alaskan experience - then this is the stay for you.
15. Captain Cook Hotel, Anchorage
Although this wouldn't be the first place we would choose to stay on our list, it's still one of the most notable places to stay in Alaska. Mainly because the Captain Cook Hotel is where the Presidents & any celebrities stay when visiting Anchorage! As one of the tallest buildings in the city, they have stunning views and an incredible penthouse suite. If you visit during the winter, they also have an incredible gingerbread house city on the main floor!
16. The Lakefront, Anchorage
Another notable stay in Anchorage is The Lakefront - a hotel that is very central and only about a 5 minute drive from the international airport! Although it's a little outdated, they also have onsite dining, a fantastic view of Lake Spenard and Lake Hood, and complimentary 24/7 shuttles to the airport.
17. Borealis Basecamp, Fairbanks
Moving to Fairbanks, hands down the most epic place to stay is the Borealis Basecamp to see the Northern Lights! Their igloo shaped domes have glass windows so you can watch the aurora from the comfort of your bed - and it's definitely one of the most bucket-list worthy stays on our list. Located on 100 secluded acres, this is also an excellent stay if you're looking to unwind and enjoy some peace and quiet.
18. Mountain Field Farm, Palmer
For those looking for a boutique Airbnb feel, the Mountain field Farm is the spot for you. This stunning wedding venue and luxury lodging property in the Matsu Valley is located on a 20 acre flower farm and has beautiful views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
19. Alpenglow Luxury Camping, Glacier View
Alpenglow Luxury Camping is the ultimate glamping experience in Alaska. After a short helicopter ride - you'll be brought to your stay for the night, a tent on Matanuska Glacier! This might be the most epic stay on my list, and during your stay you can choose to kick back and relax or learn to go ice climbing!
20. Sheep Mountain Lodge, Glacier View
Located near Matanuska Glacier, the Sheep Mountain Lodge has been hosting guests for over 80 years now. They have handcrafted cabins, glacier sightseeing tours, and an onsite restaurant. If you're looking for a tranquil stay with the chance to see wildlife, then this stay in the Matsu Valley is the spot for you!
21. Denali Backcountry Lodge, Denali National Park
As one of the only options inside Denali National Park that is not "camping only" - this lodge is only accessible via helicopter, meaning before you even get to your stay you'll have some of the most epic flight views. During your stay in the backcountry of Alaska, you can head out on guided tours, incredible hikes, or even enjoy your time at their Spa & Wellness Center. This is one of the best ways to experience the National Park!
22. Denali Cabins, Denali
Owned by the same company that owns the Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge and the Denali Backcountry Lodge, the Denali Cabins are a cozy option for those looking to explore Denali National Park. Located just a few miles from the park entrance, this collection of 46 cabins is much quieter and secluded than the other stays perched right at the park's entrance. Not only do they have a shuttle to the National Park, but they also have an onsite restaurant, a wood fired sauna, and even outdoor hot tubs!
23. Denali Wild Stay, Healy
This collection of rustic cabins are perfect if you're looking to explore the Denali National Park area while being surrounded by the true Alaskan wilderness. The best part is that they're within walking distance to the 49th State Brewery - just make sure to keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife!
24. Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, Talkeetna
Owned by the same company that owns Denali Cabins (above), the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge offers some of the best views of Denali. They also have some great onsite dining and a beautiful fireplace in the common area, the best part is they're located in Talkeetna - one of my favorite cities in Alaska to explore!
25. Coop Cabin, Nenana
The Coop Cabin Airbnb in Nenana is a "tiny cabin" type of stay, and also offers incredible views of the peak of Denali. Sleeping 4, this stay is perfect if you're looking to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty of Denali (although there is wifi) - and maybe see a moose or two. From the front deck, you can even watch the Alaska Railroad go by, and even though it's a dry cabin - you'll get the full experience of how many locals choose to live.
Other Alaska blog posts you might be interested in :
-> 15 Easiest Alaska Glaciers to Visit -> Where to Rent Bear Spray in Alaska -> 7 Best Tours in Alaska
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I'm Deborah👋🏼
In 2021 my husband Tyler convinced me to move to Alaska. After living there for a year (then leaving to take a year long world trip) we realized there was no place we loved more. So now we're back - and I'm here to share all my best tips and hidden gems to make Your Alaskan Adventures the best they can be. My favorite travel & outdoor gear is available right here! Use this link to shop all my favorite Alaska necessities! This blog and all content is free to you, however, when you purchase through referral or affiliate links on our site I may earn a small commission with no extra cost to you! --- Learn more here about our affiliates and privacy policy. --- Links look like this, and are tours and products I only personally recommend! --- Join Travel Payouts or Rock Porch to earn affiliates on your own sites! Planning a trip outside Alaska? Check out our blog Raarup Adventures for international vacation ideas or Deborah in Korea for adventures in South Korea! |