Is Seward Alaska Worth Visiting in the Winter? (My Honest Opinion)

Seward is hands down one of my favorite cities to visit in Alaska. If you're planning a trip here during the summer, then chances are you'll have already planned for a few days in Seward. However, if you're considering visiting in the winter, you might not be as sure whether a visit to Seward is really worth it. A typical visit to Seward consists of amazing views, marine wildlife, and delicious foods - luckily, in the winter you can still do all of this - minus the hectic crowds, making a winter visit to Seward 100% worth it. 

​My Essential Alaska Travel Resources :
There are plenty of travel companies out there, but these are my favorite websites and resources for planning an unforgettable trip to Alaska. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

For flights, I recommend using 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 Expedia's easy-to-use platform to compare the best rates.
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To keep cell service if you're traveling internationally, I use Airalo’s easy to purchase eSIM’s (no installation required), and NordVPN to stay safe while connecting to different wifi.

For fun things to do, I recommend Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours in the area.

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.

Winter Weather in Seward & What to Expect

Because Seward sits on Resurrection Bay (which leads to the ocean), the temperature in the winter typically hovers right above freezing. If you're from out of state, this will mean you'll more than likely need to bundle up - but if you're from Alaska, you'll know this is actually quite a comfortable temperature!

You might also notice that Seward usually gets less snow than the majority of Alaska - and although the marina & harbor water might freeze over, the water in Resurrection Bay usually never freezes. In addition to base layers and regular winter gear, I recommend bringing crampons if you plan to do any winter hiking.

If you're looking for a super cozy winter stay, then I recommend looking into Salted Roots. This local lodging option has multiple different options, including some A-Frames and a Retro Bus Cabin. They sit right on Resurrection Bay, have amazing views, a sauna onsite, and your own access to the beachfront - they're the perfect winter getaway stay.

Book Your Stay in Seward Here!

My Favorite Tours from Seward : 
- Alaska Railroad Roundtrip to Seward
- Full Day Kenai Fjords Cruise

Is A Winter Visit Really Worth It?

If you haven't picked up on my hints, then I'll say it again - I 100% think Seward is worth a winter visit. Even during the winter months, you can still experience the true beauty of Seward without all the hectic summer crowds. Although Seward isn't the best city to visit if your sole mission in Alaska is to experience the Northern Lights, they can still be visible from this location on the Kenai Peninsula if you're lucky!

For visitors searching for marine wildlife, then you're in luck too. As you drive down the Lowell Point Road you'll often see plenty of seals, sea lions, and cute adorable otters - not to mention all the eagles you'll see! If you want to explore the outdoors, you can also head out on multiple winter hikes or go fat tire biking to Exit Glacier!

Lastly, no visit to Seward is complete without experiencing some peaceful & cozy vibes - whether that's in the form of morning coffee on the beach, a beautiful sunset view from the cabin you're staying in, or some good old fashioned homestyle meals. Here you can see my entire list of places to eat in Seward, but if you're really wanting to get cozy for a winter getaway - I really only recommend checking out Salted Roots. They have multiple cabins to choose from (including A-Frames and a converted retro bus) with incredible views that is just steps from the beach and includes an onsite sauna - the ultimate cozy cabin getaway!

Watch my Adventures in Seward here!

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Other Alaska blog posts you might be interested in : 
-> 7 Reasons to Visit Seward
-> My Honest Review of Major Marine Tours
​-> Best Places to Eat in Seward

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Pin this Winter Seward Guide for later!