Bridal Veil Waterfall and Tonisa Point Paddle

Bridal Veil Falls & Tonsina Point Paddle – Guided Sea Kayaking in Resurrection Bay

This is one of the most scenic and accessible paddles in the Seward area — a guided half-day kayak that hugs the dramatic coastline south from Lowell Point to one of two stunning destinations: the cascading Bridal Veil Waterfall, where a powerful falls drops directly into the sea from the cliffs above, or Tonsina Landing Beach, gateway to a short walk through the lush Chugach temperate rainforest. Your guide makes the call on the day based on weather, tides, and conditions — either way, you're in for something special.

The paddle itself is easy and unhurried, covering approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) each way along sheltered coastline with plenty to see along the way. Keep your eyes on the water for river otters diving for snacks, Dall's porpoises surfacing nearby, and harbor seals poking their heads up with curiosity. Bald eagles are a near-constant presence, perched high in the Sitka spruce lining the cliffs. The shoreline itself rewards slow, quiet paddling — kelp beds, rocky outcroppings, and the thick temperate rainforest pressing right to the water's edge.

Once ashore, your guide leads a short nature walk through an extraordinary coastal forest — mossy old-growth trees, devil's club, berry bushes, and plants unique to Alaska's coastline. At Bridal Veil, the falls is the main event: dramatic, close, and easily one of the most photogenic spots in Resurrection Bay. At Tonsina, the rainforest walk itself is the draw, with uneven terrain that adds to the sense of genuine wilderness exploration.

With a 7 a.m. morning departure and a 7 p.m. evening departure, this trip offers two very different moods. Morning brings crisp coastal air and glassy water; the evening paddle often features golden light reflecting off calm seas — one of the most beautiful ways to spend a summer evening in Seward, returning around 10–11 p.m. under Alaska's long summer sky.

Duration

Approximately 3 hours total.

• 7 a.m. departure: Returns 10–11 a.m.
  
• 7 p.m. departure: Returns 10–11 p.m.
  

Location / Where to Meet

13880 Beach Drive, Seward, AK 99664 

Ages & Requirements

• Best for ages 8 and up
  
• Tandem kayak maximum capacity: about 400–600 lbs (181–272 kg). Maximum 250 lbs (113 kg) per person.
  
• The spray skirts used on the kayaks fit waist sizes roughly up to 50 inches.
  
• This trip is very easy — one of the most beginner-friendly paddles available. Paddling covers approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) each way along calm, sheltered coastline. The nature walk at the destination includes some uneven terrain — watch your step on the trail.
  
• Group Tour: Up to 16 guests
  
• Private Tour: Up to 8 or 16 guests — just you and your group
  

What's Included

• Experienced, WFR-certified kayak guide
  
• Sit-inside tandem kayaks with spray skirts, life vests, and paddles
  
• Pre-trip safety and paddling orientation
  
• Safety and first aid equipment
  
• The following is available as needed, just let your guide know:
  
• Extra rain gear
  
• Pogies to protect your hands (paddling mittens)
  
• Neoprene Bootie
  
• A dry bag (recommended for cameras)
  
• A butt pad
  

Not Included

• Meals or snacks — the on-site café is available before and after your trip
  
• Transportation to the meeting point
  
• Guide gratuity — a suggested 20% tip is greatly appreciated; your guide works hard to make your day exceptional
  

What to Bring / Wear

• Water-resistant or waterproof shoes plus extra socks (kayaks are launched from shore — you should not need to step into water, though the nature walk includes uneven, potentially wet terrain)
  
• Wool or synthetic layers — no cotton
  
• Rain jacket and rain pants
  
• Warm hat and lightweight gloves
  
• Sun hat and sunglasses
  
• Sunscreen
  
• Water bottle
  
• Camera with waterproof housing or dry bag (cameras can rest on the kayak under bungee cords)
  
• Personal medications