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Humpy Cove Paddle
Pricing
Up to 6 people, exclusive use of boat and tour
Description
Humpy Cove Paddle – Guided Sea Kayaking in Resurrection Bay
Hop aboard the water taxi and cross Resurrection Bay to one of its most spectacular hidden corners. Humpy Cove is a sheltered, crystal-clear gem tucked beneath sheer cliffs that cascade with waterfalls when it rains, with basalt rock formations rising from emerald water and intertidal life — sea urchins, sea stars, and migrating sea jellies — clinging to every surface. After a scenic 20–30 minute water taxi crossing, your guide leads approximately 2 hours of easy, relaxed paddling in waters protected from wind and waves, making this one of the best introductory kayaking experiences in the Seward area.
This is a guide favorite, and it's easy to see why. The cove's unique geology creates a constantly changing environment — waterfalls appear after rainfall, salmon fill the creek on their fall run, and the sheer cliffs towering above give the whole place a dramatic, otherworldly feel. Sea otters drift in the kelp, seabirds work the cliff faces, and bald eagles perch high in the spruce. It's the kind of place that surprises people — tucked away just across the bay, yet feeling completely removed from the world.
Occasionally, conditions in Humpy Cove call for a switch to Thumb Cove, an equally beautiful alternative sheltered by three alpine glaciers and frequented by bald eagles, sea lions, and sea otters. Either way, you're in excellent hands and excellent scenery.
Duration
Approximately 3.5 hours total. Water taxi crossing: 20–30 minutes each way. Paddling time: approximately 2 hours in the cove.
- Standard departure: 10 a.m., returns ~1:30 p.m.
- Private bookings: 6 a.m., 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. departures available — call to book.
Location / Where to Meet
13880 Beach Drive, Seward, AK 99664
Ages & Requirements
- 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 — ideal for first-time kayakers, families, and anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic paddle without a strenuous day. Paddling takes place in calm, protected waters.
- Group Tour: Up to 16 guests
- Private Tour: Up to 6 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
- Water taxi transportation to and from the cove
- 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)
- 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
There is plenty of storage in the boats for spare layers and other items if packed into small bags around 25 oz. Each guest also receives a dry bag for use during the trip, if needed.
ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Miller's Landing
FAQs
Humpy Cove Kayaking Itinerary
This is a great quick trip, it starts with a water taxi ride to the east side of Resurrection bay to one of the two coves, Humpy of Thumb. Keep your eyes peeled for porpoises, harbor seals or bald eagles along the way, and enjoy the gorgeous views of the Bay.
From there, we paddle in one of two protected coves where you can expect to see waterfalls cascading down sheer mountainsides, basalt rock formations, sea stars, various sea birds, salmon streams, and the gorgeous flora that makes up this temperate rainforest.
On the ride back, keep your eyes peeled for whales, Dall’s porpoises, sea otters, and majestic sea lions to name just a few. Join us on this full-day kayak trip from Seward to see all the beauty of Resurrection Bay and the great wildlife watching available here.
Is this trip good for beginners and kids?
Absolutely — this is one of the most beginner-friendly and family-friendly tours available. The paddling takes place in calm, sheltered cove waters, your guide provides a full safety and paddling orientation before launching, and the 2-hour duration keeps it accessible for younger paddlers and those new to kayaking. Children ages 8 and up are welcome.
What makes Humpy Cove special?
Humpy Cove sits close to the mouth of Resurrection Bay, sheltered from the open water by sheer cliff walls that drop straight into the ocean. The water is crystal-clear, the rock gardens are home to sea urchins, sea stars, and sea jellies, and when it rains the cliff faces erupt with dozens of small waterfalls. In fall, salmon fill the cove's creek on their spawning run. It's a genuinely unique environment that rewards slow, quiet paddling.
What if we go to Thumb Cove instead?
It's rare, but if conditions in Humpy Cove aren't ideal, your guide will redirect to Thumb Cove. Equally protected from wind and waves, Thumb Cove is surrounded by three stunning alpine glaciers and is a wonderful spot for wildlife watching — bald eagles, sea otters, and sea lions are all common. Either destination makes for a great trip.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
On the water taxi crossing, watch for Dall's porpoises, harbor seals, and bald eagles. In the coves themselves, sea otters drifting in kelp, various coastal seabirds, and intertidal species like sea urchins and sea stars are common. In the fall, salmon can be seen in the creek. Humpback whales and orca are occasionally spotted in Resurrection Bay as well.
Howl long is the water taxi ride?
The crossing takes approximately 20–30 minutes each way depending on conditions and any additional stops to drop off or pick up other kayak groups along the route. The team does their best to keep the ride comfortable, though conditions on the bay can vary.
Can I bring my camera?
Yes. Cameras can be worn around your neck or stored in a dry bag that sits on the kayak under bungee cords. Waterproof housing is recommended given Alaska's coastal conditions.
Cancellation Policy
- A $10 fee is levied on all cancellations: 30 or more days prior = 90% refund,
- 15-29 days prior = 75% refund,
- 0-14 days prior = 50% refund only if we are able to re-book your trip/stay.
Availability
Reviews
Location
Address
13890 Beach Drive
Seward, AK, 99664
US
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