Top Sitka Shore Excursions

Get closer to nature during an intimate, small-group adventure around Sitka Sound, home to majestic whales, brown bears, eagles, and sea otters. Create lasting memories of seeing these animals in their natural habitats while learning more about them from experts. Whether you’re calling at Sitka during your cruise or staying in town, this activity is an ideal introduction to the area for wildlife enthusiasts.

Experience Alaska through the eyes of a local with this Sights of Sitka tour, which stops at three of the area's top destinations. Start at the Fortress of the Bear, a rescue facility where you can see rescued Black and Brown bears. From there, head to the Alaskan Raptor Center to view birds of prey before visiting the Sitka National Historical Park. The park is home to Tlingit and Haida Totem poles, as well as a cultural center where you can learn about Indigenous history.

Escape the Alaska visitor crowds—and take the guesswork out of finding the most picturesque spots—on this small-group photography tour of Sitka, which includes pickup and drop-off from the cruise terminal. Take in panoramic mountain views, visit top scenic highlights like Silver Bay and Halibut Point State Recreation Site, and look out for native wildlife, including sea lions and bald eagles, along the way.

Skip the impersonal, large-group bus tour and explore Sitka on a small-group day trip to the city’s top landmarks, with a range of departure times offered to fit your schedule. Your guide, who navigates for you, brings you to four highly-rated attractions, including Fortress of the Bear, the Alaska Raptor Center, and the Sitka National Historic Park. All entrance fees are included for your convenience.

Come join us on a 2.5 hour experience of Sitka's highlights, history and breathtaking views! One of Sitka's highlights that we'll take you to is the Fortress of the Bear. A non-profit bear rescue sanctuary for orphaned bear cubs. You will have the opportuntity to see five Coastal Brown Bear and three Black Bear! Another highlight included in the tour is Sitka National Historical Park. This stop dives into Sitka's Russian and Alaskan Native history depicted from the totem poles. The guide takes you to see multiple totem poles while sharing some of Sitka's history along the way. This is a great stop for photos of Sitka's forest, history and shore line view of our rocky beaches. This is a mild walking stop on the tour. Gentle reminder that we are not ADA accessible. Our last stop is on Japonski Island, a small island that connects to our main island by bridge. Japonski Island has our WW2 history, Rocky Gutierrez airport, Coast Guard Air Station/boat station and scenic photo stops.

Join an award-winning cruise that offers the opportunity to spot sea otters, whales, sea lions, porpoises, harbor seals, brown bears, deer, bald eagles, and more! On this voyage, our top priority is to deliver excellent wildlife viewing in a condensed time frame, so you are able to enjoy an action-packed day while visiting Sitka!

Discover Alaska’s wildlife on this small-group tour through the waters of Sitka Sound. Keep your eye out for seals, bald eagles, sea lions, whales, bears, and more creatures big and small. Learn about the area’s flora and fauna from your guide as you coast along the water. Perfect for nature-lovers, this intimate tour is limited to six people.

Take in the sights and learn about the history of the former capital of Russian America with this guided Sitka walking tour. Hear stories of the town’s past as you admire Russian and Gold Rush architecture in the historic downtown, plus learn about the local Tlingit culture. Touch on top sights like Crescent Harbor, St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Sitka Pioneers' Home, and Castle Hill in just an hour.

Explore Alaska from the water–and go beyond the guidebook–on this boat tour in and around the waters of the Sitka Sound. Take in picturesque views, learn about the local ecosystem, and hear stories about the fishing industry from a local. Look out for wildlife: sea lions, humpback whales, and harbor seals, plus a wide variety of birds, are just a few of the species you might spot.

Get to know Alaska’s historic city of Sitka on this small-group shore excursion limited to just 10 people. Aboard a comfortable van, cross the O’Connell Bridge to Japonski Island. See Sheldon Jackson Museum, Alaska Pioneer Home, and St. Michael’s Cathedral, and hear informative commentary on the sites from seasoned guides. Meet the rescued bears of Fortress of the Bear, and take in the marvelous scenery of Sitka National Historical Park.

Discover the beauty of Sitka with a self-guided Jeep tour, perfect for adventurers looking to explore on their own terms. This tour allows you to navigate through stunning landscapes and historic sites with ease. Enjoy a GPS-triggered audio guide that activates as you drive, sharing local legends and insights tailored to your route. You can set your own schedule and delve into the captivating culture of Alaska's hidden gem. - Drive a 5-seat, 4-door Jeep Wrangler for ultimate comfort. - Use an iPad for GPS navigation and storytelling. - Explore at your convenience without the need for refueling. - Includes up to 2 car seats for family-friendly adventures. - Insurance included with price!

Explore Sitka without the hassle of navigating on your own on a half–day tour to the city’s top landmarks, including the Fortress of Bears, National Historic Park, and Raptor Center. No need to plan logistics: Entrance fees are included for all stops on the itinerary. In addition to round–trip transportation from the Sitka cruise port, your guide provides live commentary about landmarks passed along the way.

Discover Sitka’s colonial architecture, splendid wildlife, and rich history with ease on this private half-day adventure. Soak up the stunning mountain scenery during the drive between Sitka’s top landmarks and natural attractions, including Starrigavan Recreation Area to spot wildlife both big and small, and Baranof Castle, where more epic views await. In Sitka itself, tell your guide what interests you most and they’ll tailor the itinerary accordingly.

Discover Tongass, the biggest National Forest in the U.S., with the help of a local guide who’s got a wealth of experience hiking in the area and knows the best routes for your group’s skill level. Your guide helps you forage for berries and mushrooms and tells you about what life is like in Sitka. Keep a lookout for bald eagles and, during the right time of year, salmon spawning.

Explore the captivating sights of Sitka on this comprehensive sightseeing tour. Traverse from the lush Starrigavan Recreation Area to the scenic Herring Cove, experiencing both well-known attractions and hidden gems. Highlights include a drive across O’Connell Bridge to Japonski Island, rich in World War II history, and visits to the Fortress of the Bear, a rescue center for orphaned bears, and Sitka National Historical Park, where Tlingit and Russian history come alive. Enjoy informative commentary from your guide as you uncover the stories that shape Sitka. - Convenient pickup from the cruise ship dock and downtown Sitka. - Visit Fortress of the Bear featuring rescued black and brown bears. - Discover the cultural heritage at Sitka National Historical Park. - Learn about Sitka's history from a knowledgeable local guide.

Sitka is abundant in wildlife, from humpback whales to sea lions and brown bears to bold eagles. Having somebody who knows where to look by your side will dramatically boost your chances of sighting the local fauna. This whale watching and wildlife tour takes you around Sitka Sound, the outer coast of the Baranof Islands and Tongass National Rainforest, each just as rich in epic scenery as they are wildlife.

Active, adventurous travelers will love taking a small-group snorkel tour around Sitka Sound to experience the underwater world. You’ll be fitted with a semi-dry suit to keep you warm in the cold Alaskan water. Your guide will keep you safe and lead the way as you look out for octopus, rockfish, anemones, and other cold-water creatures that call Sitka Sound home.

See parts of the Sitka Sound that you’d be hard pressed to reach on your own with this shore excursion. Spot eagles and maybe even whales from the comfort of a custom-built vessel, and pay attention to the shoreline for sightings of brown bears and black-tailed deer. Then, paddle a kayak and enjoy even closer views of the water and its marine wildlife like harbor seals.

Discover the natural beauty of Alaska—and take the guesswork out of sightseeing—on this private boat tour around Sitka, including soft drinks and light snacks. Pass scenic highlights including Mt. Edgecumbe Volcano and the Tongass National Forest, look out for native wildlife including humpback whales, sea otters, and brown bears, and hear stories and insights as you explore. The tour lasts for three hours but can be extended—extra fee.

Embark on a breathtaking flightseeing tour in Sitka, Alaska, where you'll soar above majestic mountains and pristine landscapes. This aerial adventure offers a unique perspective of the towering peaks, lush forests, and tranquil waters of Sitka Sound. As you glide through the sky, you'll be treated to panoramic views of rugged coastlines and the wildlife-rich waters below. The tour highlights the stunning natural beauty of Southeast Alaska, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the region’s awe-inspiring landscapes from a bird's eye view. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a photography lover, this flightseeing experience is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of Alaska's untouched wilderness.

Guided hiking tour in Sitka, Alaska. Experience the beauty of the Tongass National Forest and the wildflowers of the alpine. Choose from half-day hikes, full-day hikes, and hikes that end with a tour of our local brewery! Your local guide will show you the best that Sitka has to offer! Your guides will provide information on the local culture, flora and fauna, and history of this special place. You'll get to explore the best kept secrets of Sitka on foot!

Experience the authentic beauty of Alaska with Tide Rips Adventures E-Bike Rentals! Our family-focused, self-guided tours allow you to escape the crowds and explore at your own pace. Discover hidden gems that most tourists miss, from pristine, untouched beaches to scenic trails teeming with wildlife. With our easy-to-use e-bikes, you can effortlessly navigate through breathtaking landscapes, making it perfect for families of all ages. Glide along coastal paths, stop for breathtaking views, and enjoy the freedom to explore secluded areas where nature thrives. Capture unforgettable moments as you encounter playful sea otters, majestic eagles, and the stunning scenery that defines Alaska's wild heart. Create lasting memories with your loved ones in a truly unique way. Book your Tide Rips Adventures E-Bike Rental today and embark on an adventure that will reveal the hidden treasures of Alaska!

Avoid the hassle of renting a car during your time in Sitka and take a private taxi tour of the area. Customize your itinerary and visit the places that interest you the most or let your driver suggest some off-the-beaten-path locations. Choose to visit the Fortress of the Bear, Totem Park, Baranof Castle, the raptor center, and much more.