If you’re dreaming of exploring the stunning waters and lush landscapes of Seward, Alaska, the Resurrection Bay Waterfall and Rainforest Adventure might catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have—and it sounds like a fantastic way to see some of Alaska’s natural beauty in a relatively short amount of time.
What really stands out is how many say it offers an up-close experience with marine wildlife—think bald eagles, sea otters, and seals—plus the chance to hike to a waterfall amid a peaceful rainforest. And for those who love a mix of water and land, this combo day seems to hit the sweet spot. A little caution: it’s a small-group tour, which is great for intimacy but might fill up quickly, so booking ahead is a good idea. This adventure seems ideal for outdoor lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who want to combine active exploration with gorgeous scenery.
Two things we particularly like about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides who get rave reviews for their friendliness and expertise, making the trip both fun and educational. Second, the stunning vistas of Resurrection Bay and the waterfall hike, which promise plenty of photo-worthy moments. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the weather dependence—bad weather could impact some parts of the tour, though the company does offer a full refund or reschedule if that happens. If you’re fairly active, love nature, and enjoy a bit of adventure, this tour could be just the ticket.
Key Points
- Small group size keeps the experience intimate and personalized
- Wildlife sightings like bald eagles, sea otters, and seals are common
- Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness
- Includes all essential gear plus a picnic lunch—good value for the price
- Weather can affect the experience; planning for flexible dates helps
- Ideal for active travelers aged 8 and up, with some physical demands
What the Tour Offers: A Day of Water, Wildlife, and Forests
Starting bright and early at 8:30 am at the meeting point in Seward, this roughly 4-hour 45-minute adventure is designed for those wanting a well-rounded taste of Resurrection Bay’s natural splendors. The tour is run by Sunny Cove Kayaking, a reputable provider with great reviews, especially praising their attention to safety and customer service.
Planning more time in Seward? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Focus on Marine Life and Scenic Waters
The main event is paddling along the shoreline of Resurrection Bay in a two-person kayak. As you glide over the water, your guides will keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that makes this area special. Expect to see bald eagles soaring overhead, sea otters bobbing nearby, and possibly seals basking on rocks or swimming close to your boat.
Many reviewers mention how close they felt to the animals, which is quite the thrill. One even described seeing harbor porpoises and seals, adding to the sense of being in an untouched wilderness. The water itself offers beautiful views of glaciers and the rugged coast, making it a photographer’s dream.
The Rainforest and Waterfall Hike
After paddling, the trip includes a walk through a temperate rainforest, a quiet, lush environment teeming with life. This isn’t a long hike, but it’s enough to give you a different perspective on Alaska’s greenery. The highlight here is the waterfall, which many say is “beautiful and worth the short hike”. Hearing the cascading water surrounded by trees is a calming experience and a great contrast to the open water.
Comfort and Convenience
All necessary gear—such as waterproof boots, a dry bag, splash jackets, and neoprene mitts—are included, so you won’t need to worry about bringing your own paddling equipment. Plus, a picnic lunch is provided, allowing you to refuel and relax after your active morning.
The Itinerary in Detail
Resurrection Bay: The trip kicks off with a paddle along the bay, where your guides will help you get comfortable on the water. If you’re new to kayaking, don’t worry—the guides are experienced and will give clear instructions. Expect to be on the water for around two hours, with plenty of opportunities to admire the scenery and spot wildlife.
Seward Boat Harbor: The journey begins with a short drive from Seward itself, where your guides give an overview of the area’s history and current life. This is a nice chance to get some context before heading into the wilderness.
Rainforest Walk and Waterfall: Following the paddle, you’ll hike into the rain forest, which is lush and peaceful. The waterfall hike is described as a “short walk” but is rewarding with its scenic views. Reviewers mention it’s very beautiful and worth the stop.
What Travelers Say
Feedback from those who’ve taken the tour is overwhelmingly positive. One reviewer called kayaking “an adventure not to be missed,” appreciating the outstanding customer service and attention to safety. Another highlighted the excellent guide, Maggie, who was both knowledgeable and enthusiastic about wildlife sightings and the scenery.
Many mention how relaxing and enjoyable the experience was, with guides going the extra mile to ensure everyone feels comfortable. Seeing bald eagles and sea otters is a common highlight, and the waterfall hike is described as “beautiful” and “worth the short walk.”
Some reviews note the small group size—up to four travelers—which enhances the feeling of personalized attention. However, this also means that securing a spot requires planning ahead.
Price and Value
At $180 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines actively paddling in beautiful surroundings, wildlife encounters, and a scenic rainforest walk—plus a picnic lunch included. Considering all gear, guidance, and the natural sights, many would find this a good value for an immersive Alaskan adventure.
Keep in mind, parking fees are not included in the price, so factor those into your planning. The small-group setting means you get more attention from guides, which many consider worth the extra cost compared to larger, less personalized tours.
Suitability and Considerations
This tour is designed for most travelers age 8 and up, provided they can paddle and hold a paddle for extended periods. It’s not a hard-core adventure, but some physical activity is involved. The maximum height and weight restrictions (6’4″, 250 lbs, 44″ waist) are worth noting for taller or larger travelers.
Weather can influence the experience—if conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. The company offers full refunds if that occurs, which is reassuring.
The Sum Up
The Resurrection Bay Waterfall and Rainforest Adventure offers a well-rounded taste of Seward’s natural beauty. From kayaking amid sea otters and eagles to walking through a peaceful rainforest to see a waterfall, it’s a solid choice for travelers who love the outdoors and wildlife. The experienced guides, good gear, and inclusion of lunch add to the overall value, making it a memorable, engaging day.
If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of water-based activity with a side of forest scenery, this trip could be the highlight of your Seward visit. It’s especially suited for active families, couples, or solo travelers who want to see Alaska’s wild side without a strenuous trek. Just remember to book in advance and keep an eye on the weather forecast—Alaska’s unpredictable weather can make or break the day.
Resurrection Bay Waterfall And Rainforest Adventure
“Kayaking on Resurrection Bay was an adventure not to be missed! Our trip was everything we had hoped for and more. Your teams customer service was …”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is open to travelers aged 8 and older, provided they can paddle and hold their paddle for an extended period. It’s a good activity for families with active kids.
What should I bring?
All necessary gear is provided, including waterproof boots, dry bags, splash jackets, and neoprene mitts. You might want to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera—just be mindful of the weather.
How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is four travelers, which means a more personalized experience with great guide attention.
What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled. You will be offered a full refund or a chance to reschedule.
What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see bald eagles, sea otters, seals, and possibly harbor porpoises. Wildlife sightings are common and a highlight for many.
How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves paddling and walking, so a basic level of physical fitness is recommended. You should be able to hold a paddle for a while and be comfortable on the water.
How long is the total tour?
Just under 5 hours, including paddling, hiking, and breaks. It’s a manageable length for most people.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely—reviews rave about the guides’ friendliness and expertise, which makes the experience educational and fun.
Does the tour include transportation to the kayaking site?
The tour starts at the meeting point in Seward; transportation from your accommodation isn’t included but can be arranged or might be available locally.
Overall, if you’re after a genuine, scenic outdoor experience with friendly guides and wildlife encounters, the Resurrection Bay Waterfall and Rainforest Adventure is worth considering. Just plan ahead, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy what promises to be a memorable Alaska day.