Icy Strait Point sits on Chichagof Island near Hoonah, a Tlingit community with deep ties to the surrounding waters and forest. The destination centers on a restored early twentieth-century salmon cannery, now home to exhibits on native heritage and the region's natural history. Visitors learn about Tlingit traditions through demonstrations and displays that trace generations of life along this stretch of the Alaskan coast.
Beyond the cannery, the area opens onto the Tongass National Forest and the nutrient-rich waters of Icy Strait, one of the more reliable places along the coast to spot humpback whales feeding. Wildlife viewing, forest trails, and cultural programs draw travelers seeking an unhurried introduction to southeast Alaska. The site sits within walking distance of the pier, making it an easy first step before venturing farther into Hoonah or the surrounding wilderness.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Icy Strait Point.
Take a Whale-Watching Excursion
Icy Strait's plankton-rich waters draw humpbacks in reliable numbers, making a small-boat outing one of the best wildlife bets in southeast Alaska. Tours depart right from the harbor and typically run two to three hours, so reserve a spot early.
Ride the Zipline Above the Forest
A multi-line zip course descends through Tongass National Forest canopy toward the shore, offering sweeping views of the strait and mountains. Book ahead, as the ride's limited capacity fills quickly.
Explore Hoonah's Tlingit Village
A short walk or shuttle from the pier leads into Hoonah proper, where totem carvings, a working harbor, and local shops reveal daily life beyond the cannery exhibits. Worth the detour for a fuller sense of the community.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
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