South Esther Island State Marine Park sits along the western edge of Prince William Sound, accessible only by boat or floatplane from Whittier. This remote marine park occupies a stretch of South Esther Island’s shoreline, where old-growth Sitka spruce meets protected coves perfect for anchoring overnight.

What makes South Esther Island special is its position within Prince William Sound’s labyrinth of islands and fjords. The park’s sheltered bays offer some of the best kayak-accessible camping in the Sound, with gravel beaches suitable for pulling up boats and pitching tents. There are no developed facilities here — no docks, no maintained trails, no potable water — so visitors need to arrive fully self-sufficient.

Wildlife is the main draw. Sea otters raft in the kelp beds offshore, humpback whales feed in deeper channels nearby, and bald eagles nest in the tall spruce. Black bears forage along the intertidal zone, particularly during salmon runs in late summer. Bring bear-resistant food containers.

Fishing for halibut, rockfish, and salmon is productive in surrounding waters. Kayakers often use the park as a waypoint on multi-day trips through western Prince William Sound, paddling between Esther Island, Perry Island, and Culross Passage.

The best window to visit runs from mid-June through mid-August, when water temperatures are most forgiving and daylight stretches past 10 PM. Even in summer, expect rain, cold water, and rapidly shifting weather. Pack layers, dry bags, and a reliable tide chart — Prince William Sound rewards the prepared.

Explore Nearby

• Chugach National Forest — National Forest in Alaska
• Upper Dickey Lake Trail — Public Land in Alaska
• Middle Fork Trail — Public Land in Alaska
• Cape Hinchinbrook Light — Lighthouse in Alaska