Activities at Orca Island Cabins

Activites at Orca Island Cabins

Experience Nature

A World Away

Situated in the protected waters of Humpy Cove, Orca Island guests have the opportunity to explore Alaska both by sea and by land. Adventure in our unspoiled beauty, observe the abundant wild and marine life, or simply relax on your private deck. 

All equipment and gear is complimentary for guests and your stay includes an orientation to the water, so you can safely enjoy all of the water activities at your leisure.

 

Situated in the protected waters of Humpy Cove, Orca Island guests have the opportunity to explore Alaska both by sea and by land. Adventure in our unspoiled beauty, observe the abundant wild and marine life, or simply relax on your private deck. 

All equipment and gear is complimentary for guests and your stay includes an orientation to the water, so you can safely enjoy all of the water activities at your leisure.


  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Sea Kayaking
  • Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
  • Fishing
  • Snorkeling & Swimming
  • Hiking
  • Add on Activities
Experience Nature

A World Away

Harbor Seal in Humpy Cove

Wildlife Viewing

Humpy Cove is home to a wide variety of marine and wildlife. Whether you are exploring the waters by boat or simply relaxing on your private deck, there is much to see!
 
Marine Life: Harbor porpoise, Sea otters, River otters, Harbor seals, Steller sea lions, Orca whales and Humpback whales (occasionally), Giant Pacific Octopus and many smaller sea creatures such as starfish and hermit crabs.
 

Bird Life: Marbled murrelets, Black-legged kittiwakes, Bald eagles, Cormorants, plus see common murres and horned and tufted puffins just outside Humpy Cove

Wildlife Viewing

Humpy Cove is home to a wide variety of marine and wildlife. Whether you are exploring the waters by boat or simply relaxing on your private deck, there is much to see!
 
Marine Life: Harbor Porpoise, Sea Otters, River Otters, Harbor Seals, Steller Sea Lions, Orcas and Humpback Whales (occasionally), Giant Pacific Octopus and many smaller sea creatures such as Sea Stars and Hermit Crabs.
 

Bird Life: Marbled Murrelets, Black-legged Kittiwakes, Bald Eagles, Steller’s Jays, Cormorants, plus see Common Murres alongside Horned and Tufted Puffins just outside Humpy Cove

Sea Kayaking

Humpy Cove is an ideal location for sea kayaking – a protected and scenic cove, rugged coastline, snow-capped mountains, and frequent sightings of sea life make it a paddler’s paradise.

  • Take a paddle (about 45-60 minutes) to a nearby salmon stream where thousands of pink salmon spawn each July/August and where many bald eagles congregate to feed. A short hike to the head of the stream reveals a majestic waterfall.
SUP

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

The calm waters within Humpy Cove offer our guests the unique opportunity to enjoy paddleboarding in a majestic, coastal setting. 

  • Explore the intricate coastline and rock formations near Orca Island.
  • Explore the island’s intertidal zone.
  • Observe a variety of marine life.

Fishing

Enjoy casual fishing from the dock at Orca Island Cabins or from one of our rowing skiffs. If you’re planning to keep and enjoy your catch, please remember that a fishing license from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game is required. 

  • There are a variety of bottom fish including rockfish, flounder and sea bass in our Alaskan waters all summer. 
  • During July and August, look for schools of pink (Humpy) and silver (Coho) salmon.

For the serious fisherman, half-day and full-day fishing charters can be arranged with fishing charter operators in Seward who will pick up and drop off our guests at Orca Island.

Snorkeling & Swimming

Enjoy the cool, crystal clear waters around our Island right from our dock. While the waters are cold year-round, they can be enjoyed on warm summer days with a wetsuit. 

  • If you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of a Giant Pacific Octopus swimming among the abundant marine life.
Waterfall Hike
WWII Bunker Hike

Hiking

Jeep Trail: Hike the historic World War II jeep trail that begins in the NE corner of Humpy Cove (5 minutes from the island by skiff) and terminates at the mountain top at the northern point of the inlet. Wonderful views of Humpy Cove and Resurrection Bay can be seen along the ascent.

Waterfall Trail: For those who kayak to the salmon stream in the southern end of Humpy Cove, the opportunity to explore around and above the waterfall awaits you. This is a demanding hike with a steep and rocky pathway that requires much caution, especially under inclement/rainy conditions. But scenic vistas, small waterfalls and a variety of fauna await you.

Gallery Shopping

Gallery

Browse a curated selection of:

  • Local Arts and Crafts: Paintings, prints, and jewelry by Alaskan artists.
  • Orca Island Cabins Merchandise: Hats, jackets, mugs, rain gear, and more.
  • Local Delicacies: Coffee, hot chocolate, condiments, and snacks from Alaskan producers.
  • Beauty and Wellness Products: Face masks, moisturizing creams, and other skincare essentials.

Visit us anytime to find the perfect souvenir or treat yourself to Alaska-inspired goods and flavors.

Interested in something more?

Additional Services & Excursions

We offer numerous add-on tours and services to help make the most of your time in Seward and to help you explore this beautiful area. 

Add-ons:
  • Grocery Delivery or Train & Grocery Pickup
  • Champagne & Treats or Savory Snacks, delivered to your yurt
  • Private airport transportation
  • Wildlife & Sightseeing Boat tour in Resurrection Bay (2.5 hour)
  • Kenai Fjords Boat Tour (6-hour)
  • Deep Sea Fishing Charters (half and full day)
  • Fishing, Kayaking & Sightseeing Day Tour
  • Humpy Cove Guided Paddle
  • Sailing Adventure (1-day or multi-day)
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