Explore Juneau’s Beaches: Tide Pools, Paddling & Hidden Gems
Looking for the best beaches in Juneau, Alaska? Whether you want to explore tide pools, spot wildlife, or paddle along stunning coastline, Juneau’s rocky beaches offer unforgettable experiences in every direction.
1. Auke Rec & Point Louisa: A Local Favorite for Tide Pooling
This beach is a local favorite! Located about 4 miles from Glacier Nalu Campground, Auke Rec Beach in Juneau contains many beach pavilions. The two largest pavilions can be reserved in advance, while the other smaller ones are first come first served.
If you visit at low tide, you are sure to find an assortment of tide pool creatures: starfish, anemones, urchins, and sculpins just to name a few.
There is a paved trail along the shoreline that leads all the way out to Point Louisa. The point is a perfect place for watching the sunrise or sunset.
Keep an eye out for porpoises, sea lions, and even whales they love this spot just as much as the locals do!
2. Eagle Beach: Glacier Views and Picnic Paradise
Eagle Beach is located “out the road,” 27 miles from downtown Juneau. This beach is fed by Eagle Glacier and Eagle River, and is “sandy” from all of the silt coming off the glacier.
From Eagle Beach, you get a beautiful view of the Chilkat Mountains.
Pack a picnic lunch and utilize one of the provided picnic tables.
3. Sunshine Cove: A Hidden Gem for Paddling and Wildlife
Sunshine Cove is a hidden gem located way “out the road” past Eagle Beach and close to the end of the road. It’s gorgeous, 360 degree views make it well worth the drive! Pack a picnic lunch, some chairs to sit in, and some beach toys for the kids. While this beach is rocky, it has some areas farther down that are a little more smooth for sitting on. Even farther down the beach, you can find some more amazing tide pool creatures.
Sunshine Cove has two distinctive mini islands directly across the bay. If you have a paddle board or kayak, it is fun to get out on the water and explore the area. Keep a look out for whales and sea lions! You can rent a Kayak or Paddle Board from our friends at Alaska Boat & Kayak Rental Shop.
4. Sandy Beach on Douglas Island: Juneau’s Sandy Shoreline
Sandy Beach is located on Douglas Island, just across the bridge from Downtown Juneau. It is so named because this beach is one of the only sandy beaches in Juneau. Interestingly, the sand is not a natural formation- rather it comes from the tailings of the Treadwell Mine.
If you visit Sandy Beach, you can walk along the beach and will see a great view of Mount Roberts and the cruise ships coming up the channel, and the iconic view of the old pump house from the mine. You could also choose to walk on the gravel trail in the woods along the beach. Here, you will find old buildings (one of which has been restored into an information center), as well as many ruins, and items left behind when the mine was abandoned.
Ready to explore Juneau’s beaches? Book your stay at Glacier Nalu Campground and enjoy easy access to these incredible spots, and many more Southeast Alaska adventures! Whether you’re searching for tidepool treasures, hoping to glimpse a humpback whale, or just craving a peaceful sunset over the water, Juneau’s coastline has something magical for everyone. After a day of discovery, return to the comfort of your campsite, swap stories by the campfire, and fall asleep to the sounds of nature all around you. Your Alaskan escape starts here—reserve your spot today!
