Pelican AlaskaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Pelican, Alaska.
1. Salmon Way Boardwalk
HISTORIC WATERFRONT WALKWAY
Salmon Way Boardwalk is the main thoroughfare in Pelican, stretching along the waterfront and connecting most of the town's homes and businesses. It offers stunning views of the harbor, fishing docks, and surrounding mountains, making it a favorite for strolls and photography. The boardwalk's historic charm captures the essence of Pelican's cannery roots.
2. Lisianski Inlet
SCENIC FJORD ADVENTURE
Lisianski Inlet is a breathtaking 22-mile-long fjord where Pelican is nestled deep within dramatic, glacier-carved landscapes. Visitors can enjoy world-class sea kayaking, wildlife viewing, and photography opportunities across its pristine waters and forested shores. The inlet is home to otters, orca pods, and myriad seabirds, offering an immersive Alaskan wilderness experience.
3. Pelican Sea Kayaking
ALASKAN KAYAK EXPERIENCE
Pelican Sea Kayaking lets adventurers paddle almost 40 miles of accessible waters within the Lisianski Inlet. The area offers calm conditions, awe-inspiring mountain vistas, and opportunities to spot wildlife like sea otters, whales, and bald eagles. Guided excursions are available for all skill levels, providing a unique way to explore the scenic surroundings.
4. Pelican Fish Processing Plant
HISTORIC CANNERY HERITAGE
The Pelican Fish Processing Plant is a nod to the town's beginnings as a salmon cannery hub in the 1930s. Visitors can learn about Alaska's commercial fishing industry and the community's deep-rooted connection to the sea. Guided tours offer a look into modern seafood processing and the legacy of sustainable fishing.
5. Lisianski Trails
WILDERNESS HIKING PATHS
The Lisianski Trails around Pelican wind through Tongass National Forest, leading hikers through alpine meadows and dense temperate rainforests. These trails provide frequent opportunities to spot local wildlife like brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and a variety of birds. Hiking in this area delivers authentic solitude and unmatched views of the inlet and nearby mountains.
6. Pelican Charters
FISHING AND WHALE WATCHING
Pelican Charters offer personalized boat trips for sport fishing and whale watching in Lisianski Inlet and nearby waters. Anglers can target king salmon, halibut, and lingcod, while sightseers have a chance to spot orcas, humpback whales, and sea lions. Local guides share their expertise to ensure a memorable Alaskan marine adventure.
7. Pelican Dockside Dining
FRESH SEAFOOD EATERY
Pelican Dockside Dining is a beloved local restaurant known for serving freshly caught Alaskan seafood right on the harbor. Diners enjoy halibut, salmon, and crab with panoramic water views, often watching fishing boats come and go. The casual, welcoming atmosphere reflects the town's close-knit fishing community.
8. Pelican General Store
LOCAL SHOPPING HUB
Pelican General Store supplies residents and visitors with groceries, fishing gear, and everyday essentials, all within a charming boardwalk-front shop. It's a central meeting point in town and a place to find locally handcrafted gifts and souvenirs. The store's friendly service and unique goods provide insight into life in remote Alaska.
9. Pelican Art Gallery
ALASKAN CRAFTS & ART
Pelican Art Gallery showcases local artists specializing in painting, woodworking, and indigenous crafts inspired by Chichagof Island's natural beauty. Visitors can browse and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the rugged and wild spirit of the region. The gallery serves as a cultural touchstone and gathering space for creative expression.
10. Chichagof Island Exploration
ISLAND WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
Chichagof Island, home to Pelican, offers vast wilderness areas teeming with Sitka black-tailed deer, brown bears, and hundreds of bird species. Guided tours and individual excursions let explorers experience the island's old-growth forests, rocky shores, and secluded coves. Its diverse ecosystems make it a prime destination for naturalists and adventurers.
11. Icy Strait Point
CRUISE PORT ADVENTURE HUB
Icy Strait Point in Hoonah is a premier cruise destination offering cultural experiences, whale watching tours, and the world's largest ZipRider zip line. Visitors can enjoy shops, restaurants, and exhibits on Tlingit culture, all set within restored cannery buildings. It's a vibrant spot for both adventure and immersion in Southeast Alaska heritage.
12. Chichagof Lodge
FISHING & WILDERNESS RETREAT
Chichagof Lodge is a well-regarded fishing lodge in Pelican, catering to anglers seeking premier access to salmon and halibut-rich waters. The lodge provides guided fishing trips, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals, all surrounded by spectacular scenery. Guests can also enjoy wildlife viewing and kayaking as part of their stay.
13. Mendenhall Glacier
ICONIC JUNEAU GLACIER
Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau is one of Alaska's most accessible and photographed glaciers, stretching over thirteen miles from the Juneau Icefield. Visitors can explore scenic trails, dramatic viewpoints, and an informative visitor center highlighting glaciology and climate change. Guided tours provide close-up encounters with this natural wonder.
14. Juneau Mercantile & Armory
HISTORIC SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Juneau Mercantile & Armory is a historic shop offering Alaskan gifts, outdoor gear, and local memorabilia in downtown Juneau. The building's heritage and unique merchandise make it a popular stop for both locals and tourists. Shoppers enjoy exploring the eclectic selection that reflects Alaska's frontier spirit.
15. NorthStar Helicopters
SCENIC FLIGHTSEEING TOURS
NorthStar Helicopters offers unforgettable aerial tours over the Juneau Icefield, Mendenhall Glacier, and the Tongass National Forest. Passengers experience breathtaking scenery and can even set foot on a glacier during landing stops. The company is famous for its knowledgeable pilots and commitment to safety amid spectacular surroundings.