Driftwood Bay State Marine Park
🏆🏆🏆 Prince William Sound Anchorage — Remote bay in western Prince William Sound with glacier views
Driftwood Bay State Marine Park protects a scenic bay in western Prince William Sound, accessible by boat or floatplane from Whittier. The bay offers protected anchorage surrounded by lush coastal forest, with views of tidewater glaciers in the distance. The intertidal zone is rich with marine life, and humpback whales, sea otters, and Dall’s porpoises are regularly sighted in the surrounding waters.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Western Prince William Sound, AK |
| Access | Boat or floatplane from Whittier |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Wildlife | Whales, sea otters, porpoises |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get there from Whittier?
Charter a water taxi or floatplane from Whittier. The ride takes 1–2 hours by boat depending on conditions. Prince William Sound weather can change rapidly — monitor marine forecasts.
About Driftwood Bay
Driftwood Bay State Marine Park in Prince William Sound protects a scenic bay with beaches covered in storm-sculpted driftwood. The bay provides sheltered anchorage and camping in one of the most pristine marine environments in North America. The surrounding mountains rise directly from the water, and tidewater glaciers calve icebergs into nearby bays.
Things to Do
Beach camping among the driftwood, sea kayaking, wildlife viewing (sea otters, seals, whales), fishing, photography of the dramatic mountain-meets-ocean scenery, and exploring the glacial fjords. Access by boat from Whittier or Valdez.
Insider Tips
Kayaker’s dream: Driftwood Bay offers protected anchorage and beachfront camping in one of Alaska’s most spectacular marine environments. Pro tip: Collect driftwood for campfires — the beaches are littered with it (hence the name). Tidal zone: The intertidal zone here is rich with sea stars, anemones, and chitons — explore at low tide.
Best Time to Visit
June-August: Best weather for boat access. July: Salmon runs attract bears to nearby streams. May: Whale migration peaks. Winter: Inaccessible for most visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boat to visit?
Yes — Alaska’s state marine parks are accessible only by boat, kayak, or float plane. This is what makes them special — genuine wilderness without road access. Plan for complete self-sufficiency.
🐋 Visit Driftwood Bay SMP
Prince William Sound wilderness — glacier views, whales, and protected anchorage.
