Shelter Island State Marine Park

By Sarah MitchellOutdoor Editor & Trail ExpertMay 8, 2026 · Updated May 10, 2026

🏆🏆🏆 Juneau Marine — Island marine park in Favorite Channel near Juneau with whale watching and camping

Shelter Island State Marine Park protects beaches and forest on Shelter Island in Favorite Channel near Juneau. The park is one of the most accessible marine parks from Alaska’s capital, reachable by a short boat ride. Favorite Channel is one of Southeast Alaska’s premier whale watching corridors, with humpback whales frequently feeding in the nutrient-rich waters. The island provides beach camping, tide pool exploration, and excellent crabbing.

Visitor Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How far from Juneau?

Shelter Island is approximately 20 miles northwest of downtown Juneau by water. Charter boats, water taxis, and experienced kayakers make the crossing. Watch for tidal currents in Favorite Channel.

About Shelter Island

Shelter Island State Marine Park near Juneau protects the northern tip of Shelter Island in Lynn Canal. The park provides camping and anchorage accessible by boat from Alaska’s capital city. Humpback whales are commonly seen in the waters around the island, and the Chilkat Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop.

Things to Do

Boater anchorage and camping, whale watching (humpback whales feed in Lynn Canal), sea kayaking, fishing, beachcombing, and wildlife photography. Access by boat from Juneau — one of the more accessible marine parks in Southeast.

Insider Tips

Juneau accessible: Shelter Island is visible from Juneau — a short kayak or boat trip from the capital. Pro tip: The Juneau area has 100+ miles of hiking trails, the Mendenhall Glacier, and whale watching — one of Alaska’s richest recreation zones. Wildlife: Humpback whales feed in the channels around Shelter Island from May through September.

Best Time to Visit

May-September: Whale watching season. July: Best weather and longest days. August: Berry season and salmon runs. Winter: Possible but weather-dependent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see whales near Juneau?

Yes — Juneau is one of the best whale watching destinations in the world. Humpback whales feed in the nutrient-rich waters from May through September. “Bubble net feeding” — where groups of whales cooperatively herd fish — is a behavior unique to Southeast Alaska.

About the Author

Sarah Mitchell

Outdoor Editor & Trail Expert

Sarah Mitchell is an outdoor writer and trail researcher with over 8 years of experience exploring state parks across America. As the lead editor at AmericasStateParks.org, she has personally visited more than 200 parks in 42 states, logging thousands of trail miles and hundreds of campground nights. Sarah specializes in detailed park guides, accessibility information, and family-friendly outdoor planning. Her work focuses on helping first-time visitors feel confident and well-prepared for their state park adventures.

200+ state parks visited across 42 states | 8+ years of outdoor writing

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