a body of water with boats in it and mountains in the back
Photo by Ty Fiero on Unsplash

Activity

Sea KayakingSUPBeginner

Conditions

OceanOpen WaterTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDock

Best Time to Visit

Coffman Cove

Thorne Bay, AK · Boat Ramp · Public

Coffman Cove is a public boat ramp on Pacific Ocean - Clarence Strait near Thorne Bay, Alaska. This beginner-level spot offers sea kayaking, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Ocean

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Sea Kayaking, SUP

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Sheltered ocean with tidal influence. Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions. Suitable for beginners with basic awareness of tidal flow.

About This Location

Ocean access at Coffman Cove near Thorne Bay, Alaska. Good for sea kayaking and sup.

For ocean paddling in Alaska, Coffman Cove provides a launch into Pacific Ocean - Clarence Strait where tidal patterns and coastal winds shape each outing.

Sea kayakers can use this as a base to explore the coastline and nearby features. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular here when winds are light, especially in the morning hours.

Water conditions are generally open water and tidal. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock.

Getting here from Thorne Bay takes about 35 min, putting Coffman Cove within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

  • Practice self-rescue techniques before venturing into ocean waters.
  • Check tide tables and swell forecasts before launching.
  • Always paddle with a buddy in open ocean conditions.
  • Carry a marine VHF radio or waterproof phone for emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Coffman Cove?
Coffman Cove is a public boat ramp in Alaska. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Coffman Cove?
Coffman Cove supports sea kayaking, stand up paddleboarding. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Coffman Cove?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Coffman Cove?
The best time to paddle at Coffman Cove is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Coffman Cove?
Water conditions at Coffman Cove include open water, tidal.
Is Coffman Cove good for beginners?
Yes, Coffman Cove is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Sheltered ocean with tidal influence. Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions. Suitable for beginners with basic awareness of tidal flow.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 56.0123, -132.8315

Quick Facts

State
Alaska
Region
Alaska
Getting There
~35 min from Thorne Bay
Get Directions

56.0123, -132.8315

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More Paddling on Clarence Strait

1 other launch on this water body