How do I access Shoemaker Bay?

Shoemaker Bay is a public boat ramp in Alaska. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Shoemaker Bay?

Shoemaker Bay supports sea kayaking, stand up paddleboarding. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Shoemaker Bay?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Shoemaker Bay?

The best time to paddle at Shoemaker Bay is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Shoemaker Bay?

Water conditions at Shoemaker Bay include open water, tidal.

Is Shoemaker Bay good for beginners?

Yes, Shoemaker Bay 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.

person riding on jon boat during daytime

Photo by Drew Farwell on Unsplash

Activity

Sea KayakingSUPBeginner

Conditions

OceanOpen WaterTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Shoemaker Bay

Wrangell, AK · Boat Ramp · Public

Shoemaker Bay is a public boat ramp on Pacific Ocean - Zomovia Strait near Wrangell, Alaska. This beginner-level spot offers sea kayaking, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. 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

Good

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

Launch into Pacific Ocean - Zomovia Strait near Wrangell, Alaska. Beginner level with open water and tidal water.

For ocean paddling in Alaska, Shoemaker Bay provides a launch into Pacific Ocean - Zomovia 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.

Getting here from Wrangell takes about 5 min, putting Shoemaker Bay within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Wear a brightly colored PFD so boats can spot you easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Shoemaker Bay?: Shoemaker Bay is a public boat ramp in Alaska. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Shoemaker Bay?: Shoemaker Bay supports sea kayaking, stand up paddleboarding. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Shoemaker Bay?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Shoemaker Bay?: The best time to paddle at Shoemaker Bay is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Shoemaker Bay?: Water conditions at Shoemaker Bay include open water, tidal.
Is Shoemaker Bay good for beginners?: Yes, Shoemaker Bay 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: 56.4163, -132.3469