Best Places to Kayak Near Ketchikan, AK

10 public launch points within 50 miles of Ketchikan, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.

10 nearby8 Oceans2 Lakes
← All paddling in Alaska

Top Picks Near Ketchikan

Seagull flies over icy water near mountains.1

Metlakatla

Open-water sea kayaking access on Pacific Ocean - Nichols Passage

OceanBeginner18 mi away
a large body of water with mountains in the background2

Refuge Cove

Just 3 miles from Ketchikan — the closest quality launch

OceanBeginner3 mi away
a large body of water with mountains in the background3

Bar Harbor

Well-equipped launch with boat ramp, parking, restrooms

OceanBeginner1 mi away
a large body of water with mountains in the background

Bar Harbor

Alaska · 1.4 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner
a group of kayaks sitting on top of a rocky beach

Seaplane Launch

Alaska · 2.3 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner
a large body of water with mountains in the background

Refuge Cove

Alaska · 3.4 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner
a body of water with boats in it and mountains in the back

Mountain Point

Alaska · 7.8 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner
a body of water with boats in it and mountains in the back

Knudson Cove

Alaska · 8.2 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner
white boat on lake during daytime

Harriet Hunt Lake

Alaska · 8.7 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
Seagull flies over icy water near mountains.

Metlakatla

Alaska · 17.5 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner
Two paddleboarders on a serene mountain lake at sunset

Hollis Launch Ramp

Alaska · 37.7 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a group of kayaks sitting on top of a rocky beach

Hollis

Alaska · 38.6 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner
a couple of animals swimming in a body of water

Thorne Bay

Alaska · 39.4 mi

OceanSea KayakingSUPBeginner

Paddling Near Other Cities

Widen your search to towns within an hour of Ketchikan.

Coffman Cove, AK3 miWard Cove, AK3 miMetlakatla, AK18 miMeyers Chuck, AK34 miThorne Bay, AK38 miHydaburg, AK41 miKlawock, AK55 miCraig, AK57 mi

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to kayak near Ketchikan, AK?

Top picks near Ketchikan include Metlakatla, Refuge Cove, Bar Harbor. In total there are 10 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on oceans, lakes.

What types of paddling can I do near Ketchikan?

Near Ketchikan you'll find opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Most locations offer beginner-friendly conditions with public boat ramp access.

Are there free kayak launches near Ketchikan?

Yes! Most public boat ramps near Ketchikan are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.