Top Things to Do in Alaska by Boat This August

Top Things to Do in Alaska by Boat This August

August is one of the best months to get out on the water in Alaska. The long summer days are still here, wildlife is incredibly active, salmon runs are in full swing, and the weather is often ideal for exploring. Whether you're visiting Alaska for the first time or you're a local looking for your next weekend adventure, having a boat opens up experiences you simply can't have from the road.

Here are some of the best boating adventures to enjoy during August.

1. Chase Silver Salmon

August marks the beginning of excellent silver (coho) salmon fishing across much of Southcentral Alaska. These hard-fighting fish are known for explosive strikes and aggressive runs, making them a favorite among anglers.

Popular areas include:

  • Resurrection Bay

  • Prince William Sound

  • Kasilof River

  • Saltwater near Whittier

  • Valdez

For freshwater anglers, many rivers begin seeing strong coho runs later in the month.

2. Explore Prince William Sound

If you've never been to Prince William Sound, August is an incredible time to visit.

Calmer weather often makes boating more enjoyable, and you'll find:

  • Tidewater glaciers

  • Floating icebergs

  • Hidden waterfalls

  • Quiet coves

  • Sea otters

  • Harbor seals

  • Bald eagles

  • Humpback whales

  • Orcas

Pack a lunch, cruise at your own pace, and spend the day discovering one of Alaska's most beautiful places.

3. Fish for Halibut

August continues to offer fantastic halibut fishing opportunities.

Launch from ports like:

  • Whittier

  • Seward

  • Homer

  • Valdez

Many anglers combine halibut fishing with rockfish or silver salmon, making for an unforgettable day on the water.

4. Camp on a Remote Beach

One of the greatest advantages of having a boat is reaching campsites that most people never see.

Imagine spending the night:

  • Listening to waves instead of traffic

  • Watching sea otters float past camp

  • Cooking fresh-caught salmon over a fire

  • Waking up surrounded by mountains and glaciers

Boat-accessible camping offers a level of solitude that's hard to find anywhere else.

5. Cruise to Hidden Waterfalls

By August, snowmelt and summer rains keep many waterfalls flowing strong.

Some are only visible from the water, especially throughout Prince William Sound and Kenai Fjords.

Bring a camera—you'll likely return with some of the best photos from your Alaska trip.

6. Explore Alaska's Rivers

Late summer is a great time to explore Alaska's river systems.

Depending on water levels, a jet boat can provide access to incredible destinations along rivers like:

  • Susitna River

  • Yentna River

  • Deshka River

  • Talkeetna River

  • Knik River

  • Placer River

You'll discover gravel bars, wildlife, fishing opportunities, and scenic campsites far from the crowds.

7. Watch Wildlife Before Fall Arrives

Animals are busy preparing for winter, making August one of the best months for wildlife viewing.

Keep an eye out for:

  • Brown bears feeding on salmon

  • Black bears along shorelines

  • Moose near riverbanks

  • Dall sheep on mountain slopes

  • Bald eagles

  • Sea otters

  • Harbor seals

  • Whales surfacing nearby

Every boating trip has the potential to become a wildlife tour.

8. Enjoy Long Summer Evenings

Although the days are getting shorter, August still provides plenty of daylight.

There's enough time to:

  • Fish after dinner

  • Take an evening glacier cruise

  • Watch the sunset from the water

  • Enjoy a peaceful ride back to the harbor under colorful skies

Some of the calmest conditions of the day occur in the evening.

9. Escape the Crowds

Many visitors begin heading home after July, making August feel quieter while still offering excellent weather.

Boat launches, anchorages, and popular destinations often become less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

10. Make the Most of Alaska's Short Summer

Alaska's boating season doesn't last forever.

August is your opportunity to:

  • Catch salmon

  • Fish for halibut

  • Visit glaciers

  • Camp on remote beaches

  • Cruise through breathtaking scenery

  • Spend time with family and friends outdoors

There's no better way to experience Alaska before autumn arrives.

Find the Right Boat for Your Adventure

At Alaska Wild Rentals, we offer boats for nearly every type of Alaska adventure.

Whether you're planning to:

  • Explore Prince William Sound

  • Fish for halibut or salmon

  • Cruise to a glacier

  • Run shallow rivers in a jet boat

  • Spend the weekend camping

we have a rental that fits your trip.

Every rental is maintained for Alaska's demanding conditions, and we're happy to help you choose the right boat for your destination and experience level.

Start Your August Adventure

August is one of Alaska's most rewarding months to be on the water. The combination of active wildlife, productive fishing, beautiful weather, and fewer crowds makes it the perfect time to explore.

Reserve your boat early, pack your gear, and discover why so many unforgettable Alaska memories begin at the boat launch.

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