Yakutat represents the northern frontier of North American surfing—a remote Alaskan community where Gulf of Alaska storms produce powerful waves that break with glaciers visible in the distance. The setting is primal: rainforest meets ocean, bears wander the beach, and the water temperature hovers just above freezing year-round. The small but dedicated local community has carved out a surf scene in this unlikely location, proving that dedicated surfers will find waves anywhere. For those seeking the ultimate adventure surf experience, Yakutat delivers waves and wilderness in equal measure.
Water temp
7°C
Wetsuit
6/5mm + boots, gloves, hood
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
1/10
Access: Fly into Yakutat. Short drive to beach.
Forecasts are validated against real-time buoy data.
Peak: Sep-Nov
Secondary: Aug, Dec
Fall is best. Winter too stormy. Gulf of Alaska swells.
Verified by Surfline Alaska guide
How well swell angle matches the spot
Wave height in the ideal range
Each spot has different period requirements. Points and reefs can handle longer periods than beaches.
Offshore/glassy conditions