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Beach
both
Level 6/10

Yakutat

Alaska, USA
🦈Sharks🏝️Remote🌀Strong rips

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.

Spot Details

Swell Requirements

Optimal direction
S (180°)
Direction range
150° - 220°
Size range
1m - 4m
Ideal period
14s+

Wind Requirements

Optimal direction
N (0°)
Offshore range
315° - 45°
Best window
morning

Tide Requirements

Optimal tide
all
Optimal range
0.5m - 2.5m

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.

Getting There

Airport
YAK
Drive time
5 min

Nearby Buoy

Forecasts are validated against real-time buoy data.

46083 (NOAA)

Best Season

Peak: Sep-Nov

Secondary: Aug, Dec

Fall is best. Winter too stormy. Gulf of Alaska swells.

Data Quality

verified

Verified by Surfline Alaska guide