Sitka travel Guide

Sitka travel guide

National Airports

Sitka, Alaska, is served by Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (IATA: SIT, ICAO: PASI). This is the primary airport serving the city of Sitka and the surrounding region. It is named after the former mayor of Sitka, Rocky Gutierrez, and is located on Japonski Island, about 2 miles (3.2 km) west of downtown Sitka. Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, connecting Sitka to other cities in Alaska and beyond.

Trains in Sitka

Sitka, Alaska, does not have any train services. Sitka is an island community located in the southeastern part of Alaska and is not connected to the mainland by rail. The primary modes of transportation in Sitka are by air and sea. Sitka is served by Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport for air travel and by the Alaska Marine Highway System, which provides ferry service to various communities in Southeast Alaska. While train travel is not an option in Sitka, visitors can explore the city and its surrounding natural beauty by foot, bike, car, or boat.

Buses in Sitka

Sitka, Alaska, does not have a public bus system like many larger cities. The town is relatively small and spread out, making it conducive to walking, biking, or driving for most residents and visitors. However, there may be some shuttle services or private transportation options available for specific purposes, such as transportation to and from the airport or tours around the area.

If you’re visiting Sitka and are in need of transportation, it’s recommended to check with your accommodation or local tourism offices for information on shuttle services, taxi companies, or car rental options. Additionally, some tour operators in Sitka may provide transportation as part of their tour packages.

While public buses may not be available in Sitka, the town’s compact size and scenic surroundings make it relatively easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Many of Sitka’s attractions, shops, restaurants, and scenic viewpoints are within walking or biking distance of each other, allowing visitors to enjoy the town’s charm at a leisurely pace.

How to get to Sitka

Getting to Sitka, Alaska, typically involves traveling by air or sea due to its island location. Here are the main options:

By Air:

Commercial Flights: Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport (SIT) is the primary airport serving Sitka. Several airlines offer regular scheduled flights to Sitka from cities like Anchorage, Juneau, and Seattle. Alaska Airlines and Ravn Alaska are among the major carriers serving Sitka.

Charter Flights: Private charter flights are also available for travelers who prefer more flexible scheduling or direct routes to Sitka from various locations in Alaska and beyond.

By Sea:

Alaska Marine Highway Ferry: The Alaska Marine Highway System provides ferry service to Sitka from other communities in Southeast Alaska, such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Prince Rupert, BC, Canada. The ferry terminal in Sitka is located near downtown.

Cruise Ships: Sitka is a popular port of call for cruise ships traveling through the Inside Passage. Many cruise lines include Sitka on their itineraries during the summer months.

By Private Boat:

Private boat owners can reach Sitka by sailing or cruising their vessels to the town’s harbor facilities. Sitka has a deep-water harbor that can accommodate various sizes of private boats.

Combination of Air and Sea:

Some travelers may opt for a combination of air and sea travel, such as flying to Juneau or another nearby city and then taking a ferry to Sitka. This can offer a scenic and flexible way to explore the region.

When planning your trip to Sitka, be sure to consider factors such as seasonality, availability, and pricing for transportation options. It’s also advisable to book your travel arrangements in advance, especially during the peak tourist season in the summer months.

What is the best time to travel to Sitka

The best time to travel to Sitka depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your visit. Here are some considerations for different times of the year:

Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Sitka, characterized by mild temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Many cultural events, festivals, and outdoor markets take place during the summer months.

Keep in mind that summer is also the busiest time for tourism, so accommodations and tours may be more expensive and crowded.

Spring (April to May): Spring in Sitka offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds compared to summer. It’s a great time for wildlife viewing, as many species of migratory birds return to the area, and marine mammals become more active.

Spring can be a good time for hiking and exploring without the summer crowds, although some trails may still have lingering snow.

Fall (September to October): Fall is another excellent time to visit Sitka, with cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. September is typically the best month for fishing, as salmon runs are at their peak.

Fall is also a quieter time for tourism compared to summer, so you may find better deals on accommodations and tours.

Winter (November to March): Winter in Sitka is characterized by cold temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and occasional snowfall. While winter is the off-season for tourism, it can be a magical time to visit for those seeking solitude and unique experiences.

Winter activities in Sitka may include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, wildlife watching, and aurora (northern lights) viewing.

Keep in mind that some attractions and businesses may have reduced hours or be closed during the winter months.

Ultimately, the best time to travel to Sitka depends on your interests, tolerance for crowds, and preferred outdoor activities.

How to get around Sitka

In Sitka, Alaska, getting around primarily involves walking, biking, driving, or utilizing limited local transportation options. Here’s how you can get around Sitka:

Walking: Sitka is a pedestrian-friendly town, and many of its attractions, shops, restaurants, and scenic viewpoints are within walking distance of each other. Exploring Sitka on foot allows you to soak in the town’s charming ambiance and picturesque surroundings at a leisurely pace.

Biking: Biking is another popular way to get around Sitka, especially during the summer months when the weather is pleasant. Sitka offers bike-friendly streets and scenic coastal trails, making it an enjoyable and eco-friendly mode of transportation.

Driving: While Sitka is relatively compact, having a car can offer flexibility and convenience, especially if you plan to explore attractions outside of the town center or venture into the surrounding wilderness areas. Rental car options are available at Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport and in town.

Taxi: Sitka has a few taxi companies that provide on-demand transportation services within the town and to nearby areas. Taxis can be useful for short trips or when you need a ride to or from the airport or ferry terminal.

Shuttle Services: Some hotels, lodges, and tour operators in Sitka may offer shuttle services for guests, particularly for transportation to and from the airport or ferry terminal. Be sure to inquire about shuttle options when making lodging or tour reservations.

Public Transportation: Sitka does not have a public bus system, but there may be limited shuttle services or local transportation options available for specific purposes, such as transportation to medical facilities or community events. Check with your accommodation or local tourism offices for information on any available public transportation services.

Tour Services: If you’re participating in guided tours or excursions during your visit to Sitka, transportation may be provided as part of the tour package. Many tour operators offer transportation to and from hotels or designated meeting points for their guests.

Overall, Sitka’s small size and scenic surroundings make it relatively easy to navigate by foot, bike, or car. Whether you prefer exploring independently or utilizing local transportation services, getting around Sitka allows you to enjoy the town’s natural beauty and cultural attractions at your own pace.

Accommodations in Sitka

Sitka, Alaska, offers a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to full-service hotels and lodges. Here are some options for accommodations in Sitka:

Hotels:

Sitka Hotel: Located in downtown Sitka, Sitka Hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel is conveniently situated near shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Totem Square Hotel & Marina: Overlooking Crescent Harbor, Totem Square Hotel & Marina offers waterfront accommodations with scenic views of Sitka Sound. The hotel features spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to downtown Sitka.

Bed and Breakfasts:

Aspen Suites Bed & Breakfast: Nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood, Aspen Suites Bed & Breakfast offers cozy rooms with private bathrooms and hearty breakfasts made with locally sourced ingredients. The B&B is within walking distance of downtown Sitka.

Alaska Ocean View Bed & Breakfast: Perched on a hillside overlooking Sitka Sound, Alaska Ocean View Bed & Breakfast offers comfortable rooms with panoramic ocean views. Guests can enjoy homemade breakfasts, outdoor decks, and a tranquil setting.

Lodges and Resorts:

Westmark Sitka: Westmark Sitka is a full-service hotel located near downtown Sitka, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant, lounge, fitness center, and business center. The hotel is a convenient base for exploring Sitka’s attractions and outdoor activities.

Sitka’s Eagle Bay Inn: Situated on the waterfront, Sitka’s Eagle Bay Inn offers lodge-style accommodations with rustic charm. Guests can enjoy scenic views, outdoor decks, and easy access to fishing, kayaking, and hiking opportunities.

Vacation Rentals:

Private Vacation Homes: There are several vacation rental properties available in Sitka, ranging from cozy cottages to spacious waterfront homes. Vacation rentals offer the convenience of a home away from home, with amenities such as full kitchens, laundry facilities, and outdoor spaces.

Campgrounds:

Sitka National Historical Park Campground: Sitka National Historical Park offers a small campground for tent camping only. Campers can enjoy a peaceful setting surrounded by lush rainforest and access to hiking trails and cultural sites within the park.

When planning your stay in Sitka, consider factors such as location, amenities, and budget to find the accommodations that best suit your needs and preferences. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season in the summer months.