Haines is a fantastic place for canoe and kayak experiences thanks to its diverse waterways, stunning scenery, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re paddling through the calm waters of Chilkoot Lake or exploring the rugged channels of the Inside Passage, this small Alaska town offers a variety of ways to get close to nature on the water. We’re particularly fond of the Inside Passage Sea Kayaking in Haines because it’s perfect for paddlers of all levels, includes all gear, and offers a scenic picnic on the beach. That blend of ease and adventure makes it stand out.
Haines’ waterways are teeming with eagles, bears, salmon, and mountain scenery. These tours give you a chance to see Alaska’s wilderness up close, whether you prefer a guided kayak outing or a peaceful canoe safari. Below, you’ll find a rundown of the best canoe and kayak experiences in Haines—each with its own appeal.
1. Inside Passage Sea Kayaking in Haines
At number one, the Inside Passage Sea Kayaking in Haines offers a smooth and scenic paddle along the iconic waters of southeast Alaska. This tour is especially appealing because the guides provide all the gear—paddles, flotation devices, boots, and rain gear—so you don’t need to worry about packing or renting equipment. The trip lasts around four hours, and the itinerary adjusts based on current conditions and your preferences, which offers a personalized touch.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to photograph wildlife and stunning vistas while paddling in a 2-person kayak. You’ll enjoy a picnic-style lunch on a beach—perfect for relaxing after hours on the water. The backup location at Chilkoot Lake is a nice option if weather or water conditions aren’t suitable for the coast, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience no matter what. With a perfect rating of 5.0 out of 5 from two reviews, this trip offers excellent value for its price of $191.29 per person, especially considering it includes all gear and a scenic outing suitable for many skill levels.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a guided, all-inclusive kayaking experience with flexible options and a focus on scenery and wildlife.
2. Chilkoot Lake Kayaking – Departing From Skagway
Second on our list is the Chilkoot Lake Kayaking from Skagway, a hassle-free trip that’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Although starting from Skagway, it’s easy to meet your guide in Haines to explore Chilkoot Lake’s wilderness. The tour lasts around four hours, during which your guide provides all the necessary gear, so you can focus solely on enjoying the scenery and wildlife.
This outing is especially good for eagle and bear spotting, as guides take you to the best viewing spots. In certain seasons, you might also see sockeye salmon in the streams, adding another wildlife spectacle. The group is limited to 12 people, making it an intimate setting where you can ask questions and get personalized attention from your guide. With a 4.5-star rating from eight reviews and a price of $284.00, it offers a good balance of convenience and wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers looking for an easy, guided kayak trip with excellent wildlife opportunities and small-group intimacy.
3. Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari from Haines
Third is the Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari from Haines, a more leisurely, off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines history and wildlife viewing in a quiet, cozy canoe. This trip lasts about four hours and takes you into the Chilkoot Lake area, where the Voyageur canoe provides a stable, quiet paddle that’s easy for all ages.
What makes this tour unique is the small group size—capped at six participants—which allows for a more relaxed, personalized experience. The guides are naturalists who share insights about the region’s ecosystems, including spotting bald eagles, spawning salmon, and bears in their natural habitat. The tour starts with a visit to historic Fort Seward, giving travelers a bit of local history before heading into the wilderness. Priced at $198.08 per person, the experience offers a great mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural context.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or couples looking for a slow-paced, educational paddle with a strong focus on wildlife and local history.
$198.08 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Canoe & Kayak Experience in Haines
Choosing the best water adventure depends on your interests, budget, and skill level. If you want a guided kayak trip with all gear provided and flexibility, the Inside Passage Sea Kayaking is hard to beat. For wildlife lovers seeking a small, intimate group, the Chilkoot Lake Kayaking offers exceptional chances to spot eagles, bears, and salmon. If you prefer a more relaxed, historical, and wildlife-rich excursion, the Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari provides a quieter, more personal experience.
Consider your fitness level, the type of scenery you want (coastal vs. inland lakes), and whether wildlife sightings or cultural insights are your top priority. Booking early is wise, especially in summer when Haines’ water activities fill quickly. The best times tend to be late spring through early fall, when wildlife is most active and weather stable.
In summary, Haines offers a wonderful variety of canoe and kayak adventures, from scenic paddling to wildlife watching. For a guided, all-inclusive experience, the Inside Passage Sea Kayaking stands out. If wildlife viewing is your passion, the Chilkoot Lake Kayaking trip offers exceptional opportunities. For a peaceful, educational paddle, the Alaska Wildlife Voyageur Canoe Safari provides a slow-paced, personal encounter with the wilderness. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable adventures.