Your honeymoon is more than a vacation, it’s the beginning of a new chapter.
And if you’re the kind of couple who thrives on breathtaking views, heart-pounding experiences, and the kind of memories that last a lifetime, Southeast Alaska offers something extraordinary.
Unlike traditional beach getaways, Southeast Alaska blends wild adventure with tranquil romance.
Think misty fjords, humpback whales breaching at sunset, and cozy cabins tucked between towering evergreens.
Whether you’re kayaking alongside glaciers or savoring wild salmon by a crackling fire, every moment here invites connection.
If you’re craving something far from ordinary, here are seven essential experiences designed to help newlyweds and honeymooners dive into the raw beauty and intimate magic of Southeast Alaska.
1. Paddle Through Glacier-Fed Waters
There’s nothing quite like kayaking through Southeast Alaska’s icy blue waters.
Glaciers loom in the distance while bald eagles circle overhead, and seals bob curiously alongside your boat.
It’s peaceful, yet exhilarating, a perfect mix for newlyweds seeking shared adventure.
Kayaking requires coordination and teamwork, making it a fun way to connect as a couple.
Opt for guided kayak tours out of Juneau, Sitka, or Gustavus, where expert guides handle the navigation while you focus on the scenery and each other.
For an especially intimate experience, look for outfitters that offer private or small-group options. Some tours even combine kayaking with whale watching or remote beach picnics.
No prior kayaking experience?
No problem, these tours often accommodate beginners and include safety gear and instruction.
2. Witness Whale Tales and Wildlife Up Close
The waters of Southeast Alaska are teeming with life.
One of the most unforgettable moments of any honeymoon here is spotting a humpback whale breach just yards away from your boat.
Orcas, sea otters, porpoises, and even brown bears along the shoreline are common sights on wildlife cruises.
Even better, many tours offer late afternoon or sunset departures.
Imagine sipping a hot drink next to your partner as golden light reflects off the water, with whales surfacing in the distance. It’s romantic and awe-inspiring, all at once.
Don’t forget your camera or book with an operator who includes a professional photographer or offers onboard tips for capturing wildlife safely and respectfully.
3. Land on a Glacier by Helicopter
If you’re ready to check something off your bucket list, take to the skies.
Helicopter tours offer panoramic views of mountains, icefields, and lush rainforests.
The grand finale?
Landing on a glacier where you can walk or even dog sled across ancient ice.
Operators out of Juneau and Skagway provide various tour packages, some of which include glacier trekking with crampons or a visit to an ice cave.
It’s one of the most dramatic, thrilling, and photogenic experiences Alaska has to offer.
These excursions often include safety gear and knowledgeable guides who share the natural history of the landscape.
Whether you choose a short scenic ride or an extended glacier hike, the shared thrill will stay with you long after the honeymoon ends.
4. Stay in a Secluded Wilderness Lodge or Remote Cabin
Adventure is thrilling, but it’s also essential to find moments of quiet connection.
After a day of exploring, imagine returning to a private lodge or cabin surrounded by nature, just the two of you and the stillness of the Alaskan wilderness.
Southeast Alaska is home to boutique lodges with panoramic views, wood-burning stoves, and locally sourced gourmet meals.
Some even feature outdoor hot tubs overlooking fjords or fireplaces perfect for cozying up with a glass of wine.
These accommodations aren’t just a place to sleep, they’re part of the experience.
Choose a lodge that offers guided outdoor activities by day and romantic seclusion by night.
5. Connect Through Culture
For couples who value meaningful travel, Southeast Alaska offers deep cultural experiences through the traditions of its Indigenous peoples.
Exploring Native Alaskan culture adds richness and reflection to your adventure.
Visit totem parks, heritage centers, and museums in towns like Ketchikan, Sitka, and Juneau.
You’ll learn about the stories, craftsmanship, and heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian communities.
Many cultural centers host performances, carving demonstrations, and storytelling events that provide unforgettable insight into this land and its history.
Taking part in these experiences not only supports local communities but also deepens your understanding of the place you’re exploring together.
6. Hike Scenic Trails to Unforgettable Views
If hiking is part of your love language, Southeast Alaska delivers.
The region is full of accessible trails that lead to waterfalls, mountain ridges, alpine lakes, and glacier viewpoints.
The Mount Roberts Trail in Juneau offers a moderate hike with panoramic views of Gastineau Channel.
In Sitka, the Gavan Hill Trail immerses you in a moss-covered rainforest before reaching stunning overlooks.
For something more relaxed, try the Rainbird Trail in Ketchikan, a short walk that still provides elevated views and dense forest scenery.
Hiking offers that perfect mix of quiet, effort, and reward.
Whether you’re conquering a steep climb or strolling hand-in-hand through a temperate rainforest, each trail is a chance to connect in nature’s quiet beauty.
7. Dine on Local Flavors with a View
Alaskan cuisine is as wild and fresh as the landscape.
Whether you’re seated at a fine dining restaurant overlooking the harbor or feasting on halibut tacos at a rustic lodge, food becomes a shared adventure.
Make time for a waterfront dinner where wild-caught salmon, king crab, or freshly foraged greens are served with local beer or wine.
Some towns also offer culinary walking tours or cooking classes that focus on regional ingredients and recipes.
For something unique, book a private seafood boil on the beach or dine al fresco under the northern twilight sky.
Great food in great settings creates those sensory memories you’ll talk about for years.
Your honeymoon should be more than a vacation, It should reflect who you are as a couple.
Southeast Alaska offers a rare combination of rugged adventure and quiet romance that lets you begin your marriage immersed in wonder.
From kayaking beside glaciers to cuddling in a mountainside cabin, these experiences will help you connect deeply not just with Alaska, but with each other.
So if you’re ready to start forever with something unforgettable, Southeast Alaska is waiting.
