Raspberry Island, Alaska: Wildlife and Wilderness in the Kodiak Archipelago

Why Raspberry Island Stands Out

Raspberry Island sits in the western Kodiak Archipelago, surrounded by the rich marine waters of Shelikof Strait. Its steep, spruce-covered slopes and sheltered bays support one of the densest concentrations of coastal brown bears in Alaska outside the national wildlife refuge. Visitors come for the chance to watch bears foraging along the shoreline while sea otters raft nearby and harbor seals haul out on rocky points.

How to Reach Raspberry Island

Most travelers start in the town of Kodiak on Kodiak Island. From there, small-boat operators and floatplane pilots run day trips and multi-day charters across the eight-mile-wide Raspberry Strait. The crossing takes roughly 45 minutes by boat in calm conditions or 15 minutes by air. Because no roads or scheduled ferries serve the island, independent visitors must arrange private transport in advance and plan for weather-related delays.

Best Time to Visit

July through early September offers the most reliable bear activity along the beaches and the mildest temperatures for hiking and kayaking. Late spring and early fall can still be productive for wildlife, though rain and wind increase. Winter visits are rare and require specialized cold-weather gear and experienced guides.

Things to See and Do

Guided bear-viewing walks along the south and east shores remain the main draw. Anglers cast for salmon and halibut from the rocky points or from skiffs in the protected coves. Kayakers paddle the convoluted shoreline, where tide pools reveal starfish and anemones. Short but steep trails lead to overlooks with sweeping views of the Shelikof Strait and the mainland volcanoes on clear days.

Wildlife Viewing Guidelines

• Maintain at least 100 yards from bears and never approach cubs.
• Stay on established trails or beaches to avoid disturbing denning sites.
• Carry binoculars rather than relying on long lenses alone.

Nearby Destinations Worth Combining

Many itineraries pair Raspberry Island with neighboring Afognak Island for additional bear habitat or with Kodiak Island’s Fossil Beach and Fort Abercrombie State Park for a broader look at the archipelago’s human and natural history. Some charters also stop at the sea-bird colonies on nearby Sugarloaf Island.