The Surf Window

Sitka

Alaska, USA

Beach breakAdvanced

On Baranof Island in Southeast Alaska, Sitka is surrounded by dramatic temperate rainforest and open Pacific, a historical Russian-American frontier town where the surf is powerful, cold, and almost entirely unexplored.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–SW 1.5–3m at 14–18s

Wind

NE

Light to E under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Sep–Mar

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach and reef break

Bottom

Rock and sand

Shape

Various, exposed outer beaches with powerful peaks

Length

50–120m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Expert surfers
  • •Why: Powerful Pacific swells, cold water, and complete remoteness

Hazards

  • •Water temperature 5–9°C
  • •Limited access, many breaks require boat transport
  • •Brown bears and humpback whales are common in these waters

Local Tips

  • •The old Russian Orthodox cathedral in town is one of Alaska's most remarkable landmarks
  • •Whale watching and sea kayaking are exceptional here, surf is a bonus
  • •Small aircraft and floatplane charters can access remote coastal breaks

Location

Map showing the location of Sitka in Alaska, USA

57.0525, -135.3376