Security Bay State Marine Park
Security Bay State Marine Park is a remote, boat-access-only marine park on the west side of Kodiak Island, known for sheltered anchorages, rugged shoreline, and abundant wildlife. Visitors come for kayaking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and quiet exploration of a pristine coastal environment.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed; keep them under control and leashed where required. Clean up after pets and protect wildlife.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Remote, scenic, and peaceful with stunning wilderness views, great kayaking, wildlife watching, and camping. Visitors love the solitude, clear water, and true off-grid Alaska experience.
Tips from Visitors
- Bring bear spray and store food securely.
- Expect remote access; plan transportation and supplies carefully.
- Check tides and weather before boating or kayaking.
- Pack out all trash to protect the marine environment.
- Use caution on rocky shores and slippery surfaces.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Security Bay State Marine Park is late spring through early fall, when daylight is long and marine conditions are generally more favorable. Summer offers the best chance for calm anchorages, wildlife viewing, and comfortable paddling.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Security Bay State Marine Park:
- Monashka BayA scenic coastal area near Kodiak with opportunities for boating, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing.28 miles away
- Fort Abercrombie State Historical ParkA historic park near Kodiak featuring coastal bluffs, World War II-era sites, and popular day-use recreation.33 miles away
- Kodiak National Wildlife RefugeA vast refuge protecting habitat for brown bears, salmon, seabirds, and marine mammals on Kodiak Island.35 miles away
Things to Do at Security Bay State Marine Park
Camping at Security Bay State Marine Park
Primitive camping only; no developed sites, cabins, RV hookups, or reservations. Bring all supplies and practice Leave No Trace.
Hiking Trails
Security Bay State Marine Park offers rugged, scenic day hiking with a true backcountry feel. Trails are limited, so hikers often explore beaches, forested slopes, and shoreline routes, sometimes on informal paths. Expect wet, uneven terrain, mud, and brush, but also quiet solitude, wildlife viewing, and beautiful views of Kachemak Bay and surrounding islands. Good footwear and navigation skills are important.
Security Bay Shoreline Traverse
moderateA scenic coastal hike along the shoreline of Security Bay with tide-dependent sections, beach walking, and views of protected coves, forested slopes, and marine wildlife.
Bear Cove Ridge Walk
moderateA short but rewarding climb from the bay to a low ridge overlooking the surrounding islands and waterways, with opportunities to see old-growth forest and coastal scenery.
Inner Lagoon Loop
easyAn easier loop through sheltered shoreline and muskeg terrain near the inner lagoon, suitable for a relaxed outing with frequent wildlife viewing.
Point Security Overlook
moderateA longer out-and-back route to a prominent overlook at the point, combining forest travel, rocky shoreline, and expansive views across the marine park.
Directions
Access is by boat or floatplane only. From Kodiak, travel by vessel west along the coast of Kodiak Island to Security Bay; there are no roads to the park.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Security Bay State Marine Park?
Most visitors arrive by boat or floatplane. There are no roads into the park, so access depends on weather and tide conditions. Many travelers come from nearby Ketchikan or other Southeast Alaska ports.
Is Security Bay a good place to anchor?
Yes, many boaters use Security Bay as a sheltered anchorage, especially in calm weather. Visitors often note it can be peaceful and scenic, but conditions can change quickly, so check charts, tides, and forecasts before anchoring.
What activities do people usually do there?
Common activities include boating, kayaking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and camping on nearby shorelines. Reviews often mention the area’s quiet setting and opportunities to see marine life and forested coastline.
Are there facilities or services in the park?
Facilities are very limited. Expect a remote marine park with few or no developed services. Visitors should bring all needed supplies, including food, water, and camping gear, and be prepared to leave no trace.
What wildlife might I see at Security Bay?
Visitors commonly report seeing seals, sea lions, eagles, and sometimes whales or bears along the shoreline. Wildlife sightings vary by season and location, so keep a safe distance and store food securely.
When is the best time to visit Security Bay State Marine Park?
Summer is usually the most popular time because of milder weather and longer daylight. Many visitors say calm days make the experience much better, but Southeast Alaska weather can be wet and changeable any time of year.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
View Gear Checklist →