The Beardslee Islands are a group of dozens of islands managed by the National Park Service for a predominately non-motorized experience. The best way to explore the Beardslees is by sea kayak. Kayaks are available for rent with options for guided, day, and overnight trips. Be sure to check in with the National Park Service before starting your trip to be aware of advice, safety tips, and rules for being in the Wilderness Area.

Visitors can expect to see lots of waterfowl and seabirds including Pigeon Guillemot, Harlequin Duck, Pelagic Cormorant, Marbled Murrelet, Arctic Tern, and mergansers. Black Oystercatchers nest on the rocky shoreline. This is a good area to see other wildlife as well including sea otters, humpback whales, harbor seals, moose, and bears. Be sure to be aware of changing tides and weather conditions when exploring this area.

Directions:

From downtown Gustavus, head west on Gustavus Road 0.7 miles toward Shooting Star Lane. Turn rights onto Mountain View Road and drive 2.8 miles to Park Road. Drive 4.4 miles and follow the signs to the Glacier Bay Visitor Center.

Birding Resources:

• eBird Hotspot: Glacier Bay NP—Beardslee Islands

Species Checklist:

• Gustavus checklist

Other Resources:

• National Park Service: Kayak the Beadslees 
• Alaska Department of Fish and Game: Beardslee Islands