Anchorage Beaches

You’ll find a lot of terrific reasons to find a beach near you. Whether you plan to go splashing in the waves, grilling on the beach, playing volleyball, having a picnic, fishing, or simply getting a tan, beaches are a host to a wide range of fantastic activities.

Finding the perfect swimming beach in Anchorage with lots of room for activities on the beach isn’t too difficult. If you need some help with locating a fantastic beach near you, you can locate one with our collection. Enter the beach name, a city, or a zip code to get started.

Anchorage Beaches

Remember that the weather on a beach is very different than what you find in the city. Wind is usually stronger and unpredictible when it is blowing onto a beach.

Prior to heading out to a beach in Anchorage, AK or a nearby area, check online to be sure that the beach is free to the public. You should not be shocked if a beach you wish to go to is not open due to their daily hours, closing on certain days, or closing during the winter.

Anchorage, AK Beach Rules

When you go to a beach in Anchorage, there are always rules that you must follow. Nearly all beaches will ask you to follow these rules:

  • Building a fire may not be permitted on most public Anchorage beaches.
  • Most beaches in Anchorage have curfews except for specific dates.
  • Don’t leave trash on the ground – Pack out everything you pack in.
  • Even if a lifeguard is at attention, know that you’re entering the water at your own risk.
  • Alcoholic beverages may not be permitted.
  • Bottles made from glass can easily shatter, so don’t bring bottles made of glass to the beach.

Anchorage Beach Checklist

  1. Where are the public restrooms. Bathroom details are likely the last thing on your mind when you plan your beach trip. However you don’t want to be stuck in a situation when you must find a bathroom fast but there isn’t one in sight. If you’re unable to find restroom information on the website of the beach, then you can plan on the fact that a public restroom or porta potty isn’t available. Try to use the restroom prior to leaving for the beach.
  2. Remember the towels. Beach towels are important for a fun beach experience. A good rule of thumb is an ocean beach or an area which has frequent rip tides. Learn the indicators and know how to survive if you are caught in one.
  3. Dispose of Trash. It’s no fun to go to a waste filled beach. Whenever you take something to the beach, you should pick up after yourself. Be sure to throw away your litter in an appropriate trash or recycling bin.
  4. Store items in a mesh bag. It may be convenient to use a purse, grocery bag, or water-resistant duffle bag to stash beach gear such as towels, buckets, speakersinflatables, and PFDs. But these bags keep water from leaving, leading to mildew growth or just keeping beach gear from drying out.
  5. Get a shady area. If you suspect that locating a shady spot could be difficult, or if you know that there probably will not be many shady areas available, bring your own shade! Bring a beach umbrella, pop up tent, or some sort of equipment that blocks sunlight. Be sure that you bring something that has good ventilation.
  6. Watch out for bugs. If you plan on going to the beach in the morning or the evening, you will find mosquitos, biting flies, fleas and other annoying bugs could cause a problem.
  7. Is there a lifeguard on duty? Many sizeable beaches in Anchorage staff a lifeguard around, however you should never assume that a lifeguard being at the beach. While heading out to the beach, search for lifeguard on duty signs. Sometimes they display lifeguard patrol hours.
  8. Bring enough layers. Everyone knows that the temperature in Anchorage can change rather fast. It is particularly necessary if you’re planning on going in the water, so bring enough warm items such as sweaters, blankets, pants, and shirts.