
Beluga Point Anchorage
A scenic turnout on Turnagain Arm, famous for beluga whale sightings and stunning mountain vistas. Free and easily accessible from Anchorage.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for whale sightings

Beluga Point Anchorage
Best Time
Best chance for whale sightings

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic turnout on Turnagain Arm, famous for beluga whale sightings and stunning mountain vistas. Free and easily accessible from Anchorage.
"Such a beautiful stop along Seward Highway! The views are breathtaking and there are places to walk along the rocks and near the water."

🎯 Time Your Visit for Whales
Visit during high tide in summer (mid-July to August) for the best chance to see beluga whales. :whale:
👟 Be Prepared for Terrain
Wear sturdy shoes for walking on the beach and near train tracks. Be mindful of steep inclines. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Beluga Whale Watching
Turnagain Arm
Keep an eye out for these elusive white whales, especially during high tide in summer months.

Stunning Turnagain Arm Vistas
Overlook
Breathtaking views of the mountains across the water, offering incredible photo opportunities.

Wildlife Spotting (Beyond Belugas)
Cliffs near the overlook
Occasionally, you might spot mountain goats or sheep on the surrounding cliffs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Whale Sightings
Accessibility and Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Time Your Visit for Whales
Visit during high tide in summer (mid-July to August) for the best chance to see beluga whales.
:whale:👟 Be Prepared for Terrain
Wear sturdy shoes for walking on the beach and near train tracks. Be mindful of steep inclines.
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the Scenery
This spot is a photographer's dream, perfect for selfies, engagement, and landscape shots.
:camerawithflash:🚗 Easy Access from Anchorage
Just a short 20-minute drive from downtown Anchorage, making it a convenient stop.
:car:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Time Your Visit for Whales
Visit during high tide in summer (mid-July to August) for the best chance to see beluga whales.
:whale:👟 Be Prepared for Terrain
Wear sturdy shoes for walking on the beach and near train tracks. Be mindful of steep inclines.
:athletic_shoe:📸 Capture the Scenery
This spot is a photographer's dream, perfect for selfies, engagement, and landscape shots.
:camerawithflash:🚗 Easy Access from Anchorage
Just a short 20-minute drive from downtown Anchorage, making it a convenient stop.
:car:🌬️ Dress for the Weather
Conditions can change quickly; expect wind and potentially even snow, even in summer.
:cloud:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning scenic views of Turnagain Arm and the surrounding mountains, calling it a must-stop along the Seward Highway. The potential to spot beluga whales, especially during high tide in summer, is a major highlight. While the natural beauty is consistently praised, some note the terrain can be challenging for small children and that facilities like restrooms are absent.
"Stopped at Beluga Point, great views of the mountain range across the water. Behind you can sometimes see sheep/goats (we did not). Good spot for some selfies too. It is a pull off paved parking spot and we stopped during the week so it was not busy."
Jon Harrison
"Neat pull off on the Seward highway. Occasionally you can see marine wildlife in the turnagain arm or goats on the cliffs of the mountains. It offers great views of the mountains. You will need to walk around and go across the train tracks to get the better views. There are steep inclines so it isn’t entirely safe for small children. The views are vastly different from summer to winter."
Michael
"This is a free pull off the side of the road point of interest on Seward Highway at mile 110. This is definitely worth the stop. Great photo and video opportunities here. Tho we weren't lucky enough to spot a bugula whale, the vista is stunningly beautiful. We stopped on a cold and cloudy Tuesday afternoon. The wind was fairly strong. We spent a good 15 minutes here. Plenty of parking. There are no restrooms or permanent buildings here."
John Hannan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beluga Point is conveniently located about 20 minutes south of downtown Anchorage along the Seward Highway (AK-1 S). It's a popular pull-off with paved parking, easily accessible by car.
Many visitors drive themselves, and it's a common stop on scenic drives along Turnagain Arm.Public transportation options directly to Beluga Point are limited. The most common way to visit is by personal vehicle or rental car.
Some guided tours of Anchorage may include a stop here.The Seward Highway (AK-1 S) is the primary route. The drive itself is incredibly scenic, offering stunning views of Turnagain Arm and the surrounding mountains.
Beluga Point is approximately a 20-minute drive from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), making it an easy stop upon arrival or before departure.
No, Beluga Point is a free overlook with paved parking available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Beluga Point is a public scenic overlook and does not require any tickets or admission fees. It's a free stop for visitors.
Beluga Point is accessible at any time, as it's an outdoor scenic viewpoint. However, whale watching is best during daylight hours, especially during high tide in the summer.
There is no entrance fee to visit Beluga Point. It's a free roadside attraction.
Yes, you can visit Beluga Point in the winter, but the scenery and experience will be vastly different. Whale sightings are unlikely, but the snow-covered landscapes can be beautiful.
There are no permanent buildings or restrooms at Beluga Point. Visitors should plan accordingly and use facilities before or after their visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset offers stunning light for photography.
Weekday afternoons tend to be less crowded, allowing for more unobstructed shots.You can capture breathtaking landscape shots of Turnagain Arm and the mountains, wildlife (if you're lucky!), and even portraits. It's a popular spot for senior photos, engagements, and family portraits.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. If you're hoping to photograph whales or distant wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial.
The main overlook provides excellent views. For different perspectives, you can carefully walk along the beach or near the train tracks, but always prioritize safety.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's always best to check current FAA guidelines and local advisories before flying a drone in the area.
🎫 🐋 Wildlife
The prime season for spotting beluga whales in Turnagain Arm is typically from mid-July through August, when salmon are running.
Visiting during high tide can also increase your chances of seeing them closer to shore.While you can see beluga whales from the shore at Beluga Point, it's important to maintain a safe and respectful distance. Never attempt to approach or feed them.
Besides beluga whales, keep an eye on the cliffs for mountain goats and sheep.
Birdwatching is also popular in the area.Even if you don't spot whales, the stunning scenery of Turnagain Arm and the surrounding mountains is well worth the visit.
The area offers beautiful views year-round.Yes, there are organizations working on beluga whale conservation in Alaska. Some local groups are dedicated to protecting these marine mammals and their habitats.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Beluga Whale Watching
Remember that these are wild animals, and it's crucial to observe them from a respectful distance. Never attempt to approach or feed the whales. Even if you don't see any belugas, the dramatic scenery of Turnagain Arm, with its towering mountains and tidal bore, provides a spectacular backdrop. The area is also known for its potential to spot mountain goats on the steep cliffs, adding another layer of wildlife viewing opportunities.
Navigating the Turnagain Arm Scenery
Beyond the main overlook, visitors can explore the beach area, though caution is advised due to the presence of train tracks and potentially steep inclines. The contrast between the rugged mountains, the vast water, and the occasional train passing by creates a unique photographic environment. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just looking for a memorable selfie spot, Beluga Point offers ample opportunities to capture the essence of Alaska's wild beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit