Caines Head - North Beach

The feel

The coastal trail leads from Lowell Point to North Beach and the Caines Head State Recreation Area, where a headland rises 650 feet above Resurrection Bay and an abandoned World War II fort sits on top. Part of the route is a beach, and the three mile stretch between Tonsina Point and North Beach can be hiked only at very low tide.

Caines Head has no road access, so it is reached by foot or by boat, and most hikers who walk to North Beach stay overnight.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back (tidal) of about 9 miles with about 400 ft of gain; 4.5 miles one way on the coastal trail from Lowell Point to North Beach, partly along a beach that can only be walked at low tide.

Time

The 4.5 mile trip takes the average hiker two to three hours.

Crowds and best time

Most hikers to North Beach stay overnight. Plan to stay at least until the next low tide.

Parking

Lowell Point State Recreation Site has two small parking lots, and no motorhomes or trailers are allowed.

Fees and passes

$5 day use, paid at the Lowell Point lot.

Hazards

The beach is passable only at a low tide of +3ft or lower, and the rocks are very slick. This is bear country. Landslides have impeded access in places, and the first mile of the trail crosses private property.

Bathrooms and water

There are two latrines at Lowell Point State Recreation Site.

Season and access

Reached on foot from Lowell Point or by boat.

Mingo says

Check the tide tables first, then leave Seward at least two hours ahead of low tide. Wrong timing leaves you stranded along the way.

Before you go

• Pay the $5 day use fee at the Lowell Point lot.
• Carry bear spray and leave motorhomes and trailers at home.
• Allow 1.5 hours before low tide to leave North Beach for the walk back to Lowell Point.
• Stay on the designated trail through private property.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.