Alaska Travel Tips
When it comes to planning, nothing it more important that having all the Alaska travel tips possible! We have created a list of the best tips to help you get ready to explore The Last Frontier! Still have questions? No problem. Contact our friendly Adventure Planners at any time.
Average Daylight Hours
There are areas of Alaska that experience 24 hours of summer daylight, but the Kenai Peninsula is not one of them. On the Kenai, you may expect up to 19 hours of daylight in June, 17 hours in July, 16 hours in August and 14 hours in September.
Average Temperatures and Precipitation
In the summer the average high temperature on the Kenai Peninsula is in the mid 60’s. There is an average humidity of 50% and less than two inches of precipitation per month. Remember that temperature on the saltwater is colder, so dress warmly. Weather is always a factor, but it seldom interferes with a great vacation experience if you are prepared.
Bank Card Cash Machines
Homer, Kenai and Soldotna have major bank branches and many merchants host cash machines on their premises. Most merchants and gas stations accept major credit cards. Ninilchik General Store has an ATM. Travelers checks are used frequently and are always accepted.
Clothing
Alaska is a pretty casual environment. It is a good idea to carry layers of clothing with you to accommodate the varying weather conditions. You can take them off when it is a warm, sunny 75 degrees, and put them back on if the weather turns cool and blustery. You will want to dress warmly when going out on the ocean and other outdoor activities, with long underwear under your clothes and a sweater on top, as well as a warm jacket, hat and gloves. You’ll want full rain gear and 2 pairs of shoes, such as tennis shoes or water-resistant hiking boots.
Cost of Living
Generally speaking, you will find the cost of living to be slightly more expensive in Alaska. Gasoline is on par with the rest of the country and restaurants are comparable. In the space of a vacation week, you'll find prices to be similar to what you might expect elsewhere.
Mobile Phone Service
Check with your home provider about service. Most analog and digital phones do successfully “roam” on the Kenai Peninsula, but there are a few areas with poor reception.
Drinking Age
Driving Tips
Alaska honors all out of state driver’s licenses. Seat belts must be worn at all times. Maximum speed limit on the Kenai Peninsula is 55 mph. Watch out for moose!
Firearms
You may carry firearms for protection or hunting in Alaska. Airline passengers must declare their firearms and check them as baggage. Please let us know if you decide to bring a firearm. There is NO need for a firearm at Soaring Eagle Lodge or for any of our activities. Where appropriate, guides will provide any protection required.
Holidays
All major US holidays are observed on the Peninsula. We also observe Seward’s Day on the last Monday in March and Alaska Day on October 18th.
Medical Facilities
The cities of Soldotna, Homer and Seward have hospital or medical centers and emergency medical services are available along the Peninsula.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are present in varying degrees from April through September each year. None carry disease. On the Kenai Peninsula they are found on coastal flats and in forested valleys. The worst occurrences are in areas of slow moving or standing water. These insects are most active at dusk and dawn but wind greatly decreases their activity. Mosquitoes are not a problem along the bluff line at Soaring Eagle.