Shearwater Cove

This tiny cove located 10 miles from Seward offers boat transportation to unplugged serenity, two styles of yurt accommodations, and endless opportunities for kayaking the nooks and crannies of Resurrection Bay.

Tucked away between Humpy Cove and Fox Island, Shearwater Cove sits in a secluded setting with waterfalls cascading through old-growth forests carpeted with ferns and blueberries. The idyllic property also affords the opportunity to capture the sweeping views of Resurrection Bay and its wildlife, including humpbacks or orcas in the distance.

Owners Jason and Charity opened Shearwater Cove in 2016 with just two bookable yurts. Today there are seven private yurts to choose from; the four originals and three “Premium Yurts” featuring space for four and including a private shower and toilet.

These unique structures provide a unique wilderness experience, thanks to the skylight and circular shape creating a natural airy environment. Outdoor decks are great spots for viewing the bay after a day exploring by foot or kayak, and come meal time, the fully-equipped camp kitchenette have everything one needs for fixing up a hearty meal.

Nightly rates include round-trip water taxi transportation to and from the Cove, yurt rental, unlimited use of sea kayaks and gear, and access to the property’s short but steep hiking trails for unforgettable views.

Yurt Luxury

The four original yurts are set approximately 100 feet from each other on the lower edge of the property.

Premier yurts are larger, sleeping four on two queen beds and a divider separating them, with beautiful covered decks and a sweeping view from atop a prominent knoll.

Both yurt styles offer a table, chairs, all linens, a kitchenette with a two-burner stove, pots and pans, and staples like olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Water Taxi into the Wild

Your stay starts by meeting up with Jason or Charity at the Seward Small Boat Harbor where you’ll board Shearwater Cove’s exclusive water taxi. On the way, learn about Seward and Resurrection Bay from your hosts, and keep an eye out for whales, seals, otters, eagles, and jumping fish.

Try to stay at least two nights so that you get at least one full day to explore. After all, you get unlimited use of kayaks, and given the amount of sunlight during summer, that means you can be paddling in and out of coves at midnight if you wish. The closest destination to Shearwater Cove is Sandspit Point State Marine Park on the northeastern tip of Fox Island, which has tidepools, a big lagoon, and ocean waters beyond that will appeal to experienced kayakers. For consistently calm waters, head to Humpy Cove just to the north. Or, for some land time, hike the trail that leads up to a high lookout over Resurrection Bay.

Explore Solo, or With a Guide

While most people explore this area by kayak on their own, Jason and Charity can arrange for you to have a guide who can enrich the experience with local knowledge about flora and fauna. You'll also have a host on-site to greet you at check-in, introduce you to the yurt, and provide a full orientation to kayaks and hiking trails.

Don’t worry too much about being separated from civilization. If you paddle just a short distance from the cove, you’ll quickly pick up a cell phone signal, but it’s hard for any tech to compete with the jaw-dropping scenery and beautiful accommodations.