Alaska derives its name from the Aleut word “Alyeska,” which means “great land.” Alaska became part of the United States in 1951, alongside Hawaii, which is partially why Alaska is also known as the “Last Frontier.” Year-round, visitors come in droves to admire this land’s natural beauty, distinct weather and iconic glaciers. These features also make Alaska an extremely popular cruise destination.
Visit during the summer, and you can catch a glimpse of Alaska’s legendary midnight sun. Stop by in April, and you’ll have a chance to see a pod of gray whales returning from migration. Every season has a new experience in the Last Frontier.
We’ll explore the best time to cruise to Alaska, depending on your preferences—and we’ll share how AAA can streamline any cruises you embark on.
Spring
Alaska is famously the least densely populated state in America, largely due to its location and climate. This especially applies to the spring months; fewer tourists visit during this time of year, which means lower prices and fewer crowds. March through April is the best time to cruise to Alaska to see the Last Frontier at its least hectic—and potentially least expensive.
Alaska in March
Weather: Alaska tends to be slow and quiet throughout March as winter gives way to spring. This month tends to be drier, but it’s still pretty chilly, with high temperatures lingering around 29 degrees Fahrenheit (F) and lows dipping to about 19 degrees F.
Wildlife: Walruses come out in force between March and April, accompanied by long-tailed ducks and king eiders. If you’re particularly keen-eyed, you might spot a pair of arctic foxes roaming around woodland areas.
Activities: If you can make your way to the Iditarod during March, you just might be able to check out the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Locales, like the Alaska State Museum, also spring to life this month. March is also a great time to explore Alaska’s great national parks via land and sea.
Alaska in April
Weather: Alaska gradually thaws during this time of year, as reflected by the average highs of 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. You can expect about 3 inches of rainfall near coastal areas, and you can look forward to 11 hours of sunshine throughout the day.
Wildlife: Gray whales are easily the biggest attraction in Alaska during this month. These gentle giants return from migrating, which makes whale watching one of the most popular experiences in April.
Activities: April is arguably the best time to cruise to Alaska if you’re outdoorsy. Snowfall is just right for hiking or skiing in cities like Anchorage or Seward. Dog sledding and winter biking are also viable options for those with the experience. An Alaska Wildlife Cruise will also get you up close and personal with the region’s marine life.
Alaska in May
Weather: In May, Alaska becomes incredibly dry, and temperatures range from the low 40s to the high 50s. Anyone traveling through the southeast portion of Alaska can enjoy about 17 hours of daylight.
Wildlife: Pods of gray whales are still making waves in nearby waters. Migratory birds also make their way to the Last Frontier. Bring your binoculars, and you can spot songbirds in migration. And keep your eyes peeled for bears when you’re on dry land.
Activities: Travel rates are typically at their lowest during this month, making May the best time to cruise to Alaska without breaking the bank. Due to the dryer weather, this time of year is also ideal for an interior tour of Alaska.
Summer
June
Weather: June in Alaska is green but chilly, with a temperature to match. The daytime brings highs of 60 degrees while nighttime temps usually hover around the upper 40s. Last but not least, you can expect about 16 to 17 hours of sunlight each day.
Wildlife: Halibut comes in with the tide this month, which also kickstarts the Seward Halibut Tournament. Grizzly bears also come out in droves as large schools of salmon flood the waters. You’re almost guaranteed to spot a pack of wolves in woodland areas as well.
Activities: The summer solstice begins in late June each year. With it comes Anchorage’s summer solstice festival and Alaska’s world-famous midnight sun. June is also the optimal time for a 7-night Alaska Southbound Glacier cruise.
Alaska in July
Weather: Things start to heat up in July, but only to a mild extent. Temperatures fluctuate from the 50s to mid-60s on most days, and 3.5 inches of rainfall is common around this time. Wet season is in full effect during this month, so pack accordingly.
Wildlife: July is a fantastic time for bear-watching enthusiasts, as brown bears, black bears and Grizzlies are all out and about. The same goes for waterfowl and muskoxen, who frequent Alaska’s lakes and inland water areas.
Activities: All of the summer months tend to be very busy for Alaska, making this one of the most expensive times to visit. Still, there’s nothing quite like celebrating the 4th of July in the Last Frontier—or going for a 10-night luxury cruise around Interior Alaska.
Alaska in August
Weather: The rain picks up in August, as does the temperature. In coastal Alaska, 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit isn’t out of the question most days. Lows near the mid-40s and highs closer to the mid-60s are part and parcel in Interior Alaska.
Wildlife: Alaska’s wildlife is making hay while the sun shines in August. Bears of all shapes and colors are still making their rounds and whales are making a splash in the water. Caribou sightings will increase in frequency as well.
Activities: The Alaska State Fair is easily the biggest event in the town of Palmer. Part of that is due to the giant cabbage weigh-off that’s held each year. Alaska’s Northern Lights also become visible near the end of the month.
Fall
Alaska in September
Weather: Things start to cool down again throughout September. Temperatures can drop down to the low-40s and bound up to the high-50s most days. When it rains, it pours this month—with some days seeing more than 7 inches of rainfall.
Wildlife: September marks the beginning of mating season for many of Alaska’s land animals. You’ll see many more caribou and muskoxen roving the countryside, along with goats and mooses in certain areas.
Activities: September in Alaska can be great for lower cruise prices and glacier viewing. The Northern Lights are also still visible, and they’ll continue to ebb and flow in brightness until next April. All of these activities make September an excellent time for an Alaska Adventure cruise.
Alaska in October
Weather: Alaska’s freezing trend continues well into October, with lows reaching the 30 degrees Fahrenheit range and highs floating near the mid-40s. Rain and snowfall increase in frequency, meaning drivers will want to use snow tires while on the road.
Wildlife: October is the best time to cruise to Alaska if you love marine life. Gray whale sightings only increase in frequency around this point, but Bowhead and Beluga whale sightings also become increasingly common. Fun fact: Bowhead whales can live for over 200 years!
Activities: Celebrations galore during October. The Alaska Day Festival is held annually between October 11th through the 18th. Spooky Season in Alaska is a unique experience all its own. Just stop by Creamer’s Field during their Creepy Critters event for proof.
Alaksa in November
Weather: The coldest months are upon us as winter draws near. On a good day, you might experience low temperatures in the 20 degrees Fahrenheit ballpark. The highs aren’t noticeably different, with the upper 30s becoming a rarity as November progresses.
Wildlife: Many of Alaska’s hallmark animals are buckling down before the winter months roll in—but not all. You can still find the occasional moose looking for food in certain areas, and you might even spot a bald eagle soaring through the skies.
Activities: Right at the start of the month, the Sitka Whalefest ushers in the transition from fall to winter. Creamer’s Field also makes another cameo in this guide with their Thanksgiving for the Birds event. This time of year is fantastic for viewing the majestic tundra at its coldest.
Winter
Alaska in December
Weather: The coldest months are naturally in the winter, though some might still get caught off guard by the 20 to 30-degree Fahrenheit temps that are common in December. Rain, sleet and snow significantly increase in frequency from here on out.
Wildlife: Winter is synonymous with hibernation time for critters like bears and marmots. Certain creatures will become exceedingly harder to encounter. The exceptions are goats, dall sheep, harbor seals and sea lions.
Activities: Christmastime in Alaska means the entire state becomes a winter wonderland. Places like the Alaska Zoo hold family-friendly events to christen the holidays. It’s also possible to find polar bears at the Alaska Zoo and in certain areas near St. Lawrence Island.
Alaska in January
Weather: There are many years when Alaska is at its absolute coldest in January. Temperatures can sink to 20 degrees Fahrenheit or less, and highs occasionally break the low-30s threshold.
Wildlife: Polar bears, walruses and seals frequent Alaska’s coastal areas in January. Closer inland, you can still find many eagles, mooses and goats from previous months.
Activities: The increased snowfall opens the door for a wealth of icy activities. January is the perfect time for a 1 Hour Snowmobile Tour in Fairbanks, Alaska. And, if you’re feeling particularly bold, you can jump into freezing waters at the Seward Polar Bear Jump Festival.
Alaska in February
Weather: Slowly but surely, winter’s grasp gives way to spring—as evidenced by mid-20 degree lows and mod-30 degree highs. Rainfall tends to top out at 4 inches in most areas, making snow less challenging for drivers.
Wildlife: Harbor seals and sea lions take Alaska by storm, gathering on the shores and conveniently striking picturesque poses. On incredibly rare occasions, you might spot a lone lynx traveling through Alaska’s forests.
Activities: The Annual Winter Carnival Celebration & Parade kick into gear in Downtown Homer on February 11th. For Valentine’s Day in Alaska, the Northern Lights are still alight, and Denali National Park is still a romantic cruise destination. What better way to experience them both than on a 12-day guided Alaska Discovery Cruise?
Book Your Cruise to Alaska With AAA Travel
Whether you want to see the Northern Lights in person or you’d like to experience one of Alaska’s 17-hour days, there are plenty of reasons to chart a course for the Last Frontier. If you have a AAA membership, you may be eligible for major discounts when you book your cruise to Alaska.