Security Bay

Security Bay State Marine Park protects a well-named bay providing secure anchorage on Kuiu Island in Southeast Alaska. The 2,200-acre marine park encompasses excellent shelter and access to one of the Alexander Archipelago's wildest islands. The bay provides refuge for mariners navigating challenging waters.

Kuiu Island supports healthy populations of black bears and Sitka black-tailed deer. Wolves are present on the island, one of the few islands in the archipelago with established wolf populations. Harbor seals and sea otters frequent bay waters. Eagles and various seabirds are abundant.

Old-growth temperate rainforest covers the island, with some of the least disturbed forest remaining in Southeast Alaska. Massive Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and Alaska yellow cedar form the canopy. The understory is lush with devil's club and berry bushes.

Kuiu Island displays varied geology including limestone formations that create karst topography and cave systems. The bay was carved into this complex geology by glacial and water erosion. The surrounding terrain includes dramatic rock formations.

Maritime climate brings mild temperatures and substantial precipitation. The bay's protected nature provides security during the storms that frequently affect the outer coast. Fog and rain are common.

Tlingit peoples have utilized Kuiu Island's resources for countless generations. The island's remoteness has limited modern development, preserving its wild character. The bay's name reflects its fundamental value to mariners.

Security Bay State Marine Park was established to preserve public access to this excellent anchorage on Kuiu Island. The park provides a secure base for exploring one of Southeast Alaska's least developed large islands.

The secure anchorage is the primary feature for mariners. Shore exploration offers access to wild old-growth forest. Wolf and bear populations provide wildlife viewing potential. The wild character of Kuiu Island is the fundamental attraction.

The marine park provides protected anchorage and primitive shore access. No developed facilities exist; visitors must be self-sufficient. Access is by boat from Petersburg, Kake, or other Southeast Alaska communities.

The marine park protects access to one of Southeast Alaska's wildest islands. The park contributes to conservation of intact island ecosystems. Leave-no-trace practices are essential.