Before moving to Juneau, Alaska, I had visited Petersburg during the summer for years - spending the days fishing, crabbing and exploring. We made the decision to move to Auke Bay, Alaska (close to Juneau) and I’m thrilled with our decision. There’s an endless amount of adventures and activities to embark on and as a photographer, there’s always something more to photograph (the possibilities can be overwhelming!).

Top Reasons to Live in Auke Bay

While there are several reasons to live in Auke Bay, here are just a few of my favorite reasons why I love it here!

1. The Weather: While this is not scientific proof, in my experience living here over the last few years, the weather seems to be all-around better here. It rains less, the wind is a bit less, and on the days when it’s cloudy or foggy, it seems to dissipate before the sunset.

2. The Sunsets: Just incredible sunsets - all hues of the rainbow. I’ve included some photos for you to get a sense of the colors.

3. There’s One of Everything: Within walking distance, there’s the harbor, a cafe (they also serve lunch and dinner), a small grocery store, gas/fuel, a salon and a barber, there’s a brewery, a bar and a yoga studio. Oh! and there’s a laundromat if needed. You don’t need to go too far (or even drive if you’re up for a walk) since there’s one of everything within a mile.

4. There’s a University: There’s a university nearby which has a couple of benefits for those of us who live in the area. For me personally, I have benefitted from the nicely kept walking paths (almost always taken care of in the winter) and nearby trails. There is a library on campus (although I’m not sure if a library card can be acquired).

5. The Trails: Within a mile radius, there’s so many trails that can be accessed with out-and-back style hiking. Some trails can be biked and some trails lead to Forest Service Cabins that can be rented.

6. The Berry Picking: During berry season, it is common to see people pulled over on the side of the road picking berries. I have passed berry pickers along the trails, most of them picking blueberries, blackberries or salmon berries.

7. The Harbor: If you like kayaking, access to the Auke Bay Harbor is as simple as dropping in your kayak and heading out for the day. During the summer and peak hours, it may get a bit busy but the access is easy and there’s plenty of daytime parking.

8. The Birds: If you love watching birds or you’re a photographer, Auke Bay is paradise! We get so many types of birds (eagles, various ducks, etc.) and as the weather changes, you notice more migrating through the area.

While there are thousands of reasons to live in Auke Bay, Alaska, those are my top reasons why I choose to live here. The photography options are endless, there’s infrastructure and the necessary stores within walking distance, and the ocean constantly beckons for another adventure.

Check out a few more of the sunsets overlooking Auke Bay below!