The Bore Tide

It’s the most northern bore tide in the world and the only one in the United States. It’s also the only bore tide bordered by high-rising mountains, which give the wave a dramatic backdrop. And because the arm is narrow, shallow, and gently sloping, the wave builds slowly, long and rideable rather than a quick crash, which is why surfers and paddlers travel from around the world to ride it.

You can catch the wave anywhere along the Seward Highway for the 40 to 50 miles it hugs Turnagain Arm. Near Girdwood, Bird Point and the five official highway turnouts east of it give you room to pull fully off the road and watch from established overlooks as the wave climbs the arm.

The schedule uses Bird Point as a consistent reference time near Girdwood. Times at nearby pull-offs can shift with wind and where you choose to watch. Harbor seals often ride the tide in, and beluga whales may follow once the water deepens.

The bore tide follows the largest tidal swings, so this schedule lists only the strongest days: the bigger the swing, the better the show. Times show the estimated wave arrival at Bird Point.