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Ketchikan may be known for salmon, rainforest scenery, and harbor views, but it is also one of the most approachable destinations for a romantic Alaska vacation. Its scale, location, and accessibility make it easier for couples to plan meaningful time together without the long travel days or heavy logistics common in other Alaska regions. If you’re considering an Alaska romantic getaway, Ketchikan offers a blend of nature, culture, food, and memorable moments that fit a variety of travel styles.

Below are some of the top reasons couples choose Ketchikan, along with specific activities and places that help shape an unforgettable trip.

Easier to Reach Than Many Alaska Destinations

One major advantage of a romantic getaway in Alaska that starts in Ketchikan is how quickly you can get there. Several major U.S. airports offer direct flights seasonally, which shortens travel time and makes it possible to start enjoying your trip sooner.

Examples of Direct Routes (Seasonal and Subject to Change)

  • Seattle → Ketchikan: approx. 1 hr 45 min

  • Portland → Ketchikan: approx. 2 hr 30 min

  • San Francisco → Ketchikan: approx. 3 hr 30 min

  • Anchorage → Ketchikan: approx. 3 hr 15 min

To put that into perspective:

  • Seattle → Anchorage takes about 3 hr 40 min, almost twice the time of flying to Ketchikan.

  • Seattle → Juneau is typically around 2.5 hr, still longer than Ketchikan.

When you compare flight costs in peak season:

  • Seattle → Ketchikan: often $200–$350

  • Seattle → Anchorage / Fairbanks: often $350–$500

Ketchikan’s easy access makes it a natural first step into Alaska. It’s one of the best Alaska trips for couples who want meaningful time together without long transfers or complicated planning. It’s a destination that feels remote, but is surprisingly within reach.

Alaska Airlines plane flying above the clouds on a route to Southeast Alaska.

Arriving by Ferry: A Unique Start to Your Alaska Romantic Getaway

For couples seeking a different kind of arrival, the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) offers sailings from Bellingham, Washington, directly into Ketchikan. The ferry docks just across the street from The Landing Hotel, making it one of the most seamless ways to begin your Alaska trip.

It’s a slower, scenic approach to the Inside Passage and a memorable experience for couples who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Romantic Things to Do in Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a rainforest coastal city filled with dramatic landscapes and quiet pockets that lend themselves well to shared experiences. For couples planning a romantic Alaska vacation, Ketchikan offers a mix of accessible experiences and memorable moments that don’t require long travel days or complicated planning.

Recommended Activities

  • Harborfront Stroll at Sunset
    Walk along Tongass Avenue or the docks near Bar Harbor Marina. Marine life is often active during quieter evening hours.
  • Aerial Views of the Misty Fjords
    A flightseeing trip over steep granite walls and mirror-like lakes is one of the most iconic ways to experience Southeast Alaska.
  • Coastal Wildlife Cruises
    Keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, seals, and bald eagles while exploring quiet coves together.
  • Guided Cultural Experiences
    Visit Totem Bight State Park, tour the carving sheds at Saxman, or explore the Totem Heritage Center for insight into Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian history.
  • Couples Fishing Charter
    Ideal for travelers interested in Alaska couples fishing trips. Salmon and halibut seasons offer action-filled days on the water.
  • Creek Street & Married Man’s Trail
    A historic boardwalk surrounded by shops, galleries, and forest pathways perfect for relaxed wandering.
  • Rainforest Hiking Near Ward Lake or Carlanna Lake
    Lush trails, moss-covered forests, and quiet viewpoints offer peaceful escapes.
  • Adventure Options for Active Couples
    Consider offroading tours, kayaking the protected coves around Clover Pass, or renting e-bikes to explore the coastline together.
  • Date-Night Dining
    Enjoy comfort classics at The Diner at The Landing or dinner and drinks at The Portside Pub & Grill, two easy, no-stress options after a full day.

Check out our blog post on the best things to do in Ketchikan for more ideas.

Couple enjoying drinks and dinner together at a cozy restaurant in Ketchikan, Alaska.


Why Ketchikan Works Well for Couples

You don’t need multi-day drives, complicated itineraries, or long distances between attractions. Ketchikan’s compact layout keeps everything close together, the water, the forest, the mountains, and town are all within minutes of one another. That means more time doing things together and less time planning around transportation or weather windows.

Ketchikan’s combination of scenery, wildlife, and easy logistics is what makes it one of the best Alaska trips for couples who want adventure without unnecessary hurdles.

Where to Stay: A Comfortable Base for Your Trip

At the end of each day, your hotel sets the tone for your quiet moments together. The Landing Hotel offers an easy, convenient base with:

  • A location across from the Alaska Marine Highway and Inter-Island Ferry

  • Quick access to the airport ferry

  • Two restaurants on site

  • A complimentary courtesy shuttle

  • Comfortable rooms designed for relaxing between excursions

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer Alaska romantic vacation, The Landing makes it simple to explore the area and unwind at your own pace.

If you need help planning the perfect itinerary, the team at The Landing is always happy to connect you with trusted local tour operators and make recommendations tailored to your style of trip. With so much located just minutes from your room, the experience often feels more like an effortless retreat than a complicated Alaska expedition.

Spacious king room at The Landing Hotel in Ketchikan with warm lighting and comfortable seating area.

The Beauty of Choosing Ketchikan

A romantic getaway in Alaska doesn’t have to mean remote lodges or complicated itineraries. In Ketchikan, couples can experience dramatic scenery, wildlife, culture, and the magic of the Inside Passage, all in a destination that’s surprisingly easy to reach and easy to enjoy.

Whether you’re planning a quiet weekend or a longer Alaska romantic getaway, Ketchikan offers the perfect balance of adventure and connection.

Land here. Stay here.

Keller Haws
December 10, 2025