Coffman Cove is a small incorporated city on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska. Set amid the islands and waterways of the Tongass National Forest, it functions as a remote residential community and a gateway for outdoor recreation such as sport fishing, sea kayaking and wildlife viewing. The settlement is reachable by water and air and is characteristic of sparsely populated coastal towns in the region.
Geography and climate
Coffman Cove lies on the northern shore of Prince of Wales Island, surrounded by complex shoreline, forested hills and sheltered bays. The climate is maritime: cool summers, relatively mild winters for Alaska and abundant precipitation year-round. Dense temperate rainforest and marine habitat support salmon runs, shellfish and a variety of birds and mammals that attract anglers and naturalists.
History and economy
The community developed in the 20th century in association with commercial fishing and logging that shaped much of Southeast Alaska. Over time the local economy diversified to include tourism, charter fishing services, and small-scale subsistence activities. Local businesses and guides provide seasonal services for visitors while residents rely on a mix of wage work, self-employment, and subsistence harvesting of fish and game.
Community and services
As an incorporated city, Coffman Cove maintains basic municipal functions and community organizations typical of small Alaskan towns, including local administration and volunteer emergency services. Facilities are modest: a harbor and floatplane access, small shops and services that support residents and seasonal visitors. Supplies and specialized services are often obtained from larger nearby communities or by seasonal transport.
Recreation and significance
The area is valued for recreational fishing (salmon and halibut), boating, hunting and nature observation. Its position within the Tongass National Forest and near marine channels makes Coffman Cove a convenient base for multi-day expeditions, wildlife photography and cultural experiences connected with Southeast Alaska’s island communities. For more information about the community and visiting, see the town pages at Coffman Cove.
- Typical activities: sport fishing, kayaking, hunting, wildlife viewing
- Environment: temperate rainforest, marine ecosystems, salmon-bearing streams
- Access: by boat, floatplane and inter-island transport routes