We woke up to the kind of day that makes one thankful to be where they are. Stunning blue skies and sunlight in Alaska air that crisps the edges of everything.

The major activity today was visiting the town of Elfin Cove.

Elfin Cove is a small, remote census-designated place located on the northern end of Chichagof Island in Southeast Alaska. Here are some key facts:
It is situated in a protected, flask-shaped harbor originally called “Gunkhole” by fishermen. The current name “Elfin Cove” was given in 1935 when a post office was established.
As of the 2020 census, Elfin Cove had a population of just 24 people. The population is highly seasonal, swelling to around 200 during the summer fishing months.
Elfin Cove is only accessible by boat or floatplane, with no roads connecting it to other communities. A boardwalk runs through the small village.
It has a maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures range from 52-63°F, and winters are 26-39°F.
The economy is heavily reliant on commercial fishing, sport fishing lodges/charters, and tourism. Elfin Cove has historically been a fish-buying and supply center for the fishing fleet.
Amenities include a post office, general store, liquor store, and a few other buildings, but no health care facilities.
Elfin Cove is located about 85 air miles west of Juneau, with floatplane service connecting it to Alaska’s capital city.
The remote location provides access to pristine fishing grounds with low fishing pressure, attracting anglers seeking salmon, halibut, lingcod and more.

It is a true treasure. Before we left the boat we had to attend a mandatory information session that was led by Mary Jo, a resident of Elfin Cove since 1974. She came to visit a friend and never left. When she came here there was no electricity, running water, or telephone service save the WWII wind up radios. Now the village has water 24 hours per day, electricity and even satellite internet service.

Because the town is so small they don’t allow more than 60 visitors at a time. We had to wait our turn but the scenery was delicious. Two bald eagles kept playing around circling the tress on this small island.

This is one happy dog.

I’ll let the pictures speak now.

Notices were posted on buildings at random.

I caught a young bald eagle (you can tell by the mottled feathers) stealing a fish from the harbor.

These two fisherman caught King Salmon.

The ever so important general store. Everything from pasta to shovels.

According to Mary Jo, orders from Amazon do get here, eventually.

I was just about to post this at 9:30 PM when a pod of Orcas decided to show off on the starboard side.

Sunset was pretty good as well.