Overview
Sitka’s boat-in soak, historic, simple, and very Alaska
Goddard Hot Springs sits on Hot Springs Bay off Sitka Sound, south of Sitka, with a long history as a destination for people seeking warm water in Southeast Alaska. What matters for planning is that it’s a marine-access hot springs site with built soaking tubs, not a road trip stop. You get there by boat or floatplane, and the experience is shaped by tides, weather, and how well you plan your transport.
What’s on site
Alaska.org notes the City of Sitka owns the property and maintains two cedar bathhouses, with shelters, boardwalks for walking, and outhouses. That makes it more approachable than many wilderness springs, but it’s still remote in the everyday sense because you can’t drive there.
Why people love it
Because it feels like a secret, even when it isn’t. Warm water, forest, and salt air in the same hour is a good combination.
Location & Access
Where it is
Goddard Hot Springs is on Hot Springs Bay off Sitka Sound, south of Sitka on Baranof Island’s outer coast. The commonly listed coordinates place it at 56.846531, -135.379772.
Getting there
There is no road access. Plan transport by boat (often via water taxi) or floatplane, depending on season and your budget. If you’re boating yourself, Alaska.org specifically warns about rocks and shoals near the springs, so treat navigation as serious and use current charts.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, traction sandals, and a dry layer for after the soak. Bring food and drinking water, and pack a dry bag for your phone and keys. If you’re arriving by water taxi, bring what you can comfortably carry, you don’t want a sprawling pile on wet boardwalks.
Seasonality
Southeast Alaska weather changes quickly, and marine conditions are the limiter more than air temperature. Even in summer, rain and wind can make the bay feel colder than expected once you step out of warm water.
Before you go
Confirm your ride plan and pickup timing, then build in buffer. This is the kind of place where “just one more soak” can make you miss your boat.
Suitability & Accessibility
Goddard is best for travelers already spending time in Sitka who want a soak that feels wild, but still has basic built infrastructure. It’s a great “day trip with a purpose” if you’re comfortable being dependent on a boat schedule.
Families
Yes, for families comfortable with boat travel and cool, wet weather. The bathhouse setup makes the actual soaking more controlled than a natural creek pool, but children still need close supervision on wet boardwalks and steps. Plan short soak rounds and warm-up breaks.
Couples and small groups
Excellent if you like slow travel. Bring snacks, soak in rounds, then sit in the shelter and listen to rain on the roof. That’s the right pace.
Mobility realities
Access is the barrier, boat transfer, dock landings, and walking on boardwalks with wet patches. I wouldn’t assume step-free access or easy tub entry. If mobility is a concern, choose the calmest weather window you can and coordinate with your transporter about the easiest landing and walking line.
Expectations vs reality
This is not a spa. It’s a maintained, rustic soaking spot in a remote bay. If you go in expecting simplicity, it lands well.
Safety & Etiquette
Marine travel is the main safety factor
Weather can shift quickly in Sitka Sound. Dress for rain, keep your layers dry in a bag, and follow your captain’s timing and advice. If conditions look sketchy, postponing is usually the smarter call.
Hot-water pacing
Soak in rounds, then cool off and hydrate. Even when the air is cool, thermal soaking can overheat you. If you feel lightheaded, get out, sit down, and reset.
Slips and footing
Boardwalks and steps can be slick, especially with algae and rain. Traction sandals help. Walk slowly, and keep your hands free when possible. If you’re carrying towels, carry less and make two trips.
Keep the bathhouses pleasant
Rinse off if facilities allow and keep soap and shampoo out of soaking tubs. Keep food out of the water area. Small clean habits make shared soaking feel respectful rather than gross.
Etiquette
It goes best when everyone shares space and keeps transitions smooth. Give others room to enter and exit, keep voices lower, and avoid taking photos that include strangers. If you arrive with a group, rotate fairly so nobody feels pushed out.
FAQs
Can you drive to Goddard Hot Springs?
No. There is no road access. Plan boat transport (often a water taxi) or a floatplane, and build your day around that schedule.
Are there facilities on site?
Alaska.org notes two cedar bathhouses maintained by the City of Sitka, plus boardwalks and outhouses. Expect rustic basics, not a full-service spa.
What should I bring?
Swimsuit, towel, traction sandals, and a warm dry layer. Add food and water, plus a dry bag for essentials. Rain gear is rarely a bad idea in Sitka.
Is it suitable for kids?
Often yes, if your family is comfortable with boat travel and wet weather. Supervise closely on slick boardwalks and around tub edges, and keep soak sessions shorter for children.
What’s the biggest safety issue?
Getting there and back safely. Marine weather and navigation risks matter more than the soaking itself. Choose a good weather window and follow transport guidance.