4 Best Hotels in Valdez, The Kenai Peninsula and Southcentral Alaska

Near the harbor, this hotel comes complete with views of mountains, sea otters, seals, and waterfowl. The standard-issue decor is nothing to write home about, but the views make up for it. The rooms are a little compact, but everything is within walking distance, and there's little need to spend much time in them.

This hotel is within easy walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the small boat harbor, the center of summertime activity in Valdez. Nothing about it screams personality, but the service is consistent, and the on-site restaurant is convenient.

This hotel is one of the newer lodgings in Valdez and looks the part, with its sleek corrugated metal siding and slick rectangular lines. The lodge boasts a heated pool and exercise room while rooms are spacious, comfortable, and include microwaves and mini-fridges. There are also 10 small cabins on the property that include full kitchens, bathrooms, and both a queen and sofa bed. The location offers views of the mountains and the harbor, and is within easy walking distance to the town's main drag where you'll find a number of eateries and shops.

This is no ordinary Alaska lodge—it's more like a sleek, modern, adventure base camp. At the top of Thompson Pass, 40 miles outside Valdez, Tsaina (pronounced say-na) offers gourmet dining and fantastic mountain views. What draws most guests is the quick access to water, glaciers, and mountains for hiking, kayaking, and remote heli-skiing.