Point Lay

Welcome to Point Lay, a deeply traditional and remote Iñupiat community located on the northwestern coast of the United States. Situated in the North Slope Borough of Alaska, this small village offers a rare glimpse into the authentic Arctic lifestyle. Perched near the Kokolik River delta and protected by a barrier island from the Chukchi Sea, Point Lay is defined by its breathtaking tundra landscapes and the resilience of its people.

Point Lay. Source: Kupi.Binoculars

With a population of approximately 200 residents, the village maintains a quiet, close-knit atmosphere where subsistence hunting and fishing remain central to daily life. The history of Point Lay is inextricably linked to the land and sea, with generations of Iñupiat people thriving in this challenging yet bountiful environment. Visitors here will find a community that honors its heritage while adapting to the modern world.

One of the most remarkable natural phenomena associated with Point Lay is the massive walrus haulout that often occurs on the nearby barrier islands. Tens of thousands of Pacific walruses gather on the shore, a spectacle that has drawn global attention to this quiet corner of the world. Additionally, the pristine waters of the Kokolik River provide excellent opportunities for boating and observing Arctic wildlife in its natural habitat.

For the intrepid traveler, a visit to Point Lay is a journey into the heart of the Arctic. Whether you are interested in indigenous culture, unique wildlife, or simply the serene beauty of the northern horizon, this welcoming village offers an unforgettable experience far off the beaten path.

Point Lay experiences a distinct Arctic climate characterized by long, frigid winters and brief, cool summers. Due to its high latitude, travelers should be prepared for cold conditions throughout much of the year, with temperatures rarely rising significantly above freezing except in the peak of summer. For detailed forecasts and seasonal trends, it is helpful to review the weather in Point Lay before planning your journey.

Winter is the dominant season, with January and February being the coldest months; average temperatures hover around -23°C, and lows frequently dip to -25°C. In contrast, the summer offers a brief respite, with July being the warmest month, featuring average temperatures of approximately 10.5°C. Overall, you can expect cool summers with frequent days of light precipitation and extremely cold, relatively dry winters.

• The People of the Mound: The traditional Iñupiaq name for the village is Kali, which translates to "mound," referring to the elevated shapes found on the nearby barrier island. Residents call themselves Kalimiut, distinctively identifying with this ancestral land rather than the English name.

• A Community on the Move: The village has not always stood on the river bank where it is today. In the 1970s, the community relocated from the barrier island to the mainland to escape the risks of erosion and to access a reliable freshwater source, leaving the old site to nature.

• Unique Whaling Tradition: Unlike many other North Slope communities that primarily hunt the massive bowhead whale, Point Lay is famous for its specialized beluga whale harvest. This event is a highly coordinated communal effort where hunters drive the whales into the shallow lagoon, a practice vital for the village's winter subsistence.

• Strict Silence for Walruses: While the massive gatherings of walruses are a known spectacle, few visitors realize the extreme measures taken to protect them. The community strictly warns pilots and boaters to keep their distance, as even a slight disturbance can cause a deadly stampede among the thousands of animals densely packed on the shore.

Reaching this remote Iñupiat community requires careful planning, as it is one of the most isolated locations in the United States. Since there are no roads connecting the village to the rest of Alaska, air travel is the lifeline for residents and visitors alike. You can find more about how to get to Point Lay and the specific logistics of Arctic travel on our detailed page.

The village does not have a large commercial hub of its own; instead, travelers typically connect through regional airports in neighboring settlements. One of the primary gateways for the North Slope region is Wiley Post-Will Rogers Memorial Airport (IATA: BRW) in Utqiagvik. It is located approximately 289 km from Point Lay. Another regional option is Point Hope Airport (IATA: PHO), situated in the city of Point Hope, about 217 km away. Please note that these airports are not in Point Lay itself. Due to the lack of road infrastructure in the Arctic tundra, you cannot take a taxi or bus between these cities; connecting bush flights are the only viable mode of transport.

For clarity, here is a summary of the main airports in the region:

Point Lay is a destination defined not by man-made monuments, but by the raw and majestic power of the Arctic environment. Visitors to this remote community come to witness nature in its most authentic form, where the land and sea dictate the rhythm of life. While there are no traditional museums or theme parks, the surrounding wilderness offers profound experiences for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Kokolik River is the lifeblood of the region and a primary focal point for any visit. Flowing into the Kasegaluk Lagoon, this winding river is stunningly beautiful, especially under the endless daylight of the summer sun. It serves as a vital transportation route for local hunters and fishers. For tourists, the river banks offer a serene setting for hiking and photography, providing a chance to observe the delicate interplay between the freshwater delta and the saltwater lagoon.

Just off the coast lie the Barrier Islands, a thin strip of land that protects the village from the open Chukchi Sea. These islands are famous worldwide for hosting massive congregations of Pacific walruses. Seeing thousands of these majestic marine mammals hauling out on the beach is an awe-inspiring spectacle of nature. However, it is crucial to view them from a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the herd, making this an attraction best appreciated with the guidance of local experts who understand the animals' behavior.

The vast Arctic Tundra surrounding the village offers a unique landscape that changes dramatically with the seasons. In summer, the permafrost ground bursts into life with wildflowers, berries, and nesting migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The open expanse also provides excellent opportunities to spot other wildlife, such as caribou and arctic foxes, roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Finally, the Kasegaluk Lagoon itself is a highlight for those interested in water-based exploration. This protected body of water is teeming with life, from spotted seals to beluga whales during the migration season. Boating on the calm waters of the lagoon allows visitors to experience the silence and solitude of the Arctic, offering a perspective on the world that is both humbling and unforgettable.

The culinary landscape of Point Lay is defined not by commercial restaurants or diverse menus, but by the subsistence lifestyle that has sustained the Iñupiat people for thousands of years. In this remote Arctic community, food is gathered directly from the land and sea, resulting in a diet that is organic, nutrient-dense, and deeply connected to the seasons. For visitors, the "cuisine" here is an immersion into traditional country food, where dishes are prepared simply to highlight the freshness of the ingredients.

One of the most culturally significant foods in Point Lay is muktuk, which consists of whale skin and blubber, typically from the beluga whales harvested during the community's annual hunt. It is often eaten raw, frozen, or cooked, and is prized for its high energy content and rich flavor. Alongside marine mammals, caribou is a dietary staple; the meat is versatile, finding its way into hearty stews, roasts, or being dried as paniqtuq (jerky) to serve as a travel-ready snack for hunters and travelers alike.

Fish also plays a crucial role in the local diet, with species like whitefish, grayling, and salmon caught in the nearby Kokolik River and Kasegaluk Lagoon. These are frequently enjoyed baked, fried, or dried/smoked for preservation. For a sweet treat, locals prepare akutaq, often referred to as "Eskimo ice cream." This traditional dish is a whipped mixture of animal fat (or vegetable shortening in modern times), sugar, and wild berries such as cloudberries (aqpik) or crowberries picked from the tundra during the short summer season.

When it comes to beverages, hot drinks are essential for warmth in the Arctic climate. Coffee and strong black tea are the standard drinks of choice and are offered in almost every home as a sign of hospitality. Travelers should be aware that Point Lay is a "dry" village, meaning the sale and importation of alcohol are prohibited. Consequently, there are no bars or pubs, and the social culture revolves around non-alcoholic gatherings.

It is important for tourists to understand that there are no restaurants, cafes, or street food vendors in Point Lay. Visitors must be self-sufficient and bring their own supplies or purchase basic groceries at the local village store. However, the spirit of sharing is strong in Iñupiat culture; guests who build a rapport with locals may be invited to a community feast or a family dinner to taste authentic traditional dishes, which is considered a great honor and the only way to truly experience the local gastronomy.

Visiting Point Lay requires a level of preparation far beyond the typical vacation, as this remote Arctic outpost operates on the rhythms of nature rather than the conveniences of modern tourism. To ensure your journey is safe, respectful, and enjoyable, we have compiled a set of essential guidelines to help you navigate life in this unique Iñupiat community.

1. Clothing and Gear: The Arctic climate is unforgiving, so dressing in layers is non-negotiable. Even in summer, bring thermal underwear, a warm fleece, and a high-quality windproof and waterproof outer shell. Sturdy, waterproof boots are essential for navigating the often muddy or snowy terrain. If you visit in winter, specialized extreme-cold gear is required. Don't forget sunglasses, as the glare from the snow and water can be intense under the midnight sun.

2. Transportation: There is no public transport, taxi service, or car rental agency in the village. Point Lay is small and compact, making walking the primary way to get around. Locals travel by ATV (four-wheeler) in the summer and snowmachine in the winter. If you need to transport heavy gear or travel further afield, you must arrange this privately with a local resident, usually for a negotiated fee.

3. Finances: The US Dollar is the only currency used. While the local village store may accept credit cards, systems can go down due to internet outages. It is highly recommended to bring enough cash to cover your entire stay, including potential payments for rides, local crafts, or emergencies. Be prepared for high prices on groceries and supplies, as everything must be flown in.

4. Health and Safety: Medical facilities are limited to a small local clinic staffed by health aides; serious emergencies require a weather-dependent medevac flight to a larger hub. Bring a full supply of any prescription medications you need. Be acutely aware of wildlife safety: polar bears can be present in and around the village. Always stay alert, travel in groups if possible, and ask locals about current bear activity before walking the perimeter of the town.

5. Communication: English is widely spoken, though you may hear Iñupiaq spoken among elders. Mobile coverage is limited, with GCI being the primary provider in rural Alaska; other carriers may have no signal at all. Wi-Fi is scarce and satellite-based, meaning it is often slow or unreliable. Download offline maps and essential documents before you arrive.

6. Local Etiquette: Point Lay is a "dry" village, meaning the possession, sale, or importation of alcohol is strictly prohibited. Violating this is a serious legal offense and culturally disrespectful. Always ask for explicit permission before taking photographs of residents, their homes, or their subsistence activities (such as processing game), as privacy is highly valued.

7. What to Avoid: Do not approach the walrus haulouts on the barrier islands without an authorized guide. Disturbing the herd can cause a stampede that crushes young calves, and the community is extremely protective of these animals. Additionally, avoid walking on the airport runway, which is often unfenced and used by planes at any time.

8. Food and Supplies: Since there are no restaurants or cafes, you must be self-sufficient. Pack non-perishable food items, snacks, and perhaps a travel thermos. You can buy basics at the Native Store, but stock can be low depending on when the last freight plane arrived. Planning your meals ahead of time is crucial for a comfortable trip.

By packing the right gear and approaching the community with an open heart and a respectful mindset, you will find that a trip to Point Lay is a deeply rewarding experience. Embrace the quiet solitude of the tundra, listen to the stories of the locals, and enjoy the rare privilege of witnessing life on the edge of the Arctic Ocean.

Travelers planning a trip to Point Lay should be aware that the concept of nightlife here is vastly different from what one might expect in a city or a standard tourist destination. As a strict "dry" village, the sale, importation, and possession of alcohol are prohibited by local law. Consequently, there are no bars, nightclubs, pubs, or cocktail lounges in the community. You will not find bustling nightlife districts, neon lights, or late-night dance venues. Instead, the evenings are defined by a profound quiet and the rhythms of the Arctic environment.

The "nightlife" in Point Lay is dictated by nature and community gatherings rather than commercial entertainment. During the winter months, the primary evening attraction is the sky itself, where the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) often puts on a spectacular display. In the summer, the Midnight Sun means there is no true darkness, allowing for outdoor activities like boating or walking along the riverbank to continue well into the early morning hours. The atmosphere is peaceful and family-oriented, with locals spending their evenings visiting relatives or engaging in subsistence activities.

Social life in the village revolves around community facilities rather than commercial venues. The Kali School is often the heart of social interaction, frequently hosting evening sports events, basketball games, and cultural gatherings that welcome the entire village. Another central hub is the Point Lay Community Center, where residents may gather for meetings, bingo nights, or traditional celebrations. While these are not tourist attractions in the conventional sense, respectful visitors may find themselves witnessing the strong community spirit that sustains the village.

For those looking for evening entertainment, the best advice is to embrace the outdoors, but with extreme caution. A walk to the edge of the village to view the vast tundra or the Kokolik River under the Arctic light can be mesmerizing. However, safety is paramount. The village is located in polar bear country, and bears can be active at any time. It is unsafe to walk around the village perimeter late at night without a local guide or bear protection. If you need to move around the village after dark, it is best to arrange a ride with a local resident or stick to the well-lit central area near the housing.

Regarding daytime entertainment, options are equally low-key and nature-focused. There are no movie theaters, amusement parks, or shopping malls. Visitors typically spend their days exploring the surrounding wilderness, birdwatching, or observing the unique architecture of a village built on permafrost. The experience of visiting Point Lay is about disconnecting from the noise of modern entertainment and reconnecting with the raw beauty of the North.

In the remote village of Point Lay, the concepts of "parks" and "museums" are redefined by the Arctic landscape and the Iñupiat way of life. There are no manicured gardens, ticketed exhibitions, or enclosed galleries here. Instead, the vast wilderness serves as an endless natural park, and the daily activities of the community form a living museum of indigenous heritage that has thrived for millennia.

The Arctic Tundra acts as the village's primary green space, though "green" is a relative term depending on the season. Stretching infinitely inland, this open expanse is not a park with designated paths, but a wilderness floor that invites exploration. In the summer, the spongy ground is carpeted with wildflowers, cotton grass, and low-lying shrubs. For tourists, it offers a unique opportunity to walk on the permafrost and observe the subtle beauty of the flora that survives in one of the harshest climates on Earth.

The Kokolik River Banks serve as the community's natural recreational waterfront. Unlike a developed promenade, this area is raw and functional, often lined with boats and fishing gear. It is the best place for visitors to take a peaceful walk, breathe the crisp polar air, and watch the water flow toward the lagoon. It is a space for quiet reflection and offers unobstructed views of the horizon, where the sun may not set for weeks at a time during the summer solstice.

As for cultural institutions, Point Lay does not have a formal museum or art gallery. The culture here is not stored in glass cases; it is practiced daily. The village itself is a "living museum." Walking through the community, visitors will see traditional skin boats (umiaq) stored on racks, sleds prepared for winter travel, and drying racks used for preserving fish and meat. These sights offer a genuine look into the subsistence lifestyle that no curated exhibit could replicate.

The Kali School stands as a central pillar of local culture and often displays student artwork, murals, or cultural projects in its common areas. While it is an active educational facility and not a public gallery, it represents the intersection of modern education and traditional knowledge. The school is often the venue for community gatherings where drumming, dancing, and singing keep the oral histories of the Iñupiat people alive.

For a touch of history, the site of Old Point Lay is a significant landmark located on the barrier island across the lagoon. Although the village relocated to the mainland in the 1970s to access fresh water and avoid erosion, the original site remains a place of deep memory and historical importance. While it is not a developed tourist site, seeing the remnants of the old settlement from a distance provides a poignant connection to the community's resilience and history of adaptation.

An authentic way to experience the local "green" space is to join a berry-picking excursion if you visit in late summer. Locals head onto the tundra to gather cloudberries (aqpik) and blueberries. It is a meditative and communal activity that reveals the richness of the land. Always ask a local for advice on where to go, and stay vigilant for wildlife, as you are sharing the "park" with bears and foxes.

Travelers arriving in Point Lay should adjust their expectations regarding public transportation immediately. As a remote village with a small population and limited infrastructure, there is no public transport system in the conventional sense. You will not find buses, trams, metros, or scheduled shuttles operating here. The village is compact, and the "transport network" consists almost entirely of unpaved gravel roads and trails used by local residents for personal travel.

Because there are no commercial transit services, there is no ticketing system, and travel passes, smart cards, or mobile transport apps are non-existent. If you happen to arrange a ride with a local resident to transport heavy gear or travel to a specific location outside the immediate village center, any payment would be an informal agreement. In such rare cases, cash (US Dollars) is the only accepted method of transaction, as there are no card readers or validation machines.

For the average visitor, the primary mode of getting around is walking. The village is small enough to navigate on foot, with most buildings and housing located within a short distance of the airstrip and the central school. However, walking requires preparation. Practical advice for pedestrians includes wearing waterproof, insulated boots and high-visibility clothing. It is also critical to remain vigilant for wildlife, particularly polar bears, which can pass through the area. Always ask locals about current safety conditions before setting out on foot.

In terms of alternatives to walking, the local "taxis" are actually personal off-road vehicles. During the summer months, ATVs (all-terrain vehicles or "four-wheelers") are the standard mode of transport for residents. In the winter, when the ground is covered in snow and ice, snowmachines (snowmobiles) become the essential way to travel. There are no car rental agencies, and ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are completely unavailable. If you require motorized transport, you must rely on the hospitality of locals who may be willing to offer a lift.

A unique feature of transport in this region is its total adaptation to the Arctic environment. You will not see paved asphalt roads; instead, the infrastructure is designed to sit atop the permafrost. The reliance on snowmachines in winter is not just a convenience but a necessity for survival and subsistence hunting. Watching the community mobilize on these vehicles offers a fascinating look at how modern technology is integrated into a traditional lifestyle.

Travelers planning a visit to Point Lay must be aware that the village does not have a standard tourism infrastructure. There are no commercial hotels, motels, resorts, or hostels in the community. The remote nature of this Iñupiat village means that accommodation options are extremely limited and are primarily designed to support visiting officials, construction workers, or school district employees rather than leisure travelers.

Because there are no public lodging facilities, finding a place to stay requires direct communication with local entities. Visitors cannot simply book a room online through travel platforms. In some cases, lodging may be arranged through the Native Village of Point Lay (the tribal council) or the Cully Corporation, which sometimes operates housing for workers. Occasionally, the local fire station or school may host official visitors, but this is not a guaranteed option for tourists and is strictly subject to availability and permission.

Booking Tip: Do not travel to Point Lay without confirmed accommodation. You must contact the village administration or the tribal council weeks or even months in advance to request permission to visit and to inquire about lodging. Arriving without a place to stay is dangerous due to the harsh Arctic climate and the lack of public shelter.

Regarding costs, if you are able to secure a room or a bed, expect prices to be high, often exceeding standard rates found in major cities in the United States. This reflects the high cost of maintaining facilities in the Arctic. Payment is typically required in cash or by check upon arrival, as credit card processing may not be available. Be prepared for a rustic experience, often with shared facilities, rather than luxury amenities.

For those looking to explore the surroundings, Point Lay serves as an excellent base for day trips to several interesting nearby locations:

One of the most significant destinations in the region is Utqiagvik (formerly known as Barrow), the northernmost city in the United States. It serves as the economic and cultural hub of the North Slope. Visitors here can explore the Iñupiat Heritage Center to gain deep insights into the history of traditional whaling and indigenous crafts. The city also offers the unique experience of standing on the edge of the Arctic Ocean, where the midnight sun does not set for over 80 days during the summer.

Located to the southwest, Point Hope is another fascinating community that draws travelers interested in history. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in North America, with a heritage spanning thousands of years. The village is situated on a spectacular triangular spit of land jutting into the Chukchi Sea. It is renowned for its intense commitment to traditional whaling culture and the striking whale bone arches that mark its ceremonial grounds.

For those interested in a slightly different landscape, Kotzebue acts as the gateway to the Northwest Arctic. Situated on the Baldwin Peninsula, it is known for the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center, which provides valuable information about the ecosystem and the people of the region. It is a vibrant town where modern Arctic living meets age-old traditions, offering a welcoming atmosphere for visitors passing through the area.

These nearby destinations offer a glimpse into the diverse culture and landscapes of the region.

Shopping in Point Lay is a strictly utilitarian experience, reflecting the remote and self-reliant nature of this Arctic community. Visitors will not find souvenir shops, boutiques, or fashion outlets here. The commercial landscape is designed solely to sustain the local population with essential goods. For tourists, "shopping" is less about retail therapy and more about acquiring basic survival supplies or, if fortunate, purchasing authentic handicrafts directly from local artisans.

There are no shopping districts or commercial streets in the village. The retail activity is concentrated entirely in the single general store, often referred to as the Native Store. This establishment serves as the grocery store, hardware supplier, and general goods depot for the entire population of 200 people. You will not find window displays or promotional sales; instead, you will find aisles stocked with non-perishable foods, frozen meats, outdoor gear, and household necessities required for life on the North Slope.

Travelers should be aware that there are no shopping malls or department stores in Point Lay. The nearest facilities of that kind are hundreds of miles away in larger Alaskan cities like Anchorage or Fairbanks. The village infrastructure is built for subsistence, not consumerism, and the limited space on the freight planes is prioritized for food, fuel, and medical supplies rather than luxury retail items.

While there are no formal markets, the most valuable items to purchase in Point Lay are authentic Iñupiat arts and crafts. The village is home to skilled artisans who create exquisite works from natural materials. You may find intricate carvings made from walrus ivory, baleen etchings, or hand-sewn clothing such as skin mittens and mukluks (traditional boots). These items are rarely sold in a shop; instead, transactions usually happen informally. Visitors interested in purchasing local art should ask respectful questions at the community center or the school to be connected with artists.

If you do plan to buy souvenirs, particularly those made from marine mammal parts like ivory or baleen, it is crucial to understand the legal regulations. Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, only Alaska Natives can harvest and create authentic handicrafts from these materials. If you are traveling internationally, be aware that many countries have strict bans on the import of marine mammal products, so check customs regulations before making a purchase.

Opening hours for the village store are typically limited compared to urban centers, often closing in the early evening and potentially having reduced hours on weekends. Prices for all goods are significantly higher than in the continental United States due to the extreme cost of air freight. A gallon of milk or fresh produce can cost three to four times the national average.

Regarding payment, cash is the most reliable method. While the store may accept credit cards, the village relies on satellite internet connections which can be disrupted by Arctic weather, rendering card terminals useless. There are no banks or currency exchange counters, so visitors should bring sufficient US Dollars to cover all potential purchases, including food, supplies, and crafts.

Finally, Alaska is one of the few states with no state sales tax, which technically applies to purchases here. However, given the high base cost of goods and the lack of luxury items, this is rarely a significant factor for tourists. The focus of spending in Point Lay is on supporting the local economy and ensuring you have the provisions needed for your stay in the wilderness.