Anangula Island
Island Small Alaskan island with prehistoric archaeological sites
In the Aleutians, a small volcanic island noted for an early archaeological site and dense seabird colonies; access is limited, attracting researchers and experienced birdwatchers more than casual tourists.
Anangula Island is a small island in the Aleutian chain of Alaska, noted primarily for an archaeological site that records early human presence in the region. The site has been important for understanding prehistoric occupation of the Aleutians.
The island itself is remote and lacks visitor facilities; interest in Anangula is generally archaeological and scientific rather than recreational. Surface and subsurface remains at the site have been studied by archaeologists.
Prehistoric occupants used the island seasonally and left deposits that have been radiocarbon-dated to several thousand years before present, making the site important for regional prehistory research. Modern investigations in the 20th century recovered artifacts and environmental evidence useful to archaeologists.
Anangula lies in the Fox Islands group of the Aleutian Islands, off the western coast of Alaska’s Alaska Peninsula and near the larger Umnak Island.
- Archaeological significance: Contains an archaeological site that documents some of the earliest human activity in the Aleutian Islands and is of interest to researchers in prehistoric Pacific settlement.
How to Get to Anangula Island #
Access is by private boat or charter from larger Aleutian hubs (e.g., Unalaska/Dutch Harbor) and is highly weather dependent. Landings require careful planning, local knowledge of currents and surf, and appropriate permits for archaeological sites.
Tips for Visiting Anangula Island #
- Anangula is remote and uninhabited - trips are expeditionary. Only travel with an experienced operator familiar with Aleutian weather and permits.
- Bring bear deterrents and emergency communication - the island is within prime brown bear and fox habitats on nearby larger islands.
- Plan for sudden weather changes; even summer can bring fog, wind, and sea swell that cancel landings.
Best Time to Visit Anangula Island #
Visit only in summer with a licensed operator; landings are weather-dependent and can be canceled at short notice.
Weather & Climate near Anangula Island #
Continental climate with cold summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in March). Temperatures range from -1°C to 12°C. Abundant rainfall (1241 mm/year), wettest in October.
January
January is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (122 mm) and breezy conditions.
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February
February is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Significant rainfall (127 mm) and breezy conditions.
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March
March is the coolest month with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm) and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm) and breezy conditions.
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May
May is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (90 mm) and breezy conditions.
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June
June is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm).
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July
July is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (112 mm) and breezy conditions.
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October
October is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (149 mm) and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (146 mm) and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (144 mm) and breezy conditions.