Chamisso Island

Chamisso Island is a small Arctic island in northwest Alaska, situated in Kotzebue Sound and part of the barrier islands off Alaska’s northwestern coast. It is noted for low tundra vegetation and seabird use rather than human habitation.

The island supports nesting seabird colonies and Arctic shoreline habitats; visitors who land typically focus on birdwatching, botanical interest and short shore visits rather than developed recreation. Landing and travel are subject to local regulations and seasonal weather limitations.

Named for the naturalist Adelbert von Chamisso by early 19th-century explorers, the island has been of interest to naturalists for its Arctic flora and birdlife. It is included in federal wildlife protection areas that restrict development and aim to conserve habitat.

Chamisso Island sits offshore in Kotzebue Sound within the coastal waters of northwest Alaska. The nearest significant communities are coastal villages on the Alaskan Arctic shoreline; the island is exposed to Arctic weather and sea-ice conditions.

• Access: No visitor facilities on the island; access requires boat or charter from nearby coastal communities and is weather dependent.