Quiet contemplation spot in Juneau? (close to cruiseport)

Question

Hi ,

So this may seem like an odd request, but I am hoping to find somewhere close to the ports where I can sit quietly (big ask...I know). I will be coming in by cruiseship in May.

My 31 year old son died from cancer 3 years ago, and the anniversary date of the death will be while I am in Juneau. When at home we go to a local waterfall and put down a small amount of his ashes and some red carnations to honour him. It is not a celebration really but more of a way to acknowledge that hard day and be intentional in honouring him.

It is a difficult day for me (Mom) so I want to plan something that day. I will be alone.

Earlier in my cruise I will be doing the glacier etc, so I am looking for something on this day that will be 'calmer'.

I do plan to get crab at Tracey's...I know this is NOT calm, but my son would have loved it..he loved to eat!!!

I am looking for a park or quiet seaside area where I can sit and 'just be with him'. I would also like to scatter a very small amount of ashes in the ocean on this day. It would be preferred if I could walk there from the port.

Any ideas?

Thanks.

Answer

First, I want to say I’m very sorry for your loss. Planning a quiet, meaningful moment for yourself while you are traveling is both brave and beautiful. Juneau does have peaceful spots close to the cruise port where you can sit, reflect, and honor your son in a personal way. Below are several options that are calm, scenic, and within walking distance.

Your day already sounds lovingly planned—Tracey’s for a meal he would have loved, and time by the water to simply “be with him.” The areas below are good choices for both quiet contemplation and discreet scattering of a very small amount of ashes.

Here are the best peaceful places near Juneau’s cruise dock that are realistic for a calm experience and easy to reach:

Marine Park (right next to the cruise dock) — This is the closest peaceful area you can reach within minutes. Early in the morning or later in the afternoon it becomes much quieter. You can sit on a bench looking across Gastineau Channel toward Douglas Island. The water is immediately accessible for a symbolic scattering. Despite being central, it has a calm feel during off-peak moments.
Deck above the Alaska State Museum (10–15 minute walk) — The grounds and outdoor seating around the State Museum are significantly quieter than the central waterfront. The landscaped outdoor areas offer space to sit, breathe, and look toward Mount Juneau. It’s not directly on the ocean, but it’s one of the quietest spots close to downtown.
Sandy Beach on Douglas Island (requires a quick bus or taxi, but still very close) — If you are willing to take a 10-minute taxi or a simple bus ride over the bridge, this is often the most peaceful and meaningful location. A wide stretch of beach with plenty of space, almost always quiet, with broad views across the channel back toward Juneau. Scattering a small amount of ashes here would feel natural and private. Many locals come here for contemplation.
Overstreet Park (the Whale Park, 15–20 minute walk) — This area features wide ocean access, benches, and a long seawalk away from the crowds. The bronze whale sculpture attracts visitors, but the ends of the pathway are often very quiet. The water access points nearby are good locations for a reflective moment.

If staying within easy walking distance is most important, the first and fourth options are best. If privacy is your highest priority, Sandy Beach on Douglas Island is the top choice—quiet, open, soothing, and deeply peaceful.

Here are a few additional thoughts to help your day feel grounded and gentle:

You may want to go early morning or late afternoon for the quietest experience.
Consider bringing a single red carnation — simple, symbolic, and easy to carry.
If sitting outdoors feels too exposed, the Juneau Public Library (by the water, 5 minutes from port) has window seating overlooking the channel and is remarkably peaceful.
You will not be questioned for scattering a very small symbolic amount of ashes into the ocean, especially if done quietly and respectfully.

I hope you find a comforting moment of peace in Juneau. Your intention and love are deeply felt in the way you plan this day.