Apartment Dolphin House

Apartment Dolphin House is the ground floor of a larger home in Haines, with a separate entrance, set on a river with views toward Lynn Canal and the mountains. It can be rented on its own or together with the rest of the house, which makes it flexible for families and groups. Inside, there is one bedroom with a queen-size bed, a closet and luggage racks, a living room with a queen-size sofa bed, a flat-screen television, a small desk area and a round table with four chairs, and a bathroom with a tub and shower. The kitchen is the real draw for longer stays. It has a stovetop, an oven, a full-size refrigerator, a microwave and a supply of dishes, pots, pans and utensils, and outside there is a gas grill. An in-room coffeemaker and cable or satellite television round out the basics. Cats and dogs are allowed, with a limit of two, and onsite parking is available. Wi-Fi is not mentioned, so ask the hosts if you need to work online.

Location and getting around. The apartment is a short drive from the center of Haines. The Hammer Museum and the Sheldon Museum and Cultural Center are about four minutes away by car, the American Bald Eagle Foundation museum and the state fair grounds are a similar distance, and Fort William H. Seward is about five minutes. The airport is roughly ten minutes away, and the fast ferry dock for Skagway is within about six miles. You will want a car or a taxi, because this is a riverside setting outside the walkable core.

Why Haines. Skagway has few beds and they sell out in summer, so Haines is a useful second base. The fast ferry makes it simple to ride the White Pass railway or visit the Klondike park and return the same day, and Haines has its own draws, including eagle viewing in season, a fort, a harbor and trails. Check the ferry schedule and times before you plan a tight day.

What to expect. This is a self-catering apartment, so there is no front desk, restaurant or daily housekeeping. Check-in begins in the afternoon and check-out is at eleven. Stock up on groceries when you arrive, and use the grill on warm evenings. Fishing, hiking and mountain walks are all nearby,.

Who it suits. Couples, families and anyone who prefers a quiet apartment to a busy hotel will enjoy it, especially on a stay of several nights. Visitors who want to walk to restaurants without a car, or want hotel services, should look at the Haines hotels elsewhere in this guide. Rates vary by season, so check when you book.