Population: 860

Ninilchik is located on the Kenai Peninsula, 45 miles north of Homer, 136 miles from Seward and 189 miles from Anchorage on the Sterling Highway.

Visitor Information: Inquire at local businesses or at the Ninilchik Chamber of Commerce.

This iconic old blue fishing boat marks the turnoff for the Ninilchik Village harbor and dock. (©Serine Reeves, staff)

The original village of Ninilchik, referred to as Ninilchik Village, is reached by a side road from Milepost S 135.1 Sterling Highway. The highway community of Ninilchik has all services. Camping at All Seasons Campground 3 miles off highway on Oilwell Road, phone (907) 567-3396 or (email) Alaskan Angler’s RV Resort and Cabins (aka Afishunt Charters), with lodging, camping and charters; Deep Creek View Campground and J & J Smart Charters with camping and charters.

There is dining, gas/diesel, grocery stores an active senior center, a library and swimming at Ninilchik High School pool. On Memorial Day weekend, Ninilchik is referred to as the third biggest city in Alaska, as thousands of Alaskans arrive for the fishing. A major halibut fishery off Ninilchik has produced some of the largest trophy  halibut found in Cook Inlet, including a 466-lb. unofficial world record sport-caught halibut.

Attractions:

  • The Kenai Peninsula Fair, held the third weekend in August, is dubbed the “biggest little fair in Alaska.” it features the Peninsula Rodeo, a parade, horse show, livestock competition and exhibits.
  • Well-known area for saltwater king salmon fishing and record halibut fishing. (Combination king salmon and halibut charters are popular.)