Head south from Anchorage towards The Kenai, Alaska's Playground, and get ready to fall in love with one of the area's most incredible hidden gems. This tiny town located on the shores of Cook Inlet is filled with charming attractions, panoramic views and the most awesomely epic outdoor attractions. If you've driven through but never had a desire to stay a while, you're sure to have a whole new perspective after reading all about what this quaint little village has to offer.
The beautiful 'drive by town' of Ninilchik is located on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula.
With a population under 900 residents, many are surprised to learn that this small town has so many magnificent hidden treasures.
Something neat to learn is that Ninilchik is actually considered an Alaska Native village under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act.
This small town is loaded with history. Many Alaska Native locals in the area have ancestors of Aleut, Alutiiq and Dena'ina descent.
The town's name is of Russian descent and one of its most prized locations for locals and photographers alike is the Russian Orthodox Church which boasts a stunning view overlooking the coast.
Ninilchik is on the west side of The Kenai, Alaska's Playground, approximately 185 miles south of Alaska's largest city of Anchorage.
As you travel from Soldotna down towards Homer (known as the 'halibut fishing capital of the world') you will drive right through Ninilchik on the Sterling Highway.
Located on the coast of Cook Inlet, Ninilchik's main attraction has to be the stunning beach with the most epic mountain views that you will ever lay eyes on.
It's nearly impossible to visit the beach without seeing countless flocks of Bald Eagles. Soak in the great views and watch the massive birds as they eat seafood scraps of the shore.
The coastal + fishing town vibe is very strongly recognized as you drive up and down the side streets in town as well as on the main drag passing through.
During the summer months, the tractor pull boat launch brings visitors to the area from all around the world to enjoy world-class halibut, salmon and various saltwater fishing excursions.
Nearby rivers and streams with phenomenal steel-head fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities also attract visitors from all around the world each year.
This little town is also home to the Kenai Peninsula Rodeo and Fair each year as well as one of the best music festivals in the state; Salmonfest Alaska.
We must also mention that Ninilchik has one of the best authentic Thai restaurants in the entire state. WOW. This place is truly a gem and an absolute must visit!
If you visit Ninilchik during a clear winter day, stay into the night and look up into the sky. You just might have a stellar opportunity to soak in a magical Northern Lights show.
But wait, there is so much more! The Caribou Hills are accessible right from Ninilchik's main drag and are filled with unlimited outdoor adventure.
Head up to Freddie's Roadhouse for a peaceful cabin staycation, fill up on a home cooked meal and spend the weekend riding trails for hours on end.
Editor's Note: Since the publication of this article, Freddie's Roadhouse has closed.
During the winter and spring months, the Caribou Hills are a great place to enjoy hundreds of miles of snowmachining with all your closest buddies.
Skiing is another popular activity in the area during the snowy months.
With so many excellent trails, the Caribou Hills is also a dog musher's paradise.
During the summer and fall months, hunters flock to the Caribou Hills as well as those looking to ride ATVs on muddy trails away from the crowds in town.
If you thought that town was amazing, check out these 20 awesome reasons to drop everything and move to this one place in Alaska. Also, here is Alaska's top outdoor attraction... and you'll definitely want to visit ASAP!
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