Although it is a race to the death for most beautiful town in Alaska, Kodiak has so many natural advantages that it can’t help but win. From the clear, sparkling waters loaded with crab, to the bluebird skies filled with soaring bald eagles, Kodiak is just ridiculously beautiful. Check out this amazing little town on a giant island in Alaska and you will be under the spell, too.
Kodiak is the name of both an enchanting island in the Gulf of Alaska and the island’s largest town. Kodiak is accessed by air and sea, so cruise to the island or soar in a convenient, quick small plane flight.
Raymond Bucko, SJ | Flickr
The island is part of the Kodiak Archipelago that lies 25 miles southeast from the Alaska Peninsula and 158 miles across the Gulf of Alaska from Homer. The weather stays cool and wet most of the year allowing everything to grow.
Max Goldberg | Flickr
The island has been inhabited by Alutiiq natives for over 7,000 years. The town was first a Russian settlement in the 18th century and became the the capital of Russian Alaska.
Max Goldberg | Flickr
Nicknamed “The Emerald Isle”, Kodiak is a rainforest with mild maritime temperatures and ample rainfall. Lush, bright green flora carpets the island.
Ken Curtis | Flickr
The Sitka spruce forest on the north end of the island is unique in the world as only Sitka spruce trees make up the forest. The forest is dripping with moss, making it look right out of a fairytale.
Ken Curtis | Flickr
The abundant rain makes for an abundance of waterfalls and they adorns the island with beauty after a rainstorm.
Paul | Flickr
The wildflower meadows of Kodiak are a joy to behold and due to the moist, cool summers and mild winters, you can enjoy them for months.
readlistendream | Flickr
Black sand beaches ring the island and hours of fun can be had exploring the shore and shallow waters for treasures and creatures.
Andrew Petersen | Flickr
Sea otters splash playfully in the waters near town.
Paul | Flickr
Bald eagles are as common as seagulls on the shoreline. Watch a swarm of them swirling and perching near the boats when the the fish is being unloaded.
Paul | Flickr
The Kodiak brown bear is the only large mammal that is native to the island, and Kodiak is crawling with them.
Paul | Flickr
The current population is over 3000 bears and viewing is a Kodiak brown bear viewing is a popular attraction.
Alaska Region U.S. Fish & Wildlife | Flickr
Fall under the spell of the naturally gorgeous Kodiak, the most naturally beautiful town in Alaska.
Andrew Petersen | Flickr
Check out an amazing park on Kodiak Island here!
Raymond Bucko, SJ | Flickr
Max Goldberg | Flickr
Ken Curtis | Flickr
Paul | Flickr
readlistendream | Flickr
Andrew Petersen | Flickr
Alaska Region U.S. Fish & Wildlife | Flickr
Have you been to Kodiak? Tell us about it in the comments below.
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