Southcentral Community: Nikiski
Plan Your Trip
Learn More About Southcentral Alaska
Nikiski, 9 miles north of Kenai, is often referred to as ‘North Kenai’ or ‘The North Road.’ Like its sister city, Kenai, Nikiski was a small homesteaded community in the 1940s, but grew with the discovery of oil on the Kenai Peninsula in 1957. By 1964, oil-related industries included Unocal Chemical, Phillips LNG, Chevron and Tesoro. Oil docks serving offshore drilling platforms today include Rigtenders, Standard Oil, Phillips 66 and Unocal Chemical.
Nikiski is a port community on Cook Inlet and there are numerous lakes in the area, making it another great base for sportfishing. Daniels Lake, renowned for its incredible fishing is just up the road as well as the Captain Cook State Recreation Area.
If you need a nice rest from all the outdoor adventures, Nikiski has an incredible indoor pool, one of a few in Alaska. Located in a dome-shaped building surrounded by a beautiful landscape, the facility features a water slide, hot tub, weight room, racquetball courts, a great visitor observation area and an outdoor picnic area and playground.
Drive to the end of Nikiski Beach Road for a good view of Nikishka Bay and oil platforms in Cook Inlet as well as a scenic view of Mount Spurr and the Alaska Range across the inlet. Take note of Arness Dock, built on a base of World War II Liberty ships.
Details
A proud fisherman displays his catch
Population: 4,187
Location: Nikiski is located on the Kenai Peninsula, 9 miles north of the city of Kenai, on the Kenai Spur Highway.
Access: By road via the Kenai Spur Highway which junctions with the Sterling Highway at Milepost 94.2.
Accommodations: One lodge, two cabins, a handful of bed and breakfasts, restaurants, all services.