Touting itself as one of Alaska's best-kept secrets, the small town of Seldovia harkens back to a time when fishing was the mainstay of the region's economy and roads were few and far between.
Seldovia, which translates as "Herring Bay," was once the busiest seaport on the Kenai Peninsula, supporting a population of more than 2,000 that worked on fishing boats or at the town's cannaries.
The 1964 earthquake destroyed much of that industry, however, and today, fewer than 300 residents call Seldovia home.
Fishing still plays a large role in the town's economy, but tourism and a few yearly festivals now give the town an economic boost.
Seldovia lies off the road system, located on the south side of Kachemak Bay some 15 miles southwest of the Homer Spit. Visitors and locals alike rely on water taxis, airplanes and the Alaska Marine Highway System for transportation. Once in town, however, visitors are just as likely to see four-wheelers cruising the streets as automobiles.
Visitors can check out a Russian Orthodox Church built in 1891, stroll the boardwalk along Seldovia Slough or hike the 1-mile Otterbahn trail to the beaches outside of town. A visitor center is located on Main Street.
Salmon return to the slough each summer and can be caught along the shore or from the Seldovia Bridge. When the season is right, berry pickers can fill their buckets along the road to Jakolof Bay. Relatively new attractions, such as guided ATV rides up to Red Mountain along a logging road, provide exceptional views of the Kenai Mountains. Hiking trails around town lead travelers to several area peaks.
Most visitors comment on the laid-back and peaceful atmosphere of Seldovia even during the busiest summer months. But that all changes on the Fourth of July, when thousands of visitors flock to town for festivities.
This all-day event starts with a breakfast early in the morning and includes a foot race, a colorful parade on Main Street and games of skill like the crowd favorite tug-of-war and canoe jousting.
In June the Seldovia Arts Council draws visitors and musicians to town with the two-day Seldovia Summer Solstice Music Festival. The council also brings other Alaska artists to town throughout the year.
Visit www.seldovia.com for more information.
