Located along the western shore of the Kenai Peninsula, the city of Kenai is perched at the mouth of the mighty Kenai River and the edge of Cook Inlet. It’s a place where salmon runs, sea breezes, and centuries of culture converge. Home to about 7,000 residents, Kenai blends small-town charm with deep historical roots and a thriving outdoor lifestyle.

The area has been inhabited for thousands of years by the Dena’ina Athabascans, and their presence still shapes the region’s traditions and place names. Russian settlers arrived in the late 1700s and left a strong architectural and spiritual legacy, most notably the Holy Assumption of the Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Church, one of the oldest churches in Alaska.

Modern Kenai is known for its world-class salmon fishing, beach access, and panoramic views of volcanic mountains across the inlet. On clear days, visitors can see Mount Redoubt, Mount Iliamna, and Mount Augustine—all active volcanoes—rising like giants across the water. These peaks are part of the Aleutian volcanic arc and are still closely monitored for seismic activity.

Kenai serves as a hub for oil, gas, and commercial fishing industries, but it also welcomes travelers looking to explore the quieter side of the Kenai Peninsula. Whether you’re here to fish, walk the bluff trails, take in coastal wildlife, or experience Russian-American history, Kenai offers a grounded and scenic Alaskan experience.

Did You Know?

• Kenai is home to the world’s largest sport catch of king salmon—over 97 pounds, caught in the Kenai River.

• The city’s bluff walkways offer sweeping views across Cook Inlet to three active volcanoes:

  • Mount Redoubt (10,197 ft) – last erupted in 2009

  • Mount Iliamna (10,016 ft) – closely monitored, last known activity in 1996

  • Mount Augustine (4,134 ft) – one of Alaska’s most active volcanoes

• The Holy Assumption Church was built in 1895 and is still an active parish today.

• The Dena’ina name for Kenai is Shk’ituk’t, which means “where we slide down.”