Saint Paul Harbor: Fishing, Wildlife & Scenic Views
Saint Paul Harbor is a busy and exciting place on the southwest coast of Kodiak Island, Alaska. It’s not just where boats park—it’s where people work, fish, explore, and enjoy the ocean every day. The harbor is a significant part of the town of Kodiak and plays a crucial role in keeping everything running smoothly.
Long ago, Russian explorers referred to the area as “Saint Paul,” and although the town’s name later changed to Kodiak, the harbor retained its original name. It’s been an essential spot for boats and fishermen since the 1800s and is now the island’s most significant and busiest harbor. There are about 250 spots for ships of all kinds—from giant fishing vessels to small sailboats.
Kodiak is one of the top fishing ports in the U.S., and this harbor is where it all happens. Big boats head out to catch salmon, cod, halibut, and crab. Walk along the docks and you’ll probably see fishermen getting their gear ready or unloading their latest catch.
There’s a boardwalk called the Harbor Walkway that’s great for exploring. Along the path, you’ll find signs that teach you about the harbor’s history, local animals, and how fishing works. You might even meet a real fisherman and hear stories about life at sea.
If you enjoy fishing, Saint Paul Harbor is the ideal spot to try it. You can cast a line right from the shore or join a boat trip out into the deep water. Some of the best nearby fishing spots include the Buskin River and Anton Larsen Bay. With snowy mountains in the background, it feels like fishing in a postcard.
There’s also lots of wildlife to see. Please keep your eyes out for sea otters floating on their backs, bald eagles flying overhead, and maybe even a Kodiak brown bear catching fish in a river. Guided tours are available to observe these animals in action safely.
If hiking is more your thing, there are several trails near the harbor. Pillar Mountain offers a fantastic view of the island, and Fort Abercrombie features forest trails and historic World War II-era bunkers. Barometer Mountain is a challenging hike, but if you’re up for it, the view from the top is worth it!
When you get hungry, there are great places to eat nearby. You can grab a fresh seafood meal at Henry’s Great Alaskan Restaurant or enjoy a soda (or a root beer float!) at the Kodiak Island Brewing Company. If you want to take home a souvenir, Norma’s Fine Gifts sells local art and crafts.
You can also learn about the culture and history of the area by visiting nearby places, such as the Alutiiq Museum, which offers insights into the island’s indigenous people, and the Holy Resurrection Russian Orthodox Church, a beautiful building with a rich history.
Although it appears peaceful, Saint Paul Harbor is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions. Special walls protect it from strong waves, and the harbor is carefully designed to help boats come and go safely. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers helps maintain everything to ensure it stays safe and operational throughout the year.
Saint Paul Harbor is more than just a place for boats—it’s where you can see Alaska’s fishing life up close, meet interesting people, explore nature, and learn about history. Whether you’re here to fish, hike, spot wildlife, or enjoy the view, this harbor is one of the most incredible places on Kodiak Island.
Kodiak, AK, United States