Cordova is a remote fishing community on the coast of south-central Alaska, in the United States. It is one of those places that cannot be reached by road. Visitors arrive by boat or by plane, and that isolation shapes the pace of the town and the feel of a trip there.
Fishing is the heart of Cordova. The town is known for its salmon fishing, and the working waterfront is where much of its life plays out. Anyone with an interest in commercial fishing, or simply in watching a community built around the water, will find the harbour a good place to spend time.
What to expect
- Salmon fishing, the town's best-known pursuit, whether you come to fish or to see the catch come in.
- A scenic wilderness setting, with mountains and water surrounding the town.
- A small, self-contained community, where the rhythms of the season matter.
Planning your visit
Because Cordova is reachable only by boat or plane, getting there takes planning, and the journey is part of the experience. The remoteness suits travellers who want quiet and open landscape more than busy attractions. Those who enjoy outdoor settings and an understanding of how a fishing town works will likely find the trip rewarding, while visitors looking for a dense schedule of sights may find it more modest.
If you are considering a visit, check current travel options into the town before you go, since the routes available are limited to these two ways of arriving.
