Portlock
Abandoned due to 'Nantiinaq' creature legends
State: Alaska
County: Kenai Peninsula Borough
Founded: 1787
Abandoned: 1950
Portlock was abandoned because residents believed a monster was killing them. The 'Nantiinaq'—a Bigfoot-like creature in Alutiiq mythology—was blamed for disappearances and mutilated bodies. By 1950, all residents fled. The village remains empty and accessible only by boat.
Timeline
- 1787 - Named Named by Captain Nathaniel Portlock.
- 1900s - Cannery Commercial fishing and processing.
- 1940s - Deaths Strange disappearances. Bodies found mutilated.
- 1950 - Abandoned All residents fled. Blamed 'Nantiinaq.'
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer
Difficulty: Difficult - boat access only
Time Needed: Day trip by charter
Tips
- Accessible only by boat from Homer
- Remote and potentially dangerous
- No services available
- Respect elders who still avoid area
Quick Facts
- Abandoned because of monster sightings
- Nantiinaq is Alutiiq Bigfoot-like creature
- Local elders still refuse to return
- One of America's strangest ghost towns
Location
Address: Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
Coordinates: 59.3333, -151.5833