Homer, Alaska Travel Planning Made Easy!
Your guide to Homer on the Kenai Peninsula.
Welcome to Homer, Alaska - where the road ends, and your adventures begin!
Homer is commonly known as the “cosmic hamlet by the sea”, and we are perfectly located as a jumping-off point for bear viewing in Katmai National Park and Lake Clark National Parks. Bear viewing has become one of Homer’s main attractions in recent years, and we proudly maintain that we provide one of the best bear watching experiences available. Whether you are going to McNeil River Game Sanctuary for a once-in-a-lifetime camping trip or Brooks Falls for a day of viewing grizzly bears catching salmon, we can get you there. We also charter our classic de Havilland Beaver into some of the most beautiful and remote places in Alaska like Katmai National Park, Lake Clark National Park, Kachemak Bay State Park, and many other unique destinations on the Kenai Peninsula and beyond.
Located on the Kenai Peninsula, Homer locals enjoy a relatively mild climate compared to interior Alaska. It does stay fairly dark in the winter months, but we are often treated to sunny short days full of wonderful cross-country skiing conditions, and an occasional Aurora Borealis. There are approximately 5,000 residents in Homer, and we have several stores where you will be able to purchase anything you need to make your stay comfortable.
GETTING TO HOMER
Transportation Options
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Floatplane
If you are interested in a floatplane charter, that is one option to get to and from Anchorage and can also been seen as a fantastic flightsee over the Kenai Peninsula. Keep in mind pricing will be much higher and weather considerations will be a factor.
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Rental Car
Adventure Alaska Car Rentals can do one way or roundtrips. The drive from Anchorage is spectacular! Allow yourself at least 5-6 hours to make it comfortably to account for construction delays, wildlife interaction, and RV traffic. There are so many beautiful stops that we honestly recommend just making a leisurely day out of it.
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Bus
Alaska Bus Company is a local company we can highly recommend for safety, reliability, and comfort. This is absolutely the best way to travel stress free down the peninsula!
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Railroad
The Alaska Railroad is a fantastic way to see the state. Unfortunately no service to Homer. The closest stop is in Seward.
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Ferry Boat
The Alaska Marine Highway System Arriving to Homer via Ferry can be a wonderful adventure. However – current budgetary concerns and COVID-19 precautions have greatly reduced sailings. Check the website for updates often.
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RV
Rent an RV! There are multiple companies in Anchorage with motorhome and van rentals available. Roadtrip adventures are great to stop at overlooks, view wildlife, and check out other communities along the way as you make your way to Homer!
Alaska’s best resource for up to date road conditions, construction, and possible delays.
ALASKA ROAD CONDITIONS
In and Around Homer
Homer is a popular tourist destination in the summer months, and offers a multitude of family experiences. The main drag in Homer is Pioneer Avenue, where you will find many art galleries, eateries, and our movie theater (oldest in the state!). However, if you want a true taste of what living in a working fishing town is like, head down to the Homer harbor. You’ll find it at the end of the 4.5 mile Homer spit which extends out to beautiful Kachemak Bay. Along the spit are various tourist shops only open in the summer.
Regardless of what your ultimate destination may be, you owe it to yourself to spend some time in this very special “Cosmic Hamlet by the Sea”.
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We look forward to seeing you there!
First Market: May 27th
Last Market: September 30th
Saturdays from 10am-3pm
Wednesdays from 2pm-5pm
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Bishops Beach
SPIT beach
Anchor Point Beach
Deep Creek Beach
Use water taxi’s for access to Kachemak Bay State Park beaches: Kayak beach, Quarry Beach, Haystack Beach, Right Beach, and more!
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Salty Dawg Saloon : A historical Homer Icon
Alice’s Champagne Palace: live music
Alibi Bar and Cafe’- live music
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Diamond Creek Trail
Calvin and Coyle Trail
Eveline State Recreation Area
McNeil Canyon Loop
Alpine Meadow Trail
Homestead Loop
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Norman Lowell Gallery
Ptarmigan Gallery
Fireweed Gallery
Art Shop Gallery
Homer Clayworks
Learn More
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Carl E. Wynn Center
Alaska Coastal Studies
Island and Oceans Visitor Center
Pratt Museum
Kilcher Homestead Living Museum
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Beluga Air- rent camping gear! Whatever you might need for the backcountry or a cozy State Park yurt or cabin….we’ve got you covered!
Ulmers
Kachemak Gear Shed
South Central Radar- they provide rentals for Satellite phones and communication devices for your next adventure!
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Save-U-More
Coles Market
Safeway
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Baycrest Overlook
Skyline Overlook
Homer Airport Meadow Overlook
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The distance between Downtown Homer and the commercial area at the end of the spit is approximately 9 miles. There is a great bike path and several shops in town that provide rentals. Having a vehicle is still the easiest way to get around if you are interested in checking out trails, etc.
We also have two cab companies to get you where you need to go!
Kostas Cab 907-399-8008
Cole’s Cab 907-299-6448
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Our area has multiple groomed cross country skiing trails, opportunities for ice skating, snowshoeing, and a great time to spot wildlife like moose!
Find out more about the Nordic ski trails, maps, and conditions.
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Find Kachemak Bay State Park trail maps by clicking this link!
Alpine Ridge Trail
China Poot Lake Trail
Emerald Lake Loop & Mallard Bay Trail
Glacier Lake, Saddle & Blue Ice Trail
Grace Ridge Trail
Moose Valley Trail
Poot Peak Trail
Sadie Knob Trail
Get out on the water!
Seabird Ventures
Personable Alaskan wildlife viewing. Experience the thrill of being out on Kachemak bay with the opportunity to see wildlife and chat with local boat captains. Offering tours, water taxi functions as well as the option to hire the entire boat for a private excursion.
Mako’s Water Taxi
Need a water taxi? Call our friends at Mako’s to schedule your boat ride to the other side! Reliable drop offs and pick ups so you can explore Kachemak Bay State Park with so many camping and hiking opportunities!
True North Kayak
Alison and her crew are amazing! Jump on board for an incredible ocean kayaking experience in beautiful Kachemak Bay!
Lady of the Sea Adventures
The ultimate way to relax on a private, all-inclusive, overnight yacht! Tour Kachemak Bay in luxury and experience incredible Alaskan adventures right from the vessel.
Three Moose Kayaking Adventures
Let their friendly and knowledgeable guides lead you on a back country adventure! Enjoy one of their glacier hiking tours, glacial lake kayaking, or do both on a combo excursion! You can also stay in Halibut Cove at their ocean front cabins!
Local Cuisine
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Breakfast
Duncan’s Diner
The Bagel Shop
River Cafe’
Wild Honey Bistro
La Baleine Cafe’
Two Sisters Bakery
Captains Coffee
Stacey’s Ridgeway Cafe
Coops Coffee
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Lunch
Glacier D
Boat Yard Cafe
Latitude 59
Swell Taco
Johnny’s Corner
Fire Grill
Mike’s Eatery
Panini Pete’s
Siren’s Seafoods
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Dinner
The Kannery
AJ’s Steakhouse
Captain Patties
Fresh Catch Cafe’
Beluga Lake Lodge
Fat Olives
The Alibi
Alice’s Champagne Palace
Vita’s Thai Food
Broken Oar Oyster Bar
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Snacks/Deserts
Carmen’s Gelato
Spit Licks
Sea Sweets
Bubbles Soda Parlor
Jakolof Bay Oyster Company
Shoreline Scoops
Icy Otter Shave Ice
First Cast Creamery
LUNCH IDEAS ON THE GO
If you are heading out on a bear viewing excursion, fishing, or another great tour here are some places to pre-order food to go or pickup early morning before your adventure!
River Cafe’
Pre-order a box lunch to go! They include a deli sandwich with a drink, cookie, and fruit!
Safeway
Grab a drink and pre-made sandwhiches, subs, and more at the Safeway grocery store!
La Baleine Cafe’
Right next to the Homer Harbor for easy pick up, they provide to-go boxed breakfast or lunch!
BREAKFAST SANDWICH- Toasted roll, greens, seasoned tomato, and a fried (over-medium) egg with sharp cheddar cheese, your choice thick-cut bacon or vegetarian. Includes fresh fruit, baked good and orange juice.
DELI SANDWICH- Your choice of any deli sandwich with Alaska chips, baked good, and canned water.
Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center: Islands & Ocean Center
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The Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center takes you on a dramatic journey through the refuge's past and present . . . surrounds you with the sights, sounds - and even the smells of a seabird colony . . . and invites you to follow biologists as their research ship sails to remote islands each year.
Pratt Museum
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The Pratt Museum is the only interdisciplinary museum in the 25,600-square-mile area of the Kenai Peninsula. Indoor exhibits focus on art, natural history, native cultures, homesteading, fishing, and marine ecology. Additional attractions are Alaskan wildlife, salt-water aquaria and a fine Museum store.
Norman Lowell Gallery
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Just a short drive outside of Homer is a true hidden gem! A 10,000 square foot gallery located on the original homestead of Norman Lowell and family. He spend his career capturing the best of Alaska in his incredible paintings, now on display for everyone to enjoy!
Bear Creek Winery
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Bear Creek Winery takes pride in developing wine with locally sourced raw fruits. Experience their fine fruit wines and fruit/grape blends at their tasting room or set up a private tasting. They also offer luxury suite lodging accommodations as well as winemaking tours!
Alaska Beauty Peony Co-op Farms
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Take a fantastic Alaska Beauty Peony farm tour full of wonderful smells, sights, and even taste. This tour includes a stop at the Sweetgale Meadery and Cider House and a cooperative peony farmers walkabout! Bring your clippers and ask about their “You Pick” tours to cut and create your own flower bouquets! Check the co-op website for available dates, times, and tickets for “You Pick” events and their weekly tours.
Scenic Flightseeing Tour
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Consider seeing Homer and Kachemak Bay from above on a fantastic narrated flightseeing tour!
Horse Back Riding
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7 Star Horsemanship is located in Anchor Point. Take an adventure riding along the beautiful beaches of the Cook Inlet or the rolling meadows on the bluff filled with wildflowers!
7 Star Horsemanship will make your Alaskan adventure dream’s come true! Providing a causal family friendly environment for you to enjoy the beauty that surrounds you, creating memories that will last a lifetime from the back of a horse!
Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies
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Alaskan Coastal Studies provide tours and nature related adventures! They are all about education of youths, but these trips are for everyone! Whether you want to learn about sea life, wildlife, flora and fauna or take a guided tour this is the place to check out!
Shore Fishing
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With plenty of shoreline and the famous “Homer fishing lagoon” you can grab your gear and a fishing license to try your luck at scoring a big salmon no boat needed!
Nearby Communities
Halibut Cove
Jump on a water taxi and head over to tour the community of Halibut Cove. Check out the ocean front housing and local oyster farms! See Gull Island on the way and all the incredible sea life and bird watching Kachemak Bay has to offer!
Seldovia
Take a trip over to the fantastic community of Seldovia! There is so much to see and do in this landlocked village. You can walk or rent a golf cart to get around the area so it has something for everyone. With multiple restaurants, a food truck, the local museum, an old town boardwalk, shopping, a day spa, and two great beaches this place has a lot to offer! Grab a seat on the Seldovia Bay Ferry today! Great for a day excursion or stay at one of their many fantastic places that offer lodging overnight or multi-day trips!
Packing List
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Merino wool base layers are always the most ideal choice. Wool socks and underlayers keep your skin warm and dry, perfect for Alaska conditions year-round!
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Again, we can’t say it enough a layered approach is best! Sometimes our weather can reach t-shirt status, but usually not enough for shorts. Find a nice fleece long sleeve that fits under your jacket of choice. When choosing pants, jeans are ok for some occasions, but for outdoor activities avoid cotton as it will tend to soak up water. Choose material made with nylon, polyester, merino wool, or fleece. These are great quick drying material to keep you safe, dry, and warm.
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Outer layers are a must even during the summer! We always highly recommend a good rain coat AND rain pants! When considering jackets, puffy coats, fleece, or light coats that can be packed away easily work great to keep warm and you can always use a rain coat over it for wet conditions or as a wind breaker.
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Here are some things you may want to consider bringing on your Alaska vacation.
-Binoculars
-Head net
-Sunscreen
-Bug spray
-Water bottle
-Collapsible trekking poles
-Lightweight synthetic gloves
-Hat or baseball cap
-Watch
-Eye Mask (remember you will bein the land of the midnight sun and all lodging may not have blackout curtains)
-Sunglasses
-Dry bag (good for storing gear in and then setting in your backpack if it is not waterproof)
-Camera tripod
-Bathing suit (your lodging may have a hot tub or sauna you won’t want to miss out on!)
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If your geared up for a multi-day backpacking trip you probably have a go-to pack you love. However, even if you are headed out on a day hike, adventure or tour a handsfree approach with packs is best. A waist pack or backpack you can wear to keep both hands free for your activity is recommended versus over the should one strap bags or totes. Make sure you have enough room for extra’s like snacks, water, and rain gear to bring with you at all times.
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Being on the coast, waterproof is the goal in Homer!
Rubber boots work great for beach walks, charter fishing, and tide pooling. Leather, waterproof, or water resistant hiking boots are always a good choice for most activities you will encounter during your Alaska vacation. Where something broken in and comfortable as it is likely you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
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Whether it be your camera phone, a GoPro, small or professional camera….make sure you have your batteries charged and plenty of memory on your device! Alaska has something to see everywhere you look, the views and experiences are out of the world and you’ll find yourself wanting to capture it all!
Halibut - Salmon - Rockfish - Lingcod -
Halibut - Salmon - Rockfish - Lingcod -
FISHING
Homer, Alaska
Halibut fishing capital of the world!
Homer is known for its incredible ocean charter fishing! There is something for everyone, whether it be a half-day or full-day charter and several species to fish for! We have two processors that will clean, freeze, and package your fish so it is ready for you to take home and enjoy!
DeepStrike Sportfishing offers a variety of fishing excursions on the F/V Current Lady or the F/V Irish Mist! Choose from combo trips, exotic species, salmon, & halibut. Feel the difference aboard the Current Lady with a Seakeeper stabilization system that reduces the roll by 95%.
Join Captain Brian and the Nollar Family that have a long history in the Homer fishing industry! They offer a fun full-day trip on their 31’ boat the F/V Belle Ile targeting halibut, with the possibilities of reeling in some lingcod, salmon, or rockfish at certain time of the season!
Big Dan’s Fishing Charter offers big opportunities throughout the Kenai Peninsula. With lodging and salmon river fishing in Soldotna, daily fishing trips from Seward and Homer, or head out to the open ocean on the F/V Double Down for an overnight stay and 2 days of catch limits!
REMOTE LODGING
Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge
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For something special, unique, and truly magical – enjoy an amazing vacation with our good friends across the bay at Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge.
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Learn more about Kachemak Bay Wilderness Lodge!
Intricate Bay Lodge
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Newly rebuilt and in a prime location for all of the best Bristol Bay fishing spots.
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Learn more about Intricate Bay Lodge!
Redoubt Mountain Lodge
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Fabulous bear watching, fishing, and world-class service in gorgeous Lake Clark National Park.
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Learn more about Redoubt Mountain Lodge!
LODGING in HOMER, AK
Homer Bed and Breakfast Association
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We are proud to be Associate Members of the Homer Bed and Breakfast Association. The lodging members are top notch and there is an online availability calendar for easy booking.
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Learn more about the HBBA overnight lodging options!
Baycrest Lodge
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Just minutes away from Homer, this beautiful lodge is located up on the bluff and offers stunning views of Kachemak Bay and the Cook Inlet!
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Learn more about Baycrest Lodge!
Seafarer Suites
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Newly remodeled private studios and suites! Located conveniently on the edge of downtown Homer!
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Learn more about Seafarer Suites!
BED & BREAKFAST
Brigitte's Bavarian Bed and Breakfast
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Looking for some personalized service and delicious home-cooking right out of the garden? Brigitte and Willie are great hosts and you will not believe the view at their one-of-a-kind hand-build Bed and Breakfast property. Just wait until you experience a steam in the hand-built stone sauna. Divine!
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Learn more about Brigitte’s Bavarian Bed and Breakfast!
Good Karma Inn
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Relax, unwind, and enjoy the intimate, panoramic views of Kachemak Bay and our glacier-filled Kenai Mountains. Come and listen to the quiet crackling of our campfire and let our natural beauty soothe and rejuvenate your soul: watch resident moose and their calves meandering close by in the early mornings and throughout our long sunset-filled evenings.
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Learn more about Good Karma Inn!
Halcyon Heights Bed & Breakfast Inn
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Perched on East Hill in Homer, Alaska, this proud Alaska Bed and Breakfast/Inn will show you views of the famous Homer Spit, Kachemak Bay, the Grewingk Glacier, the Kenai Mountains, Homer itself, and more!
If you've never stayed in a Bed and Breakfast lodging before, Halcyon Heights Bed and Breakfast /Inn is the place to start.
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Learn more about Halcyon Heights B&B Inn!
PRIVATE RENTALS
Ranger Station Views Rental
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This beautifully renovated property has four quest rooms and comfortably sleeps 10. With a view of Kachemak Bay from Grewingk Glacier, Seldovia & across Cook Inlet with views of Mt Douglas, Mt Augustine and beyond!
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Learn more about the Ranger Station View Rental!
Cabin Get-Away in Homer
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This comfortable cabin is the perfect place to get-away to beautiful Homer, AK. This private cabin has a full kitchen and bath as well as a loft bedroom with a view of Kachemak Bay.
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Learn more about Cabin Get-Away!
Wild Coast Alaska Beach House
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Enjoy private, oceanfront lodging in the Wild Coast Alaska Beach House. It sleeps up to 8 people comfortably in a relaxing, open floor plan with spectacular views of Cook Inlet and the mountains beyond. Located in Anchor Point, a short, scenic drive from Homer; offers amazing views of Cook Inlet, Mt. Iliamna and other volcanoes from the deck and throughout the house, plus beach combing at your fingertips. Stay literally on the beach! Check out their vacation packages that also offer charter fishing with Wild Coast Alaska!
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Learn more about the Wild Coast Alaska Beach House!
UNIQUE STAYS
Westwind Cabins
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Westwind Cabins offer 4 unique spaces to best suit your needs. Perfect for a couple or rent them all for large groups or families. (can accommodate up to 20 guests)
All include fully stocked kitchens, gas fireplaces, and Scandinavian inspired features that are both photogenic and functional providing a comfortable space that invites creativity and connection.
Bask in the beauty of Kachemak Bay through large windows to capture the views!
Conveniently located 5-minutes from downtown and only 10-minutes from the Homer SPIT, it is a place for guests who want to be close to adventure and far enough for a private retreat!
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Learn more about Westwind Cabins!
The Shire of Homer- BnB
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Visit this peaceful Homer bed and breakfast.
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Learn more about The Shire of Homer!
The Kilcher Homestead
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Stay at the historic Kilcher Homestead on the hillside of beautiful Kachemak Bay! With 6 lodging options to choose from, you can settle into a simpler, rustic, and quiet pace of life. Experience awe-inspiring views from the property of rolling meadows, the ocean, glaciers, and mountains.
You can also check out the original homestead living museum!
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Learn more about Eagles Rest, The Historic Cabin, Caribou Meadows, Moose Meadows, Glacier View, and the Daydream Land Retreat!
Homer Inn & Spa
SPA SERVICES
Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation at this unique day spa. They offer a range of full-body work with a perfect blend of luxury and natural serenity. Immerse yourself in the healing rhythms of the ocean as you experience a hydro-therapy, saunas, and self-care massage.
FUN FOR KIDS
Alaska is all about getting outside and enjoying the great outdoors! Gear up your kiddos and get ready for a ton of fun and learning in Homer, Alaska!
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Unfortunately, the reality is there are very limited options when it comes to daily drop in daycare/day camp for little ones in Homer.
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-School Skate Park (bring your own equipment)
-Karen Hornaday Park (Playground)
-Bike path on the SPIT (bike rentals are available in Homer)
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Sign up your youth for a GRAND adventure with the HoWL program! Leaders take kids out for hikes, camping, rock climbing, and more! This is a great way for your kids to break away and have an outdoor experience with other kids that comes with tons of outdoor education.
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7 Star Horsemanship not only provides beach rides and backcountry horseback adventures, but they also have a facility to take riding lessons.
Dog Friendly Locations
Bring along your furry companions to join in on the fun!
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Located at Homer Animal Friends. This is he only dog wash and conveniently located downtown. Get your pup clean and smelling amazing after a fun day at the beach or on the trails before heading back to the RV or lodging rental.
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-SPIT beach
-SPIT sidewalk
-Anchor Point Beach
Please be up to date on Homer leash laws and courteous of others walking with pets.
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-Glacier Ridge Brewing: Kick back and enjoy local brew while hanging out with your furry friend by your side.
-Swell Taco: a great way to enjoy authentic tacos while sitting outside by the ocean. Dogs are allowed on leashes up on the boardwalk and seating area.
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Find food, toys, and many more needed pet supplies at these locations.
-Save-U-More
-Safeway
-Coles Market
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Alaska Mindful Paws Homer Animal Shelter: Learn more about the amazing work our shelter is providing to keep pets safe and find homes in our community. Here you can adopt, donate, contact Animal Control, and report a lost or found pet.
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-Makos Water Taxi: take a boat ride or head over to the state park for a day of hiking with your furry companion.
-Beluga Air: floatplane charters.
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-Stacey’s Ridgway Cafe’- sip on a delicious coffee while your friend enjoys a pup cup and a biscuit.
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-Whiskey Gulch Grill Dog Park: Located just before driving into Anchor Point on your right side next to Whiskey Gulch Grill. They offer a fenced in roadside dog park. Easy parking and a great stop to let you dog use the tree and run off some energy after a long drive.
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-Chugach Animal Clinic- Dr. Lagoa DMV (also available for emergency house calls) 1-907-235-9338
-Dr. Marlowe DMV (solely operates with house calls, can help with equine care ) 1-660-342-2095
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Coming soon!
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Venues for Special Occasions
Make Homer, AK even more memorable with a gorgeous venue or location for your celebration! Homer offers flyout ceremonies, homesteads, ranches, and more! All with views of mountains and endless beauty!
AK Diamon J Ranch is a family owned and operated Wedding Venue out East End Road in Homer, Alaska. Experience spectacular mountain and glacier views as well as friendly horses and top notch costumer service!
If you do not want the ‘normal life package’ wedding, consider a backcountry ceremony! Beluga Air can fly you to a remote Alaskan mountain lake and officiate your marriage, or customize a special trip just for you!
RV TRAVEL INFO
RV TRAVEL INFO
Break away from town and take in the peacefulness of the East side with stunning views of Kachemak Bay. The Jones family are long-time Alaskans with a small homestead ranch/peony farm. They share a corner of their beautiful ranch property with guests and offer 4 dry RV/Camp pull-in sites at a great price. There is a bathroom/shower/sink facility onsite, a gazebo-covered campfire setting to relax at night, and a working farm filled with animals for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to take advantage of their historical beach tours with your Camp Host and Kachemak Bay Getaways!
This long-time family owned and operated campground is where the land ends and the sea begins! They offer beach tent sites as well as full RV hookups. Oceanfront camping means walking right out of your door and onto the beach! Included amenities are onsite restrooms, hot showers, laundry, WIFI, water fill and dump station. They even have an office gift shop to get your Homer, AK souvenirs. Get in on the SPIT action and camp within walking distance of the shops, restaurants, and fishing charters!
This beautiful park is located just outside of Homer up on the bluff. It offers fantastic views of Kachemak Bay and Cook Inlet with the ability to whale watch from your campsite! They have everything from tent sites to RV sites available up to 60 ft long! There is a children’s playground and even a dog park so the whole family can enjoy vacation! Relax at night in the pavilion or at one of the community fire pits. Visit the office to see the gift shop and buy firewood. Next door there is a convenience store/ gas station that also houses Shortstop Grill!
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If you are looking to fill water buckets for camping or other use (not to fill an RV tank) there is a safe drinking water fill faucet located at the grocery store Safeway. You can find this on the front outside wall on the very left side of the building next to the walk in doors.
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There are two city maintained dump stations available in Homer that open as soon as weather permits and close in the fall once it begins to freeze. One is located on the south side of the Homer Bypass across from the Post Office. The second is on the Homer Spit next to the restrooms by the Fishing Hole. Drop boxes are located at each site to deposit the $15.00 fee.
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Located at 169 Sterling Hwy.
Open Monday-Saturday
8am- 5:45pm (closed on Sunday)
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RV/Motorhome rentals are available in Anchorage, AK from a variety of companies and can be driven to Homer. Tent camping rental kits can be reserved and picked up in Homer at Beluga Air.
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Find out more information about our local City of Homer Campgrounds!
-Fishing Hole Campground
-Mariner Park Campground
-West Side Tent Area
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The closest Alaska State Park camping sites are located a short distance away in the nearby community of Anchor Point. Both are in the same general area on the river leading to the ocean shore so either way you have great water views surrounded by pure nature! Lots of eagles and moose in this area and all is within walking distance of the beach!
-Halibut Campground
-Anchor River Campground
FAQs
How far is the drive from Anchorage to Homer?
Plan on at least 4.5 hours of driving, not including any stops. At times we can have delays for construction, landslides, avalanches, accidents, or wildlife so have more time that needed to avoid being late to Homer or back to Anchorage for flights. Additionally, summer months bring a lot of RV traffic and the highway has limited passing areas. Note that it Alaska State law to allow vehicles to pass if 5 or more vehicles are behind you. It is a beautiful drive, so using a day to stop and see the sights is highly recommended. There are multiple pull offs with vault toilets along the way, scenic view pullovers, and other local communities to check out. You have the potential to see goats, bears, moose, and more along this drive.
Should I drive from elsewhere the morning of my tour?
It’s definitely recommended to already be staying in Homer the night before any tour. Unless staying in a nearby community like Anchor Point, Ninilchik or East End Road of Homer, anything more can be a very early wakeup and you don’t want to be late!
Activity ideas when we are delayed or waiting out the weather?
We have great museums and science centers in town to enjoy Homer indoors. There is an Axe House for an entertaining afternoon, a local movie theater, and long stretches of road to take a beautiful drive that offer great views and possibly wildlife. Or the saying goes, if you don’t like the weather wait 5 minutes. Our weather can change quickly, so it’s best to be prepared for the elements, bring proper warm and rain gear (pants and jacket) and get out there and enjoy all Alaska has to offer!
We want to rent camping gear from Beluga Air, where should we camp?
There are multiple campgrounds locally in Homer, as well as beach camping right in the action of the SPIT. You can also branch out and take a water taxi to camp in the state park. For those craving the immersive Alaska backpacking trip with backcountry experience consider a fly out trip to a remote locale.
I have my hiking boots on and am ready to hit the trails, where should I hike?
Check out trail information about the Kachemak Bay State Park! There is an abundance of trails for every level of hiking. Take a water taxi over to the park for the day and take in the fresh air on a fantastic hike! For a multiday serious backpacking adventure, check out the new Tutka Backdoor Trail. This trail covers extreme terrain and requires a floatplane drop off and boat pick up.
I have work to get done and need a quiet place with internet, where should I go?
The Homer Public Library is a fantastic place to secure a private work room, use a computer, or have access to WIFI that is right in the heart of Homer. Captains Coffee and Wild Honey Bistro are also great café’ options with indoor seating to grab a delicious coffee, a bite to eat, and settle into a peaceful workspace on your laptop or phone.
Can you get around Homer without a car?
Yes, but it could be difficult. Homer spread out with a few main areas. We have Old Town, downtown, the Beluga Lake area, and the SPIT. All are a few minutes’ drive away from one another and can be done by bike, but walking it all would take awhile.
What are some great things during the springtime to see in Homer?
Springtime is a fantastic time to visit just as Alaska wakes up from long winters. Be prepared for mud during “Breakup”. Babies are in abundance and you can often see the new moose calves around the area! They are cute, but always be cautious around wildlife, especially moms with babies as they will need more space. May is a great time to visit during our opening festival when all the shorebirds return to Alaska.
What should I check out in the fall during my time in Homer?
Fall time the leaves turn beautiful colors and a flightsee from the air is always spectacular. In September there is still an open to go bear viewing in the high country of Lake Clark National Park. Moose begin the rut season and grow impressive antler racks!
I want to see Homer, Alaska during the winter! What should I know about winter and what is there to do during that time?
Winter time is beautiful but can bring harsh temperatures and unpredictable conditions. Having the appropriate gear is essential to enjoying this Area in the winter. Spectacular views of snow covered mountains are breath taking and not to be missed - just dress warm! We have many groomed skate and cross country skiing trails in Homer, as well as plenty of areas to snowshoe.
What are my options to do a flyout cabin stay in remote Alaska?
We have two great options for a backcountry Alaska experience close to Homer! Kachemak Bay State Park offers Public Use Cabins as well as Yurt rentals for overnight adventures! These provide warmth and security while still having the freedom to be off grid!
I love to shop till I drop! What stores should I check out for local artisan crafts or Alaska souvenirs?
There are multiple art shops in the main part of town in Homer, as well as pottery and local art shops along the SPIT. We have a multitude of great stores to shop for gifts for those back home or take home a souvenir for yourself!
Since I will see bears on my Beluga Air tour…where can I go to see eagles and moose?
Anchor Point Beach has some great eagle viewing opportunities and convenient parking at the boat launch area.
Moose can commonly be seen up on the bluff near the Carl E. Wynn center, as well as in the marsh area near the airport. There is a moose overlook just across from the Homer Airport, and another viewing area from the Calvin and Coyle Nature Trail near town.
I’ve dreamed of fishing in Homer, Alaska…what are my options?
We are known as the Halibut capital of the world, however there are several species locals and guests fish for in Homer! Fishing is common in the bay and some charters travel out to bigger waters. You can fish for halibut, lingcod, cod, all species of salmon, rockfish, and more. Be sure to check with your charter or the fishing regulations every day as the limits and season can change without notice.
How do I get a fishing license in Alaska?
You can get your fishing license ahead of time online through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. There are also some sport shops in Homer you can get a license when you arrive. If you are fishing with a guide or charter, be sure to ask them what license you need or if you need an additional King Salmon stamp as well for your trip.
I am a birder and want to know the best ways to learn and photograph the local birds!
Gull Island is the place to be when it comes to birding! A local water taxi or sea life tour can take you there to witness the gulls, puffins, and much more breeding and showing their best survival techniques. There are also great birding opportunities on the SPIT or beaches in the area to see eagles. Our areas offers plenty of song birds, Magpies, exquisite blue jays, and more!
I want to see whales, is that possible on the Kenai Peninsula?
We occasionally see whales in Kachemak Bay, Humpbacks and even Orcas. There are multiple Sealife tour options that can take you around the bay to view a variety of wildlife such as otters, seals, whales, sea birds, and porpoise.
I am working to get all my national park passport stamps! Where should I go to get my stamps if I visited one of the local national parks? (Katmai, Lake Clark, or Kenai Fjords)
Most areas of the local national parks you can see the magnificent park, and not find the visitor center. No worries, the Island and Oceans Center has the Katmai National Park, Lake Clark National Park and Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge stamps available in Homer!
I want to keep up on my daily workout routine. What are my options in Homer for burning calories?
The Homer SPIT has a great long sidewalk the length of the SPIT to get in a great run or walk with views the whole way! We have three local gyms, AK | Fitness, Great Hall Iron, and the Bay Club. Some find beach walking or jogging a nice change of pace with it’s own calorie burn running on the sand!
I want more information about Kachemak Bay activities!
Fore more information about Kachemak Bay land and water activities, learn more with the Friends of Kachemak Bay State Park group! If you are an avid kayaker, be sure to check out the Kachemak Bay Water Trail!
“The person with the most gold when they die isn’t the winner, it is the person with the most stories.”