Explore Alaska’s Wilderness & Things To Do In Homer
Surrounded by the beauty of Kachemak Bay and the Kenai Peninsula, Homer is a refuge amid the Alaskan wilderness. If you have a passion for nature, adventure, and history, you’re in the right place. Come face-to-face with migrating seabirds, sea otters, and Alaskan wildlife while hiking and kayaking nearby trails and waters. Set out by boat to explore volcanic islands or fish the waters in the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World.” Dine on local cuisine and fresh seafood at waterfront eateries. Explore quaint shops and museums, or immerse yourself in Homer’s vibrant artist scene, with funky galleries with fine Alaskan art, pottery and photography that celebrate the spirit of Alaska. From bear adventures to excursions that will have you exploring ancient glaciers and towering mountains, Homer brings you up close to the wonder and awe of Alaska’s pristine wildlife and stunning natural landscape.
Homer Spit
Explore the 4.5-mile strip of land that juts into the Kachemak Bay. You’ll find shopping, dining, fishing charters, kayaking, beaches, a fishing hole and so much more! There is a bicycle and walking path, the Alaska Marine ferry dock, Fisherman’s Memorial and lots of otter sightings.
Across Kachemak Bay
Treat yourself to some outdoor recreation like hiking, hunting, fishing and backcountry skiing, and a host of breathtaking sights to see across Kachemack Bay at Halibut Cove, Seldovia and Kachemak State Park, Alaska’s first state park. You can also board the Alaska ferry and visit Kodiak Island for bear watching.
Outdoor Winter Activities
Winter in Homer is milder and warmer than much of Alaska. Come for the winter sports, great food and festivals, bonfires, winter King salmon tournament, sled dog racing and even a Nutcracker Faire. Even if you choose to stay “home” in your warm and cozy lodging you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery, constellations and Northern Lights on those long winter nights.
Homer
This small Alaska town at the “end of the road” offers something for everyone. Homer offers many great dining, shopping, art and natural history options, including:
- Alaska Islands & Oceans Center – View Details
- Wynn Nature Center – View Details
Dining in Homer AK
Homer has become known as a “foodie” destination with a number of fine dining options as well as great diners, pubs, bakeries, a winery and a brewery. Check out Fat Olives, Captain Patties, Wasabi, Duncan House, AJ’s Oldtown Steakhouse and Tavern and many more. Many places will prepare your fresh catch as well.
Fishing Charters
Get on board the Arctic Addiction off the Kenai Peninsula and fish for Halibut, Rockfish, Salmon, and more on the “Grand Slam” Saltwater Charters. Below are some of our recommendations.
See our Special Excursions for fishing packages.
Art Galleries & Studios
Immerse in the arts with a unique viewing of Alaskan great artists. Get a different perspective of this exquisite collection of one’s inspirations of Alaska.
- Norman Lowell Studio & Gallery – View Website
- Ptarmigan Arts – View Website
- Art Shop Gallery – View Website
- Bunnell Street Arts Center – View Website
Halibut Cove
Take the boat in from Homer for one of the most peaceful, serene encounters with nature. Discover acres of mountains, gorgeous glaciers, emerald waters, sea otters, and sea lions.
Museums in Homer
Spend a day learning countless number of seabirds, marine life and their behaviors and habitat with interactive exhibits and displays. Visit a homestead cabin, walk the lush trails, and marvel at the botanical garden or take a walk to the boardwalk and onto the beautiful beach.
- Pratt Museum – View Details
- Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies – Visit Website
- Kilcher Homestead Living Museum – Visit Website
Kayaking & Canoeing in Homer
Try kayaking, taking a water taxi, or standup paddle boarding for impressive views and a magical trip that is sure to add to your education and sense of environmental responsibility.
- True North Kayak Adventures – Visit Website
- A Seaside Adventure – Visit Website
- St. Augustine’s Kayak and Tours – Visit Website
Homer Parks and Trails
Gaze at exquisite wildflowers blooming throughout the summer. Step inside the Daisy Lee Bitter log cabin. Enjoy over miles of trails with jaw-dropping views of gorgeous glaciers
- Bishop’s Beach Park – Visit Website
- Homestead Trail at Rogers Loop Rd – Visit Website
- Diamond Creek Trail – Visit Website
- Calvin & Coyle Nature Trail – Visit Website
Alaskan Bear Viewing & Air Tour
Explore Katmai National Park or Lake Clark National Park for an epic experience watching bears fishing, clamming, mating, or raising their cubs.
See our Special Excursions for bear-viewing packages.