SamA bit off the beaten path, Homer is a wonderful town that bursts to life in the summer! At the end of the Kenai Peninsula, Homer is a great town for fishing fanatics, and wildlife lovers alike. While the town is small and dispersed, there is still a bunch to do and see! From beautiful landscapes, to fun family activities, here are all of the best experiences to consider when visiting Homer, Alaska!
1. Explore the Homer Spit
The 5-mile long road that ‘spits’ out into the Kachemak Bay is one of the main attractions for thousands of tourists every summer. The Homer Spit is home to an array of restaurants, local shops, fishing companies, and Alaskan beaches. With so much to discover around every corner, it is one of the must-do experiences in Homer!
2. Spend time at the Homer Harbor
A much-forgotten part of the Homer Spit, the harbor holds a treasure trove of wildlife for those willing to take the time to look close enough. Often seen swimming around the harbor, you may just see the beloved sea otters floating about, or maybe even resting on the docks! And if you take a peak over the edge of the docks, you may be surprised what you see. Attached to the docks you will see a colony of life, from anemones to snails to urchins, and maybe even sea stars! And don’t forget to look up to keep an eye out for eagles. Pay attention to the small details and you never know what you may come across.
3. Visit the Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center
Eager to learn more about Alaskan history, culture, and wildlife? Then I urge you to check out the Island and Ocean Visitor Center. The center is free to visitors, but donations are much appreciated. On this self-guided walkthrough, you can learn an immense amount about Alaska from your short time at the center. Extremely well designed, with interactive stations, and documentaries playing throughout the day, the center is a great place to immerse yourself. Additionally, behind the center you will find a series of boardwalk paths leading out to Bishop’s Beach, so you can enjoy a scenic stroll while you’re in the area.
4. Soak in the views at the Homer Overlook & Skyline Drive
Best on a clear day, the overlook allows you to enjoy a panoramic view of Kachemak Bay along with the beautiful mountains across the bay. It’s impossible to not admire the true natural beauty of Kachemak Bay and be completely awestruck. And keep in mind that this view is beautiful during all time’s of the year, not just summer. The snow-dusted mountains somehow manage to always make everything a little more magical.
Additionally, take a drive along Skyline Drive to get a different perspective of the town and the mountain views. In July, the meadows have sprung to life with wildflowers, making for the most beautiful scenery.
5. Tour Local Brewers and Wineries
Homer has so many excellent local breweries and wineries that are definitely worth checking out!
The Bear Creek Winery has been a part of the town for many years now, and their wine is critically acclaimed. Stop by the winery for a tasting of their handcrafted wine, and enjoy the cozy, rustic feel of the lodge. Ethically the company is making many moves to be sustainable, which is all the more reason to support them! They reuse their bottles, and all of their wines are made from locally grown ingredients, making for such an amazing product.
And if beer is more up your alley, there are options for you as well! Grace Ridge Brewery is a small, sleek yet rustic bar that brews all of their beer in house. With many options, you’re sure to find something to fit your taste. With indoor and outdoor seating, be sure to stop by and enjoy a relaxing drink! Additionally, the Homer Brewing Company is another classic stop if you’re a beer fanatic. Stop by the storefront and you can buy beer directly from the tap, or visit the taproom to enjoy tastings of the various beers available while watching the brewing process happening in front of your eyes.
6. Take the Ferry to Seldovia
Catch a ferry from the harbor that will take you across the bay to the town of Seldovia! Nestled within the Kachemak Bay, Seldovia is a quaint coastal community home to only 300 permanent residents. While the town itself is small, this is a great place to explore nature. From hiking, to kayaking, berry picking, and more, Seldovia is a great escape for even just a day.
And don’t forget about the added bonus of a picturesque boat ride across the bay! Keep an eye out for wildlife, as you could see sea otters, seals, whales, and much more!
7. Explore the Wynn Nature Center Trails
Up Skyline Drive and nestled in the Homer mountainside is the Wynn Nature Center. With simple and easy trails, this is a great scenic hiking area for everyone. There are various winding trails throughout the area, but all of them immerse you into nature and seclude you from town. The meadows here are absolutely stunning, as they are covered in fireweed blooms. I definitely recommend visiting this area if you are looking for a relaxing activity out in nature.
8. Eat!
Throughout everywhere I have traveled in Alaska, my food experiences in Homer are above everywhere else in the state. Definitely take the time to check out the amazing
There are so many amazing restaurants and bars in Homer, but here are my absolute favorite places:
- Finn’s Pizza
- Boardwalk Fish & Chips
- AJ’s Steakhouse
- Wild Honey Bistro
- Salty Dawg Saloon
- The Bagel Shop
9. Go on a bear viewing tour!
One of the top destinations for bear viewing tours, this is one of the best experiences you can do in Homer. Due to the proximity to Katmai National Park and Lake Clark, tour companies are able to offer premier bear viewing tours right out of Homer. You will hop on a little plane and after a quick flight, you will be in bear country seeing some of the largest bear populations in the world. While this is a pricier option, it is one you will never forget and is definitely worthwhile!
