Homer, Alaska, perched at the edge of the stunning Kachemak Bay, is a haven for adventurers, artists, and nature lovers alike. Known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” this picturesque seaside town offers so much more than world-class angling. Whether you’re here for wildlife, glacier views, or an unforgettable local culture, there are endless things to do in Homer, Alaska that will leave you in awe.
Despite its small population of approximately 6366 residents, Homer punches far above its weight in terms of experiences. From scenic flights over volcanoes to bear-viewing expeditions, quirky art galleries, and fresh seafood that rivals any fine-dining city in the U.S., Homer is a destination where wilderness meets creativity.
With over 250,000 visitors each year and situated at the southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula, Homer is also one of the most accessible gems in Southcentral Alaska. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weeklong escape, this guide will walk you through the top 20 things to do in Homer, Alaska—each offering a slice of adventure, culture, or pure relaxation
1. Discover the Homer Spit
Extending 4.5 miles into Kachemak Bay, the Homer Spit is a natural landform offering a mix of scenic beauty and recreational activities. Home to the Homer Boat Harbor, it accommodates up to 1,500 boats during peak season. Visitors can enjoy beachcombing, dining at seafood restaurants, and shopping for local crafts.
2. Explore Kachemak Bay State Park
As Alaska’s first state park, Kachemak Bay State Park spans over 400,000 acres of diverse landscapes, including glaciers, forests, and rugged coastlines. Accessible only by boat or plane, the park offers over 80 miles of trails for hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping.
3. Go Bear Viewing in Katmai or Lake Clark National Parks
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to observe Alaska’s brown bears in their natural habitat. Guided tours from Homer provide access to Katmai and Lake Clark National Parks, where visitors can safely watch bears fishing and foraging along the coastlines.
4. Visit the Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center
This center serves as a gateway to understanding the rich marine ecosystems of Kachemak Bay and the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. Interactive exhibits and educational programs provide insights into the region’s wildlife and conservation efforts.
5. Enjoy World-Class Halibut Fishing
Dubbed the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” Homer offers anglers the opportunity to catch large halibut in the abundant waters of Kachemak Bay. Chartered fishing trips cater to both novice and experienced fishermen.
6. Attend the Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival
Each May, Homer hosts Alaska’s largest wildlife-viewing festival, celebrating the return of hundreds of thousands of shorebirds to the area. The festival features guided birding tours, workshops, and educational activities for all ages.
7. Hike to Grewingk Glacier
Accessible via a short boat ride across Kachemak Bay, the trail to Grewingk Glacier offers hikers a moderate trek through diverse terrains, culminating in breathtaking views of the glacier and its surrounding lake.
8. Explore the Pratt Museum
Dedicated to preserving the cultural and natural history of the Kachemak Bay region, the Pratt Museum features exhibits on local art, Native Alaskan traditions, and marine ecology. Outdoor displays include a historic homesteader’s cabin and botanical gardens.
9. Take a Ferry to Seldovia
A short ferry ride from Homer transports visitors to the charming village of Seldovia. Known for its boardwalks, art galleries, and rich history, Seldovia offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing
10. Visit Halibut Cove
Accessible only by boat, Halibut Cove is a picturesque community built on stilts over the water. Visitors can explore art galleries, dine at waterfront restaurants, and enjoy the serene beauty of the cove.
11. Paddle the Kachemak Bay Water Trail
Stretching 125 miles, the Kachemak Bay Water Trail offers kayakers a chance to navigate through diverse marine environments, observe wildlife, and camp along secluded beaches.
12. Stroll Along Bishop’s Beach
Located near downtown Homer, Bishop’s Beach is ideal for beachcombing, tidepooling, and enjoying panoramic views of Kachemak Bay. The adjacent Beluga Slough Trail provides a scenic walk through wetlands teeming with birdlife.
13. Experience the Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby
Running from May to September, this annual fishing competition offers anglers the chance to win substantial prizes, including up to $25,000, for catching tagged halibut.
14. Visit the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies
This center offers educational programs and guided tours focusing on the unique coastal ecosystems of the region. Visitors can participate in tidepool explorations, forest hikes, and marine wildlife observations.
15. Attend the Kachemak Bay Wooden Boat Festival
Celebrating Homer’s maritime heritage, this September festival features boat-building demonstrations, races, and storytelling sessions, attracting boating enthusiasts from across the state.
16. Explore Local Art Galleries
Homer boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries showcasing works inspired by the surrounding landscapes. The First Friday Gallery Walk is a monthly event where visitors can meet artists and enjoy new exhibits.
17. Dine at The Saltry in Halibut Cove
Accessible via a scenic boat ride, The Saltry offers diners fresh seafood dishes in a stunning waterfront setting. The restaurant is renowned for its locally sourced ingredients and artistic ambiance.
18. Visit the Salty Dawg Saloon
A historic landmark on the Homer Spit, the Salty Dawg Saloon is famous for its rustic charm and walls adorned with dollar bills left by patrons. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a quintessential Alaskan bar experience.
19. Participate in the Homer Winter King Salmon Tournament
Held annually in March, this one-day fishing event attracts anglers aiming to catch the largest king salmon, with significant cash prizes awarded.
20. Enjoy Local Cuisine at Two Sisters Bakery
A beloved eatery in Homer, Two Sisters Bakery offers a delightful selection of pastries, hearty soups, and artisan breads just steps from Bishop’s Beach. Don’t miss the famous cardamom buns and ocean views from their garden seating—it’s the perfect fuel stop while exploring the town.
21. Book a Scenic Flightseeing Tour
For an unforgettable perspective of Homer, Alaska, hop aboard a small plane for a flightseeing tour. These tours provide aerial views of glaciers, volcanoes like Mount Augustine, and remote fjords, a breathtaking way to witness Alaska’s raw beauty. Some tours also include bear viewing in Katmai or Lake Clark National Parks. Expect to pay around $400–$700 per person, but it’s worth every cent for the photos alone.
22. Go Tidepooling During Low Tide
Head to Bishop’s Beach or Diamond Creek Trail during low tide to explore vibrant tidepools. You’ll find sea stars, anemones, urchins, and tiny crabs. The Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies even offers guided tidepooling tours to help you spot and understand the rich biodiversity of the intertidal zone.
23. Tour a Local Oyster Farm
Homer’s cold, clean waters produce some of Alaska’s most prized oysters. Kachemak Shellfish Growers Co-op offers farm tours where you can see how oysters are grown and harvested, and yes, you’ll get to sample them fresh. It’s a unique culinary experience and a great way to support local aquaculture.
24. Take a Photography Tour
With its dramatic scenery and wildlife, Homer, Alaska, is a photographer’s paradise. Join a local guide to discover hidden photo ops, from eagles soaring over Kachemak Bay to golden-hour shots on the Homer Spit. Whether you’re shooting with a DSLR or just your iPhone, you’ll go home with frame-worthy memories.
25. Join a Whale Watching Cruise
While orcas and humpback whales migrate through the bay, Homer’s marine tours give you the chance to witness these majestic giants breaching and feeding. Late spring to early fall is prime time for sightings. Tours often include puffins, otters, and sea lions, too, so keep your camera ready.
26. Try Paddleboarding on Beluga Lake
Calm and scenic, Beluga Lake is perfect for paddleboarding. Rent a SUP from a local outfitter and glide across the water with views of distant glaciers and surrounding mountains. From a new vantage point, it’s a peaceful way to unwind and see Homer, Alaska.
27. Attend the Homer Peony Celebration
Held every July, this colorful festival celebrates Homer’s booming peony farming industry. Alaska’s cool climate makes for some of the most vibrant and long-lasting blooms in the world. The event includes farm tours, floral workshops, art displays, and photo contests.
28. Explore the Bear Creek Winery & Lodging
Tucked into the hillside above town, Bear Creek Winery offers tastings of award-winning fruit wines made with Alaskan berries. You can also stay in their charming guest cottages, surrounded by gardens and ocean views. A glass of blueberry wine on the deck? Yes, please.
29. Relax at the Homer Spa & Wellness Center
After a few days of outdoor adventures, treat yourself to a massage or facial at the Homer Spa. This peaceful oasis offers everything from hot stone therapy to herbal body wraps. It’s the perfect recharge stop between glacier hikes and halibut charters.
30. Camp at the Homer Spit Campground
To truly immerse yourself in Homer’s coastal vibe, spend a night at the Homer Spit Campground. You’ll fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to stunning sunrises over Kachemak Bay. Campfires, fishing rods, and seagulls in the background, it’s the classic Alaskan experience.
Final Thoughts: Why Homer, Alaska Belongs on Every Bucket List
Whether you’re drawn by epic fishing, mesmerizing landscapes, or quirky coastal charm, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Homer, Alaska. It’s a town where you can wake up to glacier views, kayak alongside otters, dine on oysters caught that morning, and end the night with local wine and live music.
Homer isn’t just a destination, it’s a feeling. A place that slows you down, draws you in, and leaves you dreaming of your next trip back.
So pack your bags, charge your camera, and prepare to fall in love with Homer, Alaska, one breathtaking experience at a time.
FAQ
Homer is famous for halibut fishing, the Homer Spit, and its thriving arts and culinary scene.
May to September offers the best weather, wildlife tours, and outdoor adventures.
Yes! Kids love tidepooling, beachcombing, the Islands & Ocean Visitor Center, and boat rides.
Yes, with guided tours to Katmai or Lake Clark, you can safely view brown bears in the wild.
Plan for 3 to 5 days to enjoy the top things to do in Homer, Alaska, without rushing.
