
Your Local’s Guide To
Adventure The Last Frontier
Welcome to Homer, Alaska
Homer isn’t just a summer destination, and it’s so much more than the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World.” As someone born and raised here, I see Homer through a local’s lens—a town fueled by creativity, adventure, and passion. We’re a community of dreamers and explorers, surrounded by the stunning backdrop of Kachemak Bay and a network of small, local businesses that bring this place to life. Homer is where vibrant arts, breathtaking outdoor adventures, and incredible food intersect year-round.
Explore Homer is your guide to experiencing everything this community has to offer, from what to do and see to where to eat and stay—no matter the season. Plus, if you're visiting with kids, I’ve got plenty of family-friendly tips to make your trip both fun and stress-free. Welcome to my hometown. Let me show you why I love it.
Discover the Best of Homer
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Outdoor Adventures
Experience the wild beauty of Homer through hiking, kayaking, fishing, bear viewing, and so much more. Whether you’re trekking alpine trails or spotting wildlife along the bay, Homer’s breathtaking outdoor activities are second to none.
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Seasonal Experiences
Discover Homer’s magic in every season. Ski across snowy trails in the winter, stroll through vibrant peony fields in the summer, and soak in the unique charm of each time of year. Adventure awaits year-round!
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Local Eats & Drinks
Taste your way through Homer with fresh-caught seafood, local craft beers, and dishes made with Alaskan flair. From cozy cafes to waterfront restaurants, the food here is as unforgettable as the views.
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Arts & Culture
Experience Homer’s creative spirit through live music, art galleries, festivals, and local performances that showcase the heart and soul of this vibrant community.
Plan Your Perfect Homer Adventure
If you're planning a short visit or a longer stay, we can help you make the most of your time in Homer. Take a look at our sample itineraries, designed to show you some of the best experiences Homer has to offer. For example, our 3-day getaway includes family-friendly wildlife tours, delicious local food, and plenty of outdoor adventures.
3 Days in Homer
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Grab a pastry from Two Sisters Bakery, then take a wildlife tour of Kachemak Bay – you might see orcas, otters, and various birds! Lunch at Finn's Pizza with bay views (be sure to order the blue pear pizza; you won’t regret it). Then, walk and shop along Pioneer Avenue. Finish with dinner and live music at Alice's; a classic.
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Kick off your day with coffee and breakfast from La Baleine Cafe on the Homer Spit – it's super close to the water taxis! Grab one of their awesome box lunches to take with you for a picnic at Grewingk Glacier. Then, hop on a family-friendly water taxi for an easy hike with amazing views. After your hike and picnic, take the water taxi back to the harbor and wander through the unique shops on the Homer Spit to find some cool souvenirs. Finish the day with a delicious meal and great views at the Broken Oar on the Homer Spit.
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Start your day right with a coffee and bagel from the Homer Bagel Shop, perfect to take with you on your bear-viewing adventure. Then, you're off to see some amazing bears in their natural habitat – it's a truly incredible experience. You'll get back with plenty of time to freshen up at your place before heading out for dinner at The Kannery. They've got beautiful cocktails, fantastic fresh specials, and the staff are super friendly. Plus, the views are awesome!
Family-Friendly Adventures in Homer
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Beaches & Tidepooling
Homer's beaches offer a unique opportunity to explore the intertidal zone. When the tide recedes, a world of small sea creatures is revealed. Children can discover shells, anemones, and other fascinating marine life in the accessible tide pools, providing a hands-on learning experience about the local ecosystem.
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Best Kid-Approved Eats
Homer has various dining options that cater to families - both in their menus and general vibe. Local restaurants often provide menus with kid-friendly choices, from classic pizza to sliders to fish and chips. Plenty of options have atmospheres and scenic views, making mealtime enjoyable for parents and children.
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Fun & Easy Adventures
Getting out and exploring around Homer is super easy for families. You can hop on a water taxi to see wildlife in nearby spots or take a gentle hike on one of the many trails – there are options for everyone, even little legs. These adventures are a great way to enjoy Homer's beautiful outdoors and make some fun memories together.
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Parks & Trails
Homer has some great parks and trails where kids can run around and explore. You'll find easy paths with beautiful views, perfect for a relaxed walk with the family. It's a great way for kids to burn off energy while parents enjoy the scenery.
Upcoming events
You'll find events happening throughout the year in Homer. There are summer festivals, art shows, winter gatherings, and lots of outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy live music, seasonal celebrations, or just being part of the community, Homer's events offer ways to connect with others, explore, and create good memories.
Homer Awaits You Year-Round
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Spring Wildlife & Renewal
Spring in Homer is when things start to come alive again. You'll see birds coming back, snow melting, and plants popping up. Kachemak Bay gets busy with wildlife like orcas and sea otters, and the days get longer. Plus, it's when the Shorebird Festival happens.
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Summer Adventures
Summer in Homer means long days and lots of outdoor fun. Kachemak Bay is often calm, perfect for exploring, and trails lead to places like Grewingk Glacier. You can find fishing charters for halibut, and local peony farms are in bloom. People kayak in the coves, and beach bonfires happen when it stays light late.
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Fall Colors & Cozy Getaways
When fall comes to Homer, things slow down a bit. The leaves change color beautifully, and the town gets a warm, golden feel. You can check out local art and shops, or take scenic drives where the fall colors meet the ocean. Hiking trails are peaceful, and the sunsets are really nice. Even as the days get shorter, there's still a good vibe, with local bakeries and restaurants offering warm food and drinks.
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Winter Wonderland
Winter in Homer brings snowy scenes and chances for outdoor fun and cozy relaxation. You'll find cross-country skiing trails, and a local rope tow for downhill skiing. On clear nights, you might see the Northern Lights. Winter's also a time for fishing and crabbing in the bay. You can enjoy warm drinks and pretty views, with a mix of adventure and peacefulness.
Inside Homer: Stories & Adventures
Wander Often, Stay Informed.
Your Guide to Exploring Homer, Alaska.