Family-Friendly Adventures in Homer
Exploring Homer with kids? There’s no shortage of ways to keep little adventurers entertained. From tidepooling at low tide to spotting sea otters in the harbor, Homer is packed with fun for all ages. Whether you're grabbing a meal, hitting the trails, or just soaking in the views, here’s your guide to making the most of Homer with little ones in tow.
Best Places to Play & Explore
Looking for ways to let the kids run wild and explore? These spots are perfect for burning off energy while soaking up Homer’s natural beauty.
Parks & Trails
📍 Karen Hornaday Park – A local favorite with a big playground, picnic tables, and stunning views of Kachemak Bay. Perfect for climbing, sliding, and running off extra energy.
📍 Baycrest Overlook – A stunning pull-off with a beautiful city garden and visitor center with breathtaking panoramic views of the bay and mountains.
📍 Homer Spit Trail – A scenic, stroller-friendly waterfront path with plenty of places to stop and watch wildlife or throw rocks into the bay. Take this trail all the way to the boardwalks and boat harbor.
🌊 Beaches & Tidepooling
📍 Bishops Beach – The best spot for tidepooling at low tide. Kids can search for sea stars, crabs, and other marine critters while enjoying sandy fun.
📍 Mariner Park Beach – Located at the start of the Spit, this beach is perfect for exploring, shell collecting, and watching wind-surfers.
📍 Homer Spit Beach – A long stretch of sandy shore with driftwood, tidepools, and amazing views of Kachemak Bay. Great for watching boats go in and out of the harbor.
🚤 Boat Watching & Harbor Adventures
📍 Homer Harbor – Walk along the docks to check out colorful fishing boats, sailboats, and massive commercial vessels. Keep an eye out for sea otters bobbing in the water!
🐟 Educational & Wildlife Centers
📍 Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies – Hands-on, kid-friendly nature programs, guided beach walks, and marine science activities.
📍 Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center (FREE!) – Packed with interactive exhibits, touch screens, and wildlife displays. Kids will love seeing the life-sized seabird models and learning about marine life.
📍 Pratt Museum & Park – Interactive exhibits and short outdoor trails make this a great stop for curious kids.
📚 Indoor Fun
📍 Homer Public Library – A cozy children’s area, frequent storytimes, and fun activities. Great for a little quiet time!
🚢 Take a Water Taxi Ride
Even if you're not booking a full-day adventure, a quick boat ride across Kachemak Bay is always exciting for kids!
Fun & Easy Adventures
Need a quick outing that doesn’t require much planning? These are great options for a spontaneous adventure with the kids.
🐟 Visit the Fishing Hole – Watch local anglers reel in salmon on the Spit, or bring a small rod and give it a try!
🦦 Wildlife Watching – Sea otters, eagles, and seals are everywhere—keep an eye out near the harbor, along the Spit, or from any of Homer’s scenic viewpoints.
🎨 Pratt Museum & Park – Explore local history, marine life, and Indigenous culture through interactive exhibits and outdoor trails.
Best Kid-Approved Eats
When the adventure is over, here’s where to refuel with food the whole family will love.
🍕 Finn’s Pizza – Wood-fired pizza with a waterfront view—make sure you get the blue pear pizza. You can’t go wrong!
🍦 Flagship Creamery & Coffee – The go-to spot for ice cream and hot chocolate (because no adventure is complete without a treat).
🥪 Wild Honey Bistro – Crepes, sandwiches, and smoothies with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe.
🍔 Harbor Grill – Located on the Spit, this spot has great seafood and burgers, plus an outdoor deck perfect for families who want to keep an eye on the boats and seabirds.
🎶 Alice’s Champagne Palace – A Homer classic! While known for its live music scene, Alice’s also serves up kid-friendly meals (hello, burgers and fries) in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
Pro Tips for Families
✔ Check tide schedules for the best tidepooling times.
✔ Pack layers—Homer weather can change fast!
✔ Bring snacks & water—kids and adventure go hand in hand with a little fuel.
✔ Watch for wildlife—eagles, otters, and seagulls are everywhere.
Making Memories in Homer
Homer is a place where kids can run free, explore, and connect with nature. Whether you're digging in the sand, hiking up a trail, or ending the day with a scoop of ice cream, the best family adventures are the simple ones.
Got a favorite kid-friendly spot in Homer? Let me know—I’m always looking for new places to share!
