Location & Transportation
The Homer deep water dock is conveniently located on Homer Spit Road, about 5 km from downtown Homer. This unique dock area sits right on the famous Homer Spit—a massive, picturesque barrier extending into the middle of the bay. The spit is accessible by a short shuttle ride provided at the port. Walking along its sandy shores is a must-do, but always be mindful of the tide conditions as the beach can be inaccessible at high tide.
Nearby Lodging
Homer offers a variety of lodging options. You can choose from cozy bed-and-breakfasts, small local inns, or family-run hotels located within easy reach of the downtown and the Spit area.
Nearest Airport
Homer Airport (HOM) is the local airport that connects Homer with Anchorage and other parts of Alaska. It’s a small but convenient airport, making your transfer between land and air as smooth as possible.
Sightseeing
Homer is a gem on the southern Kenai Peninsula. Set against the backdrop of the Kenai Mountains and the pristine waters of Kachemak Bay and Cook Inlet, the town is rich in natural beauty and local charm. Some highlights include:
- A stroll on the Homer Spit with its scenic boardwalk and tide pools where you might spot seals, sea lions, and even bald eagles overhead.
- Exploring downtown Homer, where you can admire local art, grab a coffee at a neighborhood café, or browse small shops filled with unique Alaskan crafts.
- Enjoying spectacular views of the bay and mountains for perfect photo opportunities.
Museums
- Pratt Museum: This local museum offers fascinating exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the Kenai Peninsula. It’s a great place to learn about the local wildlife and the history behind Homer’s unique geography.
Tours & Excursions
Homer is perfect for exploring the great outdoors. Here are some tours and excursions you might enjoy:
- Hop-On, Hop-Off Trolley: Homer USA offers a trolley service that takes you from the Spit to key locations, including the Pratt Museum, visitor centers, galleries, and popular local restaurants. An all-day pass costs around $12+ tax and comes with an entertaining narrative.
- Car Rentals: If you prefer to explore at your own pace, you can rent a car from local services like Hertz, Adventure USA, or Polar.
- Water Taxi to Kachemak Bay State Park: Take a water taxi for a scenic ride across the bay to Kachemak Bay State Park. The park offers excellent hiking trails, a glacier-fed lake at its far end, and breathtaking natural vistas where wildlife such as mountain goats, eagles, and even whales can be observed.
- Wildlife and Nature Tours: Be on the lookout for halibut fishing in the summer and spectacular salmon runs in early fall. Local excursion operators can arrange guided tours to watch for moose, black bears (from a safe distance), puffins, otters, and more.
Shopping
While Homer is small, there are plenty of places to pick up local souvenirs and art:
- Local art galleries and craft shops offer unique Alaskan handmade goods.
- Look for locally sourced items like native crafts, jewelry, and artworks that capture the spirit of Alaska.
- Stroll the small boutiques in downtown Homer for gifts and keepsakes that reflect the town’s maritime heritage.
Dining
Homer’s dining scene is delightfully relaxed and infused with local flavor:
- Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants where halibut, salmon, and crab are often on the menu.
- Try a casual meal at a local café in downtown Homer or a hearty dinner at one of the family-run eateries.
- Don’t miss the chance to visit historic spots like the Salty Dawg Saloon—dating back to the late 1800s—for a taste of local history along with your drink.
Culture & Local Events
Homer has a strong local culture that blends its natural environment with a welcoming community spirit. Here’s what you need to know:
- Local Flavor & Events:
- Homer is known for its seasonal fishing booms—summer halibut fishing and an exciting salmon run in early fall transform the town with energy and local festivities.
- Throughout the year, you might find local art shows, farmers’ markets, and community gatherings that offer a genuine taste of Alaskan culture.
- Currency, Tipping & Prices:
- The U.S. dollar (USD) is used here. Major credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash for small transactions is always a good idea.
- Tipping is customary in the United States. A tip of 15–20% is generally expected at full-service restaurants. For other services like taxis or tour guides, a tip of 10–15% is appropriate.
- Communication & Opening Hours:
- English is the main language spoken.
- Most stores and smaller businesses tend to be closed on Sundays. It’s wise to check the hours of operation for specific attractions, especially during shoulder seasons.
- Safety & Awareness:
- Always exercise caution when exploring natural areas—the tide schedule can change quickly on the spit, and wildlife is best admired from a safe distance.
- In case of emergencies, dial 911.