Homer Alaska was an important stop on our incredible road trip through Alaska and it soon became one of our favorite places to visit. In Homer, there are many things to see and do, just like the variety in the landscape. This coastal town has something for everyone, including top-notch fishing and hiking trails, chances to learn about local history and enjoyable walks along the famous Homer Spit. Whether you’re going on a wildlife cruise taking a day trip to Seldovia or just enjoying the sights of Kachemak Bay, Homer offers plenty to keep you interested and inspired while you soak up the beauty of Alaska.
The Homer Spit, a special and lively piece of land that juts out into Kachemak Bay, turned into one of our favorite places. The harbor area has many campgrounds, delightful shops, and lots of choices for guided fishing trips. During our two visits, the weather was a little chilly and overcast skies. The crowds were minimal, as only a few brave people were outside. We easily found a spot to park our rental RV in the large gravel lot.
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What are the Best Things to See and Do in Homer?
Including Homer in our Alaska road trip itinerary gave us the chance to slow down and fully appreciate the stunning beauty of the state’s southern coast. When planning what to see and do in Homer, you’ll find it offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. From its vibrant art scene and historic boardwalks to unforgettable fishing and wildlife experiences, Homer adds something truly special to any Alaskan journey. It’s a destination that brings depth, excitement, and memorable moments to the road trip experience.
#1 Best Places to Visit in Homer, Alaska: Don’t Miss the Salty Dawg Saloon’s Dollar-Covered Ceiling
This is a must-do stop for any visitor. The iconic Salty Dog Saloon is the quintessential touristy destination for any Homer visitor. The bar has a long history, having been in operation since 1957. So it is one of the oldest bars in Homer. The Saloon offers a variety of bar food and drinks, including beer and cocktails.
The bar is renowned for both live music events and its rustic ambiance. In my opinion, this structure resembled a fisherman’s cottage that is affixed to a shingled lighthouse. The inside is tiny and claustrophobic. We only stopped to take a peek inside before securing our dollar to a portion of the ceiling. We left the bar without stopping for a drink.
#2 Must-Do Experiences in Homer: Take a Brown Bear Viewing Trip
One of the best experiences in Homer is going on a trip to see brown bears in nearby wild places like Katmai National Park or Lake Clark National Park. Small planes can only reach these faraway areas. They provide some of the best chances in the world to watch Alaska’s famous coastal brown bears in the wild.
Planes take off from Homer’s small airport or beluga lake and fly over spectacular mountain ranges, sparkling glaciers and wild coastlines. Near Hallo Bay, where bears live, they land on beaches or in grassy fields. After you land, your guide will take you to safe places where you can see bears eating spring grasses, cubs playing, or digging for clams.
#3- Shop the Harbourview Boardwalk
Walking back to the RV, we continued along the Harbourview Boardwalk gallery of shops (sometimes called Cannery Row or Homer Shores). Inua The Spirit of Alaska quality, unique one-of-a-kind design pieces, all reasonably priced. The craftsmanship was exquisite. We purchased a blanket and some jewelry for Barry’s sister and mom. They specialize in sterling silver jewelry made with mammoth tooth and fossilized walrus tusk. Lots of specialties from niche stores along the boardwalk.
PRO Tip: it is more expensive to purchase on the spit, the same can be said for dining.
#4 View the Seafarer’s Memorial A Striking Bronze Sculpture
There’s a somber reminder just across the street from the Salty Dog Saloon. The rugged coastline of Kachemak Bay provides a striking background for the Seafarers Memorial. The memorial recognizes the efforts of the nautical community of Homer to pay respect to the people who have lost their lives at sea. It acknowledges the risks and costs involved in living on these waters. We believe that going to the Seafarers Memorial is a great way to honor the area’s maritime history and the people who have made important contributions to the nautical way of life.
#5 Explore Homer’s Natural History at the Pratt Museum
The Pratt Museum is a cultural hub that celebrates the history, art, and natural beauty of the Kachemak Bay area. Whether you’re interested in learning about the region’s indigenous cultures, exploring the diverse ecosystems, or experiencing the vibrant art scene, the museum offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors of all backgrounds. We spent an hour just reading the interpretive exhibits and wandering the lovely front gardens.
#6 Dive Into Discovery at the Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center
Managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the center focuses on the marine/coastal ecosystems of the Gulf of Alaska and the Aleutian Islands. The Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center in Homer is a fantastic resource for anyone interested in learning about the marine/coastal ecosystems of Alaska. With its informative exhibits, wildlife viewing opportunities, and educational programs, the center provides a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. This was our first stop to get informational brochures and walk the trails.
The Beluga Slough Trail A Scenic Hiking Experience
Near the heart of Homer, at the back of the visitor center, you can find the Beluga Slough Trail. It is a wetland and estuarine habitat known for its diverse bird-life and scenic beauty.
The trail is a loop trail winding through the wetland march. It gave us opportunities to observe the rich plant and animal life that thrives in this habitat. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and is relatively flat, making it suitable for hikers at all skill levels. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, bird lover, or simply seeking a tranquil walk, the Beluga Slough Trail in Homer is definitely worth exploring.
#7 Go Fishing in Homer – The Halibut Capital of the World
If you go to Homer fishing is something you really should try. Homer is proudly called the Halibut Fishing Capital of the World. It provides amazing chances to catch big fish and create lasting memories. With that said, one of the top things to do in Homer is booking a fishing trip straight from Homer Harbor. From here you head out into the rich waters of Kachemak Bay. Whether you’re targeting halibut, king salmon, or seasonal silver (coho) salmon, experienced local guides make the day both exciting and rewarding.
The harbor is always buzzing with activity, packed with boats of every size, from small charters to serious commercial vessels. We kept our eyes peeled for the world-famous crab boat, the Time Bandit, but no luck—though we did spot plenty of stacked crab traps, hinting at the bay’s bounty.
If you want to stay closer to the shore like we did, go to the Nick Dudiak Fishing Lagoon. Often called “The Fishing Hole,” this Homer Spit spot stocked with silvers and coho fry teems with fish in the summer. It is perfect for anglers of all ages. People from the area and tourists come together to catch salmon while taking in the beautiful views of the bay and sharing stories about their fishing experiences.
#8 A Day Trip to Seldovia or Halibut Cove – A Hidden Gem Across the Bay
If you have time built into your schedule, I highly recommend taking a day trip from Homer to Seldovia or Halibut Cove. It is a wonderful way to discover one of Alaska’s quieter and more delightful coastal towns. Seldovia is a cool getaway, just a quick ferry ride or flight across Kachemak Bay. It features beautiful boardwalks, a charming small-town vibe and amazing views of the nearby nature. Enjoy your day by walking along the historic waterfront, hiking the Otterbahn Trail to a quiet beach, visiting local art galleries or just relaxing and enjoying the slower way of life. It’s a splendid adventure away from the usual spots to enjoy while you’re staying in Homer.
Add on one of these Must-Do Experiences in Homer, Alaska
Homer, Alaska, has many other outdoor recreation opportunities. Here are some additional things to do in Homer if you have extra time:
- Visit Kachemak Bay State Park, a 400,000-acre wilderness park that offers hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking opportunities. Take a water taxi from Homer to the park’s various trailheads.
- Take a wildlife tour. Homer is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, bears, and whales. Take a guided tour to get a chance to see them up close.
- Take a flightseeing tour. See the beauty of the area from the air with a flightseeing tour. Fly over glaciers, volcanoes, and stunning mountain ranges.
- Go kayaking a great way to explore the waterways around Homer and get up close to wildlife like otters and sea lions.
- The Wynn Nature Center is a nature reserve located just outside of Homer. It features a network of trails that traverse diverse habitats, including forests, meadows, and wetlands. The trails vary in difficulty and offer opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and learning about the local flora and fauna.
Dining in Homer: Enjoy a Meal by the Harbor
If you’re not up for a fishing trip, there’s still one thing you absolutely must do in Homer: eat the halibut! On our first visit, we grabbed lunch at the Harbor Grill and their halibut fish and chips did not disappoint—fresh, crispy, and perfectly cooked, with a superb view of the harbor to top it all off.
We also ate on the Spit at the Chart Room where we enjoyed the magnificent views of Kachemak Bay, but we thought the prices were too high. During our latest trip, we found the Duncan House Diner, a warm and welcoming spot that is popular with locals for its delicious and real Alaskan food. It quickly turned into a favorite—we strongly suggest it for a more simple and enjoyable meal.
Final Thoughts: Things to See and Do in Homer Alaska
Homer truly captures the wild beauty of Alaska alongside its vibrant local culture. Following the Homer Spit Road all the way to its end, we arrived at Land’s End—the literal end of the road. Later, we visited the Homer Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center to pick up our very own “End of the Road Certificate”! With its welcoming community and wide range of activities, Homer is the perfect stop on any Alaska road trip.
Reaching Homer is an adventure in itself. You will travel along the beautiful Road to Homer on the Sterling Highway where you can enjoy stunning views and visit quaint small towns. This road connects smoothly with the well-known Seward Highway. Many travelers make stops in Anchorage, which is Alaska’s biggest city to complete their journey. Every part has its own special sights and experiences that are fun to discover.
If you haven’t checked out this amazing place yet, make sure to add Homer to your travel plans for Alaska—you’ll be glad you did!
Have you visited Homer, Alaska? What activities did you like best? Drop us a comment below on your adventure!
