In a recent article published by Coastal Magazine, Homer was rated one of the happiest seaside towns in America. And, who are we to disagree? In fact, we couldn’t agree more! The effortless beauty that is apparent from the very second that you drive up over that big hill into Homer is enough to stop anyone dead in their tracks. Simply put – your jaw will drop in amazement and your heart will dance with joy. As odd as it may sound, Homer has an outer body effect on people that must be experienced to be believed. It truly is that magical!
As you first pull into town off of the Sterling Highway, you’ll be greeted by this epic and completely enchanting view overlooking Kachemak Bay with towering mountains and glistening glaciers in the distance.
Flickr - rbrough
After driving down Main Street and stopping by the Homer Chamber, Two Sisters Bakery or Cosmic Kitchen, most visitors head straight for the world-famous Homer Spit.
Flickr - Damian Manda
This 4.5-mile-long landmass jolts out fiercely into Kachemak Bay and boasts more excitement than you can even possibly imagine.
Flickr - chuck t
First, you’ll notice the wonderful Seafarer’s Memorial which serves as a final resting place for those lost at sea. This memorial is dedicated to those brave souls - past, present and future.
Flickr - Keith Cuddeback
The Homer boat harbor is an absolutely stunning sight to behold and you’ll have a blast walking on the floating docks. Check out all the unique boat names, meet the locals and watch as otters swim around you in the harbor.
Courtney Stanley
The marine wildlife viewing opportunities right off the spit are plentiful. Watch those cute little otters or look up and feast your eyes on soaring bald eagles as they perch above you in stoic fashion as they look for tasty fish to grab out of the ocean.
Flickr - DeWaine Tollefsrud
In town you’ll also have great opportunities to spot other critters. Moose are one of the most exciting and adorable animals to watch in their natural environment. There are also bears in Homer but they don’t tend to stay as close to town as the moose do.
Flickr - Caleb Slemmons
Picnic tables are spread sporadically throughout the shores off the Homer Spit and make for a great place to have a outdoor lunch with the family while soaking in the fresh salty, beachy air.
Flickr - rbrough
Continue down the ‘spit’ and you’ll notice that there is so much to see. People love to fly kites, walk their dogs and build sand castles on the beach.
Flickr - Mel Green
Brave adrenaline junkies even take on the frigid ocean waters and enjoy surfing and kite boarding in Homer.
Flickr - Emma Forsberg
For those looking for a more relaxing experience, horseback riding on the shores of Kachemak Bay is an excellent way to seize the day.
Flickr - Caleb Slemmons
You’ll notice a lots of activity outlets for those looking to take their Homer experience up a notch.
Flickr - Keith Cuddeback
As the “halibut fishing capital of the world,” it’s no surprise that fishing is the #1 reason why many come to this happy seaside town.
Flickr - Kate
The saltwater fishing for halibut, salmon and so much more is absolutely incredible. Not to mention, the panoramic views on the salt are sure to blow your mind.
Courtney Stanley
But many others opt for experiences such as flight-seeing and bear viewing.
Flickr - Amy Meredith
Kayaking to and hiking around Grewingk Glacier in Kachemak Bay State Park is another very popular activity that draws in consistent crowds throughout the summer months.
Flickr - Ian Kelsall
On the Homer Spit you’ll also find lots of great restaurants such as the historic Salty Dawg Saloon or the delicious Little Mermaid.
Flickr - Keith Cuddeback
Many summertime visitors enjoy the eclectic shopping on the Homer Spit. You’ll notice lots of fun themed gift shops and local small Alaskan businesses with one-of-a-kind items inside.
Flickr - SeePlanet
The quirkiness in Homer is impossible to deny. In fact, locals take pride in their ‘keep Homer weird’ reputation as they love to dance to the beat of their own drum. This is why Homer is such a lovable place!
Flickr - Elizabeth Press
Watch the sun go down from the beach and experience the magic that happens when sky is painted with water colors over-top the many mountain peaks in the distance.
Flickr - Keith Cuddeback
If you plan on staying a while, many opt to camp on the beach and enjoy a truly outdoor adventurous experience.
Flickr - Christopher Griner
No camping trip would be complete without a warm fire. Roast some hot dogs and enjoy s’mores for dessert before retreating back to the tent for the night.
Flickr - Jeremy Taylor
The beach can get quite crowded in the summertime though, so you might also consider renting an RV space or staying at a local hotel, B&B or the charming Land’s End Resort at the end of the Homer Spit.
Flickr - Oded
But wait, there’s more! Wintertime is Homer’s best kept secret. Visit during the peaceful months when the crowds are away and enjoy the sweet serene beauty that surrounds you from every possible angle.
Flickr - Caleb Slemmons
Watch the wonderful YouTube video below to experience what a day in the life is like when adventuring in Homer, Alaska.
Flickr - rbrough
Flickr - Damian Manda
Flickr - chuck t
Flickr - Keith Cuddeback
Courtney Stanley
Flickr - DeWaine Tollefsrud
Flickr - Caleb Slemmons
Flickr - Mel Green
Flickr - Emma Forsberg
Flickr - Kate
Courtney Stanley
Flickr - Amy Meredith
Flickr - Ian Kelsall
Flickr - SeePlanet
Flickr - Elizabeth Press
Flickr - Christopher Griner
Flickr - Jeremy Taylor
Flickr - Oded
Similar to Homer, this idyllic small town located off the George Parks Highway is the perfect place to enjoy a day trip in the Last Frontier. If you thought that was incredible, be sure to take this road trip through Alaska’s most picturesque small towns for a charming experience.
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