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I was very excited to deliver my Destination Presentation for Homer, Alaska – mostly because of the opportunities for jokes. I mean, our ship is named Odyssey and we were going to Homer. I searched for pictures of Homer, Alaska for my presentation and obviously had to use the pictures that came up first in my search:
That got me wondering how Homer, Alaska got it’s name! The story was even more entertaining than I imagined. I will therefore have to share with you my port talk first, and I tell you what I ended up doing at the end of this post.
Nicknamed “The Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” Homer is a charming waterfront town located at the tip of the Kenai Peninsula. It’s best known for the iconic Homer Spit, a long, narrow strip of land lined with seafood shacks, art galleries, and beachy charm. Homer is also home harbor to fishing vessels featured in the TV series Deadliest Catch, highlighting Alaska’s rugged crabbing industry. With a backdrop of glaciers, volcanoes, and Kachemak Bay, Homer combines natural beauty with local creativity and outdoor adventure.
Population: Approximately 5,700 residents live in Homer year-round (2024 estimate).
UNESCO Status: Homer is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but it borders Kachemak Bay State Park, Alaska’s first state park and one of the most ecologically diverse marine environments in the region.
History:
Long before the town of Homer was established, the region was home to the Inuit Eskimo and Tanaina Indians, who settled on the Kenai Peninsula roughly 125 miles southeast of what would become Anchorage.
In the late 1800s, a con man arrived in the area where a narrow spit of land extends into Kachemak Bay. He posed as a gold prospector, despite the fact that gold mining had never been profitable in the region. He constructed living quarters for a supposed mining crew, luring workers from nearby fish canneries with the promise of shelter and opportunity. Soon, hopeful miners crowded into the area—but the venture quickly failed. By 1902, the settlement was nearly abandoned, and the con man had vanished within a year of his arrival.
In the 1890s, coal was discovered in the area. The Cook Inlet Coal Fields Company built a town, dock, railroad, and coal mine. Coal mining continued until World War II, and an estimated 400 million tons of coal still remain in the region. From 1910 to 1920, homesteaders began settling in what remained of the coal mining town.
For reasons lost to history, the emerging town was named after…
Just kidding – it wasn’t Homer Simpson. But it was named after the very con man who had first brought people to the area—Homer Pennock. Despite his dubious legacy, the name stuck, and so Homer, Alaska was born.
Over time, Homer evolved from a coal-mining outpost into a thriving fishing and cannery town. Following the 1964 Good Friday earthquake, the town shifted its economic focus toward commercial and sport fishing. In more recent decades, Homer has earned a reputation for its vibrant arts scene, environmentally conscious community, and breathtaking access to Kachemak Bay’s wild landscapes.
Itinerary:
Arrival: Monday July 21 7am (please allow time for port clearance)
Departure: Tuesday July 22 All aboard: 7:00pm Sail away: 8:00pm
Weather
- Average Temps: Highs in the low 60s°F (16°C), lows around 50°F (10°C)
- Climate: Cool, coastal, and often breezy; occasional drizzle or fog
- What to Wear: Dress in layers with a windproof/rainproof outer layer. Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots for exploring both town and trails.
Near the Pier:
- Cruise Ship Dock: Deep Water Dock at Homer Spit
- Address: End of Homer Spit Road, Homer, AK 99603
- Access: The pier is located on the far end of the 4.5-mile-long Spit, within walking distance to shops, seafood eateries, and tour offices.
Getting Around:
- 🚶 Walking: Homer Spit is pedestrian-friendly; town center is farther but accessible by shuttle or taxi
- 🚌 Public Transit: No formal bus service;
- 🚖 Taxis/Rideshare: Local taxi services available; Uber/Lyft limited or unavailable
- 🚴 Bike Rentals: Available on the Spit—ideal for exploring the waterfront
Shuttle service: Villa Vie will be providing a complementary shuttle into town.
Our shuttle in Homer will operate on an hourly schedule, leaving the ship at approximately every hour on the hour (see shuttle schedule). There will be two stops on the shuttle route:
- Stop 1: Pratt Museum (Downtown, next to Pioneer Avenue)
- Drop off/pickup at approximately 20 minutes past the hour
- Stop 2: Small Boat Harbor
- Drop off/pickup at approximately 40 minutes past the hour
Operating Hours:
- Monday, July 21 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Last pickup in Small Boat Harbor: 7:40 PM
- Tuesday July 22 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Last pickup in Small Boat Harbor: 2:40 PM
Nearby Essentials
- Pharmacy: Safeway Pharmacy – 90 Sterling Hwy (~4 miles from pier)
- ATM: First National Bank of Alaska ATM – 88 Sterling Hwy
- Grocery/Snacks: Boardwalk Mini Mart & Safeway (main town)
- Nearest Church: St. John the Baptist Catholic Church – 255 Ohlson Ln
- Nearest Golf: Homer Golf Course – 1.5 miles from town center (9-hole public course)
Witnessing:
- Homer Spit Boardwalk: Art galleries, seafood shacks, and quirky shops
- Halibut Fishing Excursions: Charter a half-day or full-day trip to fish Homer’s famous waters
Learning:
🏛️ Pratt Museum (Shuttle Drop off/Pickup Point)
Discover Homer’s cultural heritage through exhibits on local history, Native Alaskan traditions, and natural sciences. A cornerstone of the community, the museum offers thoughtful, rotating displays and educational programming.
🌊 Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center
This free, family-friendly museum features interactive exhibits focused on coastal ecosystems and marine life in Kachemak Bay. It’s an engaging stop for all ages, highlighting Homer’s role in ocean conservation and research.
🌿 Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies
Dedicated to environmental education and stewardship, the center offers guided walks, interpretive programs, and tours that explore the diverse ecosystems of the Kachemak Bay region.
🔗 akcoastalstudies.org
🎨 Ptarmigan Arts
Located in downtown Homer, Ptarmigan Arts is a local co-op gallery showcasing work by Alaskan artists. Offerings include watercolors, acrylics, woodwork, sculpture, metalwork, photography, and fine art prints—perfect for browsing or bringing home a piece of Homer creativity.
Discovery:
- Art Galleries: Visit local studios in town and on the Spit for Alaskan pottery, jewelry, and paintings like the Bunnell Street Arts Center: Local arts hub for exhibits, performances, and workshops
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Rentals and guided tours in calm bay waters
Exploring:
Kachemak Bay State Park
Alaska’s first state park, Kachemak Bay spans over 400,000 acres of forests, beaches, rivers, glaciers, and ice fields. Accessible only by boat or plane, the park offers a rich habitat for sea otters, seals, whales, and an abundance of birdlife. On land, you may spot moose, black or brown bears, and a variety of marine creatures in tide pools. Take a day trip across the bay to enjoy hiking, beachcombing, and exploring vibrant tidal ecosystems teeming with starfish, sea urchins, and jellyfish.
Bear Viewing Flights
Homer is one of Alaska’s premier gateways for world-class bear viewing. Scenic flights to Katmai National Park or Lake Clark allow you to witness coastal brown bears in their natural habitat. You’ll travel by small bush plane, with views of volcanoes, glaciers, and remote wilderness. Once on the ground, you’ll have unforgettable close-range encounters with one of North America’s most iconic animals. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a top highlight for many visitors.
Marine Wildlife Tours
Explore Kachemak Bay by boat and keep watch for sea otters, puffins, orcas, and humpback whales. Tours range from quick wildlife outings to half-day adventures and are available with local operators on the Homer Spit.
How to Get to Kachemak Bay State Park from Homer Spit:
Step 1: Head to the Homer Harbor on the Spit
- The harbor is located near the end of the Homer Spit, where you’ll find several water taxi operators offering daily service across Kachemak Bay.
Step 2: Book a Water Taxi
- Common destinations include:
- Glacier Spit (for access to Grewingk Glacier Lake Trail)
- Saddle Trailhead
- China Poot Bay
- Round-trip fares: ~$85–$120 per person (varies by operator and destination)
- Travel time: 20–40 minutes depending on location
Step 3: Coordinate Pick-Up Time
- Be sure to schedule a return trip with your water taxi provider. Many offer flexible pick-up times and can arrange for one-way or round-trip service.
Operators:
- Mako’s Water Taxi – makoswatertaxi.com
- Ashore Water Taxi – ashorewatertaxi.com
- Bay Excursions – Often available at the harbor or via the visitor center
Hiking
Kachemak Bay State Park offers some of the best hiking in Alaska, with trails accessible via water taxi from Homer. The terrain ranges from coastal strolls to alpine ridges and glacier-fed lakes, with stunning scenery and potential wildlife sightings throughout.
Top Trails in the Area:
- Grewingk Glacier Lake Trail – Easy to moderate, with views of a stunning iceberg-dotted lake
- Saddle Trail – Short but steep, connecting to the Grewingk trail system
- Diamond Creek Trail – 2.5-mile round trip, leading to the coast just outside town—great for independent hikers
Hiking Notes:
- Some trails (like Grewingk Glacier Lake) are well-marked and beginner-friendly.
- Others, like Saddle Trail, are steeper or more remote—wear appropriate footwear and carry water.
- Bears are present – be cautious and review “What to do if you encounter a bear”
Hidden Gems:
- Seafarer’s Memorial: A poignant oceanside monument honoring lost fishermen – this is on the spit
Events:
Homer Peony Celebration Known as “The City of Peonies,” Homer is home to over 25 peony farms and features vibrant blooms from late June through August—peaking exactly when blooms have faded elsewhere.
- Peony Farm Tours: Visit farms like Scenic Place Peonies and Alaska Perfect Peony to see blooms up close and learn from growers .
- Peonies on Pioneer Walking Tour: Explore over 20 marked peony gardens throughout town.
- Workshops & Art Events: Create centerpieces, join bouquet-making demos, attend gallery shows, lectures, and pop-up exhibits.
- https://www.homeralaska.org/events/homer-peony-celebration
Tasting:
🦐 Seafood on the Spit
The Homer Spit is packed with fresh, local seafood and unbeatable harbor views.
- Captain Pattie’s Fish House – Classic Alaskan seafood dishes with halibut, salmon, and bayfront views
- Little Mermaid Restaurant – Inventive seafood plates with a gourmet twist and an intimate setting
- Boardwalk Fish & Chips – Quick, satisfying meals in a casual harborfront spot
- Land’s End Restaurant – Fine dining at the tip of the Spit with dramatic bay views and upscale fare
🛻 Food Trucks in Homer
Homer’s vibrant food truck scene is perfect for casual bites on the go—look for them near the Spit or downtown.
- Wild Honey Bistro – A charming mobile café known for crêpes, baked goods, and locally roasted coffee
- The Bagel Shop (Truck) – Creative bagel sandwiches with smoked salmon, veggies, and spreads
- Fork in the Road – Rotating menu of burgers, tacos, and seasonal favorites; often parked on the Spit
Note: Hours and locations may vary—many food trucks update daily on social media.
🍺 Local Brews & Pubs
- Homer Brewing Co. – Relaxed brewery serving up locally crafted ales and lagers with picnic-table seating
- AJ’s OldTown Steakhouse & Tavern – A cozy, wood-paneled tavern with hearty fare, local brews, and live music. Not a traditional Irish pub, but a beloved gathering spot
🌟 Other Local Favorites
- The Kannery – A refined option in Homer with craft cocktails, fresh seafood, and savory meat entrées. Stylish, flavorful, and highly recommended
- Fat Olives Restaurant – Wood-fired pizza, fresh salads, soups, and seafood in a relaxed, family-friendly setting
- Captain’s Coffee – A quirky café with friendly staff, great roasted coffee, and satisfying breakfasts or salmon-topped lunches
Nightlife:
On the Spit:
- Salty Dawg Saloon: This quirky, rustic saloon is an iconic Homer landmark. Known for its weathered charm and dollar-bill-covered walls, it’s a favorite with both locals and visitors.
In Town:
- Kharacters Alaskan Bar: A casual local hangout near the Homer Theatre. Great for drinks and conversation after a movie or dinner.
- Alibi Bar & Café: A lively spot offering pub fare, cocktails, and occasional live music.
- Down East Saloon: Tucked away off the main drag, this local favorite often features karaoke nights and live music. Highly rated on TripAdvisor for its laid-back, friendly vibe.
Homer Theatre: Small local cinema. Tickets: $15
106 W Pioneer Avenue, Homer, Alaska 99603
Catch two films on the 21st:
- The NeverEnding Story at 5:30 PM
- Mad Max: Fury Road at 8:00 PM
Travel Tips:
- Cash is helpful in smaller shops and remote vendors
- Tide schedules can affect beach access and water taxi timing—check in advance
- Book early for fishing charters or bear-viewing flights—they fill quickly in summer
July 21, 2025
I’d been doing research about Hachinohe, Japan, and there are gulls that fly all over a shrine there. With my head still in Japan, I felt a little déjà vu when I stepped off the ship in Homer and was immediately swarmed by gulls!
I started walking from the ship toward the Spit in search of a good latte. Michele and Steven asked what I was planning on getting up to in Homer. I told them I wanted to walk the spit.
“We’ll join you!” they said.
“Are you sure?” I asked. “It’s about 4.8 miles according to my research.”
At home I have a 5-mile loop (that expanded to 8 miles during the pandemic because I didn’t have anything else to do), and I was looking forward to stretching my legs, which had been tucked under a desk most of the time since I’d come onboard. I told them that if they wanted to take the shuttle, I would meet them in town, but they insisted that they wanted to walk.
As we walked, there were some runners who seemed to be circling us.
Everywhere we looked there were mountains and water.
After a while it seemed like we’d made it to the “mainland.” Michele and Steven were gently teasing that this walk had be more than 4.8 miles. I checked Google Maps to see how much farther the pizza place was that I wanted to go to. It was another 3 miles away. We decided to get an Uber.
We sat at a park bench across from a McDonalds. Steven and I both opened our Uber apps and waited patiently for the app to find a driver. Michele said that Uber didn’t operate in Homer, but we weren’t convinced – just a few more minutes! Finally Michele Googled – is there Uber in Homer?
Nope.
I looked at the map again.
There was a brewery right around the corner!
I love the fruity beers, so I was very happy with the flavor options.
Steven tried the root beer – it was also delicious!
The brewery staff gave us some numbers to call for a taxi. A guy with long hair (from Colorado) picked us up in a Subaru and gave us a ride to the pizza place (where we found everyone else from the ship). The pizza was phenomenal. We walked down the main street of the town afterwards, popping into some art galleries.
When we were satisfied, it was just about time to catch the shuttle that would take us to the Spit. Victor (the Chef) arrived on the shuttle, and we convinced him to get back on the bus and come hang out with us on the spit instead.
The spit was more touristy than the town. Once we’d woven our way through all the shops, we’d missed the final shuttle. Steven called the same guy who took us to the pizza place and asked if he could give us a ride back to the ship (I’d broken Steven’s legs with all of the walking). After this day, it became a running joke that when I suggested we walk somewhere it was a longer walk than anyone else wanted to do – we’d say, “It’s only 4.8 miles away!”
It was a splendid day outside, and Homer did not disappoint!
