What to See & Do in Homer, Alaska
What to See & Do in Homer, Alaska
Explore the Homer Spit
The iconic Homer Spit stretches 4.5 miles into Kachemak Bay and is lined with restaurants, shops, charter services, and beach access. It’s the heart of Homer’s maritime scene and a must-visit for any traveler.
Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitor Center
A partnership between the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and NOAA, this interpretive center offers hands-on exhibits about Alaska’s marine ecosystems, seabirds, and the surrounding wilderness.
95 Sterling Hwy, Homer, AK 99603 (907) 235-6546
Pratt Museum
Explore exhibits on local art, natural history, and the cultural heritage of the Kachemak Bay region. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits and seasonal events.
3779 Bartlett St, Homer, AK 99603 (907) 235-8635
Halibut & Salmon Fishing Charters
Homer is known as the Halibut Fishing Capital of the World. Popular charters include:
North Country Charters • Homer Spit Rd •
(907) 235-7620
Homer Ocean Charters • 4287 Homer Spit Rd •
(907) 235-6212
Kachemak Bay State Park Water Taxi
Catch a boat ride across the bay to explore glacier-fed lakes, scenic hiking trails, and beachcombing spots. Operators include:
Mako’s Water Taxi • (907) 235-9055
Coldwater AK • (907) 299-2340
Local Art Galleries & Pioneer Avenue Walk
Homer’s art community thrives along Gallery Row and beyond. Notable galleries include:
Ptarmigan Arts – Cooperative gallery with paintings, pottery, glass, and fiber arts
Fireweed Gallery – Local fine art, ceramics, and Alaskan-made gifts
Art Shop Gallery – Alaskan original art, Native crafts, and prints
Picture Alaska – Photography, sculpture, and nature-inspired works
See the Bald Eagles
Bald eagles are a common sight year-round in Homer. Look for them perched on pilings along the Spit or soaring above town.
Annual Events & Festivals
- Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival (May) – Alaska’s largest birding festival with guided walks, expert talks, and bay tours
- Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby (June–Sept) – Catch the big one and win cash prizes in this long-running derby
- Homer HarborFest (June) – Boat parade, maritime demos, food, and live music
- Homer Peony Celebration (July) – Tours of local farms and peony gardens in full bloom
- Alaska World Arts Festival (September) – Two weeks of global arts including dance, music, and theater
- Kachemak Bay Wooden Boat Festival (September) – Wooden vessels, knot-tying, sea shanties, and maritime storytelling
- Homer Highland Games (July) – Traditional Celtic games, food, and music
- First Friday Art Walks – Monthly gallery evenings with open studios and wine receptions