If all days could start in Homer, Alaska, the world would be a happier place. This tiny town at the bottom of the Kenai Peninsula was our favorite stop on our Alaska road trip. While it’s known as the “halibut capital of the world” and as a major foodie “city” in Alaska, we truly fell in love with the stunning scenery and laidback atmosphere. Homer Alaska is a special place – not because it’s packed with activities or because there is something you have to do when you’re there, but because of a feeling it offers and energy it exudes as soon as you step onto its shores.
How to Get to Homer Alaska
Homer is located on the bottom of the Kenai Peninsula, about four to five hours from Anchorage Alaska and three hours from Seward. We recommend driving to Homer on a road trip around the Kenai Peninsula on an Alaska road trip, but there are also flights to Homer.
Homer Alaska Lodging
One of the favorite places I’ve ever slept is in the back of an RV at the end of the Homer Spit, a 4.5-mile dead end road that goes out onto the ocean. The Homer Spit Campground has oceanfront parking for those lucky enough to score a coveted spot. Otherwise, the entire campground is within walking distance to the water.
Waking up at the end of the Homer Spit was the first time I felt truly at peace in a long time. The sun was shining brightly (something I didn’t see much of during our three weeks in Alaska), and the only sounds I could hear were the seagulls soaring above us and the ocean lapping at the rocky shoreline in front of us.
Morning walks outside of the Homer Spit Campground
Campfires at the end of the Homer Spit with new friends
Where to Eat in Homer Alaska
Because it’s known as the “Halibut capital of the world,” you’re bound to have some of the freshest and most delicious fish you’ll ever have in Homer! Here are a few of our must see restaurants in Homer:
The Little Mermaid: If there is one place you’re going to eat in Homer Alaska, make sure that it’s the Little Mermaid. Make a reservation well ahead of time as there are only a few tables at this sea & farm to table restaurant. If you can’t secure a coveted reservation, they do take walk-ins. We recommend arriving around 4:45 pm to score a table, grab a drink, and then ordering dinner once the kitchen opens at 5 pm. Note: it’s closed on Wednesday’s!
Two Sisters Bakery: Located off of Homer Spit, Two Sisters Bakery serves delicious baked goods, coffee, sandwiches, and tasty health-oriented bowls. We highly recommend ordering the chocolate bread, cinnamon buns, and a breve coffee!
The Salty Dawg Saloon: The Salty Dawg Saloon is an institution in Homer Alaska since 1957. This dark and dungeon-like dive bar is decorated in dollar bills and located at the end of the Homer Spit. No frills and no fuss, this is best place to order a few duck fart shots (a mixture of whiskey, Kahlua, and Baileys) and a round of Alaskan beers.
Where to Adventure in Homer Alaska
Halibut Fishing: Since Homer Alaska is the halibut capital of the world, hire a fishing guide for the day and try to catch your dinner! Remember to get your Alaska Fishing License for $25!
Take a Seaplane to go see Bears in the Wild. There are plenty of outfitters on the Homer Spit to book a tour with, but we recommend booking ahead of time since they fill up quickly.
Ride Bikes or Go for a Walk on the Homer Spit.
Go Hiking in Kachemak Bay State Park. You can do this on your own or hire a guide, but remember to bring your bear spray!
Take a boat to Halibut Cove. Located in Kachemak Bay State Park, Halibut Cove is a darling hamlet tucked away from the tourists.
Wau, this places are definitelly the best 🙂 And especially the name Homer amused me a lot 🙂 I’d love to visit this place and I’m looking for someone to go with me. These pages will help me I hope. Or I’ll be very happy for every tip.
Hi Scott and Collette, you guys are amazing. Thanks for sharing such a beautiful blog with us and seems you guys had a lot of fun in Alaska. You wrote the main points about the famous restaurants that is very helpful to the visitor.