Homer is billed as the "Halibut Fishing Capital of Alaska," but non-anglers revel in this charming, end-of-the-road Alaska town. An eclectic mix of artists, fisherman and outdoor lovers make up the lifeblood of Homer, drawn by its slow pace and postcard setting by the clear-water bay. You'll have to go out of your way to get here, but we recommend you do, and try to spend a couple days to a week at least—this is one of Alaska's best small towns
Situated 218 miles SW of Anchorage, Alaska overlooking Kachemak Bay and the Kenai Mountains is the delightful city of Homer.
Homer is billed as the "Halibut Fishing Capital of Alaska," but non-anglers revel in this charming, end-of-the-road Alaska town. An eclectic mix of artists, fisherman and outdoor lovers make up the lifeblood of Homer, drawn by its slow pace and postcard setting by the clear-water bay. You'll have to go out of your way to get here, but we recommend you do, and try to spend a couple days to a week at least—this is one of Alaska's best small towns.
This town of 5,000 is bursting with artists and craftsmen of all mediums. Locals are skilled tradespeople who value their close-knit community and the stellar view of Kachemak Bay outside their living-room windows. Many families have lived here for generations and seem to radiate an entrepreneurial spirit that is unique to Alaska. This can-do attitude is evident in the lives of the town’s artists, authors, gallery owners, charter operators, commercial fishermen, lodge and bed-and-breakfast owners, restaurateurs, and water-taxi operators. Homer marks the end of the road in Southcentral Alaska, and is well worth the drive to see what the hype is about.
It’s roughly a 3.5 – 4 hour drive from Seward, and a 4.5 hour drive from Anchorage, see our Anchorage to Homer article for more details. If you don't want to drive, a bus is available during the summer. You can also reach Homer along the Alaska Marine Highway by taking a ferry. Or maximize your time and get there in just 45 minutes from Anchorage with regional air carrier Ravn Alaska.
If you have the time, be sure to visit some of the gems across Kachemak Bay. Seldovia is a charming seaside town with historic boardwalks and incredible views, easily accessed via a 45 minute ferry ride. Head to Halibut Cove where a meal at The Saltry is a must. Or, tuck into a remote wilderness lodge for a few nights and completely unplug.
Homer offers a variety of fun memorable experiences whether you're fishing or relaxing on the Homer Spit, a long, narrow finger of land jutting into the bay; browsing the art on “Gallery Row,” on Pioneer Avenue, or taking in the views of wildflower meadows, glaciers, and peaks from hiking trails above town.