Exploring Homer, Alaska

If I were to ever live outside of Southeast Alaska, it would be in Homer! This is perhaps my favorite town (aside from Sitka) in all of Alaska! Small, walkable, shoppable, and great for exploring if you have limited time!

One of my favorite things about this little seaside town are all the restaurants! Below are my absolute favorite local spots, but if you venture down to the Spit (where tourism reigns) you'll find an unlimited supply of halibut fish and chips, and ice cream.  What dreams are made of. But seriously.

About

In 1896 a con man, Homer Pennock was the first to spread word of this new location.  Promising riches in gold, a few prospectors follow his lead only to discover that coal is the predominant resource. At the turn of the century, the "town" all but dies for a decade as prospectors move on and leave the area. By 1915 horses are moved into the area to assist with the Alaska Railroad, and a dairy farm is started where the town center now lies.  The town's population hangs under 1,000 for quite some time until 1951 when the Sterling Highway is completed and begins to fuel Homer's economy. 

According to the Western Regional Climate Center, Homer's annual temperature has been rising an average 3.8 degrees Fahrenheit! 

Get There

A 227 mile drive south of Anchorage, you can drive the Sterling Highway, an Alaska Scenic Byway through South Central Alaska all the way! You can also fly directly from Anchorage on Ravn Air, or take the Alaska Marine Highway and ferry to or from!

Explore City Streets

Like with any seaside city, you can explore a lot of Homer on foot.  Most visitors will flock to the spit, as there are restaurants and shops along its shores.  But you can experience a beautiful walk along the surrounding shores and walking through Homer's city center and downtown neighborhoods.

Hiking

Homer has less than 6 miles of trails so you have to get creative if you're looking for anything more than that!

• Beluga Slough - Both scenic and relatively easy, a 1.2 mile loop around the salt marsh. Trail heads are located at Bishops Beach (off Bunnell Street) and at Islands & Oceans (off the Sterling Highway).
• Bishop's Beach - Within walking distance of the downtown you can enjoy beach combing for miles!

Shopping

• Homer's Jeans - An awesome, and totally Alaskan boutique featuring contemporary and outdoor brands! 
• North Wind Home Collection - An absolute must! This home goods store is my dream world! Nautically themed, you'll find the cutest items for your home here!

Eats & Drinks

• Two Sisters Bakery - Mouth watering deliciousness!! Go for breakfast, brunch, or lunch! Or just hang out on the porch with your fresh, home baked goods!
• Little Mermaid - You will die and go to food-lovers heaven at this place! They do not mess around when it comes to full body flavor and presentation.  Using local ingredients, this cute little restaurant sets Homer apart! 
• La Baleine Cafe - Located on the Spit, this is a great place to hit for lunch or dinner!
• Salty Dawg Saloon - You HAVE to go put your dollar on the wall! Mine is there somewhere by some side entrance that I'll probably never see again! Get a hoodie and a drink or two here!

Other Fun Things To Do

• Seldovia for the Day! - Take the Seldovia Ferry to a small community in Kachamack Bay.  This quaint little seaside town is worth the affordable and fast boat ride!
• Horseback Riding - Wind your way through fields on horseback with unparalleled views! Trails End Horse Adventures

What to Pack & Wear

The weather in Homer is relatively mild considering it is right next to the ocean.  In the midst of summer you can expect the average temperature to be between 50-60 degrees, while Spring and Fall can dip into the 40's. Winter's average temperature can range from 15 degrees to 40 degrees. 

Layers are key! Expect a sea breeze. Long pants, a tee, and a flannel go a long way!

Easy Day Outfit

• Jeans
• Long sleeve top
• Cardigan/flannel/hoodie or light outer jacket
• Comfortable shoes for walking/light hiking, I like Teva Sandals
• Day dress if you're sticking around town or on the Spit!

Cheers to your adventure!

Best,