Homer

Sure, Homer's the "Halibut Fishing Capital of Alaska," but even non-anglers will 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-ready 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 at least—this is one of Alaska's best small towns.

Favorite Activities

• Bear Viewing: Homer is close to Katmai National Park, one of the most densely populated brown bear areas in the world. Experienced air taxis fly floatplanes to remote bear-viewing areas where it's not unheard of to spot 30 bears fishing for salmon or digging for clams.
• Exploring Kachemak Bay: It’s one of the richest marine estuaries in the world, and one of the things that makes Homer so special. Go “tidepooling” with a sea kayaking outfitter and check out the starfish, octopus, and other brilliantly colored creatures. You'll paddle past remote islands and visit a seabird rookery.
• Hiking: Discover some of Alaska's best hiking, in Kachemak Bay State Park, with trails to glaciers, mountain lakes, and miles of uninhabited beaches.
• World-Class Fishing: You'll find some of the world's best halibut fishing just an hour's boat ride away. Look for migrating whales while you cast your lure many hundred feet deep in search of monster halibut that can top the scales at several hundred-yes, hundred-pounds.
• Exploring Halibut Cove: Head across the bay (45 minutes by water taxi) to this fairy-tale hamlet of boardwalks and homes that stand on stilts, high above the lapping waves.

Getting Here

It’s roughly a 3.5 – 4 hour drive from Seward, and a 5 hour drive from Anchorage. You can also reach Homer along the Alaska Marine Highway by taking a ferry.