About Homer

While Homer, Alaska is probably best known for its Halibut fishing and outdoor sporting adventures, its also home to accomplished artists, writers, and performers making Homer an ideal destination for travelers wishing to experience the best of what Alaska offers.

The season starts with the Kachemack Bay Shorebird Festival in mid-May each year. Thousands of shore birds begin their decent on Kachemack Bay and provide an abundance of photo opportunities and a chance to check off several species from every bird-watcher’s book of birds seen.

The Memorial Day holiday brings the summer season into full swing as the Halibut Derby posts its May Winner. The Homer Halibut Derby is Alaska’s longest running fish derby and started in 1986 when a local fisherman won $5000 for his 312 pound halibut. The 2004 winner landed his 352 pound fish and collected over $51,000 for the effort.

Summer solstice makes June a popular month for visitors. Celebrations and plenty of daylight keep visitors busy enjoying outdoor activities and abundant sunshine.

Kayaking, hiking, boating, and tide pool exploration keep visitors on or in view of the magnificent bay, adjoining fjords, and glacial lakes. With so much to do and so many places to see, visits to Homer are best made over the course of several days. July is generally the best for weather and sunshine and though the mosquitoes are legendary in Alaska, our bay breezes help to keep the pesky critters at a nuisance level.

Black bears, moose, porcupines, eagles, otters, puffins and other Alaska wildlife are year-round residents of the Homer area. Being out and about increases your chances of an encounter or sighting and local guides can help you get the best look.

The local fishing hole lets young and old try their hand at fishing for salmon. An early summer run of King salmon and an August run of Silver salmon make for fun fishing close by and without the need for a guide. Visitors often catch, clean and package their salmon for shipment home and enjoyment all winter.

More than a dozen art galleries feature the works of local artists throughout the summer. Nationally acclaimed painters, photographers, and potters make their works available for viewing and for sale. Featured shows and openings make for festive summer evenings where music, food, and fun are shared as the latest works are presented.

The Pier One players keep visitors and locals alike entertained throughout the summer with live theater and musical events. The level of talent in this small community is tremendous and those who have it love to share it.

Education should be part of every vacation and Homer has two fantastic sources for learning more about the area. The Pratt Museum has been a part of the Homer community for 50 years. It features displays, workshops, and art that depicts the local culture. Highlighting both the Native culture and the Homesteader culture, visitors begin to see how the area was settled and how the peoples and environment exist together. The Islands and Ocean visitors center is another best-bet for visitors. This working lab and research center brings the geological and environmental history of the bay area to life.

Want to come in Winter? Homer offers some of the areas best cross country skiing trails and 2006 will bring the Artic Winter Games to the Peninsula. Winter sports and social gatherings dominate the local scene and all are invited.

It’s hard to imagine that one would have difficulty finding something of interest in Homer. From beach walking to bear viewing, Homer offers something for everyone.