Homer Alaska is located on Kachemak Bay approximately 200 miles south of Anchorage, Alaska. With a population of over 5,000 people, Homers main industries are fishing and tourism. Like other parts of Alaska Homer is surrounded by a natural wonderland teaming with wildlife on land and sea. Homer is located across the bay from the Kachemak Bay State Park. You can get to the park by water taxi, tour boats or air taxis that leave from Homer. The park is an excellent place for visitors to go hiking, camping and fishing.
Fishing in Homer, Alaska
Homer is well known for Halibut fishing and commercial fishing has been a key economic resource for the city since the coal mining days ended around 1945. From Homer you can charter fishing boats and fish for halibut, salmon and trout. In addition to boat fishing, there is plenty of fishing to be had in the lakes and streams in the area.
There is also the famous Homer Spit. This finger of land juts out approximately four and a half miles out into Kachemak Bay and provides a popular fishing area for locals and tourists alike. Homer is the host of the "Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby" which has cash prizes that have gotten as high as $32,000. The winner of that Halibut Derby caught a Halibut that weighed over 300 pounds. This derby runs from May 1st through Labor day.
Lodging in Homer, Alaska
Homer offers a wide range of lodging choices. The City of Homer has at least seven hotels with all the amenities common in other hotels across the United States. In addition you will find Bed and Breakfasts and Cabins in the area with dramatic views of the bay and other scenery in the area.
Camping in Homer, Alaska
You may also be interested in camping in Homer. The City offers camping on the Homer Spit for recreational vehicles and tent campers. Outside of the City offering, there are private RV parks on the Spit and within the City of Homer. Some of these have full hook-ups, showers, bathrooms, beach-front views and other amenities.
Hiking in Homer, Alaska
If you are interested in hiking, Homer offers trails for hikers from beginning to advanced (easy to difficult). Some of the best hiking is across the bay in Kachemak Bay State Park, but there are also many great hiking areas in Homer. Fore example the Homestead Trail is almost seven miles and is rated as moderately difficult. The trail takes you through an area inhabited by many different types of wildlife and plants. There is also Bishops Beach Hike that offers hiking for any skill level and provides outstanding views of Kachemak Bay.
