When I first read about Homer the two quotes I found were “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World” and “A Drinking Village with a Fishing Problem”. We were on our way to find out if these two statements were true. This could be an interesting destination!

Homer is located far south-east on the Kenai Peninsula in Kachemak Bay. A natural spot for sports fishing! And the picturesque Homer Spit also attracts its fair share of tourists. The view of Homer Spit with the glacier-studded mountains in the background welcomed us as we approach the village.

Homer Alaska

The most beautiful part of Homer I found to be the stretch of old colourful buildings sitting on the beach on Homer Spit. Homer Spit is quite a landmark. The spit is basically a long, narrow piece of land leading into Kachemak Bay. I guess no one knows for sure how it was developed, but one of the theories is that is was shaped by ice and moraine.

Homer Alaska

Homer Alaska

The spit is tourist attraction number one in Homer and is dotted with businesses, some have more charm that others. The Salty Dawg Saloon is one of the buildings with a history to it. It was originally one of the first cabins built in Homer in 1897. The building has served as everything from post office to school house. It’s location is not original and neither is its lighthouse tower. The saloon’s walls are covered with dollar bills from visitors – you can see some of them on the door in the photo below.

Homer Alaska

I found Homer a charming village, but it is smalls so a day trip should be sufficient to explore it – unless you are going on one of the adventures that are offered from Homer Spit. The surrounding area has lots to offer – everything from flying into the wilderness to see grizzlies up close to taking a ride across the bay to visit Halibut Cove.

Homer Alaska

So what is the conclusion – a drinking village or a fishing problem? We definitely saw more halibut than an average person would in a lifetime, but no drinking bonanza.

Halibut Fishing Capital of the World

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