Tucked at the end of Alaska’s famous Kenai Peninsula, Homer feels like the last secret stop before the edge of the world. Known as the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” this quirky, artistic, and naturally stunning town offers so much more than just fishing boats and salty sea tales. For retirees and senior travelers looking for an affordable, off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with culture, wildlife, and natural beauty—Homer is the perfect 48-hour escape. This guide includes where to stay, eat, explore, and relax—tailored for those who prefer peaceful, authentic experiences over tourist-packed attractions.
Homer, Alaska is a captivating mix of rugged wilderness, artistic charm, and small-town warmth. Known as the “End of the Road,” this seaside town draws visitors seeking a slower pace, stunning scenery, and a close connection to nature. One of Homer’s most iconic features is the Homer Spit—a narrow, 4.5-mile stretch of land that juts dramatically into Kachemak Bay. Lined with weathered boardwalks, working docks, art galleries, and seafood shacks, the Spit offers a front-row seat to Alaska’s wild beauty. Whether you’re beachcombing, birdwatching, or enjoying halibut fresh off the boat, the Spit is the heartbeat of Homer—and a must-see for any visitor. However, if you visit in the summer, expect to see a lot of fellow travellers on the spit.
Where to Stay: Affordable Comfort with a View
Homer has numerous AirBnB offerings as well as hotels. There are also traditional Bed and Breakfasts where you will have the opportunity to meet locals and fellow travelers. Since the view is to die for, be sure to inquire about the view.
Land’s End Resort is the quintessential place to stay if you want to experience the spit. Rooms may be a bit tired and worn but with its location at the end of the spit, you cannot beat the view.
For a quiet, scenic stay, book a room at the Ocean House Inn, perched on a bluff above Bishop’s Beach. The inn offers rooms with kitchenettes, ocean views, and easy beach access—perfect for seniors who enjoy gentle walks and a peaceful atmosphere.
If you’re looking for something even more budget-friendly, try the Driftwood Inn’s Old Town Cottages. Located near Bishop’s Beach, these cozy accommodations put you steps away from local galleries, coffee shops, and the historic Old Town neighborhood.
Day 1: Beachcombing, Birds, and the Famous Homer Spit
Morning Stroll and Tidepooling at Bishop’s Beach
Start your day with a walk along Bishop’s Beach at low tide. Bring a light jacket, a camera, and curiosity—there’s magic in spotting starfish, anemones, and shorebirds as the tides recede. Keep your eyes open for bald eagles that fish off the beach.
Grab Breakfast at a local Bakery or Cafe
If a breakfast crepe is what you are looking for, Wild Honey Bistro serves the best in town. This little cafe near Bishop’s Beach specializes in homemade goodness! The house-made caramelized honey is superb. It’s all about showcasing the abundance that Mother Nature provides, with many of its ingredients harvested by the owner or by those who catch, grow, and raise them here for a true “harvest-to-table” experience.
Or if you are a late sleeper, you can begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at Two Sisters Bakery, a warm, welcoming spot off Bishop’s Beach. Known for its giant cinnamon rolls, sourdough bread, and locally roasted coffee, it’s the perfect place to fuel up before your day of exploring. However, they don’t open until 10 AM and you will need to be lucky enough to hit them on a day they are open. Summer hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 10 am to 3 pm (but not much is ever left by 3 pm!!)
Wander Through Old Town and Bunnell Street Arts Center
After breakfast, stroll through Old Town Homer, where colorful galleries, historic buildings, and ocean views await. Stop by the Bunnell Street Arts Center to see rotating exhibits from local and Indigenous artists.
Explore the Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center
This free, senior-accessible center is a must-see for nature lovers. Enjoy interpretive exhibits, short walking trails, and panoramic bay views. It’s a relaxing and educational way to learn about Homer’s marine ecosystem and coastal wildlife. Note that the Center leads tidepooling tours on extreme low tide days.
Lunch with a View
Head out to the spit and grab lunch at Boardwalk Fish & Chips, a low-key eatery known for its fresh catch. The Halibut on a Stick is perfectly cooked with a light batter that lets the fish shine. Homemade clam chowder will warm you up on a chilly day.
Or if you aren’t in the mood for seafood, enjoy Finn’s Pizza for a casual lunch. Sit on the outdoor deck overlooking the bay while enjoying a crisp salad or wood-fired pizza. You might spot bald eagles, sea otters, or even whales off the shore.
Afternoon on the Homer Spit (With a Twist)
While the Homer Spit is a popular destination, it is a great place to browse shops, buy souvenirs, or simply sit and enjoy the ocean breeze. For unique and Native crafts of exceptional quality, don’t miss the Inua Spirit of Alaska shop next door to Boardwalk Fish & Chips. Other places to check out: Salty Girls offers fun souvenirs and Alaskan-themed gifts, Sea Lion Gallery has showcases local artists, and AK Starfish can supply you will all the trendiest Alaskan fashion.
Watch the Fishermen and Visit the Harbor
Stroll the docks at the Homer Harbor and watch boats unloading the day’s catch. If you’re up for a short tour, inquire at the Homer Harbor Office about senior-friendly charter options or wildlife cruises. Even without boarding a boat, the energy of the harbor is a window into daily life in this vibrant fishing town. Located behind the Salty Dawg Saloon, check out the Buttwhackers as they unload and fillet the day’s catch. While you are in the neighborhood, don’t forget to stop in the Salty Dawg for a drink and to affix your money to the walls!
Optional Adventure: Gentle Hike in Kachemak Bay State Park
For active seniors, book a short, affordable water taxi ride with Mako’s Water Taxi across the bay. Try the Grewingk Glacier Lake Trail—a relatively flat and easy hike that rewards visitors with a glacier-fed lake dotted with floating icebergs. A walking stick and good shoes are recommended.
Dinner at The Chart Room
End your day with a relaxing meal at The Chart Room Restaurant in the Land’s End Resort. The restaurant offers locally sourced seafood dishes, including halibut and salmon with the best view on the spit. After dinner, if it is low tide, stroll under the ferry dock to checkout the starfish. Pro tip: Wear a hat so you don’t end up with seagull poop in your hair!
Day 2: Local Flavor, Art, and Coastal Views
While Homer has an abundance of coffee shops, finding a good hearty breakfast with indoor dining is a challenge. The Boatyard Cafe and La Baleine Cafe were my go-to places for a nice hearty breakfast but at the time of this writing they are both closed.
Your bet bet is The Bagel Shop, a perfect place to grab a bite before heading out on an adventure. Friendly service and fresh ingredients with toasted bagels that can be smothered with smoked salmon, garlic ‘n herb, and vegan “shmears,” or choose plain cream cheese. The espresso menu is excellent when you need that all-important fuel.
Explore the East End
After breakfast, enjoy the scenic drive out East End Road. You’ll likely see moose and other wildlife along the way as well as breathtaking views of the glaciers and coastline. At the head of the bay and end of the road, it is not recommended to drive a vehicle down the switchback but it does make a nice hike for those who don’t mind a steep hike.
If you are looking for a more easy walk, stop at Eveline State Recreation Site. The site offers beautiful, easy trails filled with wildflowers, forest, and panoramic views. Parking is on Alpine Meadow Drive and the trailhead has maps and flower guides.
Lunch with the Locals
Stop at Fritz Creek General Store for a delicious lunch. Recently rebuilt after a devastating fire, try their signature soups, hearty sandwiches, sweet treats, and amazing salads. Never had a bad meal here! It’s the social gathering place for the East Enders.
Art and More
After lunch, head to downtown Homer. Explore the art galleries including the Homer Council of the Arts gallery which showcases local young artists and visit the Ptarmigan Arts, a local member-owned cooperative gallery. The Classic Cook has a wide selection of kitchen ware and Oodalolly is a fun gift shop with unique items. Try a coffee at ZenDen Cafe or Captain’s Coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Visit the Pratt Museum
A true hidden treasure, the Pratt Museum showcases the cultural and natural history of the Kachemak Bay region. Exhibits include Indigenous Alaskan artifacts, fishing industry history, and rotating art displays. It’s quiet, engaging, and well-suited for seniors.
Dinner in Town
Homer has an abundance of excellent restaurants to try for dinner. The Twisted Goat is one of the best. Don’t miss their pistachio-crusted goat cheese ball appetizer! The beet salad and any of their pizzas are also favorites. Fat Olives is another great choice for dinner. Popular dishes include Nonna’s salad, the seafood pasta and seared steaks. For a more casual vibe with excellent food, try The Alibi. Can’t pass up their Parmesan garlic wings or halibut tacos!
Finish Your Trip with Gelato on the Spit
Cap off your adventure with a treat from Carmen’s Gelato, a local favorite with homemade artisan flavors like salted caramel with Alaskan Sea Salt and Wild Alaskan Rose with local honey. The Sorbettos are dairy free and equally delicious. Find a bench by the water and enjoy your final views of Kachemak Bay as the sun dips behind the mountains. Or drive up to Skyline Drive and Diamond Ridge road. On a clear day, Hickerson Memorial Cemetery offers spectacular 360 views of Kachemak Bay and Cook Inlet.
Homer is a place where you can go slow, breathe deep, and connect with both nature and community. Its beauty isn’t flashy—it’s in the little things: the call of a sandhill crane, the warmth of a local artist’s smile, the taste of fresh seafood enjoyed with a sea breeze. For retirees seeking meaningful, low-key, and budget-friendly travel experiences, Homer is not just a destination—it’s a discovery.
