Written by: Helen Wells
Helen writes for Driftwood Inn, sharing highlights that make Homer a memorable destination, from local experiences and seasonal happenings to can’t-miss spots around town.
Homer, Alaska, sits on the edge of Kachemak Bay and is one of the most beautiful spots on the Kenai Peninsula. Exploring by car is the best way to see it all. In spring and early summer, you’ll find long days, snowy peaks, and plenty of wildlife, making every drive memorable. Whether you’re taking the scenic route to Homer on the Seward and Sterling Highways or exploring roads closer to town, each drive has its own charm.
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Seward Highway to Sterling Highway
The adventure starts before you even get to Homer. The Seward Highway offers amazing coastal views, towering mountains, waterfalls, and opportunities to see wildlife such as beluga whales and Dall sheep. When you switch to the Sterling Highway, stop at Russian River Falls for a short hike to a beautiful waterfall, especially during the early summer salmon runs. After that, you’ll drive through forests, past alpine lakes, see wide mountain views, and experience some of the best scenery on the Kenai Peninsula.
Homer to Anchor Point
Just north of Homer, you can take a short 20-minute drive with wide views of Cook Inlet and far-off volcanoes. Stop at Homer Baycrest Overlook for a great view over Kachemak Bay, green forests, and nearby mountains. Anchor Point, the westernmost highway spot in North America, is also a popular place to start fishing trips, especially in late spring.
East End Road
For great local scenery, drive East End Road along Kachemak Bay’s shoreline. You’ll see the ocean, rolling hills, and have easy access to beaches and trails. Stop at Fox River Flats Overlook to enjoy wide views of the tidal flats, mountains, and lots of birds, especially in spring and early summer. This route is also good for spotting wildlife or booking a halibut fishing trip when the season starts.
Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive offers some of the best views in Homer. Stop at Skyline Drive Overlook, a favorite spot to see Kachemak Bay, nearby glaciers, and the mountains from above the town. From here, you really get a feel for Homer’s special coastal setting, with beautiful scenery all around. In the long summer evenings, it’s a great place to watch the mountains glow, and the bay reflect the sky, so be sure to stop here on your drive.
Spit Road and the Homer Spit
You can’t visit Homer without driving along the Homer Spit. This narrow strip of land, surrounded by water, offers incredible views in every direction, from Kachemak Bay to the mountains. Be sure to stop by the iconic Salty Dawg Saloon, a historic 1897 building topped with its distinctive lighthouse tower, which was originally added to cover a water tank and is now one of Homer’s most recognizable landmarks. Inside, you’ll find walls covered in signed dollar bills left by visitors, adding to its unique character. Visit the visitor center for maps and tips, then explore the shops, waterfront restaurants, and marina, or book a fishing charter before heading out on the water.
Plan Your Drive
Spring weather can change quickly, so check road conditions and keep an eye out for wildlife. Leave time for unplanned stops, since some of the best views aren’t marked. With so many great routes, scenic drives are the best way to see all that Homer, Alaska, has to offer.
Stay Close to Homer’s Best Scenic Adventures
Want to see it all? Stay at Driftwood Inn for a comfortable, central spot right in Homer. You’ll be close to the best scenic drives, local sights, and the beautiful shores of Kachemak Bay. After a day of exploring, it’s a great place to relax. Whether you’re planning to fish, sightsee, or just enjoy the coast, Driftwood Inn puts you near everything that makes Homer special.