Starting at $90 | All Ages | Self-Guided
A full-day boat-and-hike that drops you onto the shores of Kachemak Bay State Park for a 4- or 9-hour trek to Grewingk Glacier. Book a pickup from Homer, grab a map from your captain, and trade the road for glacier-carved ridges and tideflats.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–9 hours
Fitness Level
Good hiking fitness; expect uneven ground, some short steep sections, and up to several miles of walking depending on landing site.
Wildlife
History
The Kachemak Bay coastline has long been used by Alutiiq and Dena'ina people for fishing and seasonal camps, and remains culturally significant to local communities.
Conservation
Landings are tide-sensitive and crews emphasize Leave No Trace; keep group sizes small and avoid disturbing nesting birds or hauled-out marine mammals.
49North Alaskan Adventures
Starting at $90 | All Ages | Self-Guided
49North Alaskan Adventures is a Homer, AK–based operator offering guided boat services and wildlife tours in Kachemak Bay. The company provides a range of short excursions and transport options, including water taxi services, a one-hour return water taxi, a Shorebird Festival Bay Tour, a two-hour Scenic Bay Tour, and Premium Bay Tours with enhanced comfort features.
Trips focus on wildlife viewing and local scenery. Water taxi options transport hikers and gear or provide flexible transit around the bay. The Shorebird Festival Bay Tour highlights seasonal shorebird migration at Kachemak Bay. Scenic Bay Tours visit Gull Island Rookery and search for eagles, whales, and sea otters. Premium Bay Tours operate on a spacious vessel with heated cabins, air ride seats, and large windows for enhanced visibility and comfort.
Safety and local knowledge are central to the experience: trips are led by captains described as skilled or experienced, familiar with Kachemak Bay conditions and wildlife patterns. Tours range from one to two hours, suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking accessible wildlife encounters near Homer. Booking and logistics are centered on flexible water taxi services and scheduled wildlife tours. Visitors should dress comfortably for outdoor conditions and bring cameras for wildlife photography. All descriptions and features reflect the operator’s published trip summaries and services in Homer, AK, and focus on delivering practical expectations for prospective guests. Trips depart from Homer, AK, operating within Kachemak Bay and providing direct access to Gull Island rookery and coastal shorelines. Wildlife sightings vary by trip seasonally.
Base Location
Homer, AK
Operating in Kachemak Bay
Trip Lengths
1–2 hours
Short scenic excursions
Family-Friendly
Yes
Suitable for families
Premium Option
Heated cabins
Air ride seats and windows
Choose a one-hour water taxi, a two-hour scenic tour, or a premium bay experience in Kachemak Bay from Homer, AK.
Book the return ride
Always reserve or confirm your return passage after booking; pickup windows are tide-dependent and crews plan accordingly.
Layer for shifting weather
Temperatures change quickly on the water and near the glacier—bring an insulating mid-layer and waterproof shell.
Pack light, pack smart
A comfortable daypack with water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, and a small first-aid kit keeps you mobile on uneven terrain.
Respect wildlife distances
Keep noise low and observe seals, otters, and birds from a distance to avoid disturbance; use binoculars for close views.
Waterproof hardshell jacket
Protects from wind-driven rain and spray during the boat ride and on exposed ridgelines.
Sturdy hiking boots
Provides traction on cobble beaches, muddy trails, and glacial moraines.
Daypack with water and snacks
Keeps essentials handy for the shore hike; include a spare dry bag for electronics.
Binoculars and camera
Improves wildlife viewing and captures glacier detail in low light.