Join the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies for an engaging summer program on Homer Spit, where kids can discover marine life, seabirds, and coastal ecosystems through hands-on activities and expert-led explorations.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 days per week
Fitness Level
Children should be comfortable walking and moving outdoors for extended periods
Wildlife
History
Homer Spit has been a vital fishing harbor since the early 20th century, with ongoing efforts to maintain its natural beauty.
Conservation
The area emphasizes sustainable tourism, with programs aimed at preserving local wildlife and marine habitats.
Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies
Join the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies for an engaging summer program on Homer Spit, where kids can discover marine life, seabirds, and coastal ecosystems through hands-on activities and expert-led explorations.
Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies connects people to the coastal ecosystems around Homer, Alaska through guided field programs, habitat stewardship, and environmental education. Based in Homer, the organization manages Inspiration Ridge Preserve (693 acres) and the Wynn Nature Center (140 acres) and offers a year-round calendar of guided experiences led by trained naturalists and experienced volunteers.
Programs include Harbor ecology walks (Creatures of the Dock), seasonal Crane Walks guided by Kachemak Crane Watch co-founder Nina Faust, Wildcrafting workshops on Inspiration Ridge, guided snowshoeing in winter (limited to 10 participants), and a 10-day Teen EcoAdventure Camp focused on backcountry skills, food systems, and hands-on stewardship. Day hikes, special tours, and teen trail-building sessions (Trails for Teens, ages 13–16) add practical conservation learning and outdoor skills.
Educational emphasis, small group sizes, and partnerships with local conservation organizations reinforce safety and credibility. Interpretive programming blends natural history, species identification, cultural stories, and practical skills like berry harvesting and salmon fishing. Facilities include miles of maintained trails, viewing platforms, and accessible routes at the Wynn Nature Center and Inspiration Ridge.
Participation supports local conservation efforts, community science, and crane education in Homer. All programs are designed for a wide range of ages and experience levels, with clear age recommendations and safety policies for camps and specialized activities. The Center's record of long-running public programs, trained guides, and land stewardship demonstrates a reliable, educational choice for visitors seeking authentic Alaskan coastal experiences.
Program schedules, registration details, and accessibility information are available online year-round for visitors.
Preserve Size
693 acres
Inspiration Ridge Preserve area
Wynn Nature
140 acres
Wynn Nature Center trails and platforms
Camp Length
10 days
Teen EcoAdventure Camp duration
Snowshoe Limit
10 participants
Intimate winter guided hikes
Book harbor walks, guided ridge hikes, workshops, or the Teen EcoAdventure Camp — limited spots and seasonal schedules.
Dress for variable weather
Bring layered clothing and waterproof gear to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.
Bring binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing and bird identification with a good pair of binoculars.
Prepare for tide pool exploration
Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes suitable for walking on rocks and sand.
Pack sunscreen and hats
Protect against sun exposure during outdoor outdoor activities in open areas.
Waterproof footwear
Sturdy shoes suitable for exploring tide pools, beaches, and rocky areas.
summer
Binoculars
Useful for bird watching and marine life observation.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses help protect against UV rays.
summer
Outdoor apparel
Comfortable, layered clothing appropriate for changing weather.
summer