From Kenai to Homer, Alaska

The drive itself is part of the experience. This stretch of the Kenai Peninsula delivers wide-open views, water on both sides, and that quiet sense that you’re nearing the edge of something special.

Camping on the Homer Spit: Where Wind, Water, and Views Collide

Homer Spit Campground sits near the end of the Spit, perched right along Kachemak Bay. The campground offers tent sites and RV sites with no hookups, electric-only, and full hookups. I chose an electric-only site toward the back of the campground, and honestly, it was the right call.

The wind gusts on the Spit can be intense. Having a multi-story residential building behind me gave some much-needed shelter while still preserving sweeping bay views. Potable water and a dump station are available for those skipping full hookups, which works well for shorter stays.



This campground felt less like a place to park and more like a front-row seat to coastal Alaska.

Day One: Getting Oriented in Homer, Alaska

My first day was intentionally slow, getting the lay of the land and easing into Homer itself. I started at the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center (Islands and Ocean), which is a fantastic stop if you want context for everything you’re seeing around the bay.

The exhibits walk you through the refuge’s history and ecology, and the two short films they offer are absolutely worth your time. They helped me better understand just how interconnected the wildlife, water, and communities are along this coast.



Afterward, I headed out on the Beluga Slough Trail, a roughly 1.2-mile loop made up of gravel paths and boardwalk sections. The trail starts near the visitor center, winds through the slough, and eventually leads down to Bishop’s Beach.

Along the way I spotted sandhill cranes, ducks, and other shorebirds. The trail is mostly flat, aside from the initial section leaving the visitor center, and it’s an easy, peaceful walk that feels worlds away from town even though it’s right there.

Why Staying on the Homer Spit Just Makes Sense

I was really glad I chose to stay on the Spit. It’s the best jumping-off point for Alaska adventures across Kachemak Bay, whether you’re headed to Kachemak Bay State Park or hopping over to Seldovia.

Ready To Plan Your Next Trip? Get Started Today

Kachemak Bay State Park is an easy day trip from Homer and completely doable for RVers using water taxis. It also offers tent camping if you want to extend your time. One of the most popular hikes is the Grewingk Glacier Lake Trail, which takes you to views of the glacier and icebergs floating in the lake, classic Kenai Peninsula scenery.

Water taxis and ferries depart directly from the Homer Spit, which makes logistics incredibly simple.

A Day of Wandering the Homer Spit

One day was dedicated entirely to wandering. Shops, boardwalks, fishing boats coming and going—it’s the kind of place where you’re content to just watch life unfold.



We stopped for lunch at one of the local restaurants overlooking the bay and spent a good amount of time watching fishing boats return with their catch. There’s something hypnotic about the rhythm of the harbor.

On our way back to the campground, we made the obligatory stop at the Salty Dawg Saloon. The dive bar dates back to 1897 and is famous for its walls and ceilings covered in signed dollar bills. It’s cash-only, unapologetically quirky, and exactly what you expect in the best way.

Booking (and Losing) a Katmai Adventure

While on the Spit, I stopped into a tour guide business and booked a flightseeing tour to Katmai National Park. Unfortunately, it was still early in the season, and without enough passengers the flight was canceled. Thankfully, I received a full refund, besides, I really want to take a multi-day trip to Katmai National Park and get the full immersed experience. 

It was a reminder that Alaska runs on its own timeline, and flexibility is part of the deal when you’re traveling here.



Another Easy Day Trip: Seldovia, Alaska

Another fantastic option from Homer is a day trip to Seldovia, located across Kachemak Bay. The fast ferry makes the trip in about 45 minutes and offers a completely different perspective of coastal Alaska.

It’s an easy add-on if you’re staying multiple nights on the Spit.

What I Missed (and Why I’ll Be Back)

One thing I didn’t manage to catch, and absolutely plan to return for, is exploring the marine life clinging to the pier pilings at low tide. Friends’ photos of vibrant starfish and other sea creatures left no doubt: low tide on the Homer Spit is something special.

Next time, I’ll be timing my stay around the tide charts.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Homer, Alaska?

The best time to visit Homer is late May through early September, when ferry services are running consistently, tours are available, and the weather is at its most forgiving.

• June–August: Peak season, long daylight hours, best wildlife viewing
• May & September: Fewer crowds, cooler temps, still great scenery
• Winter: Beautiful but limited services and excursions

Ready To Plan Your Next Trip? Get Started Today

Why the Homer Spit Is the Best Base Camp for Alaska Adventures

Staying on the Homer Spit puts you:

• Steps from ferries and water taxis
• Close to dining, shops, and harbor views
• Perfectly positioned for Kachemak Bay and Seldovia trips
• Surrounded by water, wildlife, and constant motion

It’s not just a place to sleep, it’s part of the experience.

Best RV Campgrounds In and Around Homer, Alaska

• Homer Spit Campground – Prime location, waterfront views
• Fishing Hole Campground – Popular city-run option near town
• Heritage RV Park – Full hookups and easy access to Homer
• Swiftwater Campground – Quieter setting located in Soldotna AK
• Driftwood Inn & RV Park  – Prime location downtown Homer, waterfront views