Planning Your Alaska Trip

When is the best time to visit Alaska?

Summer is the most popular season (May through September), with long daylight hours and excellent wildlife viewing. Winter is also a great time to visit, as it is peaceful, cozy, and perfect for quiet getaways with snowy mountain views. Lakeshore Lodging is open year-round, and every season brings something unique to your Alaska experience. Our properties are always thoughtfully prepared to make your stay comfortable, relaxing, and memorable.

How many days should I plan for visiting Homer?

Most travelers stay 3–5 nights to enjoy such adventures as bear viewing, marine tours, great restaurants, beach time, and local art. If you’re planning a big adventure like bear viewing, glacier hiking, or world-class fishing, 4–6 nights is ideal.

What should I pack for my Alaska vacation?

Layers are key, even in summer. Bring waterproof jackets, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and definitely a camera. Every Lakeshore property is stocked with full essentials — including quality body soaps and shower items — so you can pack lighter than you think.

Can I see the Northern Lights in Homer?

Yes, especially from September to April. On clear winter nights, you may catch the aurora over the Kenai Mountains or reflected on Beluga Lake.

Is Alaska expensive to visit?

Travel costs vary, but Homer is very affordable with planning. Staying in a fully equipped Lakeshore Lodging property saves on dining out and gives you the comfort of a true home base.

What to Know About Visiting Homer, Alaska

How do I get to Homer?

You can drive the scenic Sterling Highway, fly with Aleutian Air from Anchorage, take the Alaska Bus Company, or arrive directly at Homer Airport (HOM). Many Lakeshore Lodging properties are just minutes from the airport.

What is there to do in Homer?

Top activities include:
• Bear viewing with Emerald Air Service
• Marine tours and water taxis
• Eco tours with Tutka Tours on Kachemak Bay
• World-class deep-sea fishing with Dakota Ocean Charters and Homer Halibut Hunters
• Beaches + tidepooling
• Local restaurants and cafés
• Shopping + art galleries
• Hiking around Kachemak Bay

We’re always happy to share our local recommendations with our guests. You can also explore our full list of favorite restaurants, tours, and things to do here.

Is Homer family-friendly?

Absolutely. Kids love the beaches, tide pools, wildlife, and the hands-on Pratt Museum. We have several properties that are great for families and can help point you toward kid-friendly dining and activities.

Where can I see wildlife in Homer?

Bald eagles are commonly seen flying overhead, especially around the Homer Spit and most of our beaches. Moose often wander through town, and marine life is abundant both on the beaches and in Kachemak Bay. For the ultimate wildlife experience, you can join a guided bear-viewing adventure at Katmai National Park & Preserve.

Can I walk to the Homer Spit from my lodging?

Several Lakeshore properties are located directly on the Spit or within a short driving distance. Others have panoramic bay views from above town. Each listing notes exact location details.

Your Stay With Lakeshore Lodging

What types of accommodations do you offer?

We offer lakeside cabins, luxury lodges on the Homer Spit, one-bedroom suites, two-bedroom dens, and private homes with ocean or lake views.

Are your properties locally managed?

Yes. Our team lives in Homer year-round and is always here for you — whether you need dining tips, help planning your bucket-list adventures, or a little troubleshooting along the way. We truly love getting to know our guests and helping make each visit unforgettable.

Is early check-in or late check-out available?

We do our best when availability allows. Just reach out, and we’ll see what we can do.

Do your properties have kitchens?

All of our units include full kitchens or kitchenettes so guests can cook during their stay. Each listing details the amenities.

Is WiFi available?

Yes, all Lakeshore Lodging properties have high-speed internet.

Can you help with trip planning?

Absolutely. Whether you’re dreaming about bear viewing, deep-sea fishing, scenic hikes, family-friendly stops, or the best seafood in town, we’re always happy to help. We love getting to know our guests and helping shape the bucket-list adventures that bring you to Homer.

Bear Viewing & Our Beds & Bears Packages

What is the Beds & Bears Package?

It’s our signature experience that blends Lakeside Lodging with a premium bear-viewing adventure. Stay in a cabin just steps from Emerald Air’s floatplane base of operations and receive exclusive savings on your tour. See more information here.

What is included in the immersive Beds & Bears package?

• Stay in a cabin on Beluga Lake, directly on an operating float plane base
• Private 15-minute Q&A with an Alaskan Pilot or Guide
• S’mores package for your group around our community firepit
• $100 per person savings on bear viewing trip cost with Emerald Air Service

Is there a Beds & Bears option for other Lakeshore properties?

Yes. Guests staying at any Lakeshore lodging can book the standard package, which includes the s’mores package and bear-viewing savings with Emerald Air Service.

When is bear viewing season?

Typically late-May through mid-September, depending on weather and wildlife conditions.

Is bear viewing safe?

When done with a professional guide, absolutely. Emerald Air Service follows strict safety protocols and has decades of experience in Katmai and Lake Clark National Parks.

Still Planning Your Trip? We’re Here to Help.

If you’re looking for more ideas, local tips, or personalized guidance for building your perfect Homer itinerary, our team is here for you. We live in Homer year-round and love helping guests discover the best of our little corner of Alaska — from hidden beaches and scenic hikes to the restaurants locals love most.

You can reach us anytime by phone or email, or explore our Guide to Homer for a full list of our favorite things to do, see, and eat during your stay.

We can’t wait to help you plan a trip that feels effortless, unforgettable, and uniquely yours.