Kachemak Bay, Homer, Alaska, is an estuary where fresh water and seawater meet. It is one of Alaska's richest, most diverse marine and intertidal areas. Because the bay has a significant input of fresh water and is less salty than the ocean, it is called an estuary. The saltwater, moved by the tides and currents of Cook Inlet and the Gulf of Alaska, meets the freshwater from numerous streams, including glacial rivers.
Advancing and receding glaciers began about 230,000 years ago and formed Cook Inlet, the Homer Spit, and Kachemak Bay. Three major glaciers are visible along the bay - Dixon Glacier, Portlock Glacier, and Grewingk Glacier. The Grewingk Glacier trail and lake are among the most popular hikes in Kachemak Bay State Park.
Tidal movement in Cook Inlet and Kachemak Bay is governed by the moon cycles and has a maximum range of about 29 feet, some of the most extreme in the world. The tides move quickly, and it’s essential to be aware of direction and timing.
Whether you want to browse art galleries, soak up local history, experience local cuisine, or walk on the wild side, see the beauty and discover the mysteries of Kachemak Bay and Cook Inlet. Homer is a unique gateway to an extraordinary adventure!