Amazing Kachemak Bay

Kachemak Bay is an estuary, a place where fresh water and seawater meet. It is one of the richest, most diverse marine and intertidal areas in Alaska. Because the bay has a large 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 beginning about 230,000 years ago formed Cook Inlet, the Homer Spit, and Kachemak Bay. Now there are three major glaciers 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 important that you 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, come see the beauty and discover the mysteries of Kachemak Bay and Cook Inlet. Homer is a unique gateway to an extraordinary adventure!