6 nights Homer + Seaward

Question

I’m starting a new thread since a lot of my information has changed. Here is what I think our itinerary will look like so far. Three people, in our 40s, very active first time heading to Alaska. Arriving Saturday, July 12 2pm and will be renting a car. Departing Friday, July 18 Around 6 AM. I’d like to split the time between Homer and I Seaward. Seaward because we would like to do a cruise where we have a strong likelihood to see whales. We like hiking and good food and I’m excited to see the beautiful vistas and scenery and mountains and nature that Alaska has to offer. I am open to staying the last night in Anchorage if that would help in terms of itinerary and maximizing fun time versus driving time. I have already located Airbnbs that we would like to stay in each town and have found vacancies that would work on either end.

Any suggestions on a new revised itinerary would be most welcome!

Thanks in advance!

Answer

With six nights in Alaska split between Homer and Seward, and your interests in hiking, wildlife, and scenery, you can have a very active and scenic trip without feeling rushed. Here’s a suggested itinerary and tips to maximize your experience while minimizing excessive driving:

Day 1 – Saturday: Arrival in Anchorage, drive to Homer

Arrive in Anchorage around 2 PM, pick up your rental car.
Drive to Homer (about 4.5 hours). Scenic stops along the way: Beluga Point, Turnagain Arm, and Seward Highway viewpoints.
Check into your Homer Airbnb in the evening and enjoy dinner in town. Consider local seafood at a restaurant like Two Sisters Bakery or The Salty Dawg Saloon for a casual vibe.

Day 2 – Sunday: Homer activities

Hike in the Homer area: recommendations include Diamond Creek Trail, Homer Spit Coastal Trail, or Grewingk Glacier Trail (moderate to easy hikes with beautiful views).
Optional kayaking or wildlife tour to see sea otters, puffins, and possibly bald eagles along Kachemak Bay.
Evening: relax and enjoy dinner overlooking the water.

Day 3 – Monday: Day trip to Kachemak Bay or local excursions

Consider a ferry or water taxi to Kachemak Bay State Park for short hikes and incredible coastal views.
Alternative: bear viewing tours or halibut fishing trips if interested.
Return to Homer for dinner and rest.

Day 4 – Tuesday: Drive to Seward

Drive from Homer to Seward (about 3.5 hours) with scenic stops along Turnagain Arm or Kenai Peninsula viewpoints.
Check into Seward Airbnb and explore the town.
Optional short hike: Exit Glacier area in Kenai Fjords National Park (easily accessible and moderate walk).

Day 5 – Wednesday: Kenai Fjords National Park cruise

Book a day cruise from Seward to maximize whale sightings and marine wildlife viewing (humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, puffins). Morning departures usually offer the calmest seas.
Evening: explore Seward town, try local seafood or bakeries.

Day 6 – Thursday: Seward / nearby hiking

Short hikes or walks around Seward: Harding Icefield Trail (partial hike if desired, depending on fitness), Resurrection Bay viewpoints.
Optional kayaking or wildlife tours if missed earlier.
Consider an evening drive back to Anchorage to shorten Day 7 departure stress (about 2.5 hours).

Day 7 – Friday: Early departure

Leave early from Anchorage for your 6 AM flight.

Additional Tips:

Homer is excellent for coastal vistas, casual hikes, and food. Seward provides the best access to whale and wildlife viewing via Kenai Fjords.
Booking cruises and ferries in advance is essential, especially in July, which is peak tourist season.
Keep daily hikes flexible—weather can change rapidly, so it’s best to have multiple options nearby.
Driving times can feel longer than expected due to scenic stops, so plan accordingly.

This itinerary balances your interest in hiking, wildlife, and scenic drives while keeping each day manageable. By returning to Anchorage on Day 6, you reduce stress for your early departure on Day 7.

6 nights Homer + Seaward

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