Southwestern Alaskan Coast

Kodiak & Homer on the AK Marine Highway

Although still considered the south-central region of the Alaska Marine Highway System, Gulf of Alaska cities like Homer and Kodiak are set on the southwestern coast of Alaska.

Both are reached by the Alaska Marine Highway System, and both offer adventure and education in their coastal communities.

Found on Kenai Peninsula against Kachemak Bay, the Alaskan city of Homer features incredible fishing, spirits, and scenery.

Visitors are encouraged to grab a seat at the historic Salty Dawg Saloon, bird watch at Louie's Lagoon, or head to Old Town Homer and explore the Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitors Center.

Looking for a real Alaskan activity? Try clamming at Clam Gulch State Recreation Area. Set north of Homer and southwest of Soldnotna, Clam Gulch is a 495-acre playground ideal for fishing, ATV riding, and razor clam digging between minus tides.

Another stop along the Alaska Marine Highway System is Kodiak – the main city on the tranquil Kodiak Island. An epicenter for Alaskan adventure, Kodiak features incredible fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and annual festivals.

Don’t miss Memorial Day Weekend and the famed Kodiak Crab Festival – featuring kayak racing, marathons, carnivals, and of course, delicious crab.

If you’d like to know more about Kodiak and its past as fishing community, Russian Alaska capital, and home to the ancient Alutiiq people, be sure to visit Baranov Museum. Open during the summer from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the winter, the Baranov plays host to educational exhibits, fascinating publications, and annual celebrations.

Interested in visiting Kodiak now? This scenic island can only be reached by the Alaska Marine Highway System.