Halibut Cove

Monday, June 18

We set out toward Homer again this morning, with a detour off the North Fork Road in Anchor Point to take in the 360- degree view from atop a small hill.  Travis had given us a map and verbal directions to this truly off-the-beaten-path spot and the panorama was spectacular.  By this time, you can probably guess that it involved snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and volcanoes!

Then, it was on to Homer, where we boarded the ferry boat, the Danny J, for the ride across Kachemak Bay to Halibut Cove. En route, we saw several sea otters and a myriad of sea birds as we circled Gull Island. The gulls were swarming and blocks of other species were rafting in huge groups, as there was an eagle soaring around in search of prey.  We were amazed by the spectacle, and excited that we were able to see a couple of puffins among the thousands of other birds. 

Once we arrived at the beautiful Halibut Cove, we walked a hilltop trail to a glorious view of the cove, islands, boardwalk, beautiful homes, and yet more snow-capped mountains.  After a picnic there, we explored the small cemetery on a high point jutting into the bay, the boardwalk, espresso café, and art galleries.  It was a lovely afternoon, and the ride back to Homer Spit was gorgeous, as we rode waves that were like a gentle aquatic roller coaster.

After a stop along Homer’s Skyline Drive to take in the view of the town, Spit, bay and – you guessed it – we headed back to our last night in our idyllic cottages.  It was windy and a bit chilly, so we had happy hour and dinner inside, enjoying the soaring birds and beautiful scenery from our picture window.  We’ve had a wonderful time in Kenai and will be sorry to leave Harborside Cottages in the morning.