Halibut Cove sits at the edge of Kachemak Bay State Park, approximately 12 miles across from Homer, Alaska, at an elevation of 108 feet. This remote coastal destination requires boat or float plane access, with most visitors taking a water taxi from Homer Spit. Winter temperatures can drop to 20°F, while summer averages 55-65°F with significant daylight hours during peak season.
What to do
Tidepooling at low tide: Several beaches near Mariner Park offer excellent tidepooling opportunities where campers can explore marine ecosystems. "We love it every year. Who wouldn't love waking up and going to sleep looking at the ocean?! The sand is great and the tide goes out far, providing fun exploration activities for kids!" writes Staci J.
Wildlife viewing: The waters around Kachemak Bay host numerous marine mammals visible from shore or boat tours. A camper at Fishing Hole Campground notes, "We stayed 4 nights. It is a gravel lot next to the fishing hole on the Homer Spit. The camp host was very nice. It is the best spot to dry camp on the spit as it is easy to walk to everything."
Hiking nearby trails: Access trails in Kachemak Bay State Park via water taxi from Homer. At Glacier Vista, one visitor mentioned, "Great location, better views. The hosts brought us homemade chocolate chip cookies that were delicious and made us feel so welcome! They live nearby so if you have any issues they are just a phone call away."
What campers like
Beach access: Direct beach access ranks high with campers bringing pets. "Ocean view site was beautiful. The place has a great common area/coffee place/gift shop, and over all a great atmosphere. Looking forward to visit this place again," notes Amit about Heritage RV Park.
Local fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer convenient access to fishing charters and day boats. According to a visitor at Mariner Park, "Awesome Spot on Homer Spit, Camp Right on the Beach with Awesome Views, was not too Crowded in July. Went Halibut From there and had 7 Humpback Whales surrounding our Boat."
Mountain views: The combination of bay and mountain views creates memorable camping experiences. One camper at Driftwood Inn & Homer Seaside Lodges mentioned, "The only reason for 3 stars, was the outstanding ocean view," highlighting how important scenic vistas are to the camping experience.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Wind can be significant, especially on exposed beach sites. One camper at Mariner Park warned, "I only stayed here for one night. We had planned to stay a second, but the wind was so bad that it blew over our tent and woke us up at night."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Some campgrounds offer minimal facilities, while others provide full amenities. At Ocean Shores RV Park, a camper reported, "Very clean! Really! Amenities in good condition. Good view."
Reservations recommended: Many popular pet-friendly camping spots near Halibut Cove fill quickly during summer months. "Make reservations because this place fills up," advises Tanya B. about Heritage RV Park.
Beach camping terrain: While camping directly on beaches is popular, the ground can be uncomfortable without proper equipment. One visitor noted, "It was nice to sleep on the sand though with air mattresses to avoid some of the rocks!"
Tips for camping with families
Bring beach toys: Kids enjoy playing on sandy beaches during low tide periods. A camper at Mariner Park shared, "The sand is great and the tide goes out far, providing fun exploration activities for kids!"
Consider location tradeoffs: Campgrounds closer to town offer more convenience but less solitude. "It is the best spot to dry camp on the spit as it is easy to walk to everything. At $20 per night it is half the cost of the next cheapest place," notes Michael H. about Fishing Hole Campground.
Pack for variable weather: Temperatures can shift dramatically even in summer, requiring layers and rain gear. One camper advised, "Be ready for any kind of weather... as you are surrounded by the ocean."
Bring bikes: Many campsites are within biking distance of attractions, making family exploration easier without moving vehicles. A reviewer suggested, "Bring your bikes to ride the spit or good shoes to walk around town."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Many RV parks have significantly different views depending on site location. At Baycrest RV Park, Brad H. noted, "Campground is well maintained. About 20 min drive from Homer spit. Sites are a little tight but the views are amazing!"
Consider hookup locations: Some sites have awkwardly positioned hookups that can complicate parking. One RVer at Ocean Shores RV Park cautioned, "The center sites are back to back and they will park your RV even with the electric box at rear, so you may have challenges parking your towed vehicle or tow vehicle at your site depending on your total length."
Distance to attractions: When choosing pet-friendly camping near Halibut Cove, consider drive time to activities. "About 20 min drive from Homer spit. Sites are a little tight but the views are amazing!" explains an RVer at Baycrest RV Park.
Leveling challenges: Many sites slope toward the water, requiring leveling blocks. "The whole park slopes downward toward the beach bluff, however they did a reasonable job terracing each site so it is mostly level," noted Kerry B. at Ocean Shores RV Park.
