Sea to Tree Tour
Explore Rocky Tidepools: Guided by our naturalists, you’ll explore rocky tidepools teeming with marine life. From sea stars and sea urchins to colorful anemones and crabs, you’ll discover the hidden lifeforms that thrive in this dynamic environment.
Hike in Coastal Forests: Wander among towering trees, moss-covered ground, and the verdant flora that defines this region. Our knowledgeable guides will explain how this forest differs from others in Alaska and the intricate relationships between plants, animals, and people. This tour requires several miles of hiking on potentially slippery, uneven terrain.
Marine Wildlife: Cruise along Kachemak Bay’s islands to visit thriving seabird colonies, and watch for marine mammals as you travel to the Field Station. Observe puffins and other migratory seabirds nesting in the cliffs, and spot otters and seals slipping through the water.
Experience Kachemak Bay from the ocean to the forest! This full-day natural history tour at the Peterson Bay Field Station provides an an unforgettable journey through one of the most biodiverse places in Alaska.
Situated on the southern shore of Kachemak Bay and accessible by boat from Homer, the Field Station provides access to remote wilderness teeming with wildlife. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and curious adventurers.
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Arrival & Check-In (8:00 AM - 8:15 AM)
Arrive at the designated meeting point.
Check-in with the tour guide, complete any waivers, and receive a quick briefing.
Gear distribution: Beach Bling and children's PFDs (personal floatation devices).
Boat Across Kachemak Bay (8:30 AM – 9:00 AM)
Board the boat and receive a safety briefing from the crew.
Travel across Kachemak Bay, watching for oceanic wildlife and mountain views.
Arrive at the Peterson Bay Field Station
Tidepooling at Otter Rock or Guided Hike through Coastal Forests (9:00 AM – 11:30 AM)
Each day's tide chart and weather forecast will dictate which activity happens first.
Explore the rocky shores of Otter Rock and meet a dizzying array of intertidal creatures.
Hike through temperate forests dripping with moss, and explore unique flora and fauna.
Receive interpretive information from your naturalist guide.
Lunch at the Peterson Bay Field Station (11:30 AM – 12:15 PM)
Sack lunch in the Field Station Pavilion (not provided).
Tidepooling at Otter Rock or Guided Hike through Coastal Forests (12:30 PM – 3:00 PM)
Whichever activity happened in the morning, the other will happen here.
Explore the rocky shores of Otter Rock and meet a dizzying array of intertidal creatures.
Hike through temperate forests dripping with moss, and explore unique flora and fauna.
Receive interpretive information from your naturalist guide.
Return to Base (3:00 PM – 4:00 PM)
Regroup at the Field Station and board the boat back to Homer.
Cruise around Gull Island to view seabird rookeries and marine mammals. Receive interpretive information.
Final chance for photos and questions.
Tour Concludes (4:00 PM)
Return gear.
Wrap-up with your guide.
Itinerary is subject to change without notice due to the relative unpredictability of our environment. The tides, swells, and weather dictate the order and duration of our activities. Naturalists will defer to boat captains on the marine forecasts, and will communicate adjustments to the day accordingly.
Coastal Studies does not provide lunch on this tour. Please pack a lunch.
We suggest you bring:
- A snack
- Water bottle
- Waterproof boots and rain gear
- Binoculars and/or a camera. You’re sure to see something amazing!
- Boat ride across Kachemak Bay to wildlife viewing hotspots
- Personalized information from a dedicated naturalist
- Transportation to/from the Homer Harbor prior to and after the tour is not included.
- Weatherproof gear is not included.
- Lunch and snacks are not included.
Please check-in for your tour 20 minutes before departure to ensure all party members are present and all waivers are signed.
- Due to the rustic nature of the Field Station and surrounding trails, this excursion is not recommended for those with limited mobility.
The majority of this tour will take place outside. Please dress for the weather, mosquitos, and expect cooler and wetter conditions than forecasted! In case of inclement weather, there is ample covered and indoor space at the Field Station.
Lunch is not provided. Please bring your own food. We also suggest you bring a water bottle, waterproof boots and rain gear, and binoculars and/or a camera.
This location is on the edge of Alaskan wilderness, where cell phone service may be limited or unavailable. Our naturalists carry communication devices to use in case of emergencies
Cancellations made 7 days or more prior to your departure time and date will receive a full refund.
Cancellations made within 1 week but more than 72 hours prior to your departure time and date will be refunded 50% of the cost of the tour.
Cancellations made with less than 72 hours notice will not be refunded.
