Guided Tide Pooling Special Events
Whether you're a local or a visitor, our special guided tide pooling event offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the intertidal zone, all in a fun and family-friendly environment. Perfect for all ages, this hands-on experience is designed to inspire curiosity about the incredible creatures that thrive right under our feet.
$45 Family Price for groups of 4-6 people!
Discount applied at checkout.
Explore the beach and dive into a world of Alaskan wildlife!
What to Expect:
Hands-On Exploration: Get up close and personal with the creatures living in the intertidal zone on the Pier One beach. Learn tips for how to find exciting creatures and be a good tide pooling steward.
Educational & Engaging: Led by a knowledgeable naturalist who makes learning fun and interactive. Hear fascinating facts about the biology, behavior, and role each creature plays in the harbor's ecosystem.
Intertidal Creatures: See a myriad of marine life like crabs, barnacles, mussels, sea stars, anemones, tunicates, and so much more! You’ll learn how these creatures adapt to the changing tides, survive in harsh environments, and contribute to the health of the local waters.
Why You'll Love It:
Perfect for All Ages: Family-friendly and perfect for photos! Whether you're a beginner or a nature enthusiast, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for the creatures that call the intertidal zone home.
Great for Nature Lovers: Discover the hidden gems of Alaskan intertidal ecosystems. Each step you take reveals something new!
Start Time: 8:30am
Arrival & Check-In (5-10 minutes)
Arrive at the Yurt on the Spit.
Check-in with the tour guide, complete any waivers, and receive a quick briefing.
Gear distribution: Beach Bling
Head to the Beach (10-15 minutes)
Meet us at the Pier One beach by 9am.
Tide pooling stewardship 101: Learn how to tide pool safely and respectfully
Explore the Intertidal Zone (50-60 minutes)
Head out on the beach and look for creatures!
A naturalist will be available to help identify creatures, share fun facts, and answer questions.
Tour Concludes
Return gear.
Wrap-up with your guide.
Water-resistent close-toed shoes – Footwear suitable for wet and rocky conditions. Your feet will likely get wet up to the ankle, so waterproof rubber boots are strongly recommended.
Camera or GoPro – For capturing memories (optional, but fun!).
Waterproof gloves - For protecting hands from chilly water (optional)
Light jacket or raincoat – In case of cooler weather, wind, or rain. It is Coastal Alaska!
Check-in at the Yurt on the Spit (4308 Homer Spit Rd) at 8:30. Ensure all participants in your group have completed the necessary waiver. After checking in, meet a naturalist at the beach behind the Pier One Theater.
This is a walking tour of a beach with varied terrain, including sand, shallow standing water, and slippery rocks. As such, this tour may be challenging for those with limited mobility. There might be unfamiliar smells and textures during the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do we meet for the tour?
You’ll meet at our Yurt on the Spit, which is located at the Harbor at the top of Ramp 2. There is ample parking in the vicinity. The Yurt is tucked behind Mako’s Water Taxi and True North Kayak Adventures, right next to Spit Licks Ice Cream. You will then travel to the Pier One beach, about a 15 minute walk or a short drive. We can provide directions when you check in at the Yurt on the Spit.
Where does the tour go?
The tour will explore the Pier One Beach. Each naturalist will take a group on a slightly different route with different habitats and terrain. Please let us know if you have any mobility concerns that would influence which route you need to take.
Will the tour still run if the weather is bad?
It is highly unlikely that Homer’s typical summer weather would prevent us from walking. We likely will encounter some rain and slick surfaces, but we will still go out in the rain. As the old saying goes: there’s no such thing as bad weather, just ill-suited clothing! We recommend you wear rain gear and waterproof boots.
Do we need boots?
We strongly recommend wearing waterproof rubber boots regardless of the weather. Depending on the route your group takes, we may be crossing shallow sections of water. Ankle-high boots should be sufficient. Please do not wear open-toed shoes for safety navigating around shells and rocks.
Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice or no-shows to bookings will not be refunded and the booked party will be responsible for the entire cost of the tour.
Cancellations made with more than 24 hours notice will be fully refunded.
The Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies has a two-person minimum for all guided tours. If by chance you are the only person booked on a tour, our staff will contact you the day before your booking to inform you. At that point you may request a refund or transfer your booking to a Creatures of the Dock tour at a different day/time.
