Sensory Friendly Guided Events
Explore the beach and forests and dive into a world of Alaskan wildlife!
"What Is a Sensory-Friendly Event?
Our sensory-friendly events are designed to create a welcoming, flexible environment where every child and family can enjoy nature in the way that feels best for them. These events can be especially helpful for individuals with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or other developmental differences.
During our tide pooling or hike adventure, families are encouraged to explore at their own pace. There is no pressure to follow a set schedule or complete every activity—children are welcome to participate, observe, or take breaks as needed.
You'll also be surrounded by other families who understand and appreciate different sensory needs. For children or families who prefer not to participate in the hike, a separate sensory activity area will be available, offering hands-on activities in a calm, supportive space.
Our goal is to provide an inclusive outdoor experience where every family feels welcome, supported, and free to explore together.
Hands-On Exploration: Get up close and personal with the creatures living in the intertidal zone on the Pier One beach or in the forests. Learn tips for how to find exciting creatures.
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 ecosystem.
Arrival & Check-In 15 minutes early
Check-in with the tour guide, complete any waivers, and receive a quick briefing. Exploration will last 1 hour.
Water-resistent close-toed shoes – Footwear suitable for wet, muddy, and rocky conditions. Waterproof rubber boots are strongly recommended for tidepooling
Camera or GoPro – For capturing memories (optional, but fun!).
Waterproof gloves - For protecting hands from chilly water (optional) for tidepooling.
Light jacket or raincoat – In case of cooler weather, wind, or rain. It is Coastal Alaska!
Check in at the pavilion by Pier One Theater on the Spit for tidepooling, check in at the Daisy Lee Bitter Cabin just past the Wynn Visitor Center.
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?
Near the Pier One building by the Pavilion near the shoreline for tidepooling. At the Daisy Lee Bitter Cabin just past the Wynn Visitor Center for the hike.
Where does the tour go?
For tidepooling, the tour will explore the Pier One Beach. Each naturalist will take a group on a slightly different route with different habitats and terrain. The hike will be no more than a mile on relatively flat but uneven ground. 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.
