Halibut Cove is truly a special place. With about 60 summer residents and 20 hardy soles who call it home in the winter, it takes some effort to get here, but the charm and unique setting make it worth the work.
Our trip starts at the harbor at the Homer Spit aboard the Danny J. We are leaving at 5 PM for the dinner seating, and Passage doesn't come cheap. The 45 minute crossing across the Kachemak Bay and back costs $64.50. This does not include our dinner at the Saltry. Add another $90 (without drinks) and you have the makings for a very expensive evening - but worth it!
The steep stairway leads right to the entrance of the Saltry, and we have reservations for the 6 PM seating.
In spite of overcast skies, we elect to sit outside and watch the cove. During our evening meal, we see two bald eagles fly by, with no warning for us to get the camera into focus.
A series of boardwalks connect one building to another. If that doesn't work, you need to get out your canoe and start paddling.
Halibut Cove was established by and consists of an artist's colony. Other than the Saltry, the only eatery, and 1 coffee shop which is currently closed, the remaining buildings include only art galleries, a few B & Bs, and private residences.
The cove is also home to seals, sea otters, and porpoises, however we don't see any tonight.
Kachemak Bay is arguably one of the most beautiful bays in the world. To the east of the bay and on top of the Kenai Mountains lie the Harding Ice Field.
At least 5 named glaciers are visible and flow into the bay: Dixon Glacier, Portlock Glacier, Grewingk Glacier, Nosnesenski Glacier, and Doroshin Glacier.
Fishing is the other prominent occupation. Of course, many artists are also fisherman. After all, one does need to eat!
After dinner, we take the walk around the boardwalks as far as time will allow. The Danny J will sale out at 9 PM sharp, with or without us! Hope you enjoy the rest of what we see.
For further information:
Halibut Cove
