Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies — Attraction in Homer

In looking for things to do on our family vacation in Alaska with children ages 5, 8 and 9 I found the Creatures of the Dock tour and thought this would be so much fun for the kids. Well it was outside a lot fun and very interesting for us adults ages 36 to 66. There was other adults off a cruise ship who were enjoying just as much. Our guide/researcher pointed out many species growing under the docks and on boats that have not left the harbor in awhile. She was fantastic with the kids. She pulled out a true sea star and let everyone place it on their arm, it would pull up on your hair and skin. She pulled out a sea urchin for all to touch or place in their palm and showed you how to touch others anemones that were attached to the docks. They are very careful to put all back where they found them and that you are very tender with all. If you are a family ask for the family discount, was very cheap price for a great hour of your time....

Inspiration ridge hike was very nice. Great views, easy hike and very enjoyable learning about the plants and area. Under the dock tour would recommend for children. It shows anemities growing on side of floating dock and tells you about them. We spotted some very tiny jelly fish and a couple of very small dead crabs. You can just walk out on dock and look around yourself if you want. Not a whole lot to see and learn about. Kids should enjoy it but not enough creatures to see and learn...

Robin did a fabulous job leading our Inspiration Ridge tour on June 19, 2024. Despite being relatively new to the area, she did a terrific job explaing the ecology of the preserve, with an emphasis on plant life. Her skills as a guide were excellent and her enthuism infectious. Her caution when coming upon a Moose close by on the trail was entirely appropriate. My wife and I had a great time and would strongly recomend this...