Homer Water Taxi · Kachemak Bay State Park
Water taxi to Halibut Cove Lagoon
Deep in Kachemak Bay State Park — ranger station, dock, and the trailheads for Lagoon Trail, Alpine Ridge, and Poot Peak.
The trip
Halibut Cove Lagoon sits 30 miles east of Homer, past the Cove itself and into a saltwater lagoon protected by narrow tide-driven passes. The crossing takes about 45 minutes and delivers you to the Kachemak Bay State Park Ranger Station dock — the deepest public dock in the state park.
What to do there
Lagoon Trail is a mellow 2-mile shoreline walk from the dock. Alpine Ridge climbs 1,900 feet to alpine views. Poot Peak is the ambitious backcountry option — a full-day scramble. Many visitors just take the crossing, sit on the ranger station deck, and eat lunch while watching the tide push through the narrow entry.
Camping
There are three cabins available for reservation through Alaska State Parks, and dispersed tent camping is allowed along the trails. Water-taxi pickups can be arranged for multi-day trips — call (907) 630-1252 to coordinate.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the water taxi to Halibut Cove Lagoon?
$85 round trip. $42.50 each way. Children under 12 are $65 round trip. Pets ride free.
Is Halibut Cove Lagoon the same as Halibut Cove village?
No. Halibut Cove village is a small artist community with the Saltry Restaurant. The Lagoon is deeper into the state park, past the village. Different destinations.
What’s the trip like inside the lagoon?
The narrows into the lagoon can run 8+ knots at max tide. We time our runs to the tide window. Once inside, the lagoon is glass-calm even when the outer bay is rough.
Can I do Halibut Cove Lagoon as a day trip?
Yes — the crossing is 45 minutes each way, leaving 5+ hours to explore. Or extend it into an overnight cabin stay.
Do you drop off boats or kayaks?
For kayak drop-offs or boat transport, call (907) 630-1252 for a custom charter quote.
Ready to book?
Reserve your seat on the M/V Inlet Express. Round-trip fare is $85 per adult, $65 for children under 12, pets ride free.
Check availability & bookOr call (907) 630-1252