We used St. Augustine for a 1/2 day trip in Homer last summer and thought they were great--friendly, knowledgeable staff and able to accomodate kayakers with varying skill levels. Even with a 1/2 day trip we kayaked in several coves and saw wildlife (mostly puffins, other sea birds and otters), so I'm sure a full day trip would be that much better. I'd definitely recommend them.

JM

Greetings again,

I used St. Augustines last July 4th for a full day trip with my son and his best friend. The entire staff was friendly, professional, and supportive. Both of my boys had never been in a kayak and one of them had never even been to the ocean. Our guide kept the pace comforable and we enjoyed a great lunch on the beach after circling Gull Island (so many birds). We then continued into Chinapoot Bay all the way back into the cove beach, then paddled to the small portage between bays and returned to their base. Along the trip we got close to sea otters, eagles, seals, there were salmon fishing boats and bunches of salmon everywhere. It is a great active trip and I will use them again in the future.

I wish I had gotten more pictures, but I brought my full size DSLR and a large lens and most of the trip I was nervous about dropping it or tipping and the risk of losing my babay was too much for me. I did finally take it out when I had a great oopotunity to get close ups of otters and I decided that it was worht it and they turned out awesome. If you bring a camera or other items you want to keep dry, they offer several drybags that can be attached to the boat, or placed inside (harder to get at) s bring a camera just maybe not a several thousand dollar one for this trip.

Enjoy your trip,

- Kery

I appreciate the insight. Thank you!

I went with Seaside Adventure last summer, July 5th. I enjoyed chatting with Rick the owner before arriving. Seaside Adventure offers small group personal tours. On the day we went, it just just my buddy and I and a guide. It was a very casual day with plenty of time taken to watch eagles, sea otters, and marine life. Lunch was also provided on a small island. It was a fun experience, and I would love to do it again. We stayed in Homer, and arrangements were made for us to take a water taxi to their remote location. Seaside Adventure also provides limited lodging if you wish to stay in their remote wilderness area. I can only speak on my expereince Seaside Adventure, but I found them to be very professional, friendly, and offering a beautiful adventure. If you have any questions, I urge you to email Rick at Seaside Adventure, and he will help you with the information you need about kayaking. Have fun.

Super, Swdke! Thanks for your insight!

Swdke, thanks very much for your contribution. I have decided to book with Seaside Adventure. I checked all 3 out and I chose them because of (1) their protected location and unique experinces-"signature beach soup for lunch" and tidepooling, (2)smaller groups (3) they're the oldest, established kayak outfitter in the area, and (4)their guests include National Geographic photographers, Jim Carry, the actor. They aren't as known as the other two-I am glad I was informed of them. Thanks again.

Outdoortrippers, I too selected Seaside Adventure for the same reasons you listed. We must think alike. ;-) The beach soup by the way is really good. The ride on the taxi boat to their private location is a beautiful ride. This is a very scenic area. Another thing you may notice is the tide coming in or going out. It's very impressive seeing how quickly the tide moves. Are you taking the full day, or half day? We took the full day, which was a very relaxing and peaceful way to experience this beautiful area. I hope you have as much fun and enjoy it as much as we did. Have fun.

Swdke, we are taking the full day excursion. The water taxi will pick us up at 7:30 am (to get the most out of the low tide). How long were you in Homer? Did you go over to Halibut Cove?

Yes, it's good you're going at low tide, that's the best time so that you can see all the underwater marine life. I don't recall the name of the cove we went to, it's the one where the water taxi takes you to at Seaside's home base. Glad to read your taking the day tour, you will have a relaxed day which is the best way to enjoy the beauty of the area.

After Kayaking, and when the water taxi brings you back to the Spit, have a beer at the Salty Dawg Saloon on the Homer Spit.

In Homer, we stayed at Ocean House Inn, I really like it there.

For breakfast I recommend Fresh Sourdough Express, and Duncan's Diner.

For dinner I recommend The Homestead, Fat Olives, Cafe Cups (make reservations), and Captain Patty's Fish House.

Halibut Cove is a great intro to sea kayaking. Except for the entrance to the cove which can be dangerous, way back in Halibut Cove is like kayaking in a baby pool with porpoises, sea otters, harbor seals, eagles, star fish, loons, etc.

There are 3 great State of Alaska cabins to rent there cheaply.