General Questions

Travel To & Around Alaska

How do I get to Alaska? ​
The Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is the landing spot for all flights to our great state and also the starting point for most destinations within Alaska.

Various Cruises and the Alaska Marine Highway System provide magnificent scenic options for travel between Alaska and the Pacific Northwest. 

Did you know you can drive to Alaska? The Alaska Highway is often described as one of the most beautiful drives on earth!
How do I get to Homer?
Homer, Alaska is located just 45 minutes by air from Anchorage. The 2 commercial airlines that service Homer are Ravn Alaska, or Kenai Aviation. 

For those of you that would prefer a direct flight via floatplane from Anchorage to the Ridgewood Lodge, we recommend Northwind Aviation.  

If you have the time, it is a beautiful drive from Anchorage to Homer. Cars can be rented at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, or if you'd rather sit back and relax, you can get a ride with the Alaska Bus Company.
How do I get to Halibut Cove?
Transportation to Halibut Cove is by water taxi or float plane only. 

Your round trip water taxi from Homer to Halibut Cove is included in the cost of your stay with us, and we will make those travel arrangements for you at the time of your booking. ​

Private float plane charters to Halibut Cove are available at an additional charge with Northwind Aviation. 
Do I need a passport to go to Alaska? 
U.S. Citizens flying from another state to Alaska do not need a passport. If you choose to drive through Canada, or are taking a cruise with stops in Canada however, you will be required to carry one. Beginning May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID to fly within the U.S. 

What to Bring

What clothes will I need on my Alaska Vacation?
Alaska’s weather patterns are unlike those you may be familiar with. One minute will be bright, sunny and warm; the next could be dark, rainy and cold. Comfortable, lightweight, and functional clothes are important for Alaskan wilderness travelers, who can be exposed to all types of weather conditions. A layered approach to clothing works best in Alaska, with summer temperatures that can range from the 40's to 50's at night and the 60's to 80's during the long summer days. We are not in a position to run to a store for forgotten items, so please pack carefully. In additional to purchasing anything you might need online, a wide array of equipment can be found in Anchorage at REI, North Face, and Big Ray's, or in Homer at Ulmers and the Gear Shed. If you’d prefer not to purchase gear outright for your vacation, items may be rented at Alaska Outdoor Gear Rental. 

Jackets: Fleece is great. It is light, warm, dries quickly if wet, and can be worn under your rain jacket. Be sure to bring more than one in case it gets wet. A lightweight shell is also recommended if a breeze picks up on the water. 

Pants: We recommend pants that dry quickly if wet and the lower pant legs zip off, turning them into shorts for those warmer days in Alaska - especially if you are hiking or kayaking.
Shirts: Layers, layers, layers! You may need a tank top to a winter jacket, and anything in-between - all in the same day!

Long Underwear: For those of you who get cold easily, we recommend bringing a pair of long underwear, especially if you are interested in the Boat Tour, Bear Viewing or Charter Fishing.

Rain Gear: Both a rain jacket and pants are essential on any trip to Alaska. You don't need to buy the most expensive, but don't buy the cheapest either. Lightweight, breathable rain gear is available at stores throughout Alaska. Also, please keep in mind that 'water-resistant' does not mean 'water-proof'. If you only purchase water-resistant rain gear, you are more than likely going to be wet and cold at the end of the day. 

Waterproof Footwear: We recommend comfortable, light weight, water proof footwear (such as hiking boots) with great traction for anything from hiking to fishing to tidepooling. Rubber boots are not necessary for your stay at the Lodge. 
Do you have a Packing List? 
  • Slippers or Indoor Shoes for relaxing around the Lodge
  • Daypack
  • Water Bottle 
  • Binoculars
  • Camera: don't forget extra batteries and plenty of film or memory cards
  • Medications: enough for your trip plus a few additional days
  • Sunglasses: polarized are nice, but not necessary
  • Sunscreen: the less fragrant, the better. Our mosquitoes are attracted to scents that are often used in sunscreen, perfume or cologne.
  • Lip Balm: one that has an SPF rating
  • Gloves: please do not forget to bring water proof gloves, as they can make a world of difference in how comfortable you are on any given activity
  • Hat or baseball cap: be prepared for both sun and rain
  • Light winter gloves/hat/scarf: These can make a world of difference on a cold, windy day, especially for guests coming from warmer climates. 
  • Extra socks
  • Toiletries & personal items
  • Head net: just in case
  • Insect Repellent: unscented "Off" with 25% Deet should be sufficient
  • Eye Shades for sleeping: most people believe they will not be affected by our extreme daylight hours, however we have found that this is not the case. We would rather you bring them and not need them, than need them and not have them.
  • Telescoping Hiking Sticks: If you are unsteady on your fee, these are recommended
  • Fishing license: you can order this ahead of time online, but we would be happy to help you once you arrive at the Lodge. 
  • Swimsuit: We have a pond on the lodge grounds, we are surrounded by a beautiful clean ocean, and have access to a glacier lake - if you are feeling adventurous, you're welcome to dip your toes in our cold waters. 
Scenic Halibut Cove

Discover Halibut Cove, Alaska’s hidden gem in Kachemak Bay.
Daily Activities

Our guests can choose from the best of Alaska, all at our doorstep.
Planning your trip?