Rainbow Tours is thrilled to have the opportunity to visit the lovely town of Seldovia with you. While you are enjoying the beautiful sites, remember that Seldovia is a town where people live and work as well as a destination. Please, leave things as tidy as you found them, and do your best to show respect to the local people, wildlife, and wild places. Thank you!

Located just 15 miles across Kachemak Bay from Homer, Seldovia is a picturesque town with stunning views of Cook Inlet. This charming community is only accessible by air, passenger tour boats, or the Alaska Marine Highway ferry, adding to its special appeal.

Seldovia is a small, cozy town with about 300 residents. It’s easy to explore on foot, with shops, galleries, restaurants, and a short stretch of the original historic boardwalk located just a few blocks from the small boat harbor. (Check out Seldovia.com for a list of places to eat!) A short uphill walk leads to St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church. This National Historic Site built in 1891, is perched beautifully on a knoll overlooking town.

For those who enjoy hiking, the Otterbahn Trail is a must. This 1.2-mile trail winds through the forest to Outside Beach, a stunning spot perfect for beachcombing and taking in breathtaking views of Kachemak Bay. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or history buff, Seldovia offers a unique experience that blends Alaska’s rugged beauty with rich cultural heritage.

Seldovia Tour Schedule and Highlights

We typically arrive in Seldovia around 1:30 PM, though timing may vary depending on the tour and wildlife sightings along the way. Once in town, visitors can enjoy a meal at a local restaurant or a picnic lunch. They can explore the boardwalk, visit the museum and visitor center, hike scenic trails, or capture the town’s beauty through photography.

Departure is at 3:30 PM (timing varies by tour), with an estimated return to Homer around 5:30 PM. The return journey often includes a stop for whale watching, making the trip just as memorable as the time spent in Seldovia itself. See available dates and book our Seldovia Wildlife Tour here.

Helpful Links to Map Out Your Seldovia Visit

A Community with Rich History

Seldovia has deep roots as the homeland of the Aleut people. Russian influence arrived during the Fur Rush of the 1740s, blending Russian Orthodox faith with Aleut traditions. (Visit the Seldovia Village Tribe to learn more about their history, culture, and community.) Over time, Seldovia became a thriving port, serving as a key route during the Gold Rush and later as a major shipping hub.

In the early 1900s, fishing, mining, and logging sustained the town. The Seldovia Salmon Company, founded in 1910, played a vital role in the local economy until the 1964 Good Friday Earthquake. The earthquake dropped the ground several feet, causing rising tides to flood homes, businesses, and the historic boardwalk. The waterfront was rebuilt with seawalls, but Seldovia never regained its role as Kachemak Bay’s fishing hub. That title shifted to Homer, thanks to its road access.

Despite these challenges, Seldovia remains a lively and welcoming community. It has a strong local school, draws summer visitors, and is a sought-after retirement spot. The town also supports the sport fishing industry, offering anglers a peaceful Alaskan experience.

Looking to add fishing to your Seldovia visit? Don’t miss our fishing charters!