Diamond Creek Beach

The feel

The upper half is mostly switchbacks on crushed rock, with patches of blue clay that turn slick when wet. The last half is fairly steep, along a narrow and slippery trail with abrupt edges.

At the bottom, the beach runs north toward Anchor Point and south toward Homer, with tide pools to explore in both directions at low tide. On a clear day the view across Cook Inlet takes in Mount Augustine, Iliamna and Redoubt. Birders, horseback riders, dog walkers, cyclists and hikers use the site.

What to expect

What it is

A trail down to a Cook Inlet beach with tide pools, reached from the Sterling Highway about 4 miles north of Homer.

Time

1 to 2 hours, rated moderate, with elevation from 10 to 512 feet. The beach is 0.6 miles from the trailhead, or 1.5 miles from the first parking area.

Crowds and best time

Low tide is when tide pools can be explored in both directions.

Parking

Park about 500 feet off the highway just before the gate, or drive to the trailhead where the road ends. Parking at the highway adds 1/2 mile to the hike.

Hazards

Slick blue clay when wet, steep narrow sections with abrupt edges, stream crossings, and a high tide that cuts off the beach. Keep clear of hauled-out seals.

Bathrooms and water

No toilets are built at the site; facilities are limited to an access road and a small parking area, and a public toilet is only proposed.

Season and access

Hiking and biking are allowed in all seasons, but the trail is not recommended in wet or icy conditions. A mudslide after rain washed out part of the trail, and it was closed until further notice.

Mingo says

Go on a dry day once it reopens, since wet conditions make the blue clay slick. Plan the beach section for low tide, and turn back before a high tide cuts you off.

Before you go

• Call City of Homer Public Works at 907-235-3170 to confirm the trail has reopened.
• Turn left off the Sterling Highway across from Diamond Ridge Road.
• Watch for hauled-out seals and keep clear of them.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.