Homer is a coffee drinker’s paradise, with two roasters and several excellent espresso joints. Captain’s Coffee Roasting Co. (528 E. Pioneer Ave., 907/235-4970, www.captainscoffee.com) has a downtown location and a bright airy space to relax. Ask owner Ty Gates for tips on surfing in Homer.

A real surprise is K Bay Caffé (907/235-1551, www.kbaycaffe.com), three miles out East End Road next to Redden Marine. This one is actually little more than a drive-up window and outside deck, with enough space inside for a few people to read the newspaper and talk politics. Owner Michael McGuire really knows his (all-organic) coffee—he won top prize at a national barista contest a while back—-and is a connoisseur when it comes to creating the perfect roast.

Just a block from Bishops Beach, Two Sisters Bakery (233 E. Bunnell St., 907/235-2280, www.twosistersbakery.net, Sun. 9 a.m.–2 p.m., Mon.–Fri. 7 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 7 a.m.–4 p.m. summer, reduced winter hours, $5–10) is a great place to meet the locals any time of year. It’s always warm and fragrant with the smell of fresh-baked pastries, breads, and savories from the brick oven, along with sandwiches, focaccia, and deep-dish pizza by the slice. It’s pricey, but highly recommended. A covered deck wraps around the back.

Housed within Lake Street Mall, Latitude 59° (3858 Lake St., 907/235-5574) is a friendly spot for wraps, sandwiches, bagels, salads, and mochas, along with a free computer and Wi-Fi. On the Spit, stop by the seasonal Coal Town Coffee (907/235-9463, www.coaltowncoffee.com, daily 5 a.m.–8 p.m. early May–mid-Sept.).