Seward, which lies on Alaska's beautiful Kenai Peninsula, is a coastal town full of activities for children. The natural history and wildlife of the area provide opportunities for kids to learn as they enjoy the many wonders of this part of the world.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Seward serves as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Boat trips from the Seward small boat harbor daily. Various companies offer half-day and full-day trips to view wildlife, including a variety of sea animals and birds. Choose a boat tour that offers kids a chance to see the wildlife of Resurrection Bay.

Fishing

Sport fishing in Seward is an exciting year-round activity for all ages. Even those who choose not to hit the water can enjoy Seward's beauty. Walking around the harbor and watching the boats pull up with their catches can be loads of fun. And it's free!

Alaska Sea Life Center

To get an up close and personal view of local sea life, check out the Alaska Sea Life Center. The center offers exhibits showing the various wildlife of the Gulf of Alaska, including Stellar sea lions, harbor seals, deep sea fish, Alaskan king crab, and event the Giant Pacific Octopus. The Alaska Sea Life Center is open daily, year-round, except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Into the Woods

For kids who enjoy the great outdoors, plan a visit to a Chugach National Forest or Caines Head State Recreation Area. Take a hike and even bring a picnic on one of the many trails each of these areas has to offer. Trail rides are another great way to get off the beaten path and view the wildlife for which Alaska is so famous.

Four Best Beaches for Families and Kids

Porto Santo, Portugal

Known as: Golden Island

Price: $137 / night

More info: VisitPortugal.com

Porto Santo is the ideal beach with an impressive 4.5 — star rating based on almost 3,000 TripAdvisor reviews. There’s a kids’ club, kids’ pool, game room and even an ecological boardwalk providing direct access to the beach. After swimming, tour Christopher Columbus’ former home for a hands-on history lesson. Then, try local food and let the kids feed the fish and friendly parrots in the gardens.

Medano Beach, Colorado

Known as: Best Western Movie Manor

Price: $110 / night

More info: NPS.gov

Medano Beach is located in Great Sand Dunes National Park. It’s home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. Sled rentals are even available at the visitor center. Yes, you can sled without snow! And it has a drive-in theater! Guests can watch for free from the comfort of their own beds. Movie season runs from mid-May through mid-September.

The Big Island, Hawaii

Known as: The Fairmont Orchid

Price: $400 / night

More info: GoHawaii.com

After visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, walk around the island — home to the most diverse beaches in this area. Choose from white sand, black sand and even green sand. Thanks to mineral deposits (沉积), Papakolea Beach is one of only four green sand beaches in the world.

Paradise Island, The Bahamas

Known as: Comfort Suites Paradise Island

Price: $278 / night

More info: NassauParadiseIsland.com

Comfort Suites Paradise Island may not have the name-recognition of Atlantis, but it’s TripAdvisor’s best value for accommodations. Every room is a suite, so there’s more space than a normal guest room, and the hot buffet breakfast is free. It is perfect for families who want the comfort of home in a resort setting.