An Outdoorable Guide to Seward

Why Seward Feels So Real

Even with cruise ships in the harbor and a parade of summer tourists, Seward holds onto its gritty charm and close-knit vibe.

“Locals visit the same places the tourists do. You might see your kayak or hiking guide out with friends after work—and if so, buy them a beer!”

Zoe says this is a town where the outdoor magic isn’t staged—it’s just part of daily life.

Zoe’s Personal Connection

“Seward is an outdoor-enthusiast’s playground. I’ve spent long Alaskan summer days out on boats in Resurrection Bay and summiting local peaks. I saw my first orcas and my first tidewater glacier here.”

One memory in particular stands out:

“Seeing a pod of orcas hunting next to the boat and watching a mom teach her calf how to hunt was one of the most magical moments of my life.”

‍

Iconic Things to Do

• Mt. Marathon Race
  
  “One of the gnarliest 5Ks in America”—racers run up and down a mountain on July 4th while the whole town cheers them on.
  
  
• Sea Kayaking in Resurrection Bay
  
  “Whether kayaking around Resurrection Bay or going out to a glacier… you can’t go wrong.”
  
  Outfitters provide gear and guides, and trips range from mellow shoreline paddles to all-day glacier expeditions.
  
  
• Kenai Fjords Boat Tour
  
  “It’s ridiculous how many orcas, humpbacks, otters, seals, and puffins you can see all in the same day.”
  
  Most of Kenai Fjords is only accessible by water. Bonus if you catch humpbacks bubble-net feeding.
  
  
• Small Boat Harbor Walk
  
  “You don’t even have to go out on the water to see wildlife. There’s always starfish, seals, otters…”
  
  
• Alaska SeaLife Center
  
  “Not as flashy as aquariums in the Lower 48, but they’re actively rehabbing stranded and sick animals. Baby otters, injured seals, you name it.”
  ‍

‍

Hiking Around Seward

• Exit Glacier & Harding Icefield Trail
  
  “The two most iconic hikes in Kenai Fjords.”
  
  Exit Glacier is a quick trek to a glacier viewpoint; Harding is a full-day hike with massive payoffs—if you’re willing to climb.
  
  
• Lowell Point & Tonsina Creek Trail
  
  “Tidepools, eagles, salmon spawning in late summer—it’s a personal favorite picnic spot.”
  
  The trail continues into Caines Head Coastal Trail, but check tide charts first.
  
  
• Lost Lake Trail
  
  “This hike is in my top 5 of all Alaska.”
  
  A 13.8-mile round trip with sweeping views of the ocean, glaciers, and mountains.
  
  “Not for the faint of heart, but worth it.”
  ‍

‍

Where to Eat & Drink

• The Porthole
  
  “Best breakfast in town. Order a lunch box the day before and take it with you to Lowell Point.”
  
  
• Red’s Burgers
  
  “Awesome burger joint in an old school bus. No muss, no fuss—just done right.”
  
  
• Resurrect Art Coffee House
  
  “Coffee shop and bakery in an old church. My favorite baked goods in town. Get there early—they sell out fast!”
  
  
• The Lone Chicharron
  
  “Not what you expect in Alaska—but truly great tacos.”
  
  
• The Cookery
  
  “Upscale date night spot. Amazing local seafood.”
  
  
• Primrose Provisions
  
  “Glass of wine, charcuterie, views of Resurrection Bay. Yes, please.”
  
  
• Yukon Bar
  
  “Funky, eclectic, and truly local. Try the Duck Fart shot.”
  
  
• Tidewater Taphouse
  
  “Local beers, good food, game night on Tuesdays—what more do I have to say?”
  
  
• Woody’s Thai Kitchen
  
  “One of the best Thai spots in Alaska.”
  
  
• Saltwood Smokehouse (no website)
  
  “Tucked away, no set hours—but hands-down the best smoked salmon and black cod. Worth the detour.”
  
  

Zoe’s Ideal Day in Seward

“I’d grab a pastry at Resurrect Art Coffee House and go on a hike to Lost Lake (if it’s sunny!). Nothing like a cold plunge at Lost Lake after the 7-mile hike there… then dry off in the sun and watercolor before heading back.”

“Back in town, I’d house a Red’s Burger—Lost Lake deserves a burger. Then I’d meet up with friends at the Taphouse to drink local beer and listen to live music.”

‍

Favorite Memory & Planning Tips

“Hiking Lost Lake in August—salmonberries and blueberries everywhere. I picked a bunch and made a pie when I got home!”

Zoe’s Pro Tips:

• Motion sickness is real
  
  “The Gulf of Alaska has incredible wildlife—but also rough seas. If you get seasick, consider Whittier glacier cruises instead. It’s calmer and just 1.5 hrs north.”
  
  

Don’t rely on hours being posted online

“Places like Saltwood Smokehouse open when they open. That’s just Seward. Be flexible.”