Top Sea Kayaking Destinations

Picture yourself paddling into a secluded cove, gliding silently beside seals, otters, sea birds, and maybe even whales.  Bald eagles soar overhead, and kingfishers chatter in the distance.  All this can be yours when you head out on a sea kayaking expedition to one of the sites on the list below.

Abalone Cove to Royal Palms State Beach, California
This gorgeous stretch of the southern California coast leads you past deserted beaches, wooded shores, and mysterious sea caves.  Bring a picnic lunch and hop out of your kayak for some of the best tide pool viewing you’ll find anywhere.

Misty Fjords National Monument, Alaska
This gorgeous hidden gem is a delight to kayak.  You’ll find incredible beauty at the most popular destinations -- Rudyerd Bay and Walker Cove.  But be sure to paddle off the beaten path for an isolated look at wildlife and these lovely shores.

Peace River Fossil Hunt, Florida
Southern Florida is famous for its palm trees and turquoise waters…and its kayaking. From the coast, head up the Peace River and explore the banks, watching for birds and wildlife.  If you hop out for a break, keep your eyes peeled for fossils.

Top Family Hiking Destinations

Diamondhead Crater, Hawaii
If you’re on the big island of Oahu, one of the best family experiences is to climb up Diamondhead, the landmark extinct volcano that towers over Waikiki.  Be sure to bring a flashlight for the trip, since the trail runs through dark tunnels!  The rocky trail can be steep, but with patience even small kids can reach the observation deck at 761 feet.  From the top, you’ll have stunning views of the beaches and shores, including Koko Head and Waikiki.

Baxter Mountain Trail, New York
Take your family on an Adirondack hiking trip and enjoy fabulous views of the High Peaks and Keene Valley.  The 2.2-mile trail (round trip) leaves from Spruce Hill.  Parts are steep, but manageable for most kindergarteners.  To ensure that you won’t be hiking through snow, plan your trip for a warm day between May and October.

Winchester Mountain Trail, Washington
The Cascade Mountains are serious in size, but this trail is great for anyone in fifth grade or above.  The four-mile (round trip) route carries you through lush forests, past an old lookout post.  After its start at Twin Lakes, the trail climbs 1,300 feet on its way to the summit. (Visit between August and mid-October.  You’ll need four-wheel drive to reach the trail head.)