Strolling Seward Small Boat Harbor: The Best Points of Interest

Seward Small Boat Harbor is the beating heart of Seward, Alaska. Nestled between majestic mountains and the sparkling waters of Resurrection Bay, this bustling harbor is full of attractions. Whether you’re watching boats glide in and out, exploring local shops, or embarking on an unforgettable wildlife and glacier tour, there’s something for everyone. This guide will take you through the best points of interest at Seward Small Boat Harbor, offering tips and insights to make your visit truly memorable.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

Seward Small Boat Harbor with mountain view in the backdrop.

Table of Contents

Visiting Seward Boat Harbor: Our Experiences

The Seward Small Boat Harbor is one of our favorite spots in the city. Chris and I love strolling around the harbor, watching boats come and go, and seeing anglers fillet their fresh catches. We enjoy browsing the souvenir shops and soaking in the lively atmosphere of the main street.

Exploring the small port and its nearby buildings is one of the top activities in Seward. We’ve explored this harbor countless times, whether on sunny days, rainy days, or foggy days. Each visit offers something new and fascinating to admire.

Recently, we embarked on a 6-hour cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park from this harbor, and we can highly recommend it. From the small boat harbor starts top Kenai Fjords tours.

Bots in small harbor with mountain view in the backdrop.

Location of the Boat Harbor

Seward Small Boat Harbor is the heart of the city. This bustling harbor is the hub of maritime activity in the city. It’s next to the Alaska Railway Depot and the Seward Cruise Ship Terminal, making it a convenient stop for travelers.

Whether you’re arriving in Seward from Anchorage by train, bus, or car, your first stop will be the small boat harbor. Along both sides of Seward Highway, you’ll find convenient parking lots where you can park and begin exploring the city center and the harbor.

If you arrive by train or bus, take advantage of the free Seward shuttle to reach key points in the city, such as Waterfront Park, downtown Seward, or the renowned Alaska SeaLife Center. Alternatively, you can walk to these destinations, as Seward is a compact, walkable city.

Wooden boardwalk with shops and cafes in the small harbor.

If you plan a one-day visit to Seward, you’ll find some of the most interesting places in the small harbor. When you visit, you’ll find a mix of local charm and natural beauty.

The harbor is surrounded by stunning views of mountains and Resurrection Bay. It’s a perfect spot for a stroll, with plenty of things to see and do.

Vessels departing from small boat harbor with mountains covered by snow in the backdrop.

If you’re short on time, an hour is enough to take a pleasant walk around the small boat harbor. However, if you want to explore downtown Seward, stroll through Waterfront Park, and visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, plan to spend about 4-5 hours to fully enjoy what Seward has to offer.

So, let’s examine this boat harbor more closely and determine which points you should visit during your walk.

Safari lodge hotel with a small boat harbor view.

Seward Harbor Master’s Office

Start your visit at the Seward Harbor Master’s Office. Located centrally in the harbor, this office is the hub of all harbor activities. Here, you can gather information about the harbor’s daily operations, get updates on weather and tides, and find out about upcoming events.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to provide insights and tips to help you make the most of your time at the harbor. What’s important is that you will find showers and restrooms inside. Also, it’s a bus stop if you plan to travel by coach.

entrance to the Seward Harbor Master's Office.

Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center

Next, head to the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center, located near the harbor. This center offers valuable information about the park’s wildlife, glaciers, and fjords. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits, a 3D topographic map, and a short film that highlights the stunning scenery of Kenai Fjords National Park.

Ranger-led programs offer guided walks and talks, providing deeper insights into the park’s ecosystem. The friendly staff can help you plan your visit with maps, brochures, and personalized advice. If you plan an Exit Glacier hike or Harding Icefield Trail, you can ask about current conditions or bear activity in the area.

Agnes Stabinska, the author, in Seward small boat harbor at the entrance to the kenai fjords national park visitor center.

Exhibit in Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center in Seward harbor.

Harbor 360 Hotel Observation Deck

For panoramic views of the harbor and beyond, head to the Harbor 360 Hotel’s observation deck. This vantage point offers stunning vistas, especially during sunrise or sunset.

It’s an excellent spot for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the beauty of Seward. The deck is open to the public and provides a great overview of the bustling activity in the harbor below.

Harbor 360 Hotel Observation Deck: the view from the sea.

Harbor 360 is one of the best hotels in Seward. It’s also a perfect place to stay if you are planning an Alaska cruise from Seward, as it’s the closest hotel to the cruise ship terminal. I love the puffin mural on the hotel wall. Be sure to photograph it, as it’s a masterpiece.

Huge puffins mural on the wall of Harbor 360 hotel.

Harbor Walk

The Harbor Walk is a scenic pathway that winds along the waterfront, offering excellent views of the boats and the bay. This easy walk is perfect for families and provides plenty of photo opportunities. Informational signs along the way offer insights into the harbor’s history and marine life. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and take in the vibrant atmosphere of Seward Small Boat Harbor.

From the boardwalk, you can capture stunning photos of the harbor and boats with majestic mountains in the backdrop. Watch as anglers fillet their fresh catches or explore the many colorful and charming buildings that offer a variety of trips and tours around the area.

Harbor walk with informational signs along the way .

Seward small boat harbor with stunning mountains covered by snow in the backdrop.

Mariners’ Memorial

Pay your respects at the Seward Mariners’ Memorial, also known as the Fishermen’s Memorial, a touching tribute to those who have lost their lives at sea.

The memorial poignantly reminds visitors of the risks taken by those who make their living from the ocean and adds a reflective element to your harbor stroll. It’s a quiet spot to remember and honor the brave fishermen of the region.

Next to this memorial starts an area known as the Waterfront Park, which has the best campgrounds in Seward for RVs and tents.

Seward Mariners' Memorial- the view from the small harbor.

Mariners' Memorial the view from the sea.

Boat Tours and Day Cruises

The Seward Small Boat Harbor is the launching point for numerous short boat tours and one-day cruises. Whether you’re interested in whale watching, glacier cruises, or fishing charters, there are plenty of options to choose from. These tours provide a unique perspective of the area’s marine life and stunning landscapes.

Whale Watching Tours

Whale-watching tours offer the chance to see humpback whales, orcas, and gray whales in their natural habitat. These tours often include sightings of sea otters, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds. Guides provide interesting facts about marine life and help spot these magnificent creatures. Seward is one of the best places in Alaska to watch whales.

Major Marine Tours buildling in boat harbor in Seward.

Whale tail in the water with mountains in the backdrop.

Glacier and Wildlife Cruises

Glacier cruises to Kenai Fjords National Park take you close to some of Alaska’s most impressive glaciers. You can witness the awe-inspiring sight of ice calving, where chunks of ice break off and crash into the water. These cruises also explore the fjords and offer opportunities to see wildlife like harbor seals and puffins.

Fishing Charters

For those who love fishing, Seward offers charters that take you to prime spots for catching salmon, halibut, and other local fish. Experienced captains and crews provide all the gear and guidance you need for a successful fishing trip. You can often have your catch cleaned and even shipped home. Check out Aurora Charters.

Adventure Charters

For those seeking more adventure, the harbor is the gateway to various charters offering kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and other water activities. These charters provide a more intimate exploration of the nearby coves, islands, and wildlife.

Experienced guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler.

Kayak adventure charter in small boat harbor.

Dining and Shopping

The harbor area is dotted with quaint shops and delightful eateries. From fresh seafood restaurants to cozy cafes, there’s something for every palate. Enjoy a meal with a view at one of the waterfront restaurants, or pick up some local souvenirs at the nearby shops.

Popular spots include Ray’s Waterfront for fresh seafood or The Porthole‘s famous food truck.

Seward Small Boat Harbor: Conclusion

Strolling through Seward Small Boat Harbor offers a unique blend of stunning views, engaging activities, and local charm. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely walk along the Harbor Walk, embarking on an exciting boat tour, or visiting the Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center, there’s something for everyone.

Boats in small harbor in Seward with mountains in the backdrop.

Explore the diverse dining and shopping options, take in the panoramic views from the Harbor 360 Hotel Observation Deck, and take some pictures. Pay your respects at the Fishermen’s Memorial and, for the more adventurous, try out the various water activities offered by local adventure charters.

To plan your visit step by step, explore our detailed guide to visiting Seward.

Do You Like It? Pin It For Later!