Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Kelowna & Okanagan Valley
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Secession Building
The Secession Building is one of the foremost examples of Art Nouveau in Vienna, completed by Joseph Maria Olbrich in 1898, it was designed as an exhibition hall for artist Gustav Klimt and his contemporaries to exhibit their rule-breaking paintings in the new ‘Secession’ style. The squat, gleaming white hall is adorned with gilded patterns and resembles an Egyptian temple with a lacy globe of golden leaves on top. The motto “To each time its art. To art its freedom” is inscribed in gilt over the main entrance. Now regarded as the greatest symbol of Art Nouveau styling in Vienna and included on many architectural walking tours of the city, the building was originally considered scandalous for its modernistic design, which contrasted with the Baroque and Neo-classical beauty of the Imperial palaces and mansions.
The basement of the Secession Building now houses Klimt’s ethereal green-and-gold Beethoven Frieze, which was painted in 1902 as a visual interpretation of the German composer’s Ninth Symphony. The vast painting is full of twisting, elongated female figures and adorns three walls; it measures in at 111.5 ft (34 m) in length. Elsewhere in the light-flooded gallery are temporary exhibitions featuring the experimental work of contemporary artists.
Practical Info
Friedrichstrasse 12, Vienna. Open Tue–Sun 10am–6pm. Admission adult €9.50; seniors, students & children €6. Metro Lines U1, U2 or U4 to Karlsplatz.
Address: Friedrichstrasse 12, Vienna 1010, Austria
Hours: Open Tue–Sun 10am–6pm
Admission: Adults: €9.50; Seniors, Students & Children: €6
From $ 105
Sea-to-Sky Highway
Although Highway 99 technically runs from the US border through Vancouver, Squamish and Whistler to the Highway 97 Junction just north of Cache Creek, it’s the 77 miles (124 km) from Vancouver to Whistler that is commonly referred to as the Sea-to-Sky Highway.
While it’s easy to whiz up the highway from Vancouver to Whistler in less than two hours, it’s also possible to spend days exploring all the see-it-to-believe-it landscapes along the route. Just after passing the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal, the road begins to traverse a series of stunning landscapes: Porteau Cove and its beachfront campground on Howe Sound, the Britannia Mine Museum, the 1,100-foot (335-m) Shannon Falls, a towering granite dome known simply as the Chief, the outdoor-minded town of Squamish and a pinnacle of volcanic rock known as Black Tusk.
For many, the fun truly begins when the Sea-to-Sky Highway reaches Whistler Village. As the basecamp for Whistler Blackcomb, it is home to North America’s best-known ski and snowboard resort, possibly the world’s most famous mountain bike park and enough entertainment, shopping and nightlife to suit any traveler.
The highway does continue north to both Pemberton and Lillooet, two industry-led towns renowned for their nearby access to the Coastal and Chilcotin mountains, but after Pemberton the road is known as the Duffy Lakes Road rather than the Sea-to-Sky Highway.
Practical Info
The Sea-to-Sky Highway stretches 77 miles (124 km) from Vancouver to Whistler. It was recently rebuilt for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics, so the majority of the highway is now a divided four-lane road.
Address: Highway 99, BC, Canada
From $ 83
Sea Life London Aquarium
Located in a colonnade-fronted, early 20th-century County Hall building (the former headquarters for the Greater London Council), the Sea Life London Aquarium is one of Europe’s aquatic museums with 14 themed zones. Marine-life displays include walk-over glass shark tanks, transparent tunnels where sea turtles swim overhead, and kaleidoscopic coral reefs. Visitors also love the penguin exhibit, where it’s possible to observe adorable orange-beaked gentoo penguins waddling on land and swimming gracefully underwater.
The Basics
Admission to the aquarium not only includes access to the themed zones but also allows visitors to attend various feedings and educational talks held throughout the day. Guests can opt for skip-the-line tickets to save time or combo tickets to save money, the latter of which access to the aquarium as well as other big-ticket London attractions, such as the London Eye, Madame Tussauds London, and DreamWorks Tours: Shrek's Adventure. Alternatively, combine a trip to the aquarium with a cruise on London’s Thames River to view major riverside landmarks such as Big Ben, the Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral from the water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Book in advance for VIP experiences, such as a behind-the-scenes tour offering exclusive access or snorkeling with sharks.
- Lines often form during peak periods when 15-minute time slots are allocated for entry. Book a skip-the-line ticket for fast and flexible access.
- The London Aquarium is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Sea Life London Aquarium is located on the South Bank right beside the London Eye. Take the Tube to Westminster (Circle, Jubilee and District lines) or to Waterloo (Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo & City lines). Rail services also stop at Waterloo station.
When to Get There
The aquarium is open Monday through Friday from 10am to 6pm and weekends from 9:30am to 7pm. The site is a kid-friendly and family-oriented attraction and is therefore busiest during school vacations and on weekends. Avoid waiting around by purchasing a skip-the-line ticket in advance.
The Weird and Wonderful Marine Species of London Aquarium
More than 500 marine species of all shapes and sizes are represented here, from finger-length seahorses to giant Japanese spider crabs. You can spot flesh-eating red bellied piranhas and endangered Cuban crocodiles, pointy-toothed sand tiger sharks and a 6.5-foot-tall (two-meter-tall) lion’s mane jellyfish—the largest known jellyfish species in the world.
Address: Country Hall, Westminister Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB, England
Admission: Varies
From $ 27
Scone Palace
Scone Palace is one of the most important historical sites in Scotland. Located near Perth, it was once the site of an early Christian church, a priory and, eventually, an abbey. For nearly 1000 years, it was also the crowing place for the King of Scots, including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce. One of the best examples of the Georgian Gothic style in the United Kingdom, the palace has been home to the Earls of Mansfield for 400 years.
On display in the state rooms of the palace are collections of porcelain, French furniture and elephant and walrus tusks from the 17th to 19th centuries, a unique collection of papier mache and fine and unusual clocks from the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can also explore more than 100 acres of grounds surrounding the palace, including the Murray Star Maze, comprised of 2000 beech trees.
Practical Info
Located two miles north of the city of Perth, the Scone Palace is accessible by train or bus. The Perth Rail Station is three miles away. Stagecoach number 3 leaves from South Street in Perth and Stagecoach Strathtay number 58 leaves from the Perth Bus Station or Kinnoull Street in Perth. The palace and grounds are open April to October, 9:30 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., with the last admission to the palace in April and October at 4:00 p.m., and the last admission May to September at 5:00 p.m. From November to March, visitors can enjoy free access to the grounds every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission to the palace and grounds is 10.50 pounds and to the grounds alone 6.50 pounds.
Address: Perth, Scotland
Admission: Adults: £10.50
From $ 140
Sekinchan Paddy Fields
Sekinchan is a small fishing village located around 100 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur. It is one of the major rice producing towns in Malaysia, and has become a popular place for tourists and KL locals to visit in a bid to escape the city and enjoy a slower pace of life. The Sekinchan Paddy Fields are the major attraction here, along with the delicious fresh seafood on offer.
Even the journey to Sekinchan begins the process of easing out of city life, as you wind along coastal roads lined with oil palm plantations. Finally, upon reaching the paddy fields – an expansive carpet of brilliant green that seems to go on forever – the bustle of city life seems like a distant memory. A walk through the paddy fields is quite the experience, and nature enthusiasts will be pleased to learn that dragonflies and a number of bird species, such as swiftlets, are part of the ecosystem here.
You can also stop by the Sekinchan Paddy Fields Processing Factory during your visit, which features a small museum charting how rice is harvested and how these methods have changed over the years.
Visiting the Sekinchan Paddy Fields is best enjoyed as part of a full-day Sekinchan sightseeing trip from Kuala Lumpur, which usually includes a delicious seafood lunch and stops at Redang Beach and Nan Tian Temple.
Practical Info
Sekinchan is located approximately 100 kilometers north of Kuala Lumpur’s city center. The most convenient way to reach the town and see the paddy fields is by joining an organized tour, although it can also be reached by taking a bus from Pudu Sentral (Puduraya) Bus Terminal.
Did You Know? Sekinchan in Chinese means ‘village suitable for plantation’, and this small town is responsible for the highest rice production per acre in the whole country.
Address: Jalan Tali Air 5, Ban 2, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Admission: RM5
From $ 49
Sebastian de Belalcázar Statue
Looking down over the city from its hilltop perch, the Sebastian de Belalcázar Statue is one of Cali’s most iconic landmarks, erected in honor of the Spanish conquistador who founded the city in 1536. Built in celebration of the city’s 400th birthday, the statue depicts Belalcázar leaning on his sword and pointing towards the ocean as he looks out over the city below.
As well as being an important monument, the Sebastian de Belalcázar Statue also marks one of Cali’s most popular lookout points, with views stretching out over the city below. For the most atmospheric experience, visit in the evening hours when locals gather to watch the sunset and food vendors and street entertainers work their way through the crowds.
Practical Info
The Sebastian de Belalcázar Statue is located in the Arboledas neighborhood, about three miles (5 km) from downtown Cali and is best reached by taxi. There is no admission fee.
Address: Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia
From $ 35
Secovlje Salina Nature Park
The coastal wetlands of Secovlje are also home to the nation’s largest saltpans. Thick, murky green walkways wind between expansive wet water areas that capture and hold vast amounts of salt that naturally occurs here. While the pans alone are a site to see, the Secovlje Salina Nature Park has been attracting travelers for decades, thanks to its extensive biodiversity, natural beauty and picturesque landscapes.
With more than 270 different species of birds, the nature park draws ornithologists and birders to Fontanigge, the southernmost section of the park, where vegetation is perfect for white herons and a picturesque estuary leads to a quiet river. But Secovlje Salina offers plenty of options for travelers who aren’t so interested in our flying friends. An extensive network of bike and walking trails as well as the Lera Salt Shop and the Saltworks Museum round out a visit to this Mediterranean destination.
Practical Info
The park is located 130 kilometers from Ljubljana. Travelers can tour the park in a private car, or access the area by boat from Piran. Public transport from Portoroz is not available.
Address: 6333 Sečovlje, Sicciole, Slovenia
Admission: Season 1 7€; Season 2 6€
From $ 126
Scott Monument
An imposing gothic tower dedicated to celebrated Scottish poet Sir Walter Scott, the awe-inspiring Scott Monument dominates the skyline of Edinburgh’s New Town. Designed by George Meikle Kemp, who triumphed in a national architectural competition, the monument was constructed between 1840 and 1844, and towers 200 feet above the principal shopping district of Princes Street.
Beneath the central arch of the monument, a raised platform holds a statue of Sir Walter Scott, sitting with his faithful dog, Maida, and reading a book. Carved from a solid block of Carrara marble, the sculpture is the masterwork of Sir John Steell and became so iconic that a bronze replica has since been erected in Central Park, New York. The dramatic tower also doubles up as a popular observation point, with a 287-step spiral staircase leading to the tip of its spire.
Beneath the central arch of the monument, a raised platform holds a statue of Sir Walter Scott, sitting with his faithful dog, Maida, and reading a book. Carved from a solid block of Carrara marble, the sculpture is the masterwork of Sir John Steell and became so iconic that a bronze replica has since been erected in Central Park, New York. The dramatic tower also doubles up as a popular observation point, with a 287-step spiral staircase leading to the tip of its spire.
Address: Scott Monument, Princes St, Edinburgh, Scotland
From $ 19
Sedlec Ossuary
As impressive as it is macabre, Sedlec Ossuary is the peculiar star attraction of the Kutná Hora UNESCO World Heritage Site. The subterranean ossuary lies beneath the Cemetery Church of All Saints and is decorated and furnished entirely with human bones and skulls, earning it the nickname the "Chapel of Bones.”
The Basics
Most travelers opt to visit Sedlec Ossuary on a day trip from nearby Prague. A walking tour is the most popular way to explore Kutná Hora, taking in UNESCO-listed monuments, such as the Church of St. Barbara, the Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady at Sedlec, and the 14th-century Church of St. Jacob. It’s also possible to visit one of Kutná Hora’s old silver mines, a throwback to the town’s heyday as a silver mining center.
Full-day tours from Prague typically stop at other attractions, such as the Gothic Zleby Castle along the way, and afford stunning views of the Bohemian countryside.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is an admission charge for visiting Sedlec Ossuary, and combination tickets for other Kutná Hora attractions are available.
- Although there is no official dress code, modest attire is recommended when visiting the church and cemetery.
- Sedlec Ossuary is wheelchair accessible via an elevator.
How to Get There
Direct trains run to Kutná Hora from Prague and take around an hour; it’s just over an hour’s drive along the D11. From Kutná Hora-Sedlec Station, it’s a 10-minute signposted walk to the Sedlec Ossuary.
When to Get There
The Sedlec Ossuary is open year-round, although opening times vary throughout the year. If you’re visiting in winter (November–February), be aware that the ossuary typically closes for an hour or two over lunchtime.
Architectural Highlights of the Sedlec Ossuary
The bones from more than 40,000 Black Death and Hussite Wars victims, originally buried in the cemetery, makeup Sedlec Ossuary. Czech woodcarver Frantisek Rint created the eerily beautiful ornamentation in 1870, following a commission by the aristocratic Bohemian Schwarzenberg family. Skulls adorn the Gothic pyramids in front of the altar and swathe the walls. Even the nave’s fantastical centerpiece is a chandelier created using every single bone from a man’s skeleton.
Address: Starosedlecká, Kutná Hora, Central Bohemia, Czech Republic 284 03, Czech Republic
Admission: Varies
From $ 32
SEA LIFE Helsinki
Located inside of Helsinki’s Linnanmaki Amusement Park, Sea Life Helsinki is an interactive aquarium that proclaims to take visitors on a magical journey through the world’s seas and oceans. Touch crabs and sea urchins under the guidance of trained staff at the interactive rock pool or see a hermit crab change its shell. Immerse yourself inside an ocean tank via a transparent underwater tunnel. Catch a glimpse of sharks, piranhas, stingrays and tropical fish and learn about the need to protect their endangered environments.
Practical Info
Sea Life Helsinki and the Linnanmaki Amusement Park are located on the outskirts of Helsinki. From downtown, take tram 3 or bus 23 to the Alppila/Alphyddan stop or take the train to the Pasila railway station, which is also within walking distance. Allow up to two hours for your visit. Super Tickets are available that include not only admission, but also a guided behind the scenes tour, guidebook and a discount for the aquarium store.
Address: Tivolitie 10, Helsinki, Finland
Hours: Thursday-Tuesday, 10am-5pm; Wednesday 10am-7pm. Closed December 24 and 25.
Admission: 16.50 Euro in person; 15 Euro online
From $ 17
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World, formerly called Siam Ocean World, is one of Southeast Asia’s biggest aquariums, encompassing 110,000 square feet (10,200 square meters) of exhibit space and over a million gallons (5 million liters) of tanks. The aquarium is divided into several themed areas, including the innovative Shark Walk, where instead of passing through an acrylic tunnel, visitors walk above a tank where five species of sharks swim.
Popular aquatic residents include a colony of African penguins at Rocky Shore, an array of colorful and often bizarre seahorses at Seahorse Kingdom, short clawed otters in the Tropical Rainforest and a host of mesmerizing jellies. For an additional fee, guests can participate in feeding boat rides, behind-the-scenes tours, 4D cinema screenings and shark tank dives.
Practical Info
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is open seven days a week, including public holidays. The aquarium is located with Siam Paragon shopping center.
Address: B1-B2 Floor, Siam Paragon, 991 Rama 1 Road, Bangkok, Thailand
Hours: Daily
Admission: Adults 990 Baht, Children 3-11 790 Baht
From $ 18
Selime Monastery
Carved directly into the rocks of Cappadocia, Selime Monastery is one of the region’s most fascinating cultural attractions. Experts believe it took more than 200 years to shape the monastery, beginning in the eighth or ninth century. The structure, which could house some 5,000 people, included a cathedral-sized church with stone columns, camel stables, living quarters, a missionary school, water well and a huge kitchen with a chimney.
There’s a bit of a climb to get up to the monastery structure, and visitors are free to climb inside many of the structures as well. The view from the top looks out over the lunar-like landscape of Cappadocia.
Practical Info
Selime Monastery is often included as a stop on tours through the region.
Address: Guzelyurt, Cappadocia, Turkey
Hours: Daily 8am-6pm
Admission: ₺20
From $ 41
SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium
The enormous Mall of America outside the Twin Cities is big enough to contain many things, including an amusement park and the 1.2-million gallon SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium.
The aquarium has been entertaining visitors since it opened in 1996. The space has undergone several changes and renovations since then, but one of the most popular features remains the 300-foot-long clear tunnel through which people can walk with water (and sea creatures) surrounding them.
There are both saltwater and freshwater habitats at the aquarium, with a variety of sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, lobsters, catfish, octopuses, and more. One tank contains many different kinds of jellyfish, while another has six kinds of seahorses. There is a touch pool, a tank with live coral, and a rainforest exhibit with animals like caiman, piranhas, and poison dart frogs.
The aquarium offers different ticket options, from general admission up through a “VIP Experience” that includes a “behind-the-scenes” tour and a Stingray Adventure feed experience.
Practical Info
There are scheduled feedings every day at the aquarium. The schedule varies by day, so check when you arrive to time your tour accordingly.
Address: Mall of America, 120 E Broadway, Bloomington, Minnesota 55425, USA
Hours: Mon-Thurs 10am-7pm; Fri 10am-8pm; Sat 9:30am-8pm; Sun 10am-6:30pm
Admission: Adults: $14.99
From $ 21
Sea of Galilee
Lake Kineret, more famously known as the Sea of Galilee, is Israel’s largest freshwater lake. The waters of the Jordan River flow into the lake near the ancient ruins of Bethsaida and out toward the Dead Sea at the lake’s southernmost tip. At 689 feet (210 meters) below sea level, the lake and the lands surrounding it are warm in winter and oppressively hot in summer, making the bathtub-like waters a popular and refreshing swimming spot for visitors.
The lake’s significance stretches back into Biblical times, when Jesus walked on its waters and fed crowds on its shores by multiplying bread and fish. He stood overlooking the lake while delivering the Sermon on the Mount. Today, the same types of fish caught by the disciples – mullet, catfish, sardine and combfish – still inhabit the waters and supply modern fishermen.
Practical Info
Several buses circumnavigate the Sea of Galilee. It’s also possible to visit significant sites on the shores by boarding a tourist cruise of the lake.
During summer, boat service connects Lido Beach with Capernaum.
Address: Galilee, Israel
From $ 105
Sekumpul Waterfall
Spilling down from dizzying heights of up to 260 feet (80 meters), Sekumpul Waterfall, a series of seven narrow cascades, is hidden away amid lush tropical foliage. Dirt paths lead to elevated viewpoints overlooking the falls and to rock pools at the foot, where visitors can cool off with a refreshing swim.
The Basics
While visitors can trek to Sekumpul Waterfall independently, many go with a guide who can help navigate the paths, provide commentary about the area, and point them toward the best swimming spots. Part of the experience is trekking to the waterfalls; the trail leads through dense tropical foliage and features many rocky steps.
At the falls, most tours include free time so visitors can swim and relax. Some tours combine Sekumpul Waterfall with other sights in North Bali, such as Pura Ulun Danu Bratan and Kintamani Highland, as well as a visit to a local coffee plantation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sekumpul Waterfall is a must for nature lovers.
- Wear sturdy water shoes as you’ll have to negotiate slippery rocks, a stream, and—if it’s been raining—muddy paths.
- Getting to Sekumpul Waterfalls requires hiking along uneven surfaces and navigating numerous steps; therefore, it’s not suitable for visitors with mobility issues.
How to Get There
The trek to the falls begins at the village of Sekumpul, which is situated in Buleleng, North Bali. The village of Sekumpul is around 17 miles (27 kilometers) from Lovina and about 13 miles (21 kilometers) from Singaraja. If you don’t have a car, it’s best to come as part of an organized tour. Tours often include pickup and drop-off from hotels in Denpasar, Ubud, Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur, and Nusa Dua.
When to Get There
Unlike other waterfalls in Bali, Sekumpul always flows, even during the dry season (May–September). In fact, during the dry season, the falls are often easier to reach as low water levels make the trek easier than in the wet season. Visiting during the wet season is still possible, though it’s best done with a guide.
Other Waterfalls in Bali
For adventurous travelers who want to see more of this Indonesian isle’s hidden natural treasures, there are many more waterfalls to discover. Among the most well-known is the 115-foot (35-meter) Gitgit Waterfall in Singaraja, just outside Ubud, where you’re likely to see monkeys swinging around in the surrounding trees. Then, there is Niagara Munduk in Buleleng, which comprises a pair of falls (Munduk and Melanting) and features rocky wading pools amid verdant forest surroundings.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 35
Secret Lagoon (Gamla Laugin)
Close to the attractions of Iceland’s Golden Circle but far from the crowds of the famous Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s Secret Lagoon offers natural hot springs and a remote location surrounded by icy wilderness and rugged lava fields.
The Basics
Visitors come to the Secret Lagoon to bathe in its geothermal pool and the steamy waters are naturally heated to between 100–104˚F (38–40˚C) year-round. Secret Lagoon tours from Reykjavik often include a visit to the Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geyser, or other attractions in the Golden Circle area.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is only one swimming pool at the Secret Lagoon, so advance reservations are recommended.
- Visitor facilities include a snack bar, showers, and changing rooms; towels and swimsuits are available for rent.
- All visitors must shower thoroughly before swimming in the lagoon.
How to Get There
The Secret Lagoon is located in the small village of Fludir in the Golden Circle area of South Iceland, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) east of Reykjavik. The only way to get there is by road, so those without their own transport can either take a taxi or visit as part of a tour.
When to Get There
The Secret Lagoon is open year-round, although opening times vary with the seasons. Visiting in the morning or early afternoon is the best time to avoid the crowds.
Northern Lights and Midnight Sun
While the geothermal area around the Secret Lagoon is a prime viewing spot for the seasonal phenomena of the Northern Lights (winter) and the Midnight Sun (summer), the swimming pool itself is only open until 8pm in winter and 10pm in summer. Many tours combine an atmospheric evening swim in the lagoon with a Northern Lights viewing safari or a tour of the Golden Circle beneath the light of the Midnight Sun.
Address: 845 Flúðir, Hvammsvegur, Iceland
Hours: Winter: 11am - 8pm, Summer: 10am - 10pm
Admission: Adults: 2800 ISK
From $ 27
Science Centre Singapore
For more than 35 years the Science Centre Singapore has been promoting scientific learning through exploration and experience. Some 100 interactive exhibits are housed in 14 galleries, as well as in a massive outdoor space. From waterworks to gardening, the human body to the solar system, viruses to inventions, Science Centre Singapore offers families a memorable (and entertaining!) hands-on science experience.
Practical Info
The Science Centre is open daily from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. It is located at 15 Science Centre Road, north of the Ayer Rajah Expressway. Standard rate tickets are S$12 for adults, S$8 for children and S$6 for senior citizens. Two-in-One packages that include IMAX tickets are available for a reduced price.
Address: 15 Science Centre Road, 609081, Singapore
Admission: Adults S$12; Children S$8
From $ 27
Sea of Cortez
The Sea of Cortez (also known as the Gulf of California), lies between the Baja California Peninsula and mainland Mexico. This stretch of the Pacific, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most diverse seas in the world and home to more than 3,000 marine species, including hammerhead sharks, sea lions, and sea turtles.
The Basics
While the Sea of Cortez stretches along roughly 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometers) of Mexico’s coastline, the Los Cabos region in Baja California Sur is a popular jumping off point for tours. Many Sea of Cortez excursions leave from Cabos San Lucas, Todos Santos, San José del Cabo, and other nearby towns.
There’s no shortage of things to do, whether you want to fish, snorkel, scuba dive, or horseback ride on the beach. You can also swim with massive whale sharks or relax on a sunset cruise. Whale-watching tours are another popular activity; humpback whales, blue whales, and grey whales migrate through the region during fall and winter.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Sea of Cortez is an ideal destination for nature lovers, sun worshippers, and families with kids.
- If you plan to snorkel or scuba dive, be sure to wear a wetsuit or long-sleeved rash guard to protect against the sun, jellyfish, and rough coral.
- If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring medicine aboard any ocean trips.
- Proof of scuba diving certification is required for certified dives.
How to Get There
The Los Cabos region, where many tours depart from, is located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula. Los Cabos International Airport lies roughly 45 minutes by road from Cabo San Lucas and Todos Santos, and 15 minutes by road from San José del Cabo. Rental cars and taxis are good ways to get around in this region.
When to Get There
Although it doesn’t get hit with very many big storms, the Sea of Cortez is subject to the same hurricane season as the Atlantic—the months of June through November may see an increase in rain and storm activity. Winter (December through April) is the busiest season and the best time for whale watching.
Biodiversity in the Sea of Cortez
The Sea of Cortez is an excellent spot for snorkeling and diving, with a rich array of marine life and an underwater world of hard coral reefs. A variety of tropical fish species, including pufferfish, yellow snapper, manta rays, and sharks, can be found here, plus large marine mammals such as whales, whale sharks, and dolphins.
Address: Baja California Penninsula, Mexico
From $ 55
SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium
The SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium is located in the Haeundae Beach area of Busan. With its variety of marine life and state-of-the-art facilities, it’s one of the top aquariums in the country, and a popular attraction among families. The aquarium is spread across three underground levels and also features an outdoor park, with a gift shop and several places to eat on its first level.
The SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium features more than 35,000 fish, algae, reptiles, and other marine animals. You can view the sea creatures in the building's main tank either through giant windows or from an 80-meter underwater tunnel – an incredibly popular area of the aquarium. Elsewhere, there are 40 exhibits to enjoy, featuring animals such as penguins, otters, and piranhas, plus there’s a touch tank for a close-up viewing of various species under the guidance of trained staff.
A trip to the SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium can be combined with visiting Busan’s other key attractions, including the Beomeosa Temple and Haeundae Beach. Most full-day tours will include lunch, entrance fees, and round-trip transportation.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour, you can reach The SEA LIFE Busan Aquarium via taxi, or by taking bus number 139 from Haeundae Station.
Did You Know? The aquarium offers a 4D movie theater experience, glass-bottom boat rides, and even shark diving. (These activities are all charged separately to the entrance fee.)
Address: 266 Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Busan, South Korea
Hours: 9am-9pm
Admission: Adult: 26,000 KRW / Child: 20,000 KRW
From $ 16
Scott's View
Named for Scotland's greatest Romantic novelist of the late 18th century, Sir Walter Scott, Scott's View affords travelers an epic panorama that spans southern Scotland's green landscape. The writer lived nearby while completing his greatest works, including Rob Roy and Ivanhoe, and his favorite spot in nature (of many) was at the top of Bemersyde Hill above a meander in the river.
From here, travelers can see the three peaks of the Eildon Hills, the sparkling water of the River Tweed and the heather-clad hills, as well as the rolling Tweed Valley laid out below. In spring, the foreground is covered in jasmine-colored gorse, while in fall the view glows russet and brown. Sir Walter Scott so loved this view that his hearse pulled up here one final time on the way to his funeral.
These days a simple stone plinth and plaque marks the spot, which is included on a range of cycling and walking routes, plus many day trips from Edinburgh into the Borders area. Scott's View is a favorite local spot for newly married couples to be photographed.
Practical Info
In Bemersyde, Scott's View is located three miles (5 km) east of Melrose. It is only accessible by car; from the B6404 St Boswells–Kelso road, turn off along the B6356, signposted to Dryburgh Abbey. About one mile along there is a signpost for Scott's View. Follow for two miles (3 km). Car parking is available.
Address: B6404 Kelso road, Bemersyde, Kelso, Borders TD6 9, Scotland
From $ 51