Caines Head - South Beach

Near Caines Head, Seward offers a variety of dining options. The Cookery is a modern seafood restaurant known for its refined plates and craft beer. Another popular choice is The Highliner Restaurant, which serves family-friendly comfort food. For a casual breakfast or lunch, The Porthole is a great option, offering coffee and comfort food in a cozy setting. Breeze Inn Restaurant & Lounge provides a casual dining experience with a focus on comfort food and cocktails. Lastly, Alaska Seafood Grill offers simple seafood dishes in a compact setting.

For accommodations near Caines Head, several hotels in Seward offer comfortable stays. The Harbor 360 Hotel is a laid-back waterfront option with an indoor pool and free breakfast. Resurrection Lodge on the Bay provides a more secluded experience with free Wi-Fi. Rustic Roots Cabins offer homey rooms and cabins with a rustic charm. The Seward Gateway Hotel is another choice, featuring free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Lastly, Seward Windsong Lodge offers seasonal lodging in a wilderness setting.

Caines Head State Recreation Area offers several amenities for visitors. There are picnic shelters and campsites available near North Beach, along with pit toilets and latrines. The area also features a seasonally staffed ranger station. For those looking to stay overnight, there are public use cabins like the Derby Cove Public Cabin, equipped with basic amenities such as a wood heating stove and nearby water sources. However, there are no showers or rental equipment available on site.

Caines Head is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include hiking the coastal trail to North Beach and exploring the historic Fort McGilvray. Sea kayaking is another favorite pastime, allowing visitors to paddle through Resurrection Bay and enjoy the surrounding scenery. Berry picking is also a common activity during the summer months. For those interested in history, the remains of the South Beach Garrison offer a glimpse into the area's past military significance.

While Caines Head offers some accessible amenities, such as wheelchair-accessible picnic shelters and restrooms near North Beach, the trail itself is not suitable for wheelchairs due to its rugged terrain and beach sections. Visitors with mobility issues may find it difficult to navigate the trail, especially during low tide when the beach can be slippery. There are no specific disability access facilities like ramps or wheelchair rentals available at the site.

Parking for Caines Head is available at the trailhead near Lowell Point. There is no fee for parking, but the road to the trailhead is unpaved and may require a vehicle with good clearance. The parking area is relatively small, so it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season. The proximity to the beach is convenient, with the trail starting just a short walk from the parking lot.

Caines Head has a rich history dating back to World War II, when it served as a strategic defense point for the Port of Seward. The area's unique geology includes shale-covered beaches and steep cliffs, offering dramatic views of the bay. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot a variety of species, including bald eagles, sea otters, and whales. The site is also known for its challenging access during winter months due to harsh weather conditions.

Caines Head State Recreation Area is surrounded by several attractions. The most notable is Fort McGilvray, a World War II fort perched on a cliff overlooking Resurrection Bay. The South Beach Garrison, with its remnants of military structures, is another historical site worth visiting. Nearby, the Kenai Fjords National Park offers stunning glacier and wildlife tours. Additionally, the scenic Resurrection Bay provides opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing.