Kenai Peninsula, Prince William Sound, and Homer Feature

The fishing: In summer salmon fill the rivers, which you can fish with a guide, from your own boat, or from the bank. Fishing for halibut and rockfish is also possible from charter boats out of Homer or Seward.

The wildlife: Urban moose, black and brown bears, sea lions, Dall sheep, gray whales, and bald eagles are all common in the region. Keep your eyes open and you're likely to see numerous animals, whether within town or city limits or in the backcountry.

The scenery: South Central doesn't scrimp on grandiose scenes. Boasting views of volcanoes and mountains that fall right into the water, the Kenai Peninsula is a buffet for the eyes, while Prince William Sound offers calving glaciers and narrow inlets uninhabited by anything but sea life.

The access: With a network of roads and ferries, all of the above are easily accessible. No matter where you go in the region, you're only a few steps away from the wilderness.