Kaikoura, New Zealand

 Kaikoura draws visitors from all over the world for the prolific marine life in the surrounding waters. Whale (including sperm whales), dolphin and seal watching tours operate year-round. There is a scenic walkway from the town center out to Point Kean, and there are colonies of fur seals on the rocky shores. The Fyffe House is a 19th century home built on a foundation of whale bones, with a museum of whaling history. It’s also famous for fresh seafood including crayfish (known elsewhere as spiny lobsters) and the delicious Paua (also known as abalone.)