Most Scenic Walks on Coastlines
The world's coastlines offer a diverse range of breathtaking landscapes, from towering cliffs and pristine beaches to hidden coves and dramatic headlands. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, these scenic coastal walks provide the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and take in the sights. From Europe's windswept shores to Asia's tropical paradises and the Americas' rugged coastlines, we've selected some of the most stunning coastal walks from around the globe.
A Walk Along Big Sur
Located on California's central coast, Big Sur is a 90-mile stretch of rugged coastline that offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the United States. The Ventana Wilderness and Los Padres National Forest border the Pacific Ocean, creating a dramatic backdrop for hikers and nature lovers alike. The Bixby Bridge Trail is one of the most popular walks in the area, offering breathtaking views of the coastline from a series of scenic overlooks.
Strolling Along the Lighthouse Coast
The rugged coast of County Cork in southern Ireland is home to some of Europe's most impressive lighthouses and most beautiful beaches. The Lighthouse Coastal Walk takes you on a tour of the region's most iconic beacons, including the Mizen Head Signal Station and the picturesque village of Cobh. The walk offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding countryside.
Exploring the Costa Brava Coast
In northeastern Spain lies the beautiful Costa Brava coastline, where a network of scenic trails winds its way along the Mediterranean shoreline. The Camino de Ronda is one of the most popular walks in the region, taking you through picturesque fishing villages and past secluded coves and hidden beaches.
Hiking to the Top of Table Mountain
Table Mountain, perched on Cape Town's skyline like a giant granite outcrop, offers some of South Africa's most spectacular coastal views. The steep hike up to the top is rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding cityscape. On clear days, hikers can see for miles across the ocean and spot pods of dolphins playing in the waves.
Walking the Wild Coast
New Zealand's rugged coastline offers some of the world's most spectacular scenery, from towering cliffs and hidden coves to dramatic headlands and pristine beaches. The Cape Brett Track is one of the most popular coastal walks on the South Island, taking you through an untouched wilderness area that's teeming with wildlife and filled with natural beauty.
Discovering the Hidden Coves of Corsica
Off the coast of France lies the island of Corsica, a hidden gem of Mediterranean coastline. The GR 20 trail is one of the most scenic coastal walks in Europe, taking you through some of the island's most stunning landscapes, including towering mountains, hidden coves and secluded beaches.
Exploring the Farne Islands
Located off the coast of Northumberland in northeast England lies a chain of tiny islands known as the Farne Islands. The Farne Islands Coastal Walk is a 4-mile trail that takes you across the islands, past historic lighthouses and through seabird colonies that are home to thousands of puffins and other species.
Walking the Coastline of the Algarve
Portugal's southern coast is known as the Algarve, where a network of scenic trails winds its way along the Atlantic shoreline. The Ria Formosa Natural Park is one of the most beautiful coastal areas in Europe, featuring dunes, lagoons and a variety of wildlife.