The 7 Outstanding Coastlines You Must See Before You Die

Regarding natural beauty, few things rival the sheer splendor of a stunning coastline. These are not just ordinary views but some of the most awe-inspiring coastlines you’ll ever encounter. Here’s a curated list of extraordinary coastlines that should top your travel bucket list.

Nā Pali Coast, Kaua’i, Hawaii

The Nā Pali Coast, a stunning gem on Kaua’i’s northwest border, is one of those places where words barely scratch the surface of its breathtaking beauty. The name Nā Pali, which means high cliffs in Hawaiian, perfectly encapsulates the grandeur of this coastline. Here, steep peaks and deep valleys create a dramatic landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

The sweeping vistas, the sense of isolation, and the sheer natural splendor create an experience that is nothing short of magical. So, if you’re up for a journey that promises a view and a full-throttle immersion into one of Hawaii’s most magnificent landscapes, the Nā Pali Coast is calling your name.

Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

Well, that fantasy becomes tantalizingly real on Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route. At the heart of this adventure is the iconic Giant’s Causeway, where myth and geology collide in a truly spectacular fashion. So, what’s the buzz about this so-called Causeway built by giants?

With its mesmerizing array of hexagonal basalt columns, the Giant’s Causeway looks like something straight out of a fantasy novel. But here’s the twist: these impressive formations are not the result of a giant’s labor but rather the fascinating product of volcanic activity millions of years ago. As you drive along the Causeway Coastal Route, prepare for a visual feast.

West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island

If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about landscapes so breathtaking that they seem almost otherworldly, then the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island is your next must-visit destination. This rugged and captivating region, known for its dramatic scenery, offers an array of experiences that will leave you in awe, perhaps even searching for a wizard named Gandalf.

Here’s why the West Coast is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Imagine standing at the base of a glacier stretching like a frozen blue ice river. That’s what you get with the Franz Josef Glacier.

Patagonia, Argentina

When you embark on the RN-3 route in Patagonia, Argentina, you’re not just taking a drive; you’re setting out on an epic adventure that reveals some of Earth’s most captivating and remote landscapes. As you continue south on RN-3, the scenery transforms from the gentle charm of the peninsula to the wild, unspoiled expanses of Patagonia.

This road, stretching like a ribbon through some of the most remote parts of Argentina, is more than just a route; it’s a gateway to the untamed beauty of the southern cone. Each mile brings new vistas, from sweeping steppes to rugged mountain ranges, showcasing the diverse and dramatic landscapes that define Patagonia.

Eventually, RN-3 leads you to Ushuaia, a city that boldly claims the End of the World title. The mountain-ringed town is a striking blend of modernity and wilderness, offering breathtaking views and a sense of adventure that’s hard to match.

Cape Point, South Africa

Regarding breathtaking destinations, Cape Point stands out as one of the most exhilarating spots you could ever visit. Nestled at the most southwesterly tip of Africa, Cape Point is not just a location; it’s an adventure.

Imagine a journey to the world’s edge, where you’ll find yourself braving gale-force winds and navigating a path once tread by solitary lighthouse keepers. The route to Cape Point is not for the faint of heart. As you approach this dramatic point, the Cape Point Lighthouse stands tall and proud.

It’s not just any lighthouse; it’s renowned as the world’s most durable beacon, weathering the fierce elements that characterize this rugged coastline. The lighthouse has guided countless sailors safely, and its resilience mirrors the raw, untamed spirit of Cape Point itself. Cape Point is a destination that defies expectations and rewards those who seek its wild beauty.

Big Sur: California’s Coastal Masterpiece

As you weave through the hairpin turns of this rugged and dramatic stretch of coastline, it’s clear that this is one of the most visually stunning routes you’ll ever travel. Highway 1, the road that hugs Big Sur’s cliffs, offers panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking.

Each twist and turn of the road presents a new perspective of the Pacific Ocean, revealing an ever-changing canvas of waves crashing against rugged cliffs and expansive, unspoiled beaches. It’s a driving experience that feels almost cinematic as if you’re part of a breathtaking landscape painting.

These spots, while simple, offer long, uninterrupted views of the Pacific, where you can soak in the raw beauty of Big Sur. The sight of the ocean stretching endlessly towards the horizon, framed by the jagged coastline, steals your breath away every single time.

Halong Bay, Vietnam

You step aboard a traditional Chinese junk boat that seems straight out of a bygone era and set sail across the shimmering emerald waters of Halong Bay. Legend has it that the furious tail of a dragon sculpted the stunning limestone cliffs and islands of Halong Bay.

As you navigate these waters, you can almost feel the dragon’s ancient energy swirling around you, making each turn of the boat a step back into an enchanting tale. But Halong Bay is not just about myths. Every corner of Halong Bay tells a different story.