Coastal Scenic Drives with Stunning Ocean Views

There’s something magical about a coastal road trip. The fresh sea breeze, the crashing waves, and the endless horizon create an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for breathtaking ocean views, these coastal scenic drives will take you through some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. Whether you’re cruising by cliffs, beaches, or through lush coastal towns, these routes will provide the perfect backdrop for your next adventure.

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most famous scenic drives in the world, offering jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean. Stretching from Southern California to Northern California, this 655-mile route takes you through rugged cliffs, stunning beaches, and charming coastal towns. Along the way, you’ll be able to stop at iconic spots like Big Sur, Point Lobos, and Bixby Creek Bridge.

• Highlights:

  • Big Sur with its towering cliffs and turquoise waters

  • Pfeiffer Beach, known for its purple sand

  • Santa Barbara’s coastline, perfect for beach lovers

2. Great Ocean Road, Australia

The Great Ocean Road is a 151-mile stretch along the southern coast of Australia. Famous for its dramatic coastal scenery, this drive offers views of cliffs, beaches, and some of the most stunning rock formations in the world. The Twelve Apostles limestone stacks are a highlight, along with the Bells Beach surfing area and charming coastal villages like Lorne.

• Highlights:

  • The iconic Twelve Apostles rock formations

  • Loch Ard Gorge for a scenic stop

  • Bells Beach for those who love surfing

3. The Atlantic Highway, Norway

Norway’s Atlantic Highway is a must-see for anyone who loves dramatic ocean views and incredible engineering. This 8.3-mile stretch of road connects the islands of Averøy and Kvernes, crossing several bridges and offering spectacular views of the Norwegian Sea. The route is especially famous for the Atlantic Ocean Road, which curves through islands, islets, and reefs, making it one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world.

• Highlights:

  • The Atlantic Ocean Road, with bridges and wild waves

  • Kvernes Stave Church for history and views

  • Grip Island, a beautiful coastal village

4. Garden Route, South Africa

The Garden Route in South Africa is a 186-mile journey along the country’s southern coastline, offering stunning views of both the Indian Ocean and the Outeniqua Mountains. This route connects Cape Town to Durban, passing through lush forests, charming towns, and pristine beaches. Highlights include the Knysna Heads and Plettenberg Bay, known for its beautiful beaches and wildlife.

• Highlights:

  • Knysna Heads for breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean

  • Tsitsikamma National Park, where the forest meets the sea

  • Plettenberg Bay, a great spot for whale watching

5. Cabot Trail, Canada

The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, Canada, is one of the most scenic drives in North America. This 185-mile road takes you through the Cape Breton Highlands, offering spectacular views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean. Along the route, you’ll see cliffs, lush forests, and charming fishing villages. Stop at Cape Breton Highlands National Park for the best panoramic views of the coastline.

• Highlights:

  • Cape Breton Highlands with its rugged cliffs and waterfalls

  • The charming village of Baddeck

  • Cape Smokey, a lookout with sweeping ocean views

6. Pacific Rim Highway, Canada

In British Columbia, the Pacific Rim Highway takes you on a scenic journey through the island’s rugged coastline. The 125-mile route runs from Nanaimo to Tofino, offering views of lush rainforests, rocky shorelines, and pristine beaches. It’s an ideal route for anyone looking to immerse themselves in both ocean views and nature. The route is especially stunning in late summer and fall.

• Highlights:

  • The wild beaches of Long Beach

  • Tofino, a haven for surfers and nature lovers

  • MacMillan Provincial Park, home to giant cedar trees

7. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest coastal routes in the world, stretching over 1,500 miles along the country’s western coast. The route takes you through dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque fishing villages. Some of the best spots along the drive include the Cliffs of Moher, Slea Head Drive, and Donegal’s Slieve League Cliffs.

• Highlights:

  • The awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher

  • Slea Head Drive for spectacular coastal views

  • The rugged Slieve League Cliffs in Donegal

8. State Route 1, Maine

In Maine, State Route 1 runs along the coastline from Kittery to Houlton, offering picturesque views of lighthouses, rocky shorelines, and quaint New England villages. The route passes through Acadia National Park, providing access to some of the most scenic spots in the state, including Cadillac Mountain and Bar Harbor.

• Highlights:

  • Acadia National Park, perfect for hiking and coastline views

  • The famous Portland Head Light lighthouse

  • Bar Harbor for a charming coastal town experience

9. Big Sur, California

While part of the Pacific Coast Highway, Big Sur deserves its own mention. This stretch of coastline between Carmel and San Simeon is known for its dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and towering redwoods. The stunning views of the Pacific Ocean make this one of the most popular scenic drives in the world, especially during sunset when the light transforms the landscape.

• Highlights:

  • McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach

  • The iconic Bixby Creek Bridge

  • Views from Garrapata State Park

10. Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, Virginia

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel offers a unique experience as it crosses both over and under the Chesapeake Bay. This 17.6-mile route connects Virginia Beach with the Eastern Shore of Virginia and offers stunning views of the bay, ocean, and the Virginia coastline. The drive itself is an adventure, with sections that take you across bridges and through tunnels beneath the water.

• Highlights:

  • Crossing over the Chesapeake Bay for panoramic ocean views

  • The chance to spot dolphins and seabirds

  • Stop at the Chesapeake Bay Center for educational exhibits

Conclusion

Coastal scenic drives provide the perfect way to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Whether you’re traveling along the rugged cliffs of California or the tranquil beaches of Maine, these drives offer stunning ocean views and unforgettable experiences. Pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the beauty of the coast.