January 12, 2026
Scenic near thrillist

Embark on a journey through picturesque coastal drives around the globe, where the beauty of the ocean meets the allure of the road. Discover the magic of scenic coastal routes that offer a unique blend of nature’s wonders and man-made marvels.

From the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the tropical paradise of the Great Ocean Road, these drives promise an unforgettable experience for all who seek adventure and serenity along the coast.

Scenic Coastal Drives

Coastal drives world around scenic drive istock edge

Scenic coastal drives are routes that provide breathtaking views of the coastline, often featuring stunning ocean views, cliffs, beaches, and picturesque seaside towns.

Popular Scenic Coastal Drives Around the World

  • Great Ocean Road, Australia: Known for its dramatic coastal scenery, this drive offers views of the Twelve Apostles rock formations and lush rainforests.
  • Big Sur, California, USA: This iconic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway offers stunning views of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Amalfi Coast, Italy: With its winding roads overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the Amalfi Coast drive showcases colorful villages perched on cliffs.
  • Ring of Kerry, Ireland: This scenic drive takes you through lush green landscapes, rugged coastlines, and charming villages along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Benefits of Taking a Scenic Coastal Drive

  • Relaxation and Stress Relief: The peaceful surroundings and soothing ocean views can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
  • Breathtaking Views: Scenic coastal drives offer unparalleled views of the ocean, cliffs, and natural landscapes, providing a feast for the eyes.
  • Exploration of Coastal Towns: These drives often pass by charming coastal towns where you can stop, explore, and enjoy local cuisine and culture.
  • Connection with Nature: Driving along the coast allows you to immerse yourself in nature, appreciate the beauty of the sea, and observe wildlife.

SCENIC ROUTES

Scenic near thrillist

A scenic route is a road or highway that offers beautiful and picturesque views of the surrounding landscape, such as mountains, oceans, forests, or other natural attractions. These routes are popular among tourists and travelers looking to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

The main difference between regular routes and scenic routes is that scenic routes are specifically designed to showcase the natural beauty of a region. They often have designated viewpoints, pull-off areas, and attractions along the way to enhance the driving experience and allow travelers to take in the stunning scenery.

Famous Scenic Routes

  • 1. Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA): Known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rocky cliffs, and iconic bridges like the Bixby Creek Bridge.
  • 2. Great Ocean Road (Victoria, Australia): Offers stunning coastal views, the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations, and lush rainforests.
  • 3. Amalfi Coast (Italy): Winding roads along the Mediterranean Sea with colorful villages perched on cliffs, providing panoramic views of the coastline.
  • 4. Ring Road (Iceland): Circles the entire island, showcasing dramatic landscapes including waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and black sand beaches.

In conclusion, scenic coastal drives provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, offering a breathtaking blend of natural beauty and scenic wonders. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, these coastal routes are sure to leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.

Key Questions Answered

What makes a coastal drive scenic?

A coastal drive is considered scenic when it offers breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and other natural landscapes along the route.

Are there any benefits to taking a scenic coastal drive?

Scenic coastal drives provide a sense of relaxation, adventure, and the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature while enjoying a leisurely road trip.