19 Coastal Drives That Are Just as Beautiful as the Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is famous for its stunning ocean views, but it’s not the only scenic coastal drive worth exploring. Across the world, road trippers can enjoy breathtaking routes that feature rugged coastlines, charming villages, and offer unforgettable views. Here are 19 coastal drives that rival the beauty of California’s iconic PCH.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

Stretching along Australia’s southeastern coast, the Great Ocean Road offers dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and the stunning Twelve Apostles rock formations. The 150-mile route between Torquay and Allansford enjoys incredible ocean views and charming seaside towns to explore. Whether driving at sunrise or sunset, this scenic journey is an absolute must for road trip enthusiasts and nature lovers who will get the chance to encounter native wildlife.

Cabot Trail, Canada

The Cabot Trail, in Nova Scotia, loops around Cape Breton Island, providing breathtaking coastal and highland scenery. Spanning 185 miles, this route offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural exploration. You’ll traverse through charming fishing villages, experience Acadian culture, and then venture into Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where hiking trails, whale watching opportunities, and stunning Atlantic Ocean views await.

Ring of Kerry, Ireland

A journey along the 111-mile Ring of Kerry reveals Ireland’s dramatic coastline, verdant hills, and time-honored ruins. This circular route, winding through charming towns like Killarney and Kenmare, showcases breathtaking Atlantic views, idyllic beaches, and significant historical landmarks including Ross Castle: A 15th-century castle on the shores of Lough Leane and Torc Waterfall.

Amalfi Coast Road, Italy

Italy’s Amalfi Coast Road, also known as SS163, winds through cliffside villages and offers spectacular Mediterranean views. This 30-mile drive between Sorrento and Salerno features pastel-colored towns, hidden beaches, and steep cliffs plunging into the sea, including Positano with its stylish boutiques, and charming restaurants.

Atlantic Road, Norway

Norway’s Atlantic Road is a mesmerizing 5-mile stretch connecting small islands via twisting bridges, including the iconic Storseisund Bridge, over the Norwegian Sea. This road is an engineering marvel that provides awe-inspiring views of the coastline and distant mountains, which is especially dramatic during storms, when waves crash over the bridges. 

Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

Spanning 130 miles from Belfast to Derry, the Causeway Coastal Route boasts stunning cliffs, ancient castles, and the famous Giant’s Causeway. Travelers can visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, and the Dark Hedges, known from Game of Thrones. 

Garden Route, South Africa

South Africa’s Garden Route stretches 190 miles along the country’s southern coast, offering lush forests, pristine beaches, and scenic lagoons. Travelers can enjoy wildlife, adventure sports, and whale viewing in the picturesque villages of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay along the route. Be sure to stop at Tsitsikamma National Park, which features breathtaking cliffs and suspension bridges as well as great hiking trails. 

Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest coastal drives in the world, stretching 1,500 miles along Ireland’s west coast. This route features rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and traditional Irish villages, including the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Peninsula, and Achill Island.

North Coast 500, Scotland

Scotland’s North Coast 500 is a 516-mile loop showcasing dramatic coastal scenery, ancient castles, and remote Highland landscapes. Traveling through rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and quaint villages, this route is often compared to Route 66. Must-visit spots include Applecross Pass, John o’ Groats, and the haunting ruins of Ardvreck Castle.

Pacific Rim Highway, Canada

The Pacific Rim Highway in British Columbia takes travelers from Nanaimo to Tofino through dense rainforests and along stunning coastline. This 123-mile journey provides access to Pacific Rim National Park, lush scenery, and stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean, whether you stay in your car or take an invigorating hike. 

Hana Highway, Hawaii, USA

Maui’s Hana Highway is a legendary 64-mile drive with over 600 curves and 59 bridges, weaving through tropical rainforests and waterfalls. The journey offers panoramic ocean views, bamboo forests, and black sand beaches. Stops at Twin Falls, the Garden of Eden, and Wailua Falls make this drive a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Côte d’Azur Coastal Road, France

Also known as the Corniche Roads, this glamorous drive along the French Riviera offers stunning Mediterranean views. Stretching from Nice to Monaco, the route passes luxurious resorts, historic towns, and dramatic cliffs. Be sure to stop off at Cannes, which is famous for its film festival, luxurious hotels and pristine beaches.

Great Alpine Road, Australia

This 192-mile route travels from Wangaratta to Bairnsdale, passing through Victoria’s high country and stunning coastal areas. The drive offers breathtaking mountain vistas, lush valleys, and charming villages. Ending near the coast, travelers can enjoy scenic beaches and fresh seafood while taking in Australia’s stunning coastal beauty.

The Coastal Way, Wales

Wales’ Coastal Way stretches along Cardigan Bay, offering 180 miles of stunning seaside landscapes, sandy beaches, and charming harbor towns. This picturesque route offers hiking and animal viewing possibilities as it passes through Snowdonia National Park. This journey is a real hidden gem with its combination of picturesque seaside communities and sheer cliffs.

Big Sur Coast, California, USA

One of the most famous sections of the Pacific Coast Highway, the Big Sur Coast features rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and iconic landmarks like Bixby Bridge. Stretching 90 miles from Carmel to San Simeon, this drive is renowned for its breathtaking views, redwood forests, and unspoiled coastline. It is a must for road trip lovers.

Sunshine Coast, Australia

This scenic route in Queensland offers pristine beaches, lush hinterlands, and vibrant coastal towns. Extending from Caloundra to Noosa, this scenic drive unveils breathtaking ocean vistas, lush national parks, and vibrant surf towns. The Sunshine Coast drive seamlessly blends relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for beach enthusiasts.

The Croatian Coastal Road, Croatia

Croatia’s coastal drive along the Adriatic Highway offers breathtaking views of the Dalmatian coast. The route passes medieval towns, crystal-clear waters, and stunning islands. Highlights include Dubrovnik, Split, and the picturesque Makarska Riviera. With its sun-soaked landscapes and rich history, this coastal drive is a Mediterranean dream.

The Oregon Coast Highway, USA

Oregon’s Highway 101 features stunning sea stacks, towering cliffs, and charming coastal towns. The 363-mile route offers stops at Cannon Beach, Thor’s Well, and Cape Kiwanda, offering dramatic scenery and untouched beauty for tourists looking to experience one of the best coastal drives in the U.S.

The South Island Coastal Route, New Zealand

New Zealand’s South Island boasts a breathtaking coastal drive from Christchurch to Queenstown, featuring turquoise waters, rugged cliffs, and snow-capped mountains. Highlights include the Moeraki Boulders, Catlins Forest Park, and Milford Sound. With its diverse landscapes and serene beauty, this route is a dream for nature enthusiasts and photographers.