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Breathtaking Coastal Drives With Ocean Views

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by Bel Bridge

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Imagine cruising along a winding road with the ocean stretching out beside you. The salty breeze fills the car as you take in the stunning scenery. Breathtaking coastal drives offer some of the most picturesque views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer road trip, these routes promise adventure and relaxation. From the rugged cliffs of California's Pacific Coast Highway to the serene shores of Florida's Overseas Highway, each drive has its own unique charm. Ready to hit the road? Let's explore some of the best coastal drives that will leave you in awe.

Breathtaking Coastal Drives with Ocean Views

There's something magical about driving along the coast with the ocean stretching out beside you. The salty breeze, the sound of waves crashing, and the stunning vistas make for an unforgettable experience. Here are some of the most breathtaking coastal drives with ocean views that you should consider for your next road trip.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, offers some of the most iconic ocean views in the United States. This drive takes you through charming towns, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches.

  1. Big Sur: Known for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views, Big Sur is a must-see. The Bixby Creek Bridge is a highlight.
  2. Monterey: Famous for its aquarium and Cannery Row, Monterey offers beautiful coastal scenery and plenty of activities.
  3. Santa Barbara: With its Mediterranean-style architecture and lovely beaches, Santa Barbara is a perfect stop.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

Australia's Great Ocean Road is a scenic drive that stretches along the southeastern coast. This route is famous for its stunning rock formations and lush rainforests.

  1. Twelve Apostles: These limestone stacks rising from the ocean are a breathtaking sight.
  2. Bells Beach: Known for its world-class surfing, Bells Beach offers stunning coastal views.
  3. Otway National Park: This park features lush rainforests, waterfalls, and coastal scenery.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast in Italy is renowned for its picturesque villages, steep cliffs, and sparkling blue waters. This drive offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

  1. Positano: This colorful village clings to the cliffs and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean.
  2. Amalfi: Known for its historic cathedral and charming streets, Amalfi is a delightful stop.
  3. Ravello: Perched high above the coast, Ravello offers breathtaking views and beautiful gardens.

Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway

Norway's Atlantic Ocean Road is a unique drive that takes you across a series of bridges and islands. This route offers dramatic ocean views and a sense of adventure.

  1. Storseisundet Bridge: This iconic bridge curves dramatically over the ocean, offering stunning views.
  2. Averøy: This island features beautiful coastal scenery and charming villages.
  3. Hustadvika: Known for its rough seas, Hustadvika offers a rugged and dramatic coastal landscape.

Garden Route, South Africa

South Africa's Garden Route is a scenic drive that stretches along the southern coast. This route is known for its diverse landscapes, from lush forests to sandy beaches.

  1. Knysna: This town is famous for its lagoon and beautiful coastal scenery.
  2. Tsitsikamma National Park: This park features lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and stunning ocean views.
  3. Plettenberg Bay: Known for its beautiful beaches and marine life, Plettenberg Bay is a great stop.

Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way is a coastal route that stretches along the western coast. This drive offers rugged cliffs, charming villages, and stunning ocean views.

  1. Cliffs of Moher: These dramatic cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  2. Dingle Peninsula: Known for its rugged beauty and charming villages, the Dingle Peninsula is a must-see.
  3. Ring of Kerry: This scenic route offers stunning coastal views and plenty of historic sites.

Cabot Trail, Canada

Canada's Cabot Trail is a scenic drive that loops around Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. This route offers stunning ocean views, lush forests, and charming villages.

  1. Cape Breton Highlands National Park: This park features dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and stunning ocean views.
  2. Ingonish: Known for its beautiful beaches and charming villages, Ingonish is a great stop.
  3. Pleasant Bay: This village offers stunning coastal scenery and opportunities for whale watching.

Embrace the Beauty of Coastal Drives

Breathtaking coastal drives offer stunning ocean views and unforgettable experiences. Whether cruising along California's Pacific Coast Highway, exploring the Great Ocean Road in Australia, or navigating the Amalfi Coast in Italy, each route promises unique scenery and adventures. These drives are perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation and excitement.

Pack your bags, grab your camera, and hit the road to witness the beauty of these coastal routes. From dramatic cliffs to serene beaches, every turn reveals something new. Don't forget to stop at local eateries and attractions along the way to fully immerse yourself in the journey.

Remember, the best part of these drives isn't just the destination but the incredible sights and memories made along the way. Enjoy the ride and let the ocean views inspire your next adventure.