Here are 9 of the most breathtaking coastlines to visit for the crystal clear waters, plunging cliffs, and jaw-dropping views.
1. Antofagasta, Chile
Located at the country’s rocky shoreline, Antofagasta stretches along the South Pacific for approximately 20 miles, and reaches inland to the Atacama Desert. The merging of mountains, desert, and sea creates extraordinary rock formations at the coast where a natural rock formation north of the city, La Portada, arches off the coast. The view of the blue waves crashing into white foam just beyond the cacti and stone tile walkway is truly stunning. This view continues for miles until the blurred mountain ranges in the distance that hold up the city of Antofagasta itself.
2. Ionian Sea Coast: Corfu, Greece
This oceanic view located in none other than the beautiful land of Greece is a rugged island off the Albanian border. Corfu, Greece boasts historic views to combat those on the frequented southern islands. The architecture on its coastline features astounding waterfront landscape. From colorful villages and evergreen-covered mountains to the rocky green and blue waves, the scenery on the island of Corfu is dramatic and certainly photo-worthy.
3. 12 Apostles: Victoria, Australia
Not many breathtaking coastlines are as shockingly beautiful as they are spooky, but Australia’s Shipwreck Trail is definitely one of them. Just southwest of Melbourne, limestone formations at Australia’s tip stretch for approximately 80 miles and have claimed about 638 known ships since the 19th century. At Port Campbell National Park, a dozen rock formations otherwise known as the 12 Apostles are the phenomenon of this rugged shoreline. Guests looking for some adventure can scuba dive and snorkel safari in and around nearby shipwrecks and explore underwater caves and reefs.
4. Halong Bay: Quang Ninh, Vietnam
With over 1,500 island and rock formations, Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay shines in more ways than one. Glowing microorganisms are seen in the bright emerald waters, and are best seen on a boat tour or kayaking trip. Watching the beautiful sunset is a great way to stay dry and still experience the beauty of this wonderful bay.
More Breathtaking Coastlines
5. White Cliffs of Dover: Kent, England
The white cliffs of Dover, resembling a glacier from afar, are boldly contrasting to the green countryside around them. The formation in Dover Port might not be around too much longer as it is prone to erosion. While strolling down the nature trails here, one can watch the ocean liners cross by and get a view of France just 25 miles across the Strait of Dover.
6. Stone Town – Zanzibar, Tanzania
In need of an escape from reality? Tanzania’s archipelago oasis of Zanzibar is a tropical destination full of electric blue waters, white sand, and wooden sailboats. From sea turtles and dolphins to kite surfing and covered bungalows, this is the place to go. For a historic trip, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town and see the mosques, old forts, tearooms and calm public squares.
7. Queen Charlotte Drive: South Island, New Zealand
Ready to take that striking coastal drive? Visit New Zealand and experience where the lush forests and mountains meet beaches and roads that take visitors 25 miles along the Marlborough Sound, from Havelock to Picton. This curvy road has tons of captivating and historic stops including forest-filled places to the blue waters of peaceful bays.
8. Amalfi Coast, Italy
This breathtaking coastline is filled with extraordinary architecture and delicious food. Villages, such as Positano, include oceanfront houses that are stacked high, making for an amazing view. These homes are colorful and are seen at night glowing from the beach located just below.
9. Nova Scotia, Canada
Although the shores in Canada are a tad more chilly than the ones previously mentioned, they are just as captivating. Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shores will surely impress anyone who visits. Activities include surfing, musseling, swimming, or simply watching the waves. For a bolder experience, visit this destination in the winter for an icy and thrilling adventure.
Shannon Mcmahon, SmarterTravel.com | June 17, 2016
