The world’s coastlines offer an incredible array of breathtaking seaside destinations, each with its own unique charm and allure. From sun-soaked Mediterranean shores to remote tropical paradises, there’s a perfect coastal retreat for every type of traveller. Whether you’re seeking dramatic landscapes, cultural experiences, or simply a tranquil escape, the planet’s seaside wonders never fail to captivate and inspire. Let’s embark on a journey to discover some of the most extraordinary coastal destinations that should be on every traveller’s bucket list.
Iconic mediterranean coastal retreats
The Mediterranean coastline is renowned for its stunning beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From picturesque fishing villages to glamorous resort towns, this region offers a diverse range of seaside experiences that have enchanted visitors for centuries.
Amalfi coast’s hidden coves and cliffside villages
Italy’s Amalfi Coast is a testament to the raw beauty of the Mediterranean. This UNESCO World Heritage site stretches for 50 kilometres along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, offering a dramatic landscape of steep cliffs and lush greenery plunging into the azure waters below. The region is dotted with charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm.
Positano, with its pastel-coloured houses cascading down the mountainside, is perhaps the most iconic town on the Amalfi Coast. Its narrow streets are lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, while its pebble beaches offer a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. For a more secluded experience, seek out the hidden coves and beaches accessible only by boat, such as the Furore Fjord , a narrow inlet flanked by towering cliffs.
Santorini’s Caldera-View beaches and volcanic landscapes
The Greek island of Santorini is a geological marvel, formed by a massive volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Today, it’s renowned for its stunning caldera views, whitewashed buildings, and unique black sand beaches. The island’s western coast offers some of the most spectacular sunset views in the world, particularly from the towns of Oia and Imerovigli.
Santorini’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful. Red Beach, named for its striking red volcanic cliffs, offers a unique backdrop for sunbathers. For a more traditional beach experience, head to Perissa or Kamari, where you’ll find long stretches of black sand and clear waters perfect for swimming and water sports.
French riviera’s glamorous promenades and azure waters
The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, has long been synonymous with glamour and luxury. This stretch of coastline in southeastern France is home to some of the world’s most famous seaside resorts, including Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez. The region’s mild climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture have attracted visitors for over a century.
Nice, the capital of the French Riviera, boasts the iconic Promenade des Anglais, a 7-kilometre-long seaside walkway lined with palm trees and belle époque buildings. The city’s pebble beaches offer a unique Mediterranean experience, while the clear waters are perfect for swimming and water sports. For a taste of luxury, visit the principality of Monaco, where you can explore the famous Monte Carlo Casino and stroll along the yacht-filled harbour.
Tropical paradise islands and archipelagos
For many, the ultimate seaside destination involves pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees. The world’s tropical islands and archipelagos offer these idyllic scenes in abundance, along with unique cultures and natural wonders.
Maldives’ overwater bungalows and coral atolls
The Maldives, an archipelago of 26 coral atolls in the Indian Ocean, is the epitome of tropical paradise. This nation of over 1,000 islands is known for its luxury resorts, many of which feature iconic overwater bungalows that allow guests to step directly from their room into the turquoise lagoon below.
The Maldives’ marine environment is one of its biggest draws. The coral reefs surrounding the islands are teeming with colourful fish, manta rays, and even whale sharks. Snorkelling and diving are popular activities, with many resorts offering guided excursions to the best spots. For a unique experience, visit the Vaadhoo Island , known for its “Sea of Stars” phenomenon where bioluminescent plankton create a magical glowing effect in the water at night.
Seychelles’ pristine beaches and unique granite formations
The Seychelles archipelago, located off the east coast of Africa, is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The islands’ granite rock formations, lush tropical vegetation, and crystal-clear waters create a stunning backdrop for seaside relaxation and adventure.
Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue Island is often cited as one of the most photogenic beaches in the world, with its pink-tinged sand and dramatic granite boulders. For nature lovers, a visit to the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin Island is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the rare coco de mer palm and the Seychelles black parrot.
Bali’s black sand shores and terraced rice paddies
Bali, known as the “Island of the Gods,” offers a unique blend of beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. While many visitors flock to the popular southern beaches of Kuta and Seminyak, the island’s coastline is incredibly diverse, with black sand beaches, hidden coves, and dramatic cliff formations.
For a truly memorable experience, visit the Tanah Lot Temple , an ancient Hindu shrine perched on a rocky outcrop in the sea. The temple is particularly beautiful at sunset when the sky turns a vibrant orange and red. Inland, Bali’s famous terraced rice paddies offer a striking contrast to its coastal scenery, with the UNESCO-listed Jatiluwih rice terraces being a standout example of this uniquely Balinese landscape.
Dramatic coastal landscapes and natural wonders
Some of the world’s most awe-inspiring seaside destinations are characterised by their dramatic landscapes and natural phenomena. These locations offer visitors the chance to witness the raw power and beauty of nature up close.
Australia’s great barrier reef and whitsunday islands
The Great Barrier Reef, stretching for over 2,300 kilometres along Australia’s northeast coast, is the world’s largest coral reef system and one of the planet’s most incredible natural wonders. This vast underwater ecosystem is home to an astonishing diversity of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish and 400 types of hard coral.
The Whitsunday Islands, located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, offer some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Australia. Whitehaven Beach, with its 7 kilometres of pristine white silica sand, is often ranked as one of the world’s best beaches. For a unique perspective on the reef, take a scenic flight over Heart Reef, a naturally heart-shaped coral formation that has become an iconic symbol of the Great Barrier Reef.
Hawaii’s volcanic black sand beaches and na pali coast
The Hawaiian Islands, formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, offer a diverse range of coastal landscapes. On the Big Island, you can find unique black sand beaches created by lava flow, such as Punalu’u Beach. This striking coastline is not only beautiful but also ecologically important, serving as a nesting ground for endangered Hawksbill turtles.
Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle,” is home to the breathtaking Na Pali Coast. This 17-kilometre stretch of rugged coastline features towering sea cliffs, hidden beaches, and cascading waterfalls. The best way to experience the Na Pali Coast is by boat or helicopter, allowing you to fully appreciate its scale and beauty.
Norway’s fjords and arctic coastline
Norway’s coastline offers a dramatic contrast to tropical beach destinations, with its deep fjords, snow-capped mountains, and Arctic landscapes. The UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord are among the most spectacular, with their steep cliffs and numerous waterfalls creating a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Further north, the Lofoten Islands present a unique Arctic seaside experience. Despite their northerly location, the islands enjoy a relatively mild climate thanks to the Gulf Stream. Here, you can find picturesque fishing villages set against a backdrop of jagged peaks, and in the summer months, experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun.
Historic seaside towns and cultural harbours
Many coastal destinations offer not just natural beauty but also rich cultural heritage and historical significance. These towns and cities provide visitors with a unique blend of seaside charm and cultural exploration.
Dubrovnik’s medieval walls and adriatic vistas
Dubrovnik, often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning coastal setting. The city’s massive stone walls, dating back to the 7th century, offer a panoramic walk with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town below.
Beyond the walls, Dubrovnik’s marble streets are lined with baroque buildings, ancient churches, and elegant palazzi. For a beach break, head to Banje Beach, just a short walk from the Old Town, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters with a view of the city walls. The nearby island of Lokrum, reachable by a short boat ride, offers secluded beaches and lush botanical gardens.
Cinque terre’s colourful fishing villages and coastal trails
The Cinque Terre, a string of five colourful fishing villages on the Italian Riviera, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that perfectly blends natural beauty with cultural heritage. These picturesque towns, with their pastel-coloured houses clinging to steep terraces, have captivated visitors for centuries.
Each of the five villages – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – has its own unique charm. Hiking trails connect the villages, offering stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. The Via dell’Amore , or “Path of Love,” is one of the most famous trails, though it’s currently undergoing restoration. For those who prefer a less strenuous option, a scenic train connects all five villages.
Cartagena’s colonial architecture and caribbean beaches
Cartagena, on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is a city where history and beach culture seamlessly blend. The city’s walled Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of cobblestone streets, colourful colonial buildings, and flower-filled balconies. The impressive fortifications, built to defend against pirates and invaders, offer panoramic views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
While the beaches within the city are pleasant, the true Caribbean paradise lies a short boat ride away on the Rosario Islands. These coral islands offer pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling, and a chance to experience the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. Back in the city, don’t miss the chance to watch the sunset from the old city walls, a daily ritual for both locals and visitors.
Remote and unspoiled coastal escapes
For travellers seeking to escape the crowds and experience nature in its purest form, there are still many remote and unspoiled coastal destinations around the world. These locations offer unique ecosystems, rare wildlife encounters, and a sense of true adventure.
Galapagos islands’ unique wildlife and pristine shores
The Galapagos Islands, located 1,000 kilometres off the coast of Ecuador, are a living museum of evolutionary adaptation. This remote archipelago, famous for inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, offers visitors the chance to encounter unique wildlife up close in their natural habitat.
The islands’ diverse landscapes include white sand beaches, rugged volcanic formations, and lush highlands. On Isabela Island, you can snorkel with playful sea lions and penguins, while on Fernandina Island, you might spot marine iguanas basking on black lava rocks. For a truly memorable experience, visit during the giant tortoise nesting season on Santa Cruz Island.
Palawan’s hidden lagoons and limestone cliffs
Palawan, an island province in the Philippines, is often described as the country’s “last frontier” due to its relatively unspoiled natural beauty. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, hidden lagoons, and dramatic limestone cliffs that rise from the sea.
El Nido, at the northern tip of Palawan, is famous for its Secret Lagoon , a hidden beach accessible only through a small hole in the limestone cliffs. The nearby Bacuit Archipelago offers countless opportunities for island-hopping, snorkelling, and diving among vibrant coral reefs. For a unique experience, visit the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring an underground river that flows directly into the sea.
Faroe islands’ rugged coastlines and puffin colonies
The Faroe Islands, an autonomous territory of Denmark located between Scotland and Iceland, offer a truly off-the-beaten-path coastal experience. This archipelago of 18 volcanic islands is known for its dramatic landscapes, including steep cliffs, green valleys, and cascading waterfalls that plunge directly into the sea.
The islands are a paradise for birdwatchers, with large colonies of puffins, gannets, and other seabirds nesting on the coastal cliffs. One of the most spectacular sights is the Vestmanna Bird Cliffs , where boat tours take visitors close to the towering cliffs teeming with birdlife. For a unique cultural experience, visit the village of Saksun, with its grass-roofed houses and picturesque lagoon that fills with seawater at high tide.
These remote and unspoiled coastal destinations offer a chance to connect with nature in its purest form, providing unforgettable experiences for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Whether you’re drawn to unique wildlife encounters, dramatic landscapes, or simply the allure of untouched beaches, these locations promise to leave a lasting impression on even the most seasoned travellers.