So, it’s almost summer, and you must be dreaming of something a little different this year — something fresh, breezy, and absolutely scenic. Why not hit the open road, then? Coastal drives, for instance, are perfect for anyone looking to trade city noise for the soothing sounds of waves. This guide reviews eight top coastal routes that promise breathtaking views and the refreshing vibe of the sea.
1. Côte d’Azur, France
To begin with, let’s hit up the French Riviera. Start your glamorous drive in Saint-Tropez in a posh car from billionrent.com and cruise all the way to Menton on the Italian border. The drive itself is gorgeous, but the real fun is stopping along the way. Cannes and Nice are perfect for some upscale shopping and beach time.
If you head up to the village of Eze, you’ll be rewarded with killer views of the entire coast from its exotic garden. Try to avoid the summer peak season here. Spring and fall offer great weather with fewer crowds.
2. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Now, how about zipping along the Amalfi Coast with cliffs on one side and the open sea on the other? The route from Sorrento to Salerno is just spectacular, and each town along the way has its vibe.
Start your drive in Positano early in the morning — grab a coffee and enjoy the quiet before the crowds roll in. The town’s stacked, colorful houses are a sight to behold. In Amalfi, the cathedral is a stunner with amazing architecture, and Ravello up on the hill offers breathtaking views from Villa Rufolo’s gardens. Remember, the roads here are pretty narrow and parking can be a headache. Think about renting something small that’s easy to handle.
3. Big Sur, California, USA
Big Sur is like a hit playlist of natural wonders along California’s Highway 1. This is where you get those iconic misty mountain views on one side and rugged ocean cliffs on the other. Make sure to stop at Bixby Creek Bridge. The view is epic, and it’s super popular for photos.
Keep an eye out for the hidden beaches and maybe even some sea otters playing in the kelp. The stretch between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Simeon is full of spots to explore like McWay Falls, where a waterfall hits the beach directly. It’s busiest in summer, so if you can swing a spring visit, you might dodge some of the crowd.
4. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Now, for a dramatic change of scenery, head down under to Australia’s Great Ocean Road. It’s a wild ride with the ocean on one side and the rainforest on the other. Start in Torquay and make your way to Allansford. You’ll want to have your camera ready for the Twelve Apostles — these massive rock stacks standing in the sea are downright majestic.
Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. This area is great for spotting koalas and kangaroos, especially around Anglesea. And if you’re into surfing, the beaches around Bells Beach have some wicked waves.
5. The Atlantic Road, Norway
Driving Norway’s Atlantic Road feels like you’re navigating a sea serpent, with bridges that arch dramatically from one rocky island to another. The Storseisundet Bridge is especially surreal. It literally looks like it ends in mid-air.
Plan to drive this stretch during a storm if you can — the wild weather makes the ocean go wild, and it’s a thrill to watch safely from your car. Summertime gives you the bonus of the midnight sun, so you can drive it at literally any hour and still catch those dramatic views.
6. Chapman’s Peak Drive, South Africa
Affectionately called “Chappies,” this drive near Cape Town is all about sharp curves and steep cliffside views. The road has 114 curves in just about 5.5 miles, so it’s a fun challenge if you like that sort of thing. The toll fee is totally worth it for the panoramic ocean views alone.
Make sure to check if the road’s open as it does close sometimes for maintenance or due to bad weather. Timing your drive for sunset here is a pro move. The views of the sun dipping below the ocean horizon are unforgettable.
7. Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
This route is steeped in myths and rugged beauty. Starting from Belfast, head towards Derry, but take your time. The Giant’s Causeway is a must-see with its thousands of hexagonal stone columns — it’s like nature’s own art installation.
The coastal villages along the way like Cushendun are perfect for stretching your legs and grabbing some local eats. If you’re a “Game of Thrones” fan, you’ll find tons of filming spots along this route to geek out over.
8. The Pacific Coast, Chile
Chile’s Route 5 runs along the Pacific and is a road of contrasts. You’ll drive through landscapes that change from moon-like deserts in the north to lush, vine-covered valleys in the south. It’s less touristy than other drives on this list, so you’ll have plenty of stretches where it’s just you and the open road.
Local towns along the way are great for stopping and enjoying some fresh seafood and Chilean wine. Try a seafood empanada or some ceviche, and you won’t be disappointed.
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So there you have it, eight coastal drives that are perfect for a summer adventure. Each one offers something special. So pick up the car, grab your favorite snacks, and hit the road!
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