10 Best Coastal Day Hikes in the World

There’s something magical about coastal day hikes.

You get the best of both worlds—the fresh air of the open ocean and the adventure of rugged trails. The sound of crashing waves, the smell of saltwater in the air, and the breathtaking cliff views make hiking along the coast a must-do for outdoor lovers.

In this post, I’ll take you on a journey to discover the 10 best coastal day hikes in the world. Each hike promises breathtaking vistas and unforgettable experiences, achievable within a day’s adventure.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual nature enthusiast, these trails will inspire your next journey. So grab your hiking boots and join me as we explore the world’s most spectacular coastal paths, where every step brings a new wonder.

10 Best Coastal Day Hikes with Stunning Views

1. Cinque Terre Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Path), Italy

The Cinque Terre Sentiero Azzurro, or Blue Path, is the quintessential Italian coastal hike.

Stretching 7.5 miles along the rugged Ligurian coastline, this connects five colorful cliffside towns: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village offers its own unique charm, and the stunning Mediterranean views along the trail will take your breath away.

The hike is fairly moderate, with some steep sections as the trail climbs from town to town. You’ll pass through terraced vineyards, olive groves, and dramatic cliffs, all while enjoying panoramic views of the vibrant blue sea below. Hikers can choose to complete the entire trail or opt for shorter sections between the villages.

Whether you’re stopping for gelato in Vernazza, often described as the most beautiful of the five towns, or admiring the sea views from the cliffs, this hike provides an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and Italian culture.

2. Kalalau Trail (Hanakapi’ai Beach section), Kauai, Hawaii, USA

The Kalalau Trail is one of Hawaii’s most famous and challenging coastal hikes, but the 4-mile round trip to Hanakapi’ai Beach offers a more accessible way to experience the trail’s stunning scenery. This shorter section of the trail takes you along the rugged Na Pali Coast, with jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean and Kauai’s dramatic cliffs.

The trail can be steep and slippery in places, especially after rain, but the beauty of the coastline makes it well worth the effort. The hike ends at Hanakapi’ai Beach, a remote and wild spot where waves crash against the shore, and towering cliffs rise up on either side. Be sure to stay safe, as swimming here is dangerous due to strong currents.

This hike provides a taste of the Na Pali Coast’s rugged beauty without committing to the more difficult sections of the Kalalau Trail.

3. Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk, Ireland

The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is an iconic Irish hike, offering awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic Ocean as it crashes against the dramatic cliffs.

This 8-mile one-way trail stretches from Doolin to the village of Liscannor, passing the famous Cliffs of Moher along the way. The cliffs rise up to 700 feet above the ocean, providing one of the most breathtaking coastal views in the world.

Hikers can choose to walk shorter sections or complete the entire trail, which includes several scenic viewpoints where you can pause and take in the majestic landscape. The trail is rugged in places, with narrow paths hugging the cliffs’ edge, but it’s well-maintained and accessible to most hikers. On a clear day, you can see the Aran Islands and the mountains of Connemara in the distance.

The raw beauty and wild atmosphere of the Cliffs of Moher make this coastal walk an unforgettable experience.

4. Abel Tasman Coast Track (Bark Bay to Torrent Bay section), New Zealand

The Abel Tasman Coast Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush coastal forests.

The Bark Bay to Torrent Bay section is a popular day hike, spanning 7 miles round trip. This portion of the trail takes you through native bush, over suspension bridges, and along golden sandy beaches, all while providing stunning views of the Tasman Sea.

The hike is relatively easy, with gentle elevation changes and well-maintained paths. Along the way, you’ll pass secluded coves and tidal inlets, perfect for a quick swim or picnic. Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, and you may spot fur seals lounging on the rocks or dolphins playing in the waves offshore.

This hike is ideal for those seeking a peaceful coastal experience in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful natural settings.

5. Calanques National Park (Cassis to Calanque d’En Vau), France

The hike from Cassis to Calanque d’En Vau in Calanques National Park is one of the most picturesque coastal hikes in southern France.

The trail takes you along dramatic limestone cliffs that rise steeply above the azure Mediterranean Sea, leading to the secluded beach of Calanque d’En Vau. This 5-mile round trip hike is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and rocky terrain, but the reward at the end is well worth the effort.

As you approach the calanque, the narrow inlet is framed by towering white cliffs, and the turquoise waters beckon you in for a swim. The contrast between the rugged cliffs and the peaceful cove makes this one of the most beautiful spots along the French Riviera.

For those looking for a bit of adventure, this hike offers both stunning coastal views and the opportunity to explore one of France’s hidden gems.

6. Fira to Oia Hike, Santorini, Greece

The Fira to Oia hike on the island of Santorini is one of Greece’s most famous coastal walks, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the iconic whitewashed buildings of the island’s towns. This 6.2-mile one-way hike takes you along the edge of Santorini’s caldera, with breathtaking vistas at every turn.

The trail is a mix of paved paths and dirt tracks, with some elevation gain as you climb from Fira to Oia. Along the way, you’ll pass charming villages, picturesque churches, and plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views. The trail culminates in Oia, famous for its incredible sunsets, making this hike a perfect way to end your day.

This hike offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural exploration, as you walk through the heart of one of Greece’s most scenic islands.

7. Great Ocean Walk (Twelve Apostles section), Australia

This section is one of the easier parts of the Great Ocean Walk, featuring relatively gentle terrain but still with spectacular views of the rugged southern coastline. There are some undulating hills, but it’s suitable for most hikers.

8. Cape Point Circuit, South Africa

Cape Point, located at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula in South Africa, offers a stunning coastal hike with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The trail is relatively short but provides an epic combination of rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and the dramatic meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. The panoramic views from the Cape Point Lighthouse are absolutely breathtaking, making it a must-do hike for anyone visiting this part of the world.

The hike itself is not too difficult but has a few steep sections that might get your heart pumping. Along the way, you’ll pass through rich fynbos vegetation, unique to this region, and you might even spot some wildlife, including baboons and antelope.

The crisp, salty air and wide-open ocean views make this a perfect day hike for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

9. Durdle Door to Lulworth Cove, England, UK

The hike from Durdle Door to Lulworth Cove on England’s Jurassic Coast is short but incredibly scenic. This iconic coastal walk offers views of the famous Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch that juts out into the sea, as well as the beautiful, horseshoe-shaped Lulworth Cove. The combination of dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and crystal-clear water makes this a quintessential British coastal hike.

Though the hike is relatively easy, it does involve a few steep climbs, particularly when ascending the cliffs near Durdle Door. The reward, however, is well worth the effort. The views are breathtaking, and you’ll find yourself stopping frequently to take photos. This is a great hike for families, photographers, and anyone looking for a taste of England’s natural beauty.

10. Tomales Point Trail, Point Reyes National Seashore, California, USA

The Tomales Point Trail in Point Reyes National Seashore offers an unforgettable coastal hike with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.

The 9.4-mile round trip trail follows a ridgeline along the peninsula, offering panoramic views of Tomales Bay and the rugged coastline. On a clear day, you can see as far as Bodega Bay to the north and the Farallon Islands offshore.

The trail is relatively flat and easy, but the distance makes it a moderate challenge. Along the way, you’ll pass through open meadows where tule elk often graze, adding a wildlife-watching element to the hike.

The final section leads to Tomales Point, where dramatic cliffs drop off into the Pacific, and waves crash against the shore below. The sense of solitude and untouched beauty at Tomales Point makes this one of California’s most peaceful coastal hikes.

What Makes a Coastal Day Hike Great

Coastal day hikes offer a unique combination of natural beauty, physical challenge, and sensory experiences. Here are the key elements that elevate a coastal hike from good to truly great:

Great coastal hikes showcase stunning views of shorelines, seas, and surrounding landscapes. Think dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and sweeping ocean vistas that take your breath away.

The best hikes often feature a variety of terrains and ecosystems. You might transition from sandy beaches to rocky cliffs, or from coastal forests to open bluffs, keeping the journey interesting at every turn.

Distinctive elements like sea arches, hidden coves, tidal pools, or unusual geological formations add a sense of discovery and wonder to the hike.

Opportunities to observe coastal wildlife and unique plant species can transform a hike into a memorable nature experience.

Some of the finest coastal hikes offer glimpses into local culture or history, such as lighthouses, fishing villages, or ancient ruins, adding depth to your journey.

While a challenge can be rewarding, great day hikes should be accessible to reasonably fit hikers and feature well-maintained trails for a enjoyable experience.

The best trails allow hikers to experience nature’s beauty while remaining safe with proper precautions, considering factors like tides, cliff edges, and weather conditions.

A truly great coastal hike engages all the senses – from the sound of crashing waves to the smell of sea air, creating a fully immersive experience.

Great coastal hikes offer plenty of opportunities to capture and share breathtaking views and memories.

Depending on personal preference, some hikers may value the serenity of a less-traveled path, while others might enjoy a more popular trail with a sense of community.

These factors were considered in curating the list of the 10 best coastal day hikes in the world. Each trail offers a unique and memorable experience, promising outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers an adventure they won’t soon forget.

When heading out on a coastal hike, safety should always be a top priority. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, consider the following tips:

Final Thoughts

Coastal day hikes offer a unique and unforgettable experience, blending the beauty of the ocean with the adventure of the trail.

Whether you’re tackling the challenging cliffs of Hawaii or strolling along the picturesque shores of England, these hikes provide breathtaking views, a chance to connect with nature, and plenty of memories to last a lifetime.

From the turquoise waters of New Zealand to the rugged coastline of California, these trails prove that there’s no better way to enjoy the world’s oceans than by exploring them on foot.