When a road winds along the coastline, with the vast ocean on one side and towering mountains on the other, this ultimate visual feast is enough to make one forget all worries. Today, let’s follow these ten world-class coastal highways to chase the blue and freedom.
1.USA · California State Route 1 (Highway 1)
Keywords: Romantic, Artistic, Classic
This legendary route, known as “the most beautiful highway in America,” starts from San Francisco in the north and extends south to Los Angeles, covering about 1,000 kilometers. It is like a ribbon linking the cliffs of Big Sur, the European-style town of Carmel, and the sunny beaches of Santa Barbara.
Driving on this road, with the Pacific Ocean crashing on one side and dense redwood forests on the other, the sea breeze brushing your face, it feels as if every kilometer is a slow-motion scene from a movie.
Must-stop spots: Bixby Creek Bridge, Hearst Castle.
2.Norway · Atlantic Ocean Road
Keywords: wild, magical, stormy
Known as the “Road to the Sky,” the Atlantic Ocean Road is located in western Norway. It is only 8.72 kilometers long but features 8 uniquely designed bridges. It weaves between islands and reefs, rising and falling with the tides, sometimes disappearing in the waves, sometimes soaring above the crests.
Especially during storms, waves crash against the bridge, spraying mist several meters high, resembling an entrance to a fairyland.
Best experience: The storm season in autumn, to feel the wild power of nature.
3.Australia · Great Ocean Road
Keywords: magnificent, solitary, Twelve Apostles
This coastal road, built by World War I veterans, stretches 243 kilometers along the southwest coast of Victoria. Along the way, you can see the towering Otway Ranges and the vast Southern Ocean complementing each other.
The most famous attraction is the “Twelve Apostles,” limestone natural arches standing by the coast, which turn golden at sunrise and sunset, appearing especially sacred.
Hidden surprise: The shipwreck story of Loch Ard Gorge adds a touch of historical depth to the journey.
4.Italy · Amalfi Coast Drive
Keywords: Luxury, Color, Mediterranean Charm
From Sorrento to Salerno, this winding road clings to steep cliffs with the deep blue Tyrrhenian Sea below. The towns along the way—Positano, Amalfi, Ravello—are famous for their colorful houses, exquisite handicrafts, and charming bays.
Here, driving itself is a pleasure; every turn holds a surprise, and every viewpoint is worth stopping for.
Food recommendation: Try the local fresh lemon ice cream, paired with sea breeze and sunshine, a perfect treat for the taste buds.
5.Iceland · Ring Road
Keywords: Aurora, Glaciers, Volcanoes
Iceland’s Route 1 circles the entire island, about 1,339 kilometers long, known as the “Road to the End of the World.” It passes through black sand beaches, geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, and tundra, encompassing almost all of Iceland’s natural wonders.
In winter, you might encounter the aurora dancing overhead; in summer, experience the magical “midnight sun” where the sun never sets.
Must-see sights: The floating icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the geysers of the Golden Circle.
6.New Zealand · West Coast Road, South Island
Keywords: Pristine, desolate, Middle-earth
From Greymouth to Queenstown, this road runs along the west coast of New Zealand’s South Island and is one of the filming locations for “Middle-earth” in The Lord of the Rings.
This area is sparsely populated but boasts the magnificent Southern Alps, pristine tropical rainforests, and the Tasman Sea with its crashing waves.
Featured experience: Trekking on Fox Glacier to get up close to the awe-inspiring ancient ice tongue.
7.South Africa · Chapman’s Peak Drive
Keywords: Steep, sea views, Cape Town
Located on the Cape Peninsula, Chapman’s Peak Drive is about 9 kilometers long and is famous for its “nine twists and eighteen turns.” It is built along the edge of a cliff, with a deep abyss on one side and the shimmering False Bay on the other.
Every turn reveals a brand-new scene, from Duiker Point where seals gather to the distant Table Mountain, offering breathtaking views.
Safety tip: Some sections are narrow and require cautious driving, but it is definitely worth the challenge.
8.Greece · Crete Coastal Road
Keywords: Mythology, Blue and White, Aegean Sea
As the largest island in Greece, Crete’s coastal road connects ancient cities such as Chania, Rethymno, and Heraklion.
Along the way, you can see white windmills, blue rooftops, golden beaches, and the legendary ruins of the Minoan civilization.
Cultural experience: Stroll through the old town of Chania and feel the blend of Ottoman and Venetian cultures.
9.Canada · Cabot Trail
Keywords: Autumn Colors, Highlands, Sea Breeze
Located in Nova Scotia, the Cabot Trail is about 300 kilometers long and circles Cape Breton Island. It is an excellent place to admire maple leaves; in autumn, the red, orange, and yellow leaves contrast sharply with the deep blue sea, like an oil painting.
The road also passes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, offering magnificent views of the North Atlantic.
Musical atmosphere: Along the way, you can often hear the melodious sound of Scottish bagpipes, experiencing the unique charm of Celtic culture.
10.China · Hainan Island Ring Tourism Highway
Keywords: tropical, coconut groves, China blue
As China’s first island ring tourism highway, the Hainan Island Ring Tourism Highway stretches about 988 kilometers, connecting 12 coastal cities and counties including Haikou, Wenchang, Qionghai, Wanning, and Sanya.
Here you can find China’s purest glass sea, vast coconut groves, pristine white beaches, and old arcade streets full of Nanyang (Southeast Asian) style.Featured activities: diving at Boundary Island in Lingshui, or experiencing traditional salt-making techniques at the thousand-year-old salt fields in Danzhou.