Embark on an unforgettable journey exploring the most breathtaking coastal drives in the United States. From rugged cliffs overlooking crashing waves to serene stretches of sun-kissed beaches, America’s coastlines offer a diverse tapestry of stunning landscapes. This curated list of 10 coastal drives will guide you through some of the most spectacular routes, offering unparalleled views and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo exploration of nature’s wonders, these scenic drives promise an experience unlike any other.
Prepare to be captivated by the sheer beauty and diversity of the American coastline. These coastal drives offer more than just a means of transportation; they are journeys into the heart of breathtaking scenery, charming coastal towns, and the invigorating spirit of the ocean. From the Pacific Coast Highway’s iconic twists and turns to the historic charm of New England’s coastal routes, each drive on this list offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Discover the best coastal drives the United States has to offer and start planning your next adventure.
Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) in California offers a legendary coastal driving experience. Stretching along much of the state’s western coastline, it showcases dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and picturesque beaches.
Key features of this drive include the iconic Bixby Bridge, the scenic vistas of Big Sur, and the charming seaside towns along the route.
The highway’s winding roads demand careful driving but reward travelers with unforgettable ocean views. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and possible road closures due to landslides, particularly during the winter months.
Overseas Highway, Florida Keys
The Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1) offers a unique driving experience. Spanning approximately 113 miles, it connects the Florida Keys from the mainland to Key West.
Travelers journey through an archipelago of tropical islands, crossing 42 bridges over the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico. The Seven Mile Bridge is the most iconic, offering breathtaking panoramic ocean views.
Along the Overseas Highway, expect vibrant coral reefs ideal for snorkeling and diving, charming seaside towns offering fresh seafood, and historic sites like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. The drive culminates in Key West, known for its lively atmosphere, sunset celebrations, and southernmost point buoy.
Big Sur Coastline, California
The Big Sur coastline offers a truly iconic Californian experience. Traversing Highway 1, visitors are treated to dramatic cliffs plunging into the Pacific Ocean, interspersed with redwood forests and hidden beaches.
The drive demands attention, with winding roads requiring careful navigation. However, the unparalleled views are well worth the effort. Keep an eye out for migrating whales and the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge.
Key Features:
- Highway 1
- Rugged coastline
- Ocean vistas
- Redwood forests
Route 1, Maine
Route 1 in Maine offers a classic New England road trip experience. Hugging the coastline, this scenic byway provides breathtaking views of the rugged Atlantic shore, charming fishing villages, and iconic lighthouses.
Highlights of this drive include stops in towns like Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, and Camden. Be sure to savor the fresh seafood and experience the unique maritime culture.
From the southern beaches to the rocky northern coast, Route 1 showcases Maine’s diverse coastal beauty. The drive promises an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most picturesque states.
Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington
The Olympic Peninsula Loop offers a diverse coastal experience, encompassing dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush rainforests. This 330-mile route circumnavigates Olympic National Park, showcasing the region’s varied ecosystems.
Begin your journey in Port Angeles and travel counter-clockwise, hugging the coastline. Witness the powerful Pacific waves crashing against sea stacks at Ruby Beach. Explore the tide pools and marvel at the towering trees of the Hoh Rainforest. Continue north to Hurricane Ridge for breathtaking mountain views.
This loop offers a truly unforgettable journey through some of Washington’s most iconic landscapes.
Outer Banks Scenic Byway, North Carolina
Experience the captivating beauty of the Outer Banks Scenic Byway, a 130-mile route hugging the North Carolina coastline. This byway offers a journey through dynamic landscapes, from the bustling beaches of Nags Head to the serene shores of Hatteras Island.
Discover historic lighthouses, charming coastal villages, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The byway provides access to iconic landmarks such as Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the Wright Brothers National Memorial, commemorating the first successful flight.
Embrace the maritime heritage of the Outer Banks while enjoying the refreshing ocean breezes and breathtaking views along this unforgettable coastal drive.
Cape Cod Scenic Drive, Massachusetts
The Cape Cod Scenic Drive, also known as the Old King’s Highway (Route 6A), offers a charming journey through the heart of Cape Cod. This route bypasses the faster, more modern Route 6, providing a slower-paced, more scenic experience.
Travelers are treated to picturesque views of quaint villages, historic lighthouses, and stunning coastlines. The drive winds through charming towns like Sandwich, Barnstable, and Yarmouth, each offering unique shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Anticipate a journey filled with the beauty of the Cape’s distinctive architecture, antique shops, and art galleries. Be sure to allot ample time to explore the various attractions along the way.
Highway 101, Oregon Coast
Experience the dramatic beauty of the Oregon coast on Highway 101. This iconic route stretches 363 miles along the Pacific, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
From the rugged cliffs and sea stacks of Cannon Beach to the serene sandy shores of Newport, the diversity of the scenery is astounding. Haystack Rock stands as a prominent landmark, while charming coastal towns offer delightful stops along the way.
Whale watching is a popular activity, with opportunities to spot gray whales during their migrations. Be sure to explore the tide pools teeming with marine life and hike through the lush coastal forests for an immersive experience of Oregon’s natural wonders.
Lake Michigan Circle Tour
The Lake Michigan Circle Tour encompasses over 1,000 miles of breathtaking roadway, encircling one of the five Great Lakes. This scenic route traverses four states: Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin.
Highlights of this tour include charming coastal towns, miles of sandy beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing, dramatic bluffs and dunes, and opportunities for hiking, biking, and boating.
Travelers can explore historic lighthouses, indulge in local cuisine featuring fresh catches from the lake, and experience unique attractions such as Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan and the Indiana Dunes National Park.
Route 12, Utah Scenic Byway
Route 12, a 124-mile All-American Road, offers a dramatic journey through the heart of Utah’s red rock country. This stunning byway traverses a diverse landscape, from the soaring sandstone cliffs of Red Canyon to the high-elevation forests of Dixie National Forest.
Prepare for sharp turns and steep grades as you navigate this challenging yet rewarding route. Key highlights include the scenic overlooks at Head of the Rocks Overlook and the unique rock formations of Kodachrome Basin State Park. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, and marvel at the geological wonders of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
