For ocean lovers everywhere, whether you are interested in a daytime walk down the beach or a rugged wilderness adventure, these ten hikes were made for you. From sun and sand to rocky wilderness shorelines the following hikes are some of the most spectacular coastal hikes in the world.
West Coast Trail:
The West Coast Trail in British Columbia began as a means for rescuing shipwreck survivors and has evolved today into one of the most highly praised trails in the world. The backpacking trail is known for its difficulty as the rugged path passes more than just oceanside beaches. The path traverses old growth forest, bogs and streams. Hikers will also have to pay attention to tide tables and maps, issued by park staff prior to the hike, or they may become trapped in some areas when the tides come. Despite the dangers of the trail, it remains popular and hikers will need permits to complete the trail. Most hikers usually complete the 75 mile trail in six to seven days.
Pictured Rocks National Shoreline:
America's first national lakeshore provides over 100 miles of hiking trails and offers a pristine northwoods environment to explore. Located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan along the shoreline of Lake Superior visitors can explore breathtaking cliffs, sand dunes, and a twelve-mile white sand beach. Explores should be warned however that the waters of Superior remain cold even in the high heat of summer and kayaking may be the better plan for exploring the cliffs. Day hikes in the area range from under a mile to several miles long. For a good exploration of the area, follow the nine mile Chapel loop which passes unique rock formations and a beachside waterfall.
Kalalau Trail:
Having been named one of the most dangerous hikes in the world, adventurers should be aware of the risks of this cliff side trail which includes dangerous stream crossings and heights which can be especially dangerous when the trail becomes slippery from the rain. If you are willing to brave the dangers though, this trail is spectacular, with ocean views, waterfalls, rugged sea cliffs, and forested valleys. The trail stretches across eleven miles and ends at the beautiful beach of Kalalau where most hikers camp for the night before the return journey.
Otter Trail, Tsitsikamma:
This five day South African backpacking trail winds from the Storms River Mouth to Nature's Valley in the Tsitsikamma National Park. The oldest official trail in South Africa, the path explores both coastal forest and ocean shores passing caves, tidal pools, waterfalls and strange rock formations all within sight of the Indian Ocean. Hikers have the opportunity to stay in huts while hiking one of the best portions of South Africa's famed garden route.
Cinque Terre:
The Cinque Terre consists of five small towns stretched along the Italian riviera and connected by a scenic hiking trail. Turned into a national park and designated a UNESCO world heritage site, the villages remain refreshingly car free and work hard to maintain their heritage. Each town lies at most a couple hours hike away and the determined hiker can reach all the towns in one day though the journey can be stretched out among many days to enjoy each unique community.
Great Ocean Walk:
The Great Ocean walk explores the sandy beaches of Southwest Australia. It crosses areas of historical and cultural importance and facilities along the track endeavor to be eco-friendly. It stretches 65 miles and sights along the way include the impressive sea stacks named the twelve apostles, the otways fossil area as well as the nearby lighthouse, and Johanna beach. The track is repleate with wildlife. Animal lovers can spot snakes, koalas, wallabies and whales along the trail.
Cape to Cape Walk:
The long distance Australian backpacking trail begins and ends at two separate lighthouses, one at Cape Naturaliste and one at Cape Leeuwin. As the trail traverses largely pristine coasts it passes caves, forests, farmland and vineyards. The region has a pleasent mediterranean climate with warm dry summers and cool wet winters.
Great Island Trail, Cape Cod:
At just under four and a half miles the Great Island Trail is the perfect day hike for beach lovers. It explores the dunes, marshes and sandy shores of Cape Cod National Seashore. The trail passes along one of the longest stretches of undevloped shoreline left on cape cod and allows hikers to escape the normal tourist laden areas of cape for a serene oceanside walk out to Jeremy Point.
Cumberland Island:
Georgia's southernmost barrier island is also its largest barrier island. The island has centuries of history which can be found exploring the old buildings scattered across the island or by catching a glimpse of the wild horses which roam the coastal shores. Visitors to the island must catch a ferry from St. Marys, Georgia in order to reach the national shoreline however the trip is worth it as hikers have over 50 miles of trail to explore.
Cape Wrath Hiking Trail:
This two hundred mile trail traverses the Scottish Highlands along the west coast of Scotland. It is one of the highest regarded backpacking trails in the world, known for the challenging nature of the route. The trail remains unmarked, preserving its wild nature but presents a spectacular experience for backpackers willing to take on the journey.
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