20 stunning coastal hikes- destinations that will amaze you around the globe

14.08.2023.

What’s your favourite type of hike, does it include rocky areas, Alpine lakes or seaside views? If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, these stunning coastal hikes will constantly overwhelm you with new ideas. Beaches that spread their shine from the distance motivate you even more to the mountain world. If you succeed to conquer the sunset, amazement is even higher.

Fabulous islands hide their own hiking delights such as Hawaii, Madeira or Sicily and send you the pure invite. Combining the swimming pleasure with the hiking opportunities is a double win. The coastal hikes burst with charm and destinations that will melt your heart with new challenges.

The world of hiking treasure will bless you with numerous coastal hikes and their scenic images.

If you’re lacking ideas, I collaborated with more than 20 amazing bloggers. Discover where will your outdoor spirit take you next time.

Cinque Terre, Italy- contributed by Pamela Drager from Directionally Challenged Traveler

Hiking in Cinque Terre, Italy, is an unparalleled experience that immerses you in breathtaking natural beauty, picturesque coastal villages, and rich cultural heritage. Comprising five charming fishing villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled along the rugged Ligurian coastline.

The hiking trails meander through terraced vineyards, olive groves, and lush Mediterranean vegetation, offering spectacular vistas of the turquoise Ligurian Sea below. The most famous trail is the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), which connects all five villages and allows hikers to explore the distinct character of each while enjoying stunning panoramas. It’s 7.5 miles long and can be done in one day. Just be sure to check it is open when you arrive. You can also choose to do only part of the hike.

What to expect & where to stay

As you hike through the picturesque villages, you’ll encounter colorful houses perched on cliffs, charming harbors, and friendly locals who embody Italian coastal hospitality. You can take breaks in any of the villages. There are so many things to do in Manarola to enjoy on your way. Relax at cozy trattorias, indulging in fresh seafood, homemade pesto, and local wines, a true delight for food enthusiasts.

Cinque Terre’s hiking trails vary in difficulty, making it accessible to both seasoned trekkers and casual strollers. Be sure to visit the Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane) for a romantic walk with breathtaking views.

Overall, hiking in Cinque Terre offers an unforgettable journey that combines nature, culture, and the joy of exploring one of Italy’s most treasured gems.

Ca’ D’Andrean is a cozy guesthouse where breakfast in the garden sets pure delight.

Hotel Il colle di Monterosso is a lovely place with enchanting garden.

Canyon Vrženica, island Krk, Croatia- contributed by myself

Canyon Vrženica is a hidden gem, located at the historic island of Krk. At its southern corners stretches the lovely Baška village with awesome beaches. Baška is the starting point towards the fabulous trail to Canyon Vrženica.

The steepy path requires about 5 hours of walking. The gorgeous beaches transform into the vast areas of another planet. Finally, you will be rewarded with fabulous views at the top of the canyon. You can admire the scenery that scatters to the island Prvić, Goli island and Velebit mountain.

The deep canyon is a bit challenging to reach but the awesome beach awaits.

Krk is known by the Baška table which was one of the first letter in the ancient Croatian language- Glagolic. You can also visit the Frankopan castle in Krk town, one of the powerful families in Croatia.

Other hiking trails at Krk island inculde its highest peak Obzova.

How to reach & where to stay

Krk is one of the prettiest islands in Croatia, easily reachable as a day trip from Zagreb within 2 hours. It lies close to Rijeka, but you don’t even need to take a ferry. The bridge connects the mainland, which is very convenient for the day trip.

If you would like to stay at island Krk, I would recommend Valamar Atrium Baška Residence. Fulfilling the splendind vacation is very cozy thanks to this awesome hotel, which is pretty affordable. Stretching next to the large sandy beach, it offers the picturesque views.  

Calanques of Cassis, France- contributed by myself

Cassis is a pretty jewel near Marseille that offers a stunning hike towards the natural phenomenon of Calanques. Calanques are the rocky inlets that burst with fantastic views, hiding the gorgeous beaches. The picturesque trail from central Cassis leads towards Calanque de Port Miou, Calanque de Port Pin and Calanque d’En-Vau.

The whole path takes roughly 2 hours to complete.

Port Miou is the only accessible by car so you can start here also as there’s a large parking spot. It’s a lovely marina with an incredible view, only 45 minutes away from the town.

The charming cove of Port Pin is nestled about 20 minutes further away. This gorgeous beach attracts locals and tourists the whole year around.

Calanque d’En-Vau is the most breathtaking one and hardest to climb.

Where to stay & what to bring

Surrounded only by scenic nature, you cannot buy food or drinks on the way. Bringing snacks and lots of water is your ultimate choice if you’re going all the way. The proper hiking shoes will make miracles while walking. Be sure to pack sunscreen during the warmer months.

The area is suitable to all ages but it can be steep at some points.

Taking the boat trip is a fantastic alternative to experience the Calanques from a different perspective.

From Marseille the bus 78 goes to Cassis, starting at the Avenue Toulon. The charming Cassis offers plenty options to stay, though you can also take a day trip from Marseille.

Best Western Hotel & Spa Coeur de Cassis covers lovely rooms and affordable prices.

Emerald Coast, France- contributed by Veronika Primm from Travel Geekery

The coast of Brittany in Northern France is adorned with steep cliffs and provides the prettiest views as you walk along. One such hike takes you through Brittany’s Emerald Coast forming a part of Brittany’s famous GR 34 trail, a.k.a. the Customs Trail.

You can hike along the coast comfortably from Cap Fréhel with two beautiful lighthouses marking your start.

Then it’s a lovely, non-strenuous 2-hour hike of 4.8 km (3 miles). The path takes you above the cliffs, on alternating but easy terrain, sometimes even on wooden walkways. There’s heather everywhere you look, lush green fern and the song of numerous bird species will accompany your journey.

The end of this coastal hike comes marked by a beautiful fortress called Fort La Latte. It can be visited at a fee (€7.50) and it’s well worth it. Especially if you climb to the tower and take a look at the stunning view below.

How to reach, what else to see & where to stay

Driving is recommended to get to Cap Fréhel. Remember that you’ll have to hike back too, so account for another 2 hours for the way back. 

On your way, you can stop at the nearby town of Plévenon. It’s quite small but has that lovely medieval feel that you’d expect in Brittany. Admire the beautiful houses, the church and the town hall, and then stop at the local bakery and a café. If you get hungry, have a crepe like a local at Creperie le Cap Frehel. In the direction of the actual Cap Fréhel, which is the start of your hike, you can find Restaurant la Ribote.

For accommodation, you can go for the exceptionally-rated Datcha du Cap Fréhel, which is located on the outskirts of Plévenon. 

Camino del Norte, Spain- contributed by Alya from Stingy Nomads

The Camino del Norte is a spectacular walking route along the coast of Northern Spain. The trail crosses four provinces; the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia. The distance of the Camino is 835 km/513 mi. It starts in the small town of Irun, near the border with France, and finishes in Santiago de Compostela. The Camino del Norte is an old pilgrimage route that dates back hundreds of years. Nowadays, it’s a popular walking trail.

The Camino del Norte has a great combination of seaside scenery, forestry landscape, and rugged mountains. Besides its impressive nature, the trail offers a unique cultural and gastronomic experience. The route passes many historic towns and cities like San Sebastian, Bilbao, Santander, Guernica, and Santiago de Compostela. 

How to reach, when to visit & where to stay

The summer season, between May and September, is the best time for hiking when the weather is warm and sunny. You can spend some time on the beach and go for a swim.

You can get to most towns on the Camino del Norte by bus or train from the main Spanish cities. Bigger cities on the route, San Sebastian and Bilbao, have airports. 

The historical Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Catolicos is Santiago de Compostela is the best place to stay after walking for one month on the Camino del Norte.

Costa tropical, Spain-contributed by Joanna from Andalucia In My Pocket

Costa Tropical is located in the South of Spain and it is famous for its mild climate, year-round. Because of the proximity of the Sierra Nevada mountains to the sea, the temperature stays constant year-round. It is never too hot in summer, and never too cold in winter. This makes it perfect for hiking along the coast.

The coastal trail follows a very varied landscape, from cliffs, to secluded beaches, and pretty old towns. As Costa Tropical was part of the Moorish defence system, from invaders across the sea, there are 16^th century watch towers dotted all along the trail. Most of these towers are still in great condition.

How to reach & where to stay

There are a few notable towns along the trail: Almunecar, La Herradura and Salobrena. You can start the trail from any of these places, as it follows the sea. The terrain of the trail is very different. At some points you can hike through rough terrain, over cliffs. Other times you can walk on pebble beaches or sand. Some other times, you will cross riverbeds, which are dried out in summer.

If you plan to do this train, a great hotel to stay at is Playa Granada, just outside Salobrena. It is located straight on the beach and has its own golf course.

Torrenueva to La Joya beach in Spain, contributed by Linn Haglund from Andalucia Hiking

One of the most underrated hikes you can do is from the lesser-known village of Torrenueva costa in southern Spain to the magnificent beach of La Joya. It is a short hike of 3 kilometers along a beautiful coastline. You walk atop the cliffs straight from the village looking down on the crystal clear water that is as close to turquoise as the Mediterranean gets.

The highlight of the hike is the hanging bridge that opened up to the public in May 2022. It is the first hanging bridge crossing the Mediterranean in Spain and while it feels completely safe and steady to walk on, there is a glass section where you can see straight down on the water which can be challenging for those with vertigo. If it looks too scary, you can walk around it on safe ground.

A fantastic appartment with a view in Torrenueva is Primera linea de Playa, though you can also stay in Nerja. It’s about 1,5h away by bus or only 30 minutes by car.

About the viewpoints & where to stay

There are several viewpoints along the hike and once you reach the mesmerizing La Joya Beach you can take a dip in the water before either returning where you came from or extending the route with another 7 kilometers (instead of the 3 kilometers back the same way) by looping back up the hills. Note that the hike is completely exposed to the elements, so it is smart to look into good hiking shirts for hot weather with sun protection.

Fishermen’s Trail, Portugal- contributed by Alya from the Algarve Family

The Fishermen’s Trail is a spectacular seaside hiking route in southern Portugal. It is considered one of the most scenic coastal trails in the world. The Fishermen’s Trail is a  moderate multi-day trek. It starts in the small town of Porto Covo, 170 km south of Lisbon, and finishes in Lagos. The total distance of the hike is 240 km/143 mi. It takes 12 to 14 days to complete. You don’t have to complete the entire route. You can walk any stage of the trail as a day hike. 

The scenery on the trail is truly spectacular; rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, hidden bays, and small fishermen’s villages. You can relax on the beach and swim in the sea while hiking. Every night you stay in one of the charming coastal towns where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine. 

How to reach, when to visit & where to stay

Spring is the best time for hiking the Fishermen’s Trail. During that time, you can see the coast covered in wildflowers and hundreds of storks nesting on the edges of the cliffs. 

The easiest way of getting to the trail is by bus from Lisbon. 

There are many fantastic places to stay on the Fishermen’s Trail. Salema Eco Camp is one of the best places on the route.

Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira, Portugal- contributed by Marga from Discover Portugal

During your holiday in Madeira, hiking the São Lourenço trail is fantastic! The panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean are fabulous, and the track is doable for most fitness levels. The route is just over 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) long and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. The last part of Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço is the most challenging but also the most rewarding.

The views over the rock formations are stunning, and the contrasting colours of the sea and the volcanic rocks are striking! Along the route, you’ll also spot many wildflowers and birds. On your way back, you can enjoy a refreshment at Casa do Sardinha, a small cafe with drinks and snacks.

The nearby town of Caniçal is a charming fishing village, and the starting point is nearby.

How to reach & where to stay

You can take a taxi from Caniçal or rent a car from Funchal to reach the start of the trail. The 113 bus from the SAM terminal in Funchal will also bring you to the beautiful hiking trail.

If you want to stay nearby, you can spend the night in the coastal town of Machico with several hotels. Dom Pedro Madeira is nearby the beach, and you can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool.

Do you want to know more about this must-see hike in Madeira? Click here to read all the details.

Yorkshire Coast, UK- contributed by Maja Proescholdt from Away With Maja

One of the best seaside hikes is the Yorkshire Coast in the UK. You can hike the entire coast from Saltburn-by-the-Sea to Bridlington, or choose a small section for a day hike. If you only want to do a short hike, the section from Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay is one of the best. It’s only about 7 miles, one-way.

Other recommended sections are Flamborough Head to Bempton Cliffs (5 miles), and Saltburn-by-the-Sea to Skinningrove (3.5 miles) or to Staithes (8.5 miles).

How to reach, what to visit & where to stay

It’s easiest to get to the Yorkshire Coast if you have your own car. However, Bridlington, Filey, Scarborough, and Whitby do have train stations. There are bus services available between most of the main towns, too.

There are so many amazing things to do on the Yorkshire Coast, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Walk up the 199 Steps in Whitby to marvel at the magnificent ruins of Whitby Abbey. Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Staithes and Robin Hood’s Bay. Go for a dip at Skinningrove Beach, Runswick Bay, Hunmanby Gap, or Thornwick Bay near Flamborough. Spot seabirds (puffins, gannets, and more) at Bempton Cliffs between April and August. Learn about the area’s history at Scarborough Castle and enjoy the views.

The Resolution Hotel in Whitby is a top choice for accommodation. It’s centrally located for exploring both the town, and the rest of the coast.

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland- contributed by Amber from Amber Everywhere

The Cliffs of Moher are a UNESCO Geopark and one of the most popular sites in all of Ireland. 

Many people visit the Cliffs of Moher and only see the section nearest the Visitor Center. However, there is a 13 km trail that stretches along the tops of the cliffs from Doolin to Hags Head. From the trail, you can enjoy stunning views of the wild Atlantic Ocean and dramatic seaside cliffs. 

You can choose between starting your hike in Doolin or at Hags Head. From either starting point, most people will hike to the Visitor Center then turn around. Both trails are prone to closures if the conditions are too muddy. 

The trail along the Cliffs of Moher is moderately challenging because of its length. There are only a few inclines and declines, so most of the trail is flat and open. 

What to see nearby & where to stay

Doolin is the nearest town to the Cliffs of Moher. It’s small, but you can enjoy a pint in a traditional pub or grab a coffee at a local cafe. Visitors also love to explore the Doolin Cave, which features Ireland’s only stalactite. 

After a long day hiking along the Cliffs of Moher, you can try a seaside Irish sauna to relax your sore muscles. 

Stay at the West Haven House in Doolin. This charming little B&B has recently renovated rooms, a spacious sitting room, and serves a tasty breakfast each morning. 

Beinn Dhubh, Scotland- contributed by Kristin from Scotland Less Explored

Beinn Dhubh is on the Island of Harris in the Outer Hebrides in Scotland. It is a circular day hike which is medium challenging. The reason this hike is special is because it passes two of the best beaches in the UK, Luskentyre and Seilebost. It also climbs up to the ridge of Beinn Dhubh. From here the views out to the Atlantic Ocean and of the bay below are fantastic.

Tide levels make a big difference to what this area looks like. Start the walk a few hours before low tide with the climb up to Beinn Dhubh. This means you will walk along the beaches at low tide. At this time the whole bay is bright white sand as far as you can see.

Despite only being 11 km long the hike is best suited for experienced hikers. Because there is no defined path you have to be comfortable walking based on a map and the landscape.

How to reach & where to stay

Nearby is the village of Tarbert. Ferries run from Tarbert to the mainland. There is also an airport in Stornoway which is an hour drive away. Tarbert itself is small but the Isle of Harris is an outdoor lover’s paradise. It has amazing beaches and several hikes along the sea and into the Harris Hills.

Stay close to Tarbert at either Hotel Hebrides or Dunarain Bed and Breakfast. It is worth nothing that hotels book out early so make sure you reserve well in advance.

Mgarr to Xlendi beach in Malta- contributed by Linn Haglund from the Brainy Backpackers

Hiking the jaw dropping coast from Mgarr to Xlendi Beach on the island of Gozo is not only one of the best hikes in Malta, but also one of the most beautiful in the world. You can take the ferry from Malta island and go there on a day trip as the trailhead is right by the ferry stop. The entire length is 14 kilometers one way and you can take the bus into Victoria from Xlendi. From Victoria, take the bus back to the ferry. Unless you don’t mind walking another 14 kilometers back the same way you came from, that is.

What to expect & where to stay

The hike is moderate, taking you along the coastal trail on the west coast of Gozo through wildflowers, past mesmerizing beaches, and atop dramatic cliffs diving steeply into the deep blue sea. While the trail is mostly easy to follow, you must leave the trail and loop through the village once you reach Cenc Cliffs to avoid walking on private land. This can be a little bit complicated, so it is a good idea to use the Maps.Me app to see where the trails go and find one that isn’t on private land. Other than this section, the trail is clear.

The Duke Boutique Hotel is an awesome choice to stay at island Gozo, offering cozy rooms and luxurious breakfast.

Skyline Trail, Nova Scotia, Canada- contributed by Erin from Wanderlust With Kids

The Skyline Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia is a fantastic seaside hike that combines breathtaking coastal views with a moderate level of challenge. This well-known trail is in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where you’ll hike through forest, and have a chance to see wildlife like bald eagles and moose, before arriving at a boardwalk viewing area. 

The boardwalk is the highlight of the trail and is situated on a dramatic headland cliff that overlooks the coast of Cape Breton.

There are two options to hike the Skyline Trail: a 6.5 km (4 mi) out-and-back return hike, or an 8.2 km (5.1 mi) loop. The out-and-back route is easier and is suitable for most skill levels, while the loop route is a bit more challenging. Both trails end at the boardwalk, which has steps down to various viewing platforms. 

How to reach & where to stay

The Skyline Trail is in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and easily accessed off the Cabot Trail. It’s a short drive from the nearby town of Chéticamp, which has accommodations, restaurants and options for whale-watching tours.

La Digue Suites is a great spot to stay in Chéticamp, or if you prefer to camp, there are plenty of campgrounds in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. 

Secret Beach, Oregon, USA- contributed by Christine from Live Love Run Travel

Secret Beach in Oregon is one of the best seaside hikes in the USA. The hike itself is short but somewhat steep as you climb from the small parking area down to the beach itself.

You’ll be rewarded with a view of the beach with its sea stacks and islands before you even get to the sandy beach. Some people choose to just hike to the viewpoint, but it is worth it to find your way down to the sand. Just make sure to go at low tide and keep an eye on the tide so you don’t get stuck.

How to reach & where to stay

When you arrive at the parking area for Secret Beach, you may find it full. It only has enough spots for a few cars, so try to get there early or on a weekday for the best chance of finding a spot.

Brookings, Oregon, is the popular spot to base out of to explore the southern Oregon coast.

You can find hotels like Beachfront Inn and plenty of food options here. Plus, you can enjoy other great beaches and views in Samuel H. Boardman State Park on your way to Secret Beach.

Cutler Coast Hike near Maine, USA- contributed by Karen Warren from Outdoor Adventure Sampler

The Cutler Coast hike follows the most remote coastline in Maine. This area on the Bay of Fundy, called the Bold Coast, is a fantastic day hike or overnight backpacking trip. The terrain is relatively flat, so the hike is great for all ages.

The Cutler Coast has 9.6 miles of trails with 4.5 miles tracing the gigantic cliffs next to the sea. As you hike through fir forests near mossy bogs the mist moves in and out over the ocean. From atop the seaside cliffs you might see whales spouting below in the bay. You may also see paddlers sea kayaking the Bold Coast.

How to reach & where to stay

The hike is near Lubec, a small fishing village on the Bold Coast that is the easternmost town in the U.S.  Lubec is known for iconic lighthouses, small town charm, and amazing sunrises. West Quoddy Head Lighthouse is painted in unique red and white candy stripe colors. When the tide goes out, you walk on the ocean floor to visit the lighthouse.

After your stunning hike on the Cutler Coast, Lubec is the perfect place to enjoy the freshest seafood. Stay at the Fisherman’s Wharf for ocean front accommodations. It also has a delicious seafood restaurant.

Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail, USA- contributed by Jessica Smith from Uprooted Traveler

Kauai, known as Hawaii’s Garden Isle, is known for its lush mountains, abundant wildlife, and pristine beaches. But there’s also tons of incredible hiking trails, including the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail.

This trail follows along the cliffs on the south side of the island, with jaw-dropping views of secluded beaches and the turquoise water of the Pacific Ocean along the way. This is also an incredible place to see wildlife—sea turtles and manta rays are known to love hanging out directly offshore and can easily be spotted from the trail’s vantage point. Additionally, the trail starts at Shipwreck Beach, one of the best beaches in Kauai for snorkeling and to spot the endangered monk seals.  

This out-and-back trail is 3.8 miles and should be fairly accessible for most hikers. Parts of the trail are along sand dunes, which can definitely add a challenge, but otherwise, the trail is fairly flat.

What to expect & where to stay

One of the most unique aspects about this trail is that, in addition to providing spectacular views of Kauai’s coastline, it provides a brief glimpse into the island’s history and culture. Towards the end of the trail, you’ll pass Waiopili Heiau, an ancient shrine used in Native Hawaiian religious ceremonies and practices that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. 
While Kauai famously has a reputation of being one of the rainiest spots on the planet, the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail generally has dry and sunny weather—so it’s an excellent Plan B if your original plans on the island get rained out!

Napali Coast, Hawaii- contributed by Samantha Opp from Find Love And Travel

One of the best places for seaside hikes is the Napali Coast in Kauai, Hawaii. Here you will find the Kalalau Trail in Hā’ena State Park. 

The trail is 11 miles long and is made up of valleys, lush nature and cliffs with incredible views. 

It will take around a day to complete the entire trail and you will need a camping permit to do so. 

However, even just the first two miles is a great activity to do and the most popular for your Kauai itinerary. Walking the first two miles will display beautiful beach views and may even spot wildlife. There is also a sandy beach at Hanakapi’ai.

As the trail continues, it gets more difficult and only experienced hikers should consider hiking the entire trail. 

Passes are required to access the hike, no matter the distance you are choosing to do. 

How to reach & where to stay

The trail is a 30-minute drive from Lihu’e Airport. For convenience, you can also take a tour to the trail. 

A great place to stay is the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay. This hotel offers fun activities such as horseback riding, helicopter tours and sailing. The surrounding area is filled with sandy beaches and popular restaurants serving delicious seafood.

Ram Head Trail St. John US Virgin Islands- contributed by Theresa from Fueled By Wanderlust

The Ram Head trail is located on the Coral Bay side of St. John in the US Virgin Islands.  This moderate hike is about 2.3 miles long out-and-back, following a peninsula that juts out into the Caribbean Sea.  The trail offers magnificent views of glittery blue water and St. Croix in the distance that are completely mesmerizing.

The Ram Head Trail is rocky with some bumps, stone steps, mild inclines, and a couple small cliffs.  Watch out for low-lying cacti along the trail, and wear shoes to protect your toes.

This hike is spectacular during sunrise or sunset and the end of the trail reveals a panoramic horizon stretching from west to east.  Midday hikers can take in brilliant shades of blue water popping in the sunlight.  However, prepare for the Caribbean heat by applying sunscreen, bringing water, and wearing a hat. 

How to reach & where to stay

To reach the Ram Head trailhead, drive or take a bus to the Salt Pond Bay Beach trailhead.  Hike a quarter-mile down to Salt Pond Bay Beach and continue walking along the sand to the other side of the beach. You’ll see a dirt trail leading to the brown Salt Pond.  Turn right at the Salt Pond to continue following the Ram Head Trail.

After completing this hike, visit Drunk Bay on the other side of the Salt Pond, take a dip at Salt Pond Bay Beach, and stop at Miss Lucy’s for lunch.  To stay near the Ram Head Trail in Coral Bay, book an environmentally friendly cabana at the Concordia Eco Resort.

Balandra Beach, Mexico- contributed by Lucy and Dan from Thoroughly Travel

Balandra Beach has often been referred to as Mexico’s most beautiful beach, although it is actually a bay with seven beaches. Known for its crystal clear waters, at low tide large sandbanks are exposed and it’s possible to wade super far out into the bay. But it’s the headlands are where the real adventure awaits, as Balandra Beach is one of the best places to hike in Baja California Sur.

There are a few paths to choose from, of varying lengths, around Balandra Beach. Mirador Balandra is the most popular hike, which passes two stunning viewpoints and the famous El Hongo (Mushroom Rock). The 4.8km out-and-back trail starts from the main road and takes about 1 ½ hours to complete. It’s not too difficult but there are uphill stretches and loose rocks, so proper footwear is recommended.

What to expect & where to stay

There are no facilities at Balandra so it’s best to pack a picnic and plenty of water. Parasols, chairs and kayaks can be hired at the main beach. Balandra Beach is easily accessible by car and is only a 30 minute drive from the city of La Paz.

A public bus also runs from the city centre directly to the beach but picks up from the main road. There’s plenty more to explore in La Paz, from the seaside malecon to charming museums. And the winter months are a perfect time to visit, when you can swim with whale sharks and sea lions.

Those looking for a unique place to stay should consider the conveniently located Seven Crown Malecon.

Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica- contributed by Sarah McArthur from Costa Rica Vibes

Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica is the most popular national park in the country. This park boasts an abundance of wildlife, beautiful white sand beaches, and hiking trails for all skill levels.

The park is open every day except Tuesdays. It is open from 7am until 4pm, but it is best to book your tickets to arrive right when the park opens. This will allow you to enjoy the wildlife when they are most active.

Some of the animals you can see at Manuel Antonio National Park include; sloths, various types of monkeys, deer, toucans, butterflies, and snakes.

Don’t forget your bathing suit. The beaches here are perfect for swimming or relaxing on fine sand with turquoise water views.

What to expect & where to stay

One of the best things about the national park is that it is open to all physical levels. The main trail from the park entrance is flat and paved. It is even accessible for wheelchairs. 

The side trails are more strenuous and some include a lot of stairs. These trails offer impressive coastal and jungle views.

After visiting the national park, check out the rest of the beaches in the town of Manuel Antonio. Playa Biesanz is one of the best options. Here you can rent kayaks, go snorkeling, or rent a beach chair with an umbrella to relax. 

Most of the best hotels are in the hills above the town. For high-end accommodation, Tulemar Resort is a great option. For a budget-friendly hotel, check out Millenium Hostel

Tayrona National Park, Colombia- contributed by Giorgy from G-Extreme Travel

Tayrona National Park in Colombia is a paradise for hikers. This delightful seaside hike not only provides breathtaking views of Caribbean beaches as well as an immersive experience into lush forests reminiscent of Jurassic World Park.

You can easily reach Tayrona National Park from Cartagena by public transportation or by car. You get off El Zaino and from there start your beautiful hike adventure.

It is a moderately challenging hike with plenty of steep sections and a few slippery spots (generally occurs during the season of rainfall). However, it is easy to follow and well worth the effort!

Alternatively, you can opt for horse riding instead of walking, but you’ll miss out on the beautiful Caribbean scenery.

What to expect & where to stay

Tayrona National Park has stunning beaches and lush forests teaming with wildlife. For those seeking a challenging hike, consider visiting the Kogi village which is located at the park’s highest point. There, you can learn about the indigenous people who still reside within Tayrona.

As it is a Park, the primary lodging options available are hammocks or tents. There’s no need to worry because there is one place that also provides bungalows: La Casablanca Tayrona House.

Tayrona National Park offers pristine beaches, lush forests, and stunning scenery, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable hiking adventure.”

Kennedy Walking Track, Australia- contributed by Natalie and Steve from Curious Campers

The Kennedy Walking Track is in Mission Beach, an idyllic coastal town 2 hours south of Cairns in Queensland. The trail is a moderate 5.5 to 8km return hike. The ultimate length of the walk depends on where you turn around. Morgan’s Lookout is a popular return point, which gives you the shorter walk.

The Kennedy Walking Track takes you through rainforests, along beaches and around palm-fringed bays. From lookouts see tropical islands and spot sea turtles and dolphins. Along the trail you will walk on boardwalks, dirt paths, sand and do a little rock hopping. A highlight of the walk is the chance to see a cassowary. This is an emu sized bird with a bright red and blue head and neck native to North Queensland.

What to expect & where to stay

You do need to time your walk with the tides. At high tide, sections of the trail are underwater – that is how close you are to the Coral Sea. There is no drinking water along the track so take some with you. The weather in north Queensland can be hot and humid. The best time to walk there is from April to October.

There are more rainforest walks in Mission Beach or you can take a trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Parachuting over the reef and landing on the beach is also a popular activity here. Mission Beach Resort is a great accommodation option for a stay in this relaxed tropical town.

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