Starting a coastal cruise is one of the best ways to experience the breathtaking beauty of our world’s shorelines. From rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to charming seaside towns and historic landmarks, these routes offer stunning ocean views that captivate and inspire. Whether you’re seeking a serene drive along the water’s edge or an adventurous journey through diverse landscapes, these shoreline routes provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable coastal cruise.
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Overseas Highway, Florida
The Overseas Highway is a breathtaking drive stretching 113 miles from Miami to Key West, Florida. This route connects the Florida Keys via a series of bridges and causeways, with the iconic Seven Mile Bridge being a highlight. Travelers are treated to panoramic views of turquoise waters, coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. The journey offers picturesque sunsets and a unique experience of driving over the ocean, surrounded by the vibrant island atmosphere and charming coastal towns.
Route 1, New Jersey
New Jersey’s Route 1, also known as the Jersey Shore Scenic Byway, offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean as it runs along the state’s coastline. This route passes through popular beach towns such as Asbury Park, Point Pleasant, and Cape May. Highlights include the historic boardwalks, pristine beaches, and charming seaside villages. The drive provides ample opportunities for beach activities, dining, and exploring the unique coastal culture of the Jersey Shore.
Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, Oregon
The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway runs 363 miles along Oregon’s coastline, offering dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean. This route features rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque lighthouses. Key attractions include Cannon Beach with its iconic Haystack Rock, the historic town of Newport, and the stunning viewpoints at Cape Perpetua. The byway also passes through lush forests and charming coastal communities, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, whale watching, and beachcombing.
Hana Highway, Hawaii
The Hana Highway on Maui is an iconic drive that winds along the island’s northeastern coastline. This 64-mile route offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls. Travelers can stop at numerous lookout points, including the stunning Wailua Falls and the picturesque Ke’anae Peninsula. The drive also passes through charming small towns and provides access to pristine beaches and hiking trails, making it an ideal coastal cruise for nature lovers and adventurers.
U.S. Route 17, South Carolina
U.S. Route 17, also known as the Coastal Highway, runs along the Atlantic coast of South Carolina, offering scenic views of marshlands, rivers, and the ocean. This route passes through historic towns such as Charleston and Beaufort, where travelers can explore antebellum architecture, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scenes. The drive features lush Lowcountry landscapes, beautiful beaches, and opportunities to spot wildlife in the coastal marshes. U.S. Route 17 provides a blend of natural beauty and Southern charm, making it a delightful coastal cruise.
Highway 12, North Carolina
Known as the Outer Banks Scenic Byway, Highway 12 runs along North Carolina’s Outer Banks, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. This route passes through a series of barrier islands, providing access to pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and charming coastal villages. Highlights include the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the Wright Brothers National Memorial, and the scenic ferry ride to Ocracoke Island. The byway is perfect for beach lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
California State Route 1, California
Also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, California State Route 1 offers some of the most iconic coastal views in the United States. Stretching from Orange County to Mendocino County, this route features dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and scenic viewpoints. Highlights include Big Sur, where the road hugs the rugged coastline, and the picturesque towns of Monterey, Carmel, and Malibu. The route provides numerous opportunities for hiking, beachcombing, and exploring charming seaside communities.
Cape Cod Scenic Byway, Massachusetts
The Cape Cod Scenic Byway offers travelers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Cod Bay. This route winds through charming villages, sandy beaches, and historic landmarks. Highlights include the Cape Cod National Seashore, the picturesque town of Provincetown, and the iconic Cape Cod lighthouses. The byway provides access to numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for whale watching and exploring the unique coastal landscape.
Ocean Drive, Rhode Island
Ocean Drive in Newport, Rhode Island, is a short but stunning 10-mile route that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. This scenic drive winds along the coastline, passing by opulent mansions, rocky cliffs, and serene beaches. Highlights include the historic Fort Adams State Park, the picturesque Brenton Point State Park, and the iconic Newport mansions. The drive provides a perfect mix of natural beauty and Gilded Age grandeur, making it an ideal coastal cruise.
Route 1, Maine
Also known as the Coastal Route, Maine’s Route 1 offers stunning ocean views as it winds along the state’s rugged coastline. This scenic drive passes through charming coastal towns such as Camden, Rockland, and Boothbay Harbor. Highlights include the picturesque Penobscot Bay, the iconic Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, and the scenic vistas at Acadia National Park. The route provides numerous opportunities for boating, hiking, and exploring Maine’s rich maritime heritage.
Scenic Highway 30A, Florida
Scenic Highway 30A in Florida offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico as it winds through the Florida Panhandle. This 24-mile route passes through charming beach communities such as Seaside, Rosemary Beach, and Grayton Beach. Highlights include the sugar-white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque dune lakes. The drive provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and coastal charm, making it an ideal coastal cruise for relaxation and exploration.
Highway 101, California
Highway 101, also known as the Redwood Highway, offers stunning ocean views as it runs along California’s northern coastline. This scenic drive passes through majestic redwood forests, rugged cliffs, and pristine beaches. Highlights include the Avenue of the Giants, the scenic vistas at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, and the picturesque town of Mendocino. The route provides numerous opportunities for hiking, beachcombing, and exploring the unique coastal landscape.
Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California
Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, California, offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean as it runs along the coast. This scenic drive passes through the vibrant city of Santa Monica, offering access to the famous Santa Monica Pier, the beautiful Palisades Park, and the iconic Muscle Beach. Highlights include the picturesque sunsets, the bustling beach scene, and the scenic views of the Santa Monica Mountains. The drive provides a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it an ideal coastal cruise.
Florida Keys Scenic Highway, Florida
The Florida Keys Scenic Highway, also known as U.S. Route 1, offers travelers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. This route stretches 106 miles from Key Largo to Key West, passing through the scenic Florida Keys. Highlights include the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, the historic town of Key West, and the picturesque Bahia Honda State Park. The highway provides numerous opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the unique island landscape.
A1A Coastal Highway, Florida
The A1A Coastal Highway runs along Florida’s Atlantic coast, offering stunning views of the ocean and picturesque beach towns. This scenic route stretches from Key West to Fernandina Beach, passing through iconic locations such as Miami Beach, Daytona Beach, and St. Augustine. Highlights include the historic Castillo de San Marcos, the beautiful beaches of the Treasure Coast, and the vibrant nightlife of South Beach. The drive provides ample opportunities for sunbathing, surfing, and exploring Florida’s rich coastal heritage.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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