Ten dramatic coastal views and where to find them on tour

Whether it’s from high on a blufftop or down at the sandy water’s edge, we love a dramatic ocean view. As travellers, we’re all looking for the kinds of places that make you “ooh” and “ahh” as the sheer beauty of a spot reveals itself. And wouldn’t you know it, we’re here to help with ten not-to-be-missed coastal vantage points and where to find them on our adventures. Let’s head for the shorelines around the world and see what comes into view!

View 1: Side-by-side beaches in Manuel Antonio

All that separates one beach view from another is a sandy land bridge. Both are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and hanging with playful capuchins in the surrounding jungle canopy.

See it for yourself on: Costa Rica Quest — Plus

View 2: Pebbled cliffside beaches of Loutro, Greece

With plenty of free time in Loutro, you can pull up a lounger on pebbly beaches with clear blue water like Marmara and Glyka Nera. Rent a kayak or take a dip for the view from sea!

See it for yourself on: Best of Greece

View 3: Kicker Rock off of San Cristóbal Island

Sea lions vie for your attention, but Kicker Rock is an impressive volcanic rock formation in the Galápagos Islands. Grab a snorkel mask as wildlife teems just below the surface!

See it for yourself on: Upgraded Land Galapagos with Quito

View 4: Limestone karsts jutting from Ha Long Bay

Whether from a distance or as you cruise by on a traditional junk boat, the thousands of rock pillars and cliffs topped with greenery are a must-see in Vietnam’s gorgeous Ha Long Bay.

See it for yourself on: Essential Vietnam & Cambodia

View 5: Terracotta rooftops of seaside Cefalù

Often cited as one of Italy’s most beautiful townships, we suggest grabbing an aperitivo and parking yourself in front of an incredible view of Cefalù's crescent-shaped beach.

See it for yourself on: Northern Sicily: Islands & Volcanoes

View 6: Overlooking turquoise pools near Trapani

With your free time in southern Sicily, you can opt to hike the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro. The nature trail overlooks glistening coves on the Mediterranean and a cooling dip awaits.

See it for yourself on: Explore Southern Sicily

View 7: Beach huts and swaying palms of Tayrona

Northern Colombia waits with open arms to show you its rich natural diversity at Tayrona National Park... unless it’s February when the park gets a well-deserved rest from visitors.

See it for yourself on: Caribbean Colombia Express

View 8: Before you crest the Tottori sand dunes

Near the seaside town of Tottori, you can walk up and over Arabian-looking sand dunes, including some reaching 50 metres (164 feet) in height. Your bonus? The Sea of Japan!

See it for yourself on: Back Roads of Japan

View 9: Volcanic black sands of Reynisfjara beach

On the south coast of Iceland, you'll stop in Vik to set foot on onyx sands, tuck into sea caves and explore hexagonal basalt columns forged long ago when lava met the sea.

See it for yourself on: Best of Iceland — Plus

View 10: Basalt columns of Giant’s Causeway

Not to be outdone by Iceland, the emerald isle has its own set of volcanic columns. Legend tells they were built by Irish giant Finn MacCool as a crossing to confront his Scottish rival.

See it for yourself on: Highlights of Ireland