The 32 Most Beautiful Coastal Trails In America
There’s something unforgettable about walking where land meets sea. With every step, coastal trails reveal wild cliffs, whispering pines, sweeping ocean views, and the kind of quiet that only exists where the waves drown out the noise of daily life.
Across the U.S., these shoreline paths offer more than just a scenic stroll—they’re a front-row seat to nature’s drama, history, and soul-soothing beauty. Whether you’re chasing adventure or just looking to breathe a little deeper, these trails deliver the coastal magic you didn’t know you needed.
1. Lost Coast Trail – California
Imagine stepping onto a path where civilization feels a world away. The Lost Coast Trail offers an off-the-grid experience that beckons serious adventurers. This remote hiking route challenges with its rugged terrain and wild beaches, promising rewards for the intrepid.
The isolation is part of its charm, with breathtaking ocean vistas and untouched nature. Those who venture here find a sense of solitude and discovery, making every step along the coast a memorable one.
2. Point Reyes Coastal Trail – California
High above the Pacific, a trail offers breathtaking views that captivate the soul. The Point Reyes Coastal Trail invites hikers to enjoy dramatic cliffside scenes and wildlife sightings. It’s a perfect day hike spot, accessible yet awe-inspiring.
Eagles soar above as the ocean crashes below, creating a symphony of nature’s wonders. With every turn, you’ll find new vistas and perhaps a curious deer peeking through the trees.
3. Torrey Pines State Reserve Trails – California
Winding through coastal bluffs, a trail reveals stunning ocean views and geological wonders. Torrey Pines State Reserve trails offer a peaceful vibe, drawing those who seek tranquility amidst nature’s splendor.
Unique rock formations stand as silent sentinels, framing the endless blue of the sea. As you meander through this serene landscape, the gentle rustle of leaves and distant call of seabirds accompany your journey.
4. Crystal Cove Bluff Trail – California
Nestled along the coast, a trail offers easy access to the sea and sky. Crystal Cove Bluff Trail is perfect for families and casual hikers, with ocean views and vibrant wildflowers.
Beach access beckons for a refreshing dip or a playful splash. The cheerful atmosphere invites laughter and leisure, making it an ideal spot for a sunny day.
5. Kalalau Trail – Kauai, Hawaii
A challenging trek awaits those ready to embrace its wonders. The Kalalau Trail on Kauai is not for beginners, but it rewards with lush jungle, waterfalls, and stunning coastline vistas.
As you traverse the rugged path, the symphony of the jungle plays alongside you. Every twist reveals a new facet of nature’s artistry, from cascading falls to verdant cliffs.
6. Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail – Oahu, Hawaii
A short, paved path leads to panoramic views and a touch of history. The Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail offers incredible ocean vistas and a glimpse into the past.
Towering above, the lighthouse stands as a beacon of exploration. In whale season, these majestic creatures grace the waters, adding wonder to the journey. The trail invites leisurely strolls, where the horizon stretches endlessly, whispering tales of the sea and sky.
7. Discovery Park Loop Trail – Washington
A hidden gem near urban life, this trail offers a serene escape. The Discovery Park Loop Trail leads through forested paths to coastal bluff views, a peaceful retreat for all who wander here.
Birdsong fills the canopy as the distant city fades away. Each step unveils a new perspective, from shaded groves to sunlit vistas over the water.
8. Cape Flattery Trail – Washington
At the edge of the continent, nature reveals its bold beauty. The Cape Flattery Trail leads to the northwesternmost point of the U.S., where rugged coastline views leave a lasting impression.
The dramatic cliffs stand tall against the ocean’s relentless embrace. Here, land meets sea in a dance of power and grace, a spectacle that’s both humbling and inspiring. This quick hike offers a chance to witness nature’s raw artistry, where every moment counts.
9. Cape Lookout Trail – Oregon
Perched on a cliff’s edge, this trail offers vistas that stretch to the horizon. The Cape Lookout Trail is moderately challenging, rewarding hikers with panoramic ocean views and possible whale sightings.
The journey is as thrilling as the destination, with each step echoing the call of the sea. Whether spotting a distant whale or simply savoring the view, this hike promises a connection to the natural world that’s both exhilarating and serene.
10. Cascade Head Trail – Oregon
Where meadows meet the sea, a trail beckons with beauty. The Cascade Head Trail is known for its coastal meadows, ocean overlooks, and rich habitat for wildlife and wildflowers.
Every step reveals a tapestry of colors and sounds, from the rustle of grass to the distant cry of seabirds. As you wander, nature’s wonders unfold, offering a glimpse into a world where land and sea coalesce in harmony.
11. Cliff Walk – Newport, Rhode Island
A path where history and nature blend, offering a unique coastal experience. The Cliff Walk in Newport pairs historic mansions with the sea’s endless embrace.
As waves crash below, the grandeur of old estates looms above, telling tales of a bygone era. It’s a scenic journey where past and present converge, inviting exploration and reflection.
12. Ocean Path – Acadia National Park, Maine
A trail that captures the essence of New England’s beauty, offering iconic ocean views. The Ocean Path in Acadia National Park is a flat trail, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Every turn reveals a new scene worthy of capture, with the sea’s rhythm as a constant companion. The coastal breeze whispers through the trees, adding a touch of magic to the journey.
13. Marginal Way – Ogunquit, Maine
A seaside stroll links the beauty of the ocean with local delights. The Marginal Way in Ogunquit offers beach access, restaurants, and gorgeous ocean views.
It’s a short, paved path that invites leisurely exploration, where the sea’s allure meets culinary and cultural treasures. As you wander, the scent of salt mingles with the aroma of fresh seafood, creating a sensory feast.
14. Great Island Trail – Cape Cod, Massachusetts
A world of sand and solitude awaits those who venture here. The Great Island Trail on Cape Cod offers a longer, sandy path with tidal flats and salt marshes.
It’s a haven for solitude seekers, where each step immerses you in the coastal landscape’s quiet beauty. The call of distant seabirds and the whisper of the wind create a soundtrack for reflection.
15. Cape Henlopen Loop – Delaware
Where history and nature intertwine, a coastal loop offers a journey through time. The Cape Henlopen Loop in Delaware features dunes, WWII history, and forest sections.
The trail invites exploration, from towering dunes to the echoes of the past found in historic bunkers. With open water views as a backdrop, the path weaves a narrative of land and sea.
16. Bald Head Island Trail – North Carolina
An island escape without the roar of engines, where nature takes center stage. The Bald Head Island Trail offers car-free paths through nature preserves and scenic boardwalks.
Birdwatchers delight in the avian wonders, while the serene landscape provides a peaceful retreat. Each step on the boardwalk invites connection with the natural world, where the gentle rustle of leaves and the call of birds create a tranquil symphony.
17. Fort Fisher State Recreation Area Trails – North Carolina
In a place where marsh meets sea, trails invite exploration and discovery. The Fort Fisher State Recreation Area Trails offer nature-focused paths with marsh views and beach access.
Wildlife thrives in this coastal habitat, offering glimpses of local wonders. As you wander, the landscape unfolds with opportunities to connect with nature’s beauty. It’s a place where each step reveals something new, whether it’s a scuttling crab or a distant heron.
18. Palmetto Trail (Coastal Segment) – South Carolina
A journey through the heart of the Lowcountry, where salt marshes and shaded paths beckon. The coastal segment of the Palmetto Trail offers a glimpse into South Carolina’s natural beauty.
The trail weaves through landscapes where the past meets the present, offering serene views and a peaceful atmosphere. Each step carries the essence of the coastal environment, from the scent of salt air to the rustle of marsh grass.
19. Little Talbot Island Trails – Florida
A haven for those seeking solitude, where nature’s beauty is untouched. The Little Talbot Island Trails offer quiet coastal hikes through sand dunes, marshes, and maritime forest.
The undeveloped shorelines provide a canvas for exploration, with each step a chance to discover something new. From the soft whisper of the ocean to the rustling leaves, the trail invites reflection and connection with the natural world.
20. Canaveral National Seashore Trails – Florida
In a protected coastal zone, trails blend nature and history. The Canaveral National Seashore Trails offer beach access, wildlife observation, and historical elements.
The path provides a window into Florida’s rich ecology, where the past lingers in the air. Whether watching a heron take flight or exploring relics of history, the journey is filled with discovery.
21. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Trails – Alabama
A sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, where trails wind through diverse landscapes. The Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Trails pass through dunes, wetlands, and pine forests.
Birders find joy in the avian diversity, while nature lovers revel in the serene beauty. With each step, the landscape unfolds, offering opportunities to connect with the natural world.
22. Gulf Islands National Seashore Trails – Mississippi & Florida
Where history and nature dance, trails offer a unique coastal experience. The Gulf Islands National Seashore Trails feature sugar-white sand, Civil War forts, and beautiful Gulf views.
Away from the crowds, the path reveals stories of the past amid stunning natural beauty. As you wander, the gentle waves and soft sands create a tranquil backdrop for exploration.
23. Padre Island National Seashore Trails – Texas
Embrace the solitude of a remote trail system where nature reigns supreme. The Padre Island National Seashore Trails offer a unique coastal hike with sea breezes and dunes.
Each step takes you deeper into a world where the ocean’s breath is a constant companion. The landscape unfolds in quiet splendor, offering a chance to connect with the natural world.
24. South Padre Island Birding & Nature Trails – Texas
A birdwatcher’s paradise awaits those who venture here. The South Padre Island Birding & Nature Trails feature elevated boardwalks and observation decks.
The shoreline offers a front-row seat to the wonders of nature, where each glance reveals a new avian marvel. Whether it’s the flash of a cardinal or the glide of a heron, the trail promises excitement and discovery.
25. Lands End Trail – San Francisco, California
A trail on the city’s edge offers a breathtaking blend of urban and natural beauty. The Lands End Trail in San Francisco provides jaw-dropping views of the ocean, cliffs, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
The path meanders through landscapes that capture the spirit of the Bay Area, where each turn reveals a new vista. It’s a journey where city life meets nature’s splendor, creating a unique experience for those who wander here.
26. Bodega Head Trail – California
Perched above the churning sea, this loop trail offers breathtaking views. The Bodega Head Trail provides a journey through ocean cliffs and windy overlooks.
In the right season, it’s an ideal spot for whale-watching, adding excitement to the hike. As the wind whips through the air, the trail invites connection with the raw power of nature.
27. Sea Lion Point Trail – Point Lobos, California
A walk teeming with life awaits those who wander here. The Sea Lion Point Trail at Point Lobos offers incredible wildlife viewing, from sea lions to otters.
The sounds of the sea mingle with the calls of seabirds, creating a symphony of nature’s wonders. Each step brings a chance to spot a curious sea lion or a playful otter, adding joy to the journey.
28. Bluff Trail – Montana de Oro State Park, California
A trail where cliffs meet the sea offers breathtaking vistas. The Bluff Trail at Montana de Oro State Park provides a relatively flat path with spectacular cliffside views.
Tidepools reveal hidden worlds, inviting exploration and curiosity. As the ocean crashes below, the trail offers a peaceful escape into nature’s embrace. Each step unveils new wonders, from the play of light on water to the intricate dance of sea life.
29. Kealia Coastal Boardwalk – Maui, Hawaii
A boardwalk through wetlands offers a serene coastal experience. The Kealia Coastal Boardwalk on Maui is flat and stroller-friendly, perfect for families seeking a peaceful walk.
The path runs parallel to the coast, where the sound of the sea is a gentle companion. Wetlands teem with life, offering glimpses of nature’s diversity.
30. Ebey’s Landing Trail – Whidbey Island, Washington
A trail where history meets natural beauty offers a diverse experience. The Ebey’s Landing Trail on Whidbey Island features views of Puget Sound and historic farmland.
Beach and hilltop hiking create a dynamic journey, where each step reveals a new perspective. The land tells stories of the past, woven into the tapestry of the present.
31. Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area – Oregon
Short trails reveal wonders beyond their length. The Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area offers coastal paths with lighthouse views and tidepools.
Cliffside overlooks provide breathtaking vistas, while tidepools invite exploration. The lighthouse stands as a guardian of the past, adding history to the journey.
32. Kīlauea Iki Trail – Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Big Island, Hawaii
It’s not every day you get to hike across the floor of a once-active volcanic crater. Kīlauea Iki Trail takes you through a surreal landscape where steam still rises from cracks in the solidified lava beneath your feet. Towering crater walls surround the path, making you feel like you’ve stepped into another world entirely.
Along the way, you’ll pass through lush rainforest before descending into the stark, otherworldly basin below. The contrast between greenery and cooled lava flows is striking—and a reminder of the island’s ever-evolving terrain.