Have you ever wondered where to find those hidden gem beaches that aren’t overrun with tourists, and that you can reach by driving down some of the most picturesque roads? If so, you’re in for a treat. This guide will walk you through a variety of off-the-beaten-path beaches worldwide, all accessible through scenic routes that are as delightful as the beach itself.
North America
Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is renowned for its breathtaking views and numerous stops along the way. Among the more famous spots, you can find some lesser-known yet equally stunning beaches.
Pfeiffer Beach
Located in Big Sur, Pfeiffer Beach is known for its unique purple sand and rock formations. The drive down the PCH is nothing short of magical, with cliffs on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. Once there, you’ll find a serene beach with fewer visitors than the more popular spots.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Sand Color | Unique purple hue |
| Scenery | Stunning rock formations and coastal cliffs |
| Accessibility | Small, winding road off Highway 1 |
East Coast, Canada
Sandbanks Provincial Park, Ontario
Nestled along Lake Ontario, Sandbanks Provincial Park offers some of the finest sandy beaches in Canada. Unlike crowded city beaches, this one is a hidden treasure.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Beach Type | Sandy, freshwater beach |
| Scenic Route | Rolling hills, quaint towns |
| Activities | Swimming, hiking, picnicking |
Europe
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is famous for its stunning coastline and charming towns, but among the well-known destinations, there are hidden beaches worth discovering.
Fiordo di Furore Beach
Tucked away near the village of Furore, this beach is literally a hidden gem, located in a fjord. The drive through the Amalfi Coast’s winding roads offers jaw-dropping views, and leads you to this secluded spot.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unique Aspect | Beach within a fjord |
| Activities | Swimming, sunbathing |
| Accessibility | Stairs and a steep walk-down |
Galicia, Spain
Galicia’s coastline is dotted with many secret beaches that are accessible by beautiful scenic routes.
Playa de las Catedrales
Translated as “Beach of the Cathedrals,” Playa de las Catedrales is famous for its impressive rock formations and is less crowded than Spain’s Southern beaches.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Rock Formations | Stunning natural arches |
| Scenic Route | Coastal drive with views of the Atlantic Ocean |
| Best Time to Visit | Low tide for the best experience |
Asia
Catlins Coast, New Zealand
New Zealand’s rugged landscapes offer some hidden beach gems that promise solitude and beauty.
Cannibal Bay
Cannibal Bay on the Catlins Coast is known not only for its unique name but also for its untouched beauty. The scenic drive includes rolling hills and lush forests.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Wildlife | Sea lions and native birds |
| Scenic Drives | Rolling hills and forests |
| Accessibility | Unpaved roads leading to the beach |
Okinawa, Japan
Okinawa’s islands are famous for their beautiful beaches, but some are still off the main tourist radar.
Aharen Beach, Tokashiki Island
One of the quieter beaches in Okinawa, Aharen Beach, offers clear waters and white sand. A ferry ride and a scenic drive through lush islands will get you there.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Water Clarity | Crystal clear waters |
| Activities | Snorkeling, diving |
| Accessibility | Ferry ride and scenic island roads |
South America
Uruguay
Uruguay’s coastline is full of charming, lesser-known beaches perfect for a quiet escape.
Cabo Polonio
Accessible only by 4×4 vehicles, Cabo Polonio is a remote beach town that feels like a world away from modern life. The journey itself is part of the adventure, through sandy pathways and dunes.
| Feature | Description | | Accessibility | Requires a 4×4 vehicle | | Heritage | Home to a barely-inhabited fishing village | | Scenic Route | Sandy pathways and rolling dunes |
Brazil
Praia do Rosa, Santa Catarina
Situated in southern Brazil, Praia do Rosa is renowned for its surfing waves and relatively quiet environment. The scenic drive involves coastal roads and rolling green hills.
| Feature | Description | | Surfing | Excellent waves for surfing | | Scenic Route | Coastal roads with beautiful viewpoints | | Wildlife | Seasonal whale watching opportunities |
Africa
Mozambique
Mozambique’s coastline offers numerous off-the-beaten-path beaches accessible through beautiful routes.
Tofo Beach
Located in southeastern Mozambique, Tofo Beach is known for its marine life, including manta rays and whale sharks. The drive to Tofo takes you through scenic coastal roads and traditional villages.
| Feature | Description | | Marine Life | Manta rays, whale sharks | | Scenic Drive | Coastal routes through villages | | Activities | Diving, snorkeling |
Namibia
Skeleton Coast
The Skeleton Coast might sound intimidating, but it offers some of the most unspoiled beaches in the world. The drive includes dazzling desert landscapes and occasional shipwrecks along the coast.
| Feature | Description | | Uniqueness | Desert meets ocean | | Scenic Route | Desert landscapes, shipwrecks | | Accessibility | Requires a 4×4 vehicle |
Australia
Great Ocean Road, Victoria
One of Australia’s most iconic coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road offers both well-known and secret spots.
Johanna Beach
The Great Ocean Road might be famous for its Twelve Apostles, but Johanna Beach is a lesser-known treasure that offers incredible surf and peaceful surroundings.
| Feature | Description | | Surfing | Strong waves, popular with surfers | | Scenery | Lush hills and rugged coastline | | Accessibility | Located off the beaten path of the main road |
Tasmania
Wineglass Bay
Located on the Freycinet Peninsula, Wineglass Bay is accessible by a scenic drive and a short hike, making it a perfect secluded retreat.
| Feature | Description | | Beach Shape | Named for its unique wineglass shape | | Scenic Drive | Coastal and forest landscapes | | Activities | Hiking, kayaking |
Conclusion
Finding off-the-beaten-path beaches accessible through scenic routes can be a rewarding experience. It allows you the chance to escape the crowds and discover something uniquely beautiful. From the purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach in California to the crystal-clear waters of Aharen Beach in Japan, each spot offers its own blend of natural beauty and serenity. So, pack your bags, load up your car, and hit the road. Your perfect secluded beach getaway awaits!