1. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska, USA
Seward’s icy fjords meet the Gulf of Alaska, with glaciers calving into the sea and orcas cruising by. Kayak through Resurrection Bay or hike the Harding Icefield Trail for epic views.
Why Visit: Glaciers, whales, and puffins in a pristine wilderness.
Eco-Tip: Use biodegradable soap for camping—runoff affects marine life.
Planning: Summer (June-August) for milder weather; book boat tours early. Ferries or flights from Anchorage. Pack waterproof gear; it’s wet and cold.
Access: Kayak rentals in Seward; permits needed for backcountry camping.
2. Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia
This iconic stretch features the Twelve Apostles’ limestone stacks, koala-filled forests, and wild beaches like Bells Beach. Drive or hike the Great Ocean Walk for full immersion.
Why Visit: Dramatic cliffs and wildlife, plus world-class surfing.
Eco-Tip: Don’t feed kangaroos—stick to trails to protect dunes.
Planning: Summer (December-February) for warmth; spring’s quieter. Rent a car in Melbourne; campsites book fast. Bring sunscreen and a hat.
Access: Easy road access; guided tours available for hikes.
3. Cliffs of Moher, County Clare, Ireland
Towering 700 feet, these cliffs are Ireland’s wild heart, with waves crashing and seabirds nesting. The coastal trail from Doolin to Liscannor offers sweeping views.
Why Visit: Puffins, dolphins, and raw Atlantic beauty.
Eco-Tip: Stay on paths—cliffs erode, and grasslands are fragile.
Planning: Spring for wildflowers; summer’s busy. Buses from Galway; no permits needed. Windproof jacket is a must.
Access: Trailhead at Doolin; visitor center parking is limited.
4. Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA
Jagged cliffs drop into turquoise waters, accessible only by boat, kayak, or the grueling Kalalau Trail. Sea caves and waterfalls make it unreal.
Why Visit: Remote beaches and sea turtles; pure wilderness.
Eco-Tip: Pack out trash—no bins in this remote spot.
Planning: Summer for calm seas; permits required for hiking/camping. Kayak tours from Hanalei; book early. Bring water filters for streams.
Access: Boat or trail access only; experienced hikers only for Kalalau.
5. Skeleton Coast, Namibia
Shipwrecks, seal colonies, and dunes meet the Atlantic in this hauntingly beautiful desert coast. 4x4 tours from Swakopmund reveal its eerie charm.
Why Visit: Surreal landscapes and massive seal colonies.
Eco-Tip: Don’t disturb wrecks or bones—they’re part of the ecosystem.
Planning: Winter (June-August) for cooler temps; guided tours a must. Flights to Walvis Bay; pack dust-proof gear.
Access: 4x4 tours only; no solo travel due to remoteness.
6. Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand
Golden beaches and turquoise bays framed by granite cliffs. Kayak to Tonga Bay or hike the Coast Track for seal sightings and solitude.
Why Visit: Crystal waters and fur seals; perfect for kayaking.
Eco-Tip: Use reef-safe sunscreen—corals and fish are sensitive.
Planning: Summer (December-February) for warmth; book campsites early. Water taxis from Marahau; kayak rentals available.
Access: Easy access via Nelson; no permits for day trips.
7. Phang Nga Bay, Thailand
Limestone karsts and hidden lagoons create a surreal seascape. Kayak or take a longtail boat to secret coves and mangrove tunnels.
Why Visit: Emerald waters and sea caves; feels like another world.
Eco-Tip: No plastic bottles—trash harms mangroves.
Planning: April-May or September-October to avoid monsoons. Tours from Phuket; early morning beats crowds. Bring a dry bag.
Access: Boat or kayak from Phuket; guided tours recommended.
8. Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Jungle meets Caribbean beaches, with monkeys howling and turquoise waves lapping. Camp at Cabo San Juan or hike to hidden coves.
Why Visit: Turtles, jaguars (if lucky), and pristine beaches.
Eco-Tip: Don’t touch wildlife; pack out all waste.
Planning: Dry season (December-March); park limits visitors—book entry. Buses from Santa Marta; bring bug spray.
Access: Trailheads at park entrance; hammock camping available.
9. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
This UNESCO island chain has Praia do Sancho’s turquoise cove, reached by a cliff ladder. Snorkel with sharks and rays in a marine sanctuary.
Why Visit: Crystal waters and sea turtles; strictly protected.
Eco-Tip: Use biodegradable sunscreen—reefs are fragile.
Planning: Summer (December-February); visitor permits required. Flights from Recife; book lodges early. Bring snorkel gear.
Access: Boat or trail access to beaches; limited daily visitors.
10. Sai Kung, Hong Kong
White sand beaches and granite cliffs, a world away from Hong Kong’s skyline. Hike or boat to Ham Tin Beach for turtle sightings and solitude.
Why Visit: Mangroves, turtles, and surprising wilderness.
Eco-Tip: Avoid single-use plastics—turtles nest here.
Planning: Spring or fall for mild weather; ferries from Sai Kung town. No permits needed; bring water for hikes.
Access: Trails or boats from Sai Kung; easy day trip.
