The 12 Most Beautiful Coastal Cities in the World
Coastal cities are irresistible because they seamlessly combine jaw-dropping natural beauty with vibrant urban energy. Magic happens when a land area meets the sea and there is something about such places that draws travelers, seeking adventure, relaxation, or inspiration.
Golden beaches, turquoise waters, and cultural richness come together in coastal cities. From strolling down pretty promenades, sampling fresh seafood, and watching the sunset over that horizon, these destinations will imprint in memories forever.
Sydney, Australia
Australia’s coastline is crowned by Sydney’s glittering harbor and framed by the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge. The golden sands of Bondi Beach and the laid-back vibe beckons surfers and sunbathers; but if you need a quiet respite, it’s found in the Royal Botanic Garden. Sydney sits nicely in natural surroundings with a famous fish market and vibrant Darling Harbor ambiance.
Venice, Italy
The Venice lagoon is built on a labyrinth of canals, dotted by a city that defies any comparison. The unchanging beauty of gondolas gliding under stone bridges, pastel-colored buildings in the water and narrow streets with roiling conversations, and the smell of Italian cuisine is the charm of this city. You can’t visit Venice without riding along the Grand Canal to see the architectural masterpiece of St. Mark’s Square in all its beauty.
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain will give you jaw-dropping views around every corner. From the turquoise waters and soft white sand of Camps Bay and Clifton beaches, the city’s shores are as gorgeous as varied. The Cape Winelands add elegance with vineyards that go on forever. Table Mountain offers an unforgettable hike up and Chapman’s Peak Drive is enjoyable.
Barcelona, Spain
Art, history and the Mediterranean collide at Barcelona. After seeing Antoni Gaudí’s surreal architecture (the Sagrada Família and Park Güell), the city’s beaches provide a nice relief from the sights. Seaside fun is centered at La Barceloneta where restaurants are packed with fresh paella and sangria. Combine that with the energy of Las Ramblas and the appeal of the Gothic Quarter and you’ll understand why Barcelona is still a top coastal destination.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is all about rhythm and passion, and its coastline reflects this vibrant energy. Ipanema and Copacabana are not only beaches, they are cultural icons. Rio is a beautiful place; overlooked by the Christ the Redeemer statue and surrounded by lush mountains. The sand is full of carnival spirit and those samba beats, and even though it may be clogged with locals and tourists, you won’t be disappointed with the plentiful sun.
San Diego, California
San Diego has just the right mix of California laid-back vibes and Pacific Coast beauty. Its beaches, like La Jolla and Coronado, are the epitome of relaxation, while the Gaslamp Quarter hums with energy and nightlife. Surfers catch waves at Pacific Beach while families crowd the world famous San Diego Zoo. It’s a slice of coastal paradise with year-round sunshine and a welcoming atmosphere.
Santorini, Greece
Dramatic cliffs and iconic whitewashed buildings make Santorini a picture-perfect coastal retreat. This Greek island perched high above the Aegean Sea gives visitors a taste of stunning sunsets, vibrant blue domes, and the cute villages of Oia and Fira. You can experience the volcanic beaches and taste fresh seafood and fava in Santorini, which is more than a feast for the senses.
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is a natural wonderland surrounded by mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Coal Harbor, and other waterfront neighborhoods, are replete with beautiful views of the city’s skyline against the backdrop of nature. Stanley Park is a walkers’ and cyclists’ haven with its seawall and lush greenery. Add a booming food scene and activities that include kayaking, and Vancouver becomes a coastal city with something to offer every kind of traveler.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
The coastal gem of medieval walls and terracotta rooftops in Dubrovnik is called the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts an Old Town with stunning architecture and is worth exploring with its narrow streets overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. This is a perfect wintry destination with breathtaking views along the city walls and relaxing beaches nearby.
Havana, Cuba
Havana’s coastal charm is thriving, just like its colorful streets. Malecón is Havana’s backbone, a seawall that runs along the city’s waterfront, and is where locals come to chat, play music, and soak up the ocean breeze. It has pastel-hued buildings, old-world charm with vintage cars cruising by, and salsa rhythms that make you feel alive.
Nice, France
Nice sits along the French Riviera offering Mediterranean beauty with old-world elegance. A stroll along the Promenade des Anglais is ideal. The sparkling sea on one side and pleasant Belle Époque architecture on the other add to its flair. Fresh flowers and produce from the vibrant Cours Saleya market and art and historic Old Town enhance the appeal of a city with a beautiful seaside.
Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is known as the ‘City of Sails’ and is surrounded by water, dotted with islands, and is a maritime enthusiast’s dream. Yachts fill its harbors, like Waitematā, and nearby beaches, like Mission Bay, are lovely for swimming and picnics. With volcanic hills, a mix of cultures, a panoramic dining scene, and adventure, Auckland is a special coastal city.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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