wild coast places to visit

The Happy Traveller

Showing South Africans how to travel affordably and accessibly

Wild Coast: The Complete Guide

The Wild Coast is my favourite part of South Africa. It has an incredible raw, untouched beauty about it, the heart and soul of the people of the area is in indescribeable, and it’s the sort of place that both ignites adventure and brings immense peace to your soul simultaneously. The Wild Coast is characterised by undulating green hills topped with colourful rondavel huts, and brilliant blue seacapes with majestic rocky cliffs. Many travellers avoid the Wild Coast as it seems a little hard to get to, unprecitable and wild. But these very things are exactly what makes it such a special place and one that is very deserving of its spot on your South Africa Itinerary.

The Wild Coast is a section of coastline in the Eastern Cape which stretches from East London up to the South border of KwaZulu-Natal. It includes popular holiday destinations Cintsa, Morgan’s Bay, Yellow Sands, Wavecrest, Bulungula , Hole in the Wall, Lubanzi, Coffee Bay , Mdumbi , Port St John’s and Umngazi. During apartheid the region from the Great Kei river northwards was known as the Transkei homeland.

Welcome to rural Africa where the potholed roads are hard to navigate, lined with countless pigs, chickens and goats, and many a smiling, welcoming face!

I have been to the Wild Coast three times now and I honestly can’t get enough! My first trip was in 2010 on a countrywide family road trip. We spent a few nights at Bulungula . In 2018 Luke and I did a Cape Town to Coffee Bay Road Trip and spent an incredible five nights exploring all Coffee Bay has to offer. And then this year (2021) my family did a road trip and explored Bulungula and Mdumbi . Already my toes are itching and I’m looking at planning a multi-day hiking trip along the Wild Coast sometime in the future.

Complete Guide to the Wild Coast

Getting there.

The best way to get around the Wild Coast is to drive yourself around. The roads in the Transkei are not in the best condition but you do not need a 4×4 to get around. In 2018 we did our trip in a Toyota Etios and were perfectly fine. The roads are pot-holed and often gravel. If you plan on going to Bulungula you don’t technically need a 4×4 to get there, but it is definitely recommended. However, in a raised car you should be fine.

Google Maps isn’t very good in the Wild Coast, often directing you along goat paths and non-existent roads. The best bet is to get directions directly from your accommodation and follow their maps.

If you don’t have your own vehicle you can catch the Baz Bus. The Baz Bus stops at Mthatha (inland). There are daily shuttles from the Mthatha bus stop to The Coffee Shack in Coffee Bay. Bulungula has a shuttle service from Mthatha or Coffee Bay that you can pre-book for Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. Mdumbi Backpackers also has a pre-booked shuttle service from Coffee Bay or Mthatha.

To get to Bulungula, Coffee Bay or Mdumbi you will take the N2, then turn off at the Coffee Bay turnoff and take the various turnoffs to the respective destinations. The Coffee Bay road is a 75km stretch of tarred (pot-holed) road. There is a BP along this Coffee Bay road about 15km from the turnoff. The only proper grocery shop in the area is located at Ngcwanguba about 55km from the turnoff, 20km from Coffee Bay. There is also a petrol station here. Make sure you budget your fuel as these are the only two petrol stations in the area.

While places like Cintsa and Morgan’s Bay are also technically considered part of the Wild Coast, Bulungula , Coffee Bay , and Mdumbi are the real heart of the Wild Coast and the places I’ll be focusing on for my Complete Guide to the Wild Coast.

Bulungula is the southern most spot along the Wild Coast and is not as frequently visited as Coffee Bay. It is a little harder to get to with some confusing directions and a tricky road but the journey is well worth it! Bulungula is an eco lodge set next to the beautiful Xhora river and a lovely beach. You’ll watch many a gorgeous sunrise, see dolphins frolicking in the waves and have many opportunities to connect with, and support the local Xhosa community.

Getting there

Bulungula is probably still as authentic as it is because it is not the easiest place to get to. While you don’t  technically  need a 4×4 to get there, it is definitely recommended. However, in a raised car you should be fine. You will drive to the Coffee Bay turnoff on the N2. Then follow the tarred Coffee Bay road for 50km before turning off to your right. You will then continue down to the Zithulele Mission Hospital before following a series of landmarked directions to the lodge. Make sure you visit their website before and download their map (I have attached it here too in case) and follow the directions for Route 2. It is really just the last section where the road gets a little gnarly. When you arrive you are allowed to drive your car to the lodge and unpack your things. You’ll then need to drive it back up to the school as the lodge is a car-free zone. It costs R15 per day per car.

Accommodation

Bulungula eco lodge.

This is the only place to stay in this region of the Wild Coast. They are an eco-conscious lodge with a strong focus on sustainablilty and working in harmony with the local community. Everything is solar-powered and rocket showered! (Read my full blog on Bulungula to see what I mean). The accomodation consists of rondavel huts with double and triple options. There is also a tented camp or you can stay in a rondavel dorm. You can book directly through their website . The huts are basic with just the beds inside (bedding included, bring your own towels). Toilets and showers are seperate and communal. There is a communal kitchen where you can self-cater or you can order meals from them.

What to do in Bulungula

Bulungula Eco Lodge has an amazing relationship with the surrounding community and all of the activities offered by the lodge are local-run. You can enjoy sunrise pancakes with Nosipho, learn about the culture of the amaXhosa on a Cultural Experience tour with Jabu, meet the local herbalist or the village’s traditional healer. Alternatively take a hike along the beach to a hidden waterfall or the secret beach, relax in a hammock or watch the dolphins surfing the waves at sunrise!

Email Bulungula to ask about an epic 2 day coastal hike from Coffee Bay to Bulungula (free bag transfer!).

Read my Bulungula blog for all the details you need on planning a trip here.

Coffee Bay is the most popular spot along the Wild Coast and for good reason. It is the most easily accessible spot along the rural Wild Coast with a tarred road all the way from the N2, the vibe is laid back and you can hike to Hole in the Wall from here. Visiting Coffee Bay is not as much of an escape from reality as Bulungula or Mdumbi but it has a fun vibe with lots of adventure opportunities and plenty of exploration to be done!

You’ll follow the N2 until the Coffee Bay turn off. You’ll then follow this tarred, albeit pot-holed, road for 75km down to Coffee Bay.

Coffee Shack

We stayed at the Coffee Shack on our camping trip. They have very affordable camping and dorm options as well as some more upmarket private cottages. They have a special where the fifth night is free, and I’d definitely recommend staying five nights! There is so much going on at the Coffee Shack with organised hikes, surfing lessons, free sundowners, a Xhosa village experience and lots of opportunites to meet fellow travellers. View all of their accommodation options here. If you’re a family or a bigger group, have a look at the King’s House option.

The Real Kei

This is located 3km outside of Coffee Bay but is a STUNNING looking Airbnb with a woodfired hot tub! It looks perfect for a couple with a bigger budget. Check it out here.

What to do in Coffee Bay

Hike to Hole in the Wall, hike to the Mapuzi cliffs, visit a local village, hang out in a hammock, go surfing, have sundowners on one of the seaside cliffs and try some Umqombothi beer.

Read my Coffee Bay blog for all details of our stay there!

Mdumbi is the next town along from Coffee Bay and is another must-have spot on your Wild Coast Itinerary. Again it is slightly harder to get too making it a little more remote and tranquil. Mdumbi is the next river mouth up from Coffee Bay. Many people actually hike from one to the other. It is home to the Pondo people and has a raw untouched beauty about it. The Mdumbi River winds through milkwood forests and opens up to a large white sand beach that has been voted as the most beautiful beach in South Africa. I’m not sure I would go as far as to say that, but it is a lovely spot. It’s a firm favourite for surfing and the river is great for fishing and kayaking. To get to Mdumbi you follow the Coffee Bay tar road right to the bottom.

Just before Coffee Bay you turn left onto a gravel road. This will wind it’s way to Mdumbi. If you’re staying at Mdumbi itself at either Mdumbi Backpackers, Vukani Backpackers or Eco Swell Lodge then you will turn right at the T-junction. If you are staying at Wild Coast Secrets Accommodation you’ll turn left at the T-junction. Make sure you get exact directions from your accommodation hosts.

Wild Coast Secrets

Wild Coast Secrets Accommodation is located a short distance outside of Mdumbi itself. In my opinion the views from this spot are 100x better, if not the best views you’ll find along the Wild Coast. From your patio you literally have 270 degrees of seaview. The waves are littered with thousands of dolphins and whales catching the surf and you can literally sit for hours watching them! I cannot recommend visiting Wild Coast Secrets enough! There is a Rondavel option and a Main House option. Both are self-catering with maginifcent views. Book them on AirBnB using the links above.

Mdumbi Backpackers

An award-winning backpackers that promotes community involvement and sustainable eco-tourism. They’ve got gorgeous panoramic views of Mdumbi beach and all the good vibes. They offer a range of comfortable rustic accommodation ranging from traditional rondavels to wooden huts to safari beds to camping. They have communal bathroom and cooking facilities on site for all accommodation options. This is a great budget option and if you’re wanting to be on Mdumbi beach itself.

What to do in Mdumbi

Check out my Mdumbi blog for all the details.

Hiking the Wild Coast

The Wild Coast is the most incredible place to hike with an abundance of green hills, long beaches (dotted with cows) and incredible views. If you’re planning on doing a hiking trip I would recommend driving to Coffee Bay to start, spend one night there. You can then organise a two day hike to Bulungula through Bulungula Eco Lodge (they offer a free bag transfer) and spend a few nights in Bulungula. They will then organise a transfer back to Coffee Bay. Spenda few days resting and relaxing in Coffee Bay then do the 3 hour hike to Mdumbi, spend two nights there and get a free ride back to Coffee Bay. This trip is something I’ve been dreaming of doing for years and can’t wait to one day do it!

Alternatively you can book a hiking tour with Conscious Journeys. They seem to be an incredible company that organises Wild Coast Hiking Retreats. Email them for more info: [email protected]

Or contact any of the accommodation places and ask if they know a lcoal guy who can guide you.

The Wild Coast is a truly magical place and really needs to be on everyone’s bucketlist! If you’re travelling to South Africa, make sure you include a week on the Wild Coast in your itinerary!

Planning a trip to the Wild Coast? Check out my Complete Guide to the Wild Coast or my blogs on Bulungula , Coffee Bay and Mdumbi .

Roadtripping around South Africa? Check out my blog post on  Cape Town to Coffee Bay (which includes guides to Nature’s Valley, Yellow Sands, Coffee Bay and Hogsback) for more South African road trip inspiration. If you’re looking for Garden Route guides check out my  comprehensive guide to Knysna .

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2 thoughts on “ Wild Coast: The Complete Guide ”

Absolutely spectacular

Yay! Isn’t it just the most gorgeous part of the country? I got the Real Kei idea from you guys! I hope to stay there one day.

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Everything you need to know about visiting South Africa’s Wild Coast

by sara far away | Mar 17, 2024 | Africa , South Africa | 0 comments

This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. You can read my full disclosure here .

If you have ever considered travelling to South Africa, you have probably heard of popular destinations like Cape Town, the Garden Route, or Kruger National Park. But have you ever heard about the Wild Coast?

Nestled along the eastern shores of South Africa, this untamed region is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life. And this hidden gem is one of the best places to visit in South Africa .

The Wild Coast is exactly what the name suggests: wild, rugged, and pristine. The landscapes are a perfect blend of green rolling hills dotted by small, colourful houses, lush forests, winding rivers, and breathtaking coastal scenery of cliffs and empty beaches.

The luxuries you’ll find on the Wild Coast don’t include fancy hotels and gourmet restaurants, but rather a fresh ocean breeze, peaceful solitude, the lack of (good) phone reception, and freshly caught seafood.

For those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, the Wild Coast delivers in spades.

This post is a complete guide to visiting the Wild Coast in South Africa. It contains everything you need to know, from how best to get there and where to stay, to the most amazing things to do along the coast and everything in between.

Table of Contents

How to get to the Wild Coast

Since the Wild Coast covers quite a big area of South Africa’s Coast, the best way to get there depends on where you’re coming from.

Travelling to the wild Coast by plane

Depending on where you’ll be staying along the Wild Coast, the closest airport to fly into will either be Margate, Mthatha or East London. There are flights daily from Johannesburg to all three airports and from Cape Town to East London. I like to use FlightConnections to check out available flight routes.

You’ll need a car to travel the Wild Coast, and you can pick one up at either of these three airports. You don’t necessarily need a 4×4, but you’ll need a car with high clearance to navigate the untarred roads.

Travelling to the wild Coast by car

In my opinion, flying is the most comfortable option. But if you need to bring a lot of stuff or are visiting the Wild Coast as part of a whole South Africa road trip, you can definitely drive there from places like Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) or Durban.

When my in-laws visit the Wild Coast, they even drive all the way from Johannesburg, on what can be a 10-plus hour drive.

How to get around on the Wild Coast

Once you’re on the Wild Coast, don’t expect smooth highways and paved roads. Except for the N2 and the roads leading to Coffee Bay and Port St Johns, most of the roads in the region are dirt and gravel.

But this is all part of the charm. The bumpy and slow journey adds to the adventure and makes for an even more memorable trip!

You might get thrown around in your car a bit and you will definitely find yourself dodging potholes and animals. But you’ll also catch glimpses of this incredible region, the colourful rondavels with small vegetable gardens, laundry flapping in the wind, children playing on the roads, and livestock roaming about.

Phone reception on the Wild Coast is patchy, and not all turn-offs are signposted. Make sure to download the offline maps on Google Maps or Maps.me before you head off on your adventure.

The best things to do on the Wild Coast

Less is definitely more when it comes to visiting the Wild Coast. Instead of planning a full-on itinerary and trying to tick off as many places as possible, take it day by day. Due to the lack of a road running directly along the coast, travelling between places takes longer than it might seem.

Instead of spending hours in your car, the best thing to do on the Wild Coast is pick a nice place to stay (or two) and enjoy this area to the fullest. I promise you won’t run out of things to do!

Enjoy the beaches

South Africa has incredible beaches galore, but the ones on the Wild Coast are definitely amongst the most stunning.

Some of the rolling hills gently slope into the Indian Ocean. Others give way to steep cliffs that plunge dramatically into the sea. And in some areas, they simply fade into pristine and untouched beaches. It’s difficult to find the words that do it justice, but this coastline is guaranteed to make your jaw drop.

You’re often more likely to share the beach with a herd of cows than people. Even in holiday resorts like Hole in the Wall, the beach is rarely crowded. And otherwise, the next stunning beach is just around the corner.

Go for a swim

The water temperatures on South Africa’s Wild Coast are perfect for swimming, thanks to the warm Agulhas current flowing along the eastern coast. However, it’s important to be aware of strong currents, rough waves, and potentially, sharks.

The Wild Coast is also crisscrossed by a series of rivers that flow into the ocean. The river mouths surrounded by white sand make for incredible photo ops and are awesome swimming spots. The water is generally calmer in the estuaries and river mouths than in the ocean, and it’s so much fun to let yourself float in the current.

Watch the cows on the beach

Growing up in Switzerland, I’m used to seeing cows grazing on alpine pastures, but I’ve never seen a cow lounging on a beach before. The cows roam and graze freely on the hills, and you can often spot whole herds of them ruminating or relaxing on the beach.

This is honestly one of the coolest things about the Wild Coast!

Go for a hike

The near endless beaches and rolling hills on the Wild Coast are perfect for relaxed strolls and awesome hikes. You can walk for hours without meeting anyone but a few cows, find an empty beach for a swim, or climb one of the many hills for the most incredible views.

Daily morning walks on the beach are the perfect way to start your days on the Wild Coast. But at least once during your stay I’d recommend letting out your inner Dora the Explorer, and adventuring a little further.

After two hours of venturing along the coast, we found ourselves floating lazily and completely alone in the estuary pictured below. This was my absolute favorite moment of my trip to the Wild Coast!

Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales

It’s common to spot groups of dolphins throughout the year on the Wild Coast. We were lucky to see them almost every day, swimming past the coastal stretch in front of our terrace, playing and hunting in the waves.

Additionally, southern right whales migrate from Antarctica to the South African coast every year to mate, give birth, and raise their young ones in the warmer waters.

The Wild Coast is one of the best places in South Africa to observe these whales. The whale season lasts from June to November, but the peak calving months of July and August are the best time to witness the impressive displays of graceful water acrobatics and raw power, even directly from the shore.

Visit the hole-In-The-Wall

Hole-in-the-Wall is one of the most famous landmarks on the South African coast. Living up to its name, Hole-in-the-Wall is an impressive rocky archway in a freestanding cliff (or island) just off the coast.

The formation is not only a natural wonder but also holds great cultural significance for the local Xhosa people. A local legend tells a romantic tale of sea people falling in love with a beautiful girl living near a lagoon, cut off from the sea by a mighty cliff. When the girl’s father opposed their union, the sea people enlisted the help of a huge fish to break through the cliff and sweep the young Xhosa maiden away.

For the best view of the Hole-in-the-Wall, don’t head down to the beach in front of it. Instead, follow the Hole-in-the-Wall View Drive past the little village to catch the full panorama of the rock formation and the lagoon in front of it.

Enjoy some fresh seafood

The coastal waters of the Wild Coast are teeming with marine wildlife. In addition to awesome dolphin and whale sightings, this also means delicious seafood. People from the nearby local villages came past the house daily, selling freshly caught fish, meaty oysters and flavorful crayfish.

Nothing complements your sundowners better than some local seafood straight from the sea!

Visit one of the nature reserves

The Wild Coast in South Africa is home to several stunning nature reserves that showcase the region’s diverse flora and fauna. While visiting one of the reserves, you might be able to spot antelopes, monkeys, a wide range of birds, and even zebras.

• Inkwenkwezi Nature Reserve is a private game reserve 40 minutes north of East London. It’s malaria-free and home to the Big 5 (elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino and leopard) in addition to many other animals.
• Hluleka Nature Reserve , located 30 km south of Port St Johns is a tranquil reserve boasting rocky shores and golden beaches, lagoons, lush forests and a variety of animals. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some zebras on the beach.
• Silaka Nature Reserve covers 400 ha of lush forests and a dramatic coastline in a forested valley south of Port St Johns.
• Mkambati Nature Reserve is a large nature reserve between Port Edward and Port St Johns. It’s home to a large number of animals, the impressive Msikaba Gorge and the stunning horseshoe falls.

Enjoy the slow Life

Normally, I find it impossible to do absolutely nothing. FOMO is a real thing for me, especially when I’m travelling. But the Wild Coast is one of the few places that truly managed to calm my mind and body.

Sure, I would have loved to find out what’s behind yet another hill, visit as many places along the coast as possible, and explore all the nature reserve. But as I mentioned earlier, the best way to visit the Wild Coast in my opinion, is to pick one place, and enjoy your time there to the fullest.

Spend a few hours each day listening to the sound of the ocean, watching the waves crash and create beautiful patterns of blue and white, and finally read that book you’ve had on your list for so long.

Where to stay on the Wild Coast

The Wild Coast is only sparsely populated. Some larger towns and popular holiday resorts include Port St. Johns, Hole-in-the-Wall, and Coffee Bay. But for the most part, you’ll only find small villages and settlements along the coast.

We stayed at a relative’s house on the Wild Coast, which is not available for rent. But I have scoured Booking.com for some amazing alternatives along the coast:

• Mazeppa Sunrise Beach Accommodation | There is both a studio and a 2-bedroom house, both with stunning ocean views. The accommodation is only a few meters away from the beach at Mazeppa Bay, and about 3 hours each from East London and Mthatha.
• Clifton Cottage | This awesome 3-bedroom house is located right by the beach at Kei River Mouth, about one hour from East London. This looks like the perfect place to stay if you’re visiting the Wild Coast with your family or a group of friends.
• Blue Cottage and Seaview Cottage at Coram Deo Lodge | These cottages in Coffee Bay look super cute and have an amazing ocean view. Plus they are only 600 meters from the beach.
• Bulungula Xhosa Community Lodge   | This unique, carbon-neutral accommodation, about 2.5 hours from Mthatha, is owned by the Nqileni village, a vibrant and traditional Xhosa community. Some of my friends have stayed at Bulungula before, and couldn’t recommend this place enough.

The best time to visit the Wild Coast

The warm weather during the summer from December to February is perfect for enjoying the gorgeous beaches and outdoor activities, and the sea is at its warmest. However, the summer months are also the wettest and busiest (but it’s rarely super crowded on the Wild Coast).

Spring and autumn are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking. The weather is mild, and there is less rain compared to the summer. During spring, the landscape comes alive with blooming flowers and lush vegetation. On the other hand, autumn is still an excellent time for water activities since the sea is still pleasantly warm from summer.

The winter season on the Wild Coast is peaceful and quiet. It brings cooler air and water temperatures and the least amount of rain. In addition, July and August are peak whale watching season.

 A trip to the Wild Coast is always a good idea, no matter what time of the year!

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Welcome to my world!

Hi, I’m Sara, a twenty-something Swiss on a mission to become a full-time travel writer and digital nomad.

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Home / Regions / Wild Coast

The Eastern Cape Wild Coast runs along a rugged coast of untouched shorelines, shipwrecks and traditional Xhosa Culture. From marine safari activities to local cultural encounters and adrenaline adventures, the Wild Coast shows off with exquisite coastal scenery and outdoor excursions fit for the whole family.

Get Out And About and Explore!

Nelson Mandela Museum

Travel to Qunu, birthplace of Nelson Mandela for a guided tour of the Nelson Mandela Museum and heritage trail that follows in Mandela’s footsteps. Opened in 2000, on the 10th anniversary of Nelson Mandela’s release from prison, Madiba insisted that the museum serve to uplift and develop the surrounding community, instead of being just a tribute to him.

The museum covers three separate locations – Bhunga, a building in Mthatha which tells the story of Madiba’s life in the leader’s own words from his book, “The Long Walk to Freedom”, the open-air museum called Mvezo, where he was born, and the Nelson Mandela Heritage and Youth Centre in the village of Qunu, where he spent his childhood.

With a clear 15km stretch of beach, natural forest, exciting outdoor adventures, cultural encounters on tap and a range of accommodations and restaurants, Chintsa is recognised as one of South Africa’s prime coastal destinations. It is the perfect chill-out hideaway for travellers of all ages. Chintsa has become one of the top ‘voluntourism’ centres in South Africa. Chintsa (formerly spelt ‘Cintsa’) lies on both flanks of the mouth of the Chintsa River in the Eastern Cape, about 40km north of East London off the N2 highway. For many generations it has been a favoured holiday and fishing spot for both locals and visitors from further afield. There are few more attractive sights than watching a group of riders and their mounts galloping across the stretch of wide, clean beach that makes Chintsa so special. Then there is also the very pleasant sensation of chilling out in a hammock on a resort lawn overlooking the Chintsa Lagoon, sipping a cold drink, reading a book and occasionally lifting one’s eyes to the Indian Ocean for a sighting of a passing whale or a frolicking pod of bottlenose dolphins.

Areena Riverside Resort – (Abseiling, Quad Biking, Canoeing, Ziplines, Fishing, Open Air Movies, River Cruises, hiking, Sea Kayak, Paintball, Archery, Segway Safari Tour) – http://www.areenaresort.com/ Health and Wellness – http://www.pranalodge.co.za/wellness-spa/prana-lodge-wellness-spa.htm Outreach and Volunteer – http://www.ahj.co.za/outreach.asp Buccaneers Lodge & Backpackers – (Surfing, Beach Horse Rides, Yoga, Massages and more) https://cintsa.com/

Legendary Hole in the Wall

You have not done the Wild Coast unless you have been to the “Hole in the Wall”.

It is a rocky archway on the Wild Coast that was created millions of years ago by the relentless action of the waves crashing against the sandstone. There is a little holiday village of the same name overlooking this rocky phenomenon located at the mouth of the Mpako River in Coffee Bay. Xhosa legend holds that this is the gateway to the world of their ancestors and they refer to it as “esiKhaleni”, which means “place of thunder” or “place of sound”.

Hole in the Wall is situated roughly in the centre of the 300km stretch of Wild Coast, mid-way between Port Edward in the north, and East London in the south.

Fall for Mkambathi – Nature Reserve

Situated on the coast of north-Eastern Pondoland, the Mkambathi Nature Reserve offers 7 720ha of open grasslands, dotted with indigenous forest patches and swamp forests flanked by magnificent forested ravines of the Msikaba and Mtentu rivers.

This spectacularly scenic, authentic, coastal wilderness will take your breath away. Here the river tumbles down precipices into deep, dark rock pools, finally cascading directly into the ocean (one of only 19 waterfalls in the world – which plummets into the ocean).

You will fall for Mkambathi!

Hard to Leave Hluleka

Travellers say the more difficult the road the bigger the reward at the end of it – something spectacular, handcrafted by nature to ignite your senses and take your breath away. Lying 30 km south of Port St Johns, Hluleka Nature Reserve is one of the Wild Coast’s most rewarding experiences.

Upon your arrival at Hluleka you will be mesmerised! It is well-priced and well-equipped. The fabulous double storey wooden chalets overlook the most spectacular beach… Spend your days relaxing on the protected, pristine beach, meandering on paths through the forest and up to the hill tops, spotting the elusive blue duiker and eland and delighting in the abundant bird life and curious herd of zebra. It is not the return trip that makes it hard to leave Hluleka!

Get to Hluleka this holiday – You will never want to leave! Other magnificent provincial coastal nature reserves include Dwesa and Silaka.

Top 10 Things to Do in Coffee Bay

Here are the top 10 things to do in Coffee Bay, according to Coffee Shack Backpackers:

• Take surfing lessons.
• Go on a guided hike to Hole in the Wall.
• Make your own Djembe drum.
• Spend a homestay night in Rhini village and experience. traditional Xhosa culture.
• Go on a guided hike to Manuzi Cliffs and Caves
• Experience a village dinner – a fun night of dancing and singing with traditional Xhosa food and beer.
• Learn to play the Djembe drum.
• Horse ride on Coffee Bay Beach and in the surrounding hills.
• Lie in a hammock with a cocktail and relax.
• Take an early morning walk and watch the sun rise on Coffee Bay beach.

Coffee Bay is 200km north of East London along the N2, 80km down the coastal road to the Wild Coast

A must do Mzamba Fossils - & petrified forest trail

How about a guided tour of a petrified forest and fossil hunt at Mzamba on the most northern part of the Wild Coast?

Although called a petrified forest, the trees that formed it did not actually grow there. They were washed down the rivers. The wood got waterlogged, submerged and penetrated by marine worms. Over time the wood became silicified (converted into silica) and formed what can be seen there today.

The fossils, that form part of the Mzamba Cretaceous Deposits, can be seen under and in between almost every rock and found in deposits of sandstone and limestone in an exposed 10-metre cliff band along the beach. It is extremely rich in fossil material dating back 80-million years. Masses of marine shells – tightly coiled ammonites, echinoids (sea urchins) and bivalve shells can be found here. Look out for shark teeth.

A series of cliffs and overhangs, called White Man’s Cave, is at the furthest end of the trail. Sitting inside them and looking up at fossils in the cave roof is awe-inspiring.

Exploring this rare piece of rare natural history is a must do on every road tripper’s list.

Many of South Africa’s black leaders, including Walter Sisulu and the late Nelson Mandela come from this area. Mthatha is the home of one of the three Nelson Mandela Museums. Spread across three sites, it collects, interprets and exhibits key aspects of the story of the life and times of the late Nelson Mandela in context. The three historical sites of the museum are all in the locality at Mvezo, Qunu and the Bunga Building in Mthatha itself. In the Bunga Building is the story of the Long Walk to Freedom and an exhibition of the many gifts received by Nelson Mandela on behalf of the South African people.

Nelson Mandela Museum – http://www.nelsonmandelamuseum.org.za/ Luchaba Nature Reserve – https://www.visiteasterncape.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Destination-Guide-2016.pdf

Lying on Route 61, just inland from the beautiful coastal villages of Port St Johns and Mbotyi, Lusikisiki is wild. The countryside is rugged, remote and untamed, and time has virtually stood still in a part of the world known as ‘God’s country’ or Pondoland. The little town gets its name from the sound of the wind moving through the grass. Here the countryside, a series of rolling hills, lush tropical forests, wide open spaces, untouched beaches and an untamed mystery supports the local people’s lifestyle that has changed little over the years.

Magwa Waterfall  – http://www.wildcoastholiday.co.za/listing/the-magwa-waterfall Wild Coast Pondo Walk  – http://www.wildcoastholiday.co.za/listing/wild_coast_holiday_hiking

Port St Johns

If you are after rustic authenticity and big smiles, then Port St Johns, South Africa is the place for you. Port St Johns is renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle, which makes it a wonderful place to have a holiday. Port St Johns is probably named after the São João, a Portuguese ship that was wrecked off this coastline in 1552. Port St Johns is a swashbuckling village of legend on the Pondo side of the Wild Coast. It is also one of the highlights on any international backpacker’s world itinerary because of its natural setting, frontier atmosphere and appeal to more adventurous younger travelers. The village lies on the Umzimvubu River – Xhosa for ‘hippo’. The most famous hippo ever to have visited Port St Johns was Huberta who ventured south in 1931 and settled upriver for more than four months during her trek from Zululand down to the Eastern Cape.

Port St Johns to Coffee Bay Hikes – http://wildcoasthikes.com/ Sardine Run – http://www.outspaninn.co.za/sardinerun.html and http://www.prodive.co.za/sardinerun  

Kei River Mouth

The lovely seaside holiday village of Kei Mouth, is situated an hours drive from East London in South Africa’s scenic Eastern Cape Wild Coast region. You will find a wide variety of Kei Mouth accommodation available in the town. Kei Mouth is popular due to its location as the southern entry point to the Transkei Wild Coast and is also the starting point for the challenging Imana Wild Ride and the Wild Run series events, which are held annually. There are several sandy beaches, warm hospitality, good fishing and many activities to offer. Kei Mouth has a 9-hole links golf course and country club, two horse riding operators, a game reserve just outside of town, several easy coastal hikes, a popular surf spot, ski-boat launch site and bird watching spots. Kei Mouth is also home to the ‘Pont’, one of South Africa’s two remaining car-transporting pontoon river ferry services. The Pont carries vehicles, passengers and livestock across the Great Kei on a daily basis and the trip is an unforgettable experience. For more info: [email protected]

Fishing – http://www.keimouth.co.za/activities/Fishing.htm Strandloper Hiking Trail – http://www.strandlopertrails.org.za/ Horse Riding – http://www.wildcoasthorsebackadventures.com/ Township Tour – http://www.keimouth.co.za/townshiptours/ Trevor’s Trail – https://www.trennerys.co.za/trevors-trails/

The peaceful seaside holiday village of Morgan Bay is located less than an hour from East London on the Wild Coast. Morgan Bay is blessed with a mile-long beach, safe swimming lagoon and picturesque sea cliffs. Activities on offer in the area include horse riding, golf, game drives, hiking trails and fishing.

Morgan Bay has been a favourite holiday destination with generations of South African families, who are lured back there year after year. It is not hard to see why. Far from the stresses of city life, it is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some well-earned relaxation, breathe in the fresh sea air and forge fond memories and strong friendships. There are lots of things to keep the young ones entertained, particularly on Morgan Bays’ excellent beach, which is patrolled by lifeguards during the festive season, and shallow swimming lagoon.

During the day you can gaze at passing ships on the horizon, relax on the beach with a book, play a round of golf in Kei Mouth, or take a walk along the beach and picturesque cliffs / krantzes. There are several good fishing spots in the area and ski-boats can be launched from the mouth of the nearby Kei River. The more adventurous may enjoy a canter along the Morgans Bay beach with Mkulu Kei Horse Trails, or a game drive at Endalweni Private Game Reserve, while those in need of some pampering can enjoy spa treatments at the Morgan Bay Hotel. Slightly further afield and only a short drive over the cliffs from Morgan’s Bay, is Double Mouth Nature Reserve and the ever popular Bead Beach (Treasure Beach), site of a 16th century Portuguese shipwreck, where Carnelian Beads, Money Cowries and shards of broken Ming Porcelain lie scattered amongst the shells. Many good times have been enjoyed by families and friends who meet, every evening in summer, for sundowners on the Morgan Bay cliffs. It is the perfect way to reflect on the day and forget your troubles. At night you can lie relaxed in comfortable accommodation while being lulled by the ocean, glorious stars and the intermittent beam of the Cape Morgan Lighthouse across the bay.

Camping @ Double Mouth – https://www.visiteasterncape.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Destination-Guide-2016.pdf Hiking and Walking Trails – http://www.morganbayhotel.co.za/activities/walks.pdf Horse Riding – http://www.wildcoasthorsebackadventures.com/   Township Tours – http://www.keimouth.co.za/townshiptours/ Rock Climbing and Abseiling – http://www.morganbayhotel.co.za/activities/ Golf – http://www.morganbayhotel.co.za/activities/ Endalweni Private Game Reserve – http://www.endalweni.co.za/ Morganville Motorcycle Museum – http://www.morganbayhotel.co.za/activities/ Fishing, Golf, Surfing, Canoeing – http://www.morganbayhotel.co.za/activities/

Magwa waterfall

The Magwa waterfall is truly a remarkable sight. Unlike many other waterfalls along the rugged Wild Coast, it is easily accessible to visitors. Most waterfalls in this region require arduous efforts to reach, making them rarely seen except by the most adventurous travelers.  With a drop of 144 meters, the curtain of water plunges into a narrow canyon that was formed by seismic movement. This movement could have been a sudden shift of the earth’s crust along geologic faults or the result of volcanic activity.  Although much smaller in scale, the Magwa falls have been compared to the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

A short 8-kilometer drive takes you to the falls, and it is well worth it. Witnessing the river cascade over the precipice and tumble down into the gorge below, where the bottom is obscured in certain places, is a captivating experience.

In close proximity to the falls lies Magwa Volunteers, a small permaculture project. This is an ideal opportunity for individuals seeking a volunteer gap year to learn about sustainable living. Initially established as a tour company, Magwa Volunteers has evolved into a center for permaculture and community projects with the goal of promoting sustainability through tourism.

Located just north of Port St Johns, the trading town of Lusikisiki derives its name from the soothing sound of wind rustling through reeds, a common occurrence along the area’s rivers. The coastal stretch between Lusikisiki, Msikaba, and Mbotyi offers an abundance of natural wonders and waterfalls to explore.

While in the area, be sure to visit Mkambati Nature Reserve, Ntsubane Forest, and Lupatana Nature Reserve to further immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. 

Trevor's trail

Trevor’s Trails offers 4 different guided tours; The Gate Trail, visit a traditional Xhosa home, 4×4 trail to Gxara Falls and a sundowner cruise up the Qolora River.  Trevor’s Trails are based at Trennerys Hotel.

The Gate Trail: The trip is a three-hour outing by boat and on foot and will take you about 1,5km up the Qolora River from the river mouth through a gorge and to a waterfall with a deep pool.  Here a tempting high jump awaits the brave of heart.  Trevor and Carlos lead you through the riverine forest, stopping occasionally to point out medicinal trees and plants, whilst boulder hopping across the river to another pool.  You will be hard pressed to find a better way to spend a morning or afternoon on this little patch of paradise at Qolora Mouth.

For more information visit: https://www.wildcoastholiday.co.za/listing/trevors-trails_20_2017

Bulungula Homestay Experience

In the heart of the exquisite rural area of the Eastern Cape lies Bulungula, where children walk home from school barefoot and women fetch water from the river in groups, laughing and catching up on village news. The Bulungula Homestay initiative invites travellers to immerse themselves into traditional Xhosa life, even if only for a short while.

This project is about creating an authentic experience, though. Therefore, unlike other visits to traditional villages, there are no rehearsed performances and faked celebrations. Rather, visitors staying at the homestead are privy to whatever events and celebrations would normally take place at a particular time. For instance, should you be staying there at a time in which someone gets married, you will be privileged enough to join in the celebrations.

Nearby activities include horse riding, canoeing, fishing, bird-watching, enjoying a massage, or visiting a traditional herbalist. Within the village, tourists are encouraged to get to know the locals and to experience the parties for which shebeens (informal African taverns) are well known. Learn the clicks of the Xhosa language and the history behind their many customs and cultural events.

Where?: Nqileni (closest town is Mthatha), Wild Coast, Eastern Cape, South Africa

When? Booking is essential.

How? Call Khuselo on +27 (0)47 577-8908 (8am to 6pm) or +27 (0)78 536-3938 (after 6pm).

https://www.wildcoastholiday.co.za/listing/bulungula-homestay-experience

Waterfall Bluff and Trail

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the awe-inspiring Waterfall Bluff as it gracefully plunges into the Indian Ocean. While this adventure requires some effort, the rewards that await are truly immense. Considered one of the most exhilarating treks for experienced hikers, it promises an experience like no other.

Starting from Mbotyi, your coastal walk begins along grassy banks and pristine beaches, spanning approximately 3.5 km until you reach the picturesque Drewe’s Camp. Along this stretch lies the magnificent Mkhosi River mouth, followed by two untouched, crystal-clear streams. Be captivated by the serene beauty of a breathtaking waterfall cascading into a tranquil pool. As you continue, the path veers away from the beach, leading you to ascend Sugarloaf Hill’s backside, revealing a stunning plateau. Your knowledgeable guide will point out the fascinating Eggossa fault, and you’ll encounter the first deep valley as you proceed.

During your expedition, you’ll pass by two huts occasionally utilized by herders, guiding their cattle to graze on these traditional lands. En route, keep an eye out for the endemic Mkambati palms, which flourish in this remarkable region. As you walk along the cliff edges, overlooking the Indian Ocean’s vast expanse where whales and dolphins frolic, an iconic landmark known as Cathedral Rock will greet you. Notice the rock cairns left behind by daring climbers who dared to conquer its heights.

After crossing the pristine pools of the Mlambomkulu River, the trail will guide you back to the coast, revealing the grandeur of Waterfall Bluff. Marvel at the enormous overhanging cave, aptly named Grotto Cave, offering respite and shade for a delightful packed lunch. As you retrace your steps slightly inland on the return journey, don’t miss the opportunity to refresh yourself with a swim in the inviting pools along the way.

Immerse yourself in nature’s magnificence as you embark on this extraordinary adventure. For more information visit: https://www.wildcoastholiday.co.za/listing/waterfall-bluffandtrail

The Wild Coast Jikeleza

Experience the Wild Coast Jikeleza: A Journey of Discovery

Indulge in the enchanting allure of the Wild Coast Jikeleza Route, where we invite you to take a leisurely drive and immerse yourself in the wealth of natural wonders, artistic treasures, unique boutiques, and captivating attractions that await your exploration. Extend your stay and uncover the hidden gems that define this remarkable region.

Unveil the rich maritime heritage of the area as you navigate the new Wild Coast Jikeleza Shipwreck Route, tracing the breathtaking shoreline. Your journey commences just outside Beacon Bay, an East London suburb, and winds its way along the T1 Road (also known as Schafli or the East Coast Resorts Road), concluding approximately 30km away on the N2. Along this picturesque route, you’ll encounter well-maintained trunk roads, clearly marked and surfaced, ranging from the T2 to the T10.

Immerse yourself in a malaria-free haven, a coastal paradise adorned with temperate climates and unparalleled natural beauty. The Wild Coast Jikeleza Route warmly welcomes families, ensuring there is something delightful for each and every visitor. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, adventure, or cultural experiences, this journey promises to captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories.

The word “Jikeleza” derives from the local isiXhosa language, inviting you to wander and meander at your own pace. Embrace the spirit of exploration as you embark on this captivating voyage, allowing your curiosity to guide you towards unforgettable encounters.

Discover the allure of the Wild Coast Jikeleza. Start your journey today and experience the wonders that await. For more information visit: https://www.wildcoastholiday.co.za/listing/the_wild_coast_jikeleza

Unveiling the Wild Coast’s Maritime Legacy

The name “Wild Coast” not only pays homage to its untamed wilderness but also to the thundering waves and turbulent seas that dominate during stormy conditions. Throughout history, this stretch of the Eastern Cape coast has become the final resting place for numerous ships, with skeletal remains, artifacts, and structures serving as silent testaments to the lives and vessels lost.

Many of these shipwrecks have vanished beneath the ocean’s depths, forgotten except for the occasional treasure discovered by beachcombers. Some still lie as decaying hulks in shallow waters, like the Jacaranda at Qolora Mouth or the Idomene at Qora Mouth. Others have left a lasting legacy, such as the origins of Coffee Bay’s name, which supposedly stems from a shipwreck that spilled coffee beans into the bay. It is said that these beans sprouted into short-lived coffee bushes, giving the bay its unique name.

Certain wrecks have even left their mark on place names. Port St Johns is believed to derive its name from the wreck of the Portuguese ship São João in the sixteenth century. Mazeppa Bay owes its name to one of the few ships that successfully navigated these treacherous waters—the British ship Mazeppa, which frequently sought refuge in the bay and lived to tell the tale. However, the most renowned wreck of all is that of the English ship Grosvenor.

Tragedy befell the Grosvenor on August 4th, 1782, during its return journey from India. Stranded and subsequently sinking in a deep gully off a rocky cove known as Lwambazi, it claimed the lives of only 14 out of the 150 people on board. Merely six sailors managed to find safety at a frontier farm near Port Elizabeth. The news of this disaster prompted a rescue expedition by the colonial government, but they could only locate 12 survivors. For years, rumors circulated of other ‘unfound’ survivors living among local tribes, and an expedition in 1790 discovered a community of approximately 400 non-African descendants residing near a tributary of the Mngazi River. They were the sombre remnants of various shipwrecks along the coastline.

Although the Grosvenor remained elusive to the expedition, a different legend emerged—a belief that the ship carried a fortune in bullion and silver. One rumour even suggested that the fabled Peacock Throne of Persia, a magnificent golden chair adorned with precious stones and looted during that time, was smuggled on board.

What followed were futile and costly attempts to recover the supposed treasure. Steam-powered cranes, suction dredgers, undersea tunnels, boulder breakwaters, high-pressure water jets, explosives, and even a group of spiritualists led by a ghost were deployed, all in vain. Only two cannons and a handful of gold and silver coins have ever been salvaged from the Grosvenor’s wreckage. It rests undisturbed in its perilous gully, its secrets hidden by treacherous currents and shifting sands. What treasures lie within and how to retrieve them remains a mystery.

At Mkambati, two notable shipwrecks add historical importance and intrigue for tourists—the São Bento (1554) near the mouth of the Msikaba River and the Grosvenor (1782) resting in Lambasi Bay. These remnants stand as reminders of the Wild Coast’s captivating maritime history. For more information visit: https://www.wildcoast.co.za/ships-wrecked  

Isinuka Mud Caves and Sulphur Pools

For a unique cultural and outdoor experience, visit the natural sulphur springs; a traditional healing site to locals. Immerse yourself in the tradition by smothering yourself in the mud. Dry in the glorious sun and visit the sulphur pools afterwards to rinse off. Finally, bathe in the river to complete your healing.

For more information: https://www.safarinow.com/destinations/port-st-johns/popularattractions/isinuka-mud-caves-and-sulphur-pools.aspx

Image credit: SafariNow

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Exploring the Wild Coast – South Africa’s Best Kept Secret

Immersed in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa , the Wild Coast stands as a region unrivaled in its uniqueness. This captivating expanse boasts awe-inspiring natural beauty, with a magnificently pristine coastline. Stretching as far as the eye can see, unspoiled and secluded beaches grace the shores, while vibrant green hills gracefully cascade towards deep river valleys.

The area stretches roughly from  East London  in the south to the border of the  KwaZulu-Natal  Province in the north. Altogether, the distance between these two areas is approximately 250km.

The Wild Coast is unfortunately often overlooked by some travelers for reasons of safety, poor infrastructure and difficult to reach destinations. However, with careful planning and appropriate precautions, you can make the trip of a lifetime to this outstanding region of South Africa. The area remains almost untouched by modern development. It is precisely this remoteness and virtually undeveloped landscape that make the Wild Coast so special.

Iconic towns of the Transkei

The transkei.

Included in the Wild Coast is what used to be the  Transkei , a region that played an important role as a borderland for much of the 18th and 19th century. Once established as the first of ten Bantustans, or Black Homelands, the Transkei enjoyed a period of self-governance until 1994 when it merged back into its larger neighbor, becoming part of the Eastern Cape Province . Retaining its distinctiveness and a sense of difference, the Transkei preserves its rich heritage. Traditional African villages still dot the landscape, where herdsmen gracefully oversee their cattle. Venturing into the Transkei feels akin to stepping back in time, immersing oneself in a unique era of South Africa’s history and embracing the beautiful Xhosa lifestyle. It is a place that also holds significance as the birthplace of influential politicians, including former president Nelson Mandela .

Yet, the allure of the Wild Coast truly comes to life along its vast 200-kilometer coastline, nestled within the heart of Pondoland . Accessible by flying into the cities of East London or Durban , this pristine and sparsely inhabited region encapsulates the true essence of its name – the Wild Coast. Secluded and expansive beaches adorn the landscape, embraced by untouched and serene surroundings. The green pastoral scenery, adorned with colorful Xhosa huts, creates a beautiful image. Nature enthusiasts will be thrilled with fantastic hiking and fishing opportunities. While a very basic road network exists, the area remains predominantly rural, making hiking or horseback exploration the most immersive ways to travel this captivating land.

Coffee Bay and Port St Johns   have emerged as sought-after destinations among tourists, yet they defy the conventional notion of a bustling tourist region. Instead, these villages draw visitors with their allure of remote and untamed landscapes, providing an escape from the fast-paced demands of everyday life. In these idyllic settings, travelers are presented with abundant opportunities to immerse themselves fully and be inspired by the sheer beauty of nature. With a laid-back atmosphere prevailing in these regions, you’ll find yourself spending leisurely moments on a porch, marveling at the canopy of stars above. Canoeing, hiking, and simply indulging in the mesmerizing scenery are just a few of the delightful pursuits that await you in these captivating destinations.

Renowned as an excellent hub for coastal walks leading to numerous stunning beaches in the vicinity, Coffee Bay stands out as a good starting point for exploration. However, its greatest allure lies in the renowned attraction known as the ‘ Hole in the Wall .’ This extraordinary rock formation captivates visitors with its grandeur and distinctiveness, as the relentless waves have carved a big opening right through its core. The ‘Hole in the Wall’ stands as a testament to nature’s artistic prowess, drawing admirers from far and wide to witness its awe-inspiring beauty.

Unfortunately, many of these popular destinations along the Wild Coast including Port St Johns and Coffee Bay  are difficult to reach without a four-wheel drive vehicle, which could limit some travellers. Despite this, there are still plenty of amazing places to explore near the town of  East London  and towards  Kei Mouth  that are easily accessible to any type of vehicle. Below are a few of these easy-to-reach places along the Wild Coast .

Easy-to-reach places along the Wild Coast

While Cintsa and its neighboring area are often mistakenly perceived as an official part of the Wild Coast, they are, in fact, located just outside its boundaries. Nevertheless, despite this technical distinction, people still regard Chintsa and its surroundings as an integral and cherished part of the Wild Coast experience.

Nestled at the edge of the Transkei region lies the charming seaside town of Cintsa (also known as Chintsa). In recent years, this town has experienced rapid development, offering an abundance of upscale accommodation options. While Cintsa may deviate from the essence of the untamed and wild nature that characterizes the ‘wild coast,’ it nonetheless exudes its own unique beauty as a delightful coastal village. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of Cintsa and enjoy the allure of this picturesque location.

Outlined below are a collection of excellent destinations situated near Cintsa.

Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve

Inkwenkwezi

Situated only 28km from the city of East London, the Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve attracts adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can embark on exhilarating game drives, guided by expert rangers who unveil the secrets of the African bush. Above all, the untouched beauty of Inkwenkwezi and its huge variety of plant and animal species, including buffalo, antelope, rhino and giraffe attract visitors from far and wide. For those seeking a truly immersive experience, Inkwenkwezi offers accommodation both in and outside the reserve, ensuring every moment is spent in comfort and tranquility.

Areena Riverside Resort

This picturesque retreat along the Kwelera river offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Overnight visitors can choose from a range of accommodation options, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

If tranquility is what you seek, Areena delivers with its peaceful surroundings. Spend your days leisurely canoeing along the river , walk along hiking trails through the surrounding hills, or simply bask in the spellbinding scenery . As night falls, the starlit skies are exceptionally beautiful.

By contrast, the more adventurous will be happy to learn that Areena offers a plethora of exciting activities to get your adrenaline pumping. Zip line through the treetops, challenge yourself with abseiling, or engage in exhilarating games of paintball . Unleash your inner archer with some target practice or embark on an unforgettable giraffe interaction experience.

Areena Riverside Resort is a haven for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those yearning for a peaceful escape. Providing the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement, Areena is a must-visit destination along the Wild Coast.

Emerald Vale Brewery

Situated amidst the lush valleys and rolling hills of the Emerald Vale farm, the Emerald Vale Brewery is a haven for  beer  and  outdoor enthusiasts  alike. With both  indoor and outdoor seating,  there are plenty of places to enjoy your favorite beer.

However, the Emerald Vale experience extends beyond beer. Their  on-site restaurant  serves up delicious meals and non-alcoholic drinks, too. Visitors can enjoy the  amazing views   by going on  hikes, runs,  or  mountain bike rides  along the trails that go through the scenic farm. Whether you prefer a relaxed walk or a thrilling adventure, you can enjoy the trails at your own pace and preference.

If you are passionate about beer or simply looking for a fun place to unwind with friends, Emerald Vale Brewery promises an unforgettable time.

Continuing along the captivating Wild Coast and venturing away from the bustling city of East London, you will discover three charming seaside villages that warrant recognition: Morgan Bay, Kei Mouth, and Haga Haga.

Resting between  Kei Mouth  to the North and  Haga Haga  to the South, the idyllic coastal gem of  Morgan Bay  awaits. Boasting  magnificent beaches , abundant  fishing spots,  thrilling  surfing waves , and outstanding  hiking trails , it is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Within this haven, the renowned  Morgan Bay Cliffs  emerge as a standout attraction. Majestic and awe-inspiring, these towering cliffs reach impressive heights of around 50 meters, offering unrivaled panoramic vistas of the Indian Ocean. Whether you seek a breathtaking spot for sundowners or a scenic hiking route, the cliffs epitomize the essence of the ‘Wild Coast,’ showcasing its raw and untamed beauty.

Experience the enchantment of  Kei Mouth , a picturesque seaside village that embraces a slower pace of life. This idyllic destination is renowned for its entertaining sight of  cows leisurely roaming along the beach . While Kei Mouth exudes a  laid-back atmosphere , there is no shortage of activities to keep you busy. Take  leisurely walks  through the village, uncovering hidden gems like the  cross viewing deck . Dive into the refreshing waters for a  swim , cast your line for a rewarding  fishing  expedition, fly colorful kites in the coastal breeze,  ride horses  along the beach, or simply relish in the joy of  beachcombing . Kei Mouth invites you to embrace a serene and fulfilling coastal experience, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and embracing the unhurried pleasures it offers.

In addition, Kei Mouth is home to ‘ the pont ‘, only one of three remaining car-transporting pontoon river ferry services in South Africa. Serving as a lifeline for communities residing in remote destinations north of Kei Mouth, vehicles, both passengers and livestock board the pont on a daily basis. Furthermore, it is also a gateway to popular hotels in the region such as  Seagulls  and  Trennerys . Beyond its local significance, the pontoon grants convenient access to the untamed beauty of the  Transkei , a captivating stretch of coastline between the Great Kei River and the Umtamvuna River, aptly known as the ‘ Wild Coast ‘.

The Wild Coast’s untouched beauty and remote landscape offer a unique experience that is rare to find in today’s world. From its rugged cliffs and long stretches of coastline to its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, the Wild Coast has so much to offer. So, if you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path and delightfully scenic destination , make sure to include the Wild Coast on your travel bucket list.

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Exploring South Africa’s Eastern Cape on a Road Trip Along the Wild Coast

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In our claustrophobic lives it's a rare luxury to experience moments of true escape, when we trade quotidian concerns for unbridled freedom. But a road trip along South Africa 's Wild Coast delivers something close to that. Along the way, travelers get a seemingly endless golden expanse at the town of Cintsa. A vast horizon of virgin sands near Port St. Johns: deserted. The ocean view from the Ocean View Hotel in Coffee Bay: all mine.

At every stop along this sweep of the Eastern Cape province, known for its scenic hikes and pristine shores, I found myself pondering the same question: Would having beach after beach to myself ever get old?

The mile-long beach near the seaside village of Morgan Bay

I had spent four years living in Cape Town but, despite having heard the legends of the Wild Coast's windswept dunes, never made it to this 155-mile stretch on the other side of the country. Though the Eastern Cape is South Africa's third-most-populous province, the rugged Wild Coast isn't as frequently tackled by tourists as well-trammeled circuits like the Western Cape's Garden Route, KwaZulu Natal's Midlands Meander, and Mpumalanga's Panorama Route. These, with their proximity to major airports, cavalcade of rustic padstals (farm stalls) plucked from Pinterest boards, and well-stocked tourist offices plying travelers with maps and coupons, are obvious choices for out-of-towners. The Wild Coast is more ambitious, but it rewards those who want to get off the grid to hike and braai (barbecue) along secluded cliffs. Gas stations are infrequent and the roads pocked with potholes, but the unmarred beaches are worth a little havoc on your car's suspension.

On this return visit to South Africa, I was determined to finally take on the drive; my friend Rajnee, now on the tail end of an expat stint in the country herself, was eager to come along for one last adventure. Together we consulted maps, researched online, and asked friends for advice before charting an itinerary: Fly into Durban, the underrated eastern seaside city so often eclipsed by Cape Town's glamour and Johannesburg's vitality, then head south, stopping at coastal towns, before returning the rental car at East London Airport.

A Nguni cow, a breed indigenous to South Africa

The Hogsback Inn, built in 1880, was the first hostel in the area

Cape Town was in the last gasps of summer when we left it, but in Durban the warm weather wasn't going anywhere soon: We drove south on the N2 under a canvas of translucent blue skies painted with thick impasto strokes of white. The ocean was a reliable companion on our left until we passed Port Edward and entered the Eastern Cape, when the route took us inland; while there are multi-day hiking trails along the coast, varying road conditions mean the best routes linking seaside towns often force you into the lush interior. Trevor Noah's soothing voice narrating the audio version of Born a Crime , his memoir about his South African childhood, set the mood as emerald hills rippled around us, the pastoral tableau occasionally interrupted by a stray Rondavel or a tiny village. We let bakkies —pickup trucks—overtake us from time to time, but at some point, in these parts, all traffic must eventually defer to potholes. Or cattle.

Six hours later, at the mouth of the Mzimvubu River where it courses into the Indian Ocean, we pulled up to our first stop: Port St. Johns. The cheerful thatched-roof cottages of Umngazi River Bungalows & Spa were a welcome sight after a long day on the road. I didn't grow up visiting all-inclusive resorts, so I was uninitiated to this daily roster of trivia nights, marshmallow braais, and volleyball matches to corral guests. Rajnee and I embraced the vacation atmosphere, coming in second place at trivia, playing pool with families, and joining a rambunctious group from Johannesburg for a sunset cruise. But we also found moments of serenity away from the holidaymakers, unwinding in a spa with panoramic views of the forested slopes over the ocean. Later, we took a two-minute ferry across the river, where we rounded a sand dune that a few kids were enthusiastically hurtling themselves down, to find a beguiling beach devoid of people.

“I don't get it. Why is no one else here?” Rajnee asked, perplexed.

That question, it turns out, would become a fixture in our conversations that week. In Coffee Bay we hiked down a hillside to the Hole in the Wall, a solitary cliff just offshore through which the sea's churning torrents had carved a passage over millennia. It reminded me of Australia's 12 Apostles—but without another soul in sight. We watched as the waves tested their might against stone, each reverberation pulsing through my body.

Rondavels, or southern African huts, at Umngazi River Bungalows & Spa

From Coffee Bay we drove inland to Qunu, Nelson Mandela's hometown and resting place, in search of landmarks commemorating his legacy. Mandela's grave is always off limits to anyone except his family and friends, but we found the museum erected in his name also closed for upgrades. A lenient security officer let us look around, so we toured the exhibits and took in the views of the countryside by ourselves. The next morning, in Cintsa, a coastal village with dense forests that wrap around the mouth of the Cintsa River, we clambered over a bridge and splashed through a lagoon to spend a few hours at... yet another vacant beach. I rolled out a towel and took a nap on the neglected crescent while Rajnee roamed along the water.

We did find a semblance of a crowd one night when we slipped away from our own hotel to pop by a lively hostel for hot chocolate and drinks with a group of backpackers. “I've gone from Cape Town to Gqeberha, and Gqeberha to Lusiki­siki, and this is the most amazing part of the country,” said Thabo, a hiker from Johannesburg who was in the midst of a 40-mile coastal trek. “All virgin forests. Nothing comes here—there's no way for trucks to come through.”

Driving along the Wild Coast let Rajnee and me connect with nature in a liberating way and feel wholly present—and not just because road conditions required constant vigilance. In times when Instagram impressions rarely align with reality, this bounty of wonders delivers on its promises. So, does having beach after beach to yourself ever get old? After a week in the Wild Coast, I can confirm: It does not.

Getting there

Fly into Durban's King Shaka International Airport and rent a car, but be prepared for a long first stretch: Port St. Johns is a six-hour drive away.

Where to stay

Umngazi River Bungalows & Spa Family-friendly resort in Port St. Johns. Doubles from $210 umngazi.co.za

Ocean View Hotel Simple hotel right on the beach in Coffee Bay. Doubles from $130 oceanview.co.za

Crawfords Beach Lodge, Cintsa Doubles from $150 crawfordsbeachlodge.co.za

Where to eat

White Clay, Coffee Bay Get the hake and chips and sit on a bench overlooking the water. Whiteclayresort.co.za

Tea in the Trees, Cintsa: Lovely gardens and delicious all-day breakfasts. Teainthetrees.co.za

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article appeared in the July/August 2021 issue of Condé Nast Traveler. Subscribe to the magazine here .

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• 10 Top Hidden Gems Along...

10 Top Hidden Gems Along South Africa's Wild Coast

While hardly busy or commercial at any time of the year, the lazy lagoons, rugged coastlines and footprint-free beaches of South Africa’s unspoiled Wild Coast hold a wealth of secret locations where it’s easy to find freedom in solitude. Here is the inside scope on some of Transkei’s elusive treasures.

Mkambati nature reserve.

This pristine little piece of land lies in the far north of the Wild Coast, between Port Edward and Port St Johns. It is home to the picturesque Mkambati Falls, one of the few in the world that cascades directly into the ocean. It also offers marine-filled rock pools and a lovely, natural beach pool. The secluded strip of beach evokes feelings of being lost in paradise, and those that make the effort to get there find the visit highly rewarding .

Waterfall Bluff

Secluded and pristine, Waterfall Bluff has to rank as one of the most spectacular places in the world to take a dip, made even more amazing by the fact that the river plunges down cliffs and goes straight into the ocean. As with most of the treasures that the Wild Coast holds, this gem takes some effort to reach, however, it is one of only 19 waterfalls in the world that plunge directly into the ocean. A few kilometres from the bluff, one will find the vertical and free-standing Cathedral Rock, another natural phenomenon.

Silaka Nature Reserve

Evergreen forests blanket the landscape of this stunning natural reserve that hums with birdlife and the sound of the ocean. There are numerous walking trails to follow, featuring breezy grasslands, fabulous forests and dramatic stretches of coastline. The reserve is also alive with flora and wildlife, where exotic lilies and orchards bloom on the forest floor and zebras, blesbucks and wildebeests graze the verdant plains.

Mapuzi Caves

For untouched perfection , look no further than Mapuzi, one of the most secluded locations along the Wild Coast. Located at the Mapuzi River mouth, this secret spot beckons with crystal clear water and solitude, where visitors can swim, free dive, fish and simply relax. Follow the edges of the Mapuzi cliffs to discover a hidden cave and natural jacuzzi. Those that dare can jump from the cliffs, but with their highest point standing at 14 metres up, this is only for the brave.

Bulungula Beach

Bulungula Beach is another hidden bay where your freedom can be enjoyed, surrounded by indigenous forests and a sparkling lagoon. It is also known for some of the best night skies in Wild Coast, with stars that literally light up an inky heaven. Sheltered by jade-hued hills punctuated by turquoise traditional homesteads, the area is a feast for the eyes and food for the soul. Activities to keep visitors busy include swimming, surfing, hiking, fishing, cycling and canoeing.

Mdumbi Beach

Rural and exquisitely remote, Mdumbi Beach is characterised by ethnic mud huts dotted along the grasslands and secluded , yet wild, beaches. Here, the power of the ocean is a force of note and swimming is therefore not recommended, although experienced surfers sometimes arrive to test their skills against the powerful waves. The resident Pondo people are always welcoming and ready to share their culture with visitors, while the beach is sheltered by indigenous milkwood trees, giving it a surreal and mystical feel.

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Umngazi River Bungalows

Umngazi River Bungalows is an award-winning resort that adds pampering and luxury to the wild side of the Transkei coast. It is the ideal location for those who prefer not to rough it, as all the natural beauty of the area can be experienced and absorbed without making life uncomfortable. Enjoy fishing, river cruises, nature walks and fabulous views of the Umngazi River mouth meeting up with the ocean before ending your day with a seafood dinner and shower under the stars.

Hluleka Nature Reserve

Tranquil and splendid, the rich diversity and numerous eco-systems of Hluleka are well worth a day or two of contemplation. The all-encompassing terrain holds seashore, lagoons, grassy hilltops, and quiet forests filled with beautiful indigenous trees that shelter bushbucks, duikers and numerous other varieties of animal life. Staying in the reserve gives visitors access to unlimited hiking trails and golden beaches with gas stoves and solar heating to keep you cosy at night.

Hole in the Wall

Although this unique feature is hardly hidden, it does take some time to get to and is a must-see attraction on the Wild Coast. From Coffee Bay, it’s possible to drive to the Hole in the Wall in a 4×4 vehicle, but if you really want to appreciate the magnificence and beauty of the region, opt for a hike. Approximately three hours through rolling green hills and craggy cliffs will get you to your final destination for a day of wild solitude and awe.

A good local guide

Knowing every stone, trail, and most of the local people makes a well-versed local guide an invaluable gem to any adventure along the Wild Coast. A good guide will lead you into the remote wilderness where roads seem to end, only to cross a stream and continue on a footpath on the other side. They know the legends and myths of the region, where to find the best sights and will amaze you with their wealth of knowledge and intimate attention to detail.

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The Travel Manuel

Step out of your comfort zone and into your next adventure!

Top 10 things to do along the Wild Coast.

April 4, 2017 By Jethro Manuel 7 Comments

The Wild Coast situated in the Eastern Cape, South Africa is one of the last beacons of unspoilt beaches, rural villages and rustic pleasures. My adventure on the Baz Bus spanned over 2 weeks with too many memories, experiences and breath taking beauty to put into words. But here’s my 10 favourite activities will give you an idea of what you’re missing out on:

Coastal Hike to Hole in the Wall

Staying in Coffee Bay is not complete without a hike to Hole in the Wall. A large group of us undertook this 3-hour journey from Coffee Shack across rolling hills, past local villages and in and amongst cows grazing under the warm African sun. The views along the way are so picturesque that one forgets the concept of time and is sweetly summoned by the earth to stop, sit and stare into the horizon for what could potentially be hours. Pictures don’t do it the least bit of justice.

Cliff Jumping along Mapuzi trail

This trail is for those who feel a bit more adventurous! A short shuttle to the drop off point before tackling the rugged coastline and descending down goat paths (which is not for the faint-hearted).

The final act is a cliff jump of about 8 metres into the water below. I am an adrenalin junkie at heart but I think my logical brain is becoming far too evolved as I grow older. Let’s just say ‘hypothetically’ that I ascended to the jump point with shaking knees and a lump in my throat. Stood on the edge and looked down into the water below and thought to myself what on earth am I doing?

20 mins later… I am still standing there contemplating my life and watching some of the others do their 2nd and even 3rd jumps. Due to the extended period of time in which I stood at the top…panicking, the cheering quickly started to fade as the group became restless. They were on the verge of giving up on me (they had no faith) before I screamed a few expletives and JUMPED!!

Sunset Rendezvous

Soon after our arrival in Coffee Bay, we cracked the nod for an invite to sunset drinks on the hilltop just behind Coffee Shack. Endless selfies, drinks, yoga, laughter and lovers’ picnics all take place simultaneously and for those few minutes pre and post sunset reminds me that the world is not such a hellish place after all.

Once the sun goes down, I highly recommend a drink and pizza at the local spot called Papa Zela’s. It’s a favourite amongst the locals and for good reason, their wood-fired pizzas are mouth-watering.

Canoe down the Xhora River

Bulungula Lodge offers canoe trips down the Xhora River with local guide Lindo. His warm smile was infectious and we soon found out that this was to be used to distract us from the effort we were about to exert- The walk from the lodge with paddles in hand is a solid uphill trudge for a few km’s. This trail walk in slip slops was worth it as we reached the summit of the final hill and cast our eyes upon the sparkling crystal clear, azure water with trees dotting the banks and horses foraging in and amongst the colourful Xhosa huts built on the hillside.

Over the next few hours, we paddled leisurely down the river with our thoughts wandering gracefully every so often, only to be shattered by Lindo showing off and standing straight up in these unstable canoes daring us to do the same.

My fondest memory of this time, was when our group decided to ground our canoes and take a dip in the river. We were soon joined by the local kids who were also having a cool down and in an instant, they couldn’t get enough of my friend and his GoPro. Group shots of them jumping in and out of the water, as well as the ultimate wide-angle selfie, was a sight to behold. I fell in love with my country all over again.

Rocket Shower

Yes, there is such a thing called a ‘Rocket Shower’. This old school or eco shower, whichever term will garner you points with Green Peace, uses paraffin to heat the chimney pipe which in turn heats the water and voila… you have hot water! There is a 7-step guide on how to start the shower and these are placed all around the ablution facility for ease of reference. It lasts for about 7 minutes which is actually ample time to get cleaned up.

Our journey to Bulungula Lodge started off with us waiting for our shuttle outside a deserted spaza shop (local café) in the middle of nowhere, literally. The definition of the word ‘shuttle’ was an anomaly as it was an overloaded Toyota bakkie with make – shift wooden benches constructed at the back for extra seating.

Halfway through our treacherous journey across dirt roads laden with potholes, it was time to offload the driver’s family members and Christmas goodies at his house. To our dismay, our vehicle decided to have a flat tyre during this whole detour.

It was now time to put on the big boy pants and assist the driver with taking out the spare tyre only to realise it was also flat and that the car jack lift was suitable for a light motor vehicle and not for a bakkie. Eish.

I half joked (But was actually dead serious) with the lady of the house, that if her husband does not fix the car by nightfall I will be sleeping in her bed; she was having none of it.

We eventually arrived late evening and I grudgingly dragged my weary bones to the ablutions to shower. Upon entering the circular hut, I find it dimly lit by candles and the threatening presence of silver transformer looking pipes resembling the showers. Nobody has got time to read a 7 – step memo of how to work a shower in the dark …I walked straight back out! Recommendation – do NOT arrive at night along the Wild Coast.

Drink @ local shebeen

The Bulungula experience is incomplete without a walk to the local shebeen (bar). The shebeen consists of two sections; Section 1 is where you buy your drinks and anything else you might need ranging from 2kg Hullett’s sugar to cooking oil. Section 2 is the seating area where you will sit on wooden benches and plastic crates. No, this shebeen isn’t your typical pub down the road, it is merely a quirky structure comprising of bricks and mortar with a tin roof. The simple life.

Ice to keep drinks cold is a sparse commodity so a bit of banter with the locals over a warmish beer during the middle of the day is quite an experience. You might even bump into a sangoma (witch doctor) who carries around a black suitcase with all his lotions and potions. Don’t ask too many questions.

Hike in the Auckland Nature Reserve

“There is a pleasure in the pathless woods, there is a rapture on the lonely shore, I love not man the less but nature more.”

This is an excerpt from George Gordon Byron’s poem called Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage. It could not be more fitting in describing the feeling one gets when one arrives in forestry town of Hogsback. It is a nature lover’s nirvana.

The mystical forest situated deep down in the basin of the Reserve played host to us being overwhelmed by enchanted fairies, giant smelly ogres chopping down mammoth yellowwood trees and tiny little dwarfs skinny dipping in the streams. Okay, my imagination got the better of me there but the point is there is something spiritual in this forest. Time spent in this place cleanses the soul and makes one realise that nature is a part of our human DNA and that all we need to do is listen to it.

Abseil down Madonna & Child Waterfall

Touching base with Hogsback Adventures is top of the list. This company is run by Neels and Candy who run a tight ship and know what adventurers like ourselves crave. We did the combo tour of mountain biking and abseiling with the abseil being the cherry on top for good reason. Abseiling is one thing, but doing it adjacent to a waterfall is just utterly extraordinary.

Okay, that is a fib… one is too busy having a mental MMA fight with oneself trying to convince one’s lizard brain that one should trust this random equipment one is harnessed in and must lean back adjacent to a rock face while kicking away from it as one suffers from panic all the way down! Clearly, Madonna doesn’t even feature while you descending.

Surf at Kitchen Windows

A mere stones throw away from the foot of Island Vibe Backpackers is the surf spot nicknamed “Kitchens”. I grabbed a board and my pair of my boardies and headed out there with some surfers for a ‘narly’ session’ on this left – hand break.

I am far from proficient in trying to steer my 7.2’ to the right to avoid crashing into the rocks, however, I did manage to catch a few small ones to the delight of my inner surf child. For those of you who are more proficient… Boneyards, Point, Lower Point and Supertubes are waiting in earnest.

SUP in Jbay Lagoon

The calm before the storm. A SUP session on the Jbay lagoon is usually a very relaxed affair with our group paddling along the river bank while disembarking at various points to learn about the medicinal properties of the various flora and fauna which reside in the area.

Be that as it may, on the way back to our pick – up point, the wind started to blow so strongly that with every stroke of the paddle, it felt like we were moving backwards. Never one to back down from a challenge, myself and Phillip the Austrian decided to race one another back to base. Let’s just say never compete against a CrossFitter… we know how to dig deep!

To follow Jethro’s route along the Wild Coast with the Baz Bus here’s some helpful contacts:

1. Bulungula Bulungula Lodge: https://www.bulungula.com

2. Coffee Bay Coffee Shack Backpackers:  http://www.coffeeshack.co.za

3.  Hogsback

Away with the Fairies Backpackers:  http://awaywiththefairies.co.za Hogsback Adventures: http://www.hogsbackadventures.co.za

4. Jeffrey’s Bay

Island Vibe Backpackers: http://islandvibe.co.za

http://www.bazbus.com

About Jethro Manuel

Capetonian living the rat race in Johannesburg! Investment analyst by day… adventure travel blogger by night (and day). I find fulfilment in experiencing the worlds’ people and places and exploring the richness of nature. You can track me down either at a CrossFit box doing WOD’s; making people laugh at a Toastmasters’ meeting; or seeking my next adrenalin fix. My ultimate goal in life? Become the best version of myself whilst creating value for others. "Travel brings only wisdom to the wise. It renders the ignorant more ignorant than ever" - Martin Buber

April 10, 2017 at 6:03 pm

That hole in the wall hike is EPIC!

April 13, 2017 at 10:41 am

When Laur and I were up there it was raining to heavily to do it, so we’re just waiting till we can get up there again. Stoked that her brother Jethro got to do it though – looks spectacular!

May 24, 2017 at 11:24 am

I absolutely LOVE the wild coast. Had one of my best childhood holidays there. Awesome post! 🙂

May 25, 2017 at 8:31 pm

Everything looks beyond awesome! I think it is time for me to take a holiday…

December 30, 2017 at 12:33 pm

Sounds like something i can to try out !There are always cheap flights advertised to go to Wild coast and seeing how cute it is

[…] is another goodie along the Wild Coast where you can spend as much beach, river and ocean time as you’d like. We loved horse riding […]

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Must-see attractions in The Wild Coast

Nelson Mandela Museum

The Wild Coast

Set aside at least two hours for this inspiring museum right in the centre. It offers visitors a fascinating journey through the life of Nelson Mandela…

Hluleka Nature Reserve

Approximately midway between Coffee Bay and Port St Johns, this nature reserve is known for its spectacular coastline of rocky seashores, pristine beaches…

Silaka Nature Reserve

This small reserve, 6km south of Port St Johns, is worth a visit if you want to soak up the stunning scenery. It runs from Second Beach past Third Beach…

Dwesa Nature Reserve

One of South Africa's most remote and beautiful reserves, Dwesa Nature Reserve blends lush forests, winding rivers, open grassland and rugged coastline,…

Mkambati Nature Reserve

North of Mbotyi and 30km south of Port Edward lies this breathtaking (and largely underrated) reserve, which encompasses 77 sq km of grassland, dotted…

Inkwenkwezi Game Reserve

The private Inkwenkwezi is well worth a visit (or a stay). It's beautiful, upmarket, well organised and features the Big Five (although the elephants and…

Second Beach

Second Beach is Port St Johns's heart and soul. Locals come to this idyllic stretch of sand to while away the hot days and party as the sun goes down…

Mt Thesiger

Just north of the town centre on the banks of the Mzimvubu River, a sealed road (Concrete Rd) climbs to this favourite sunset spot – a flat-topped hill…

The roadside village of Qunu is the home town of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, who grew up here in the 1920s. The area has yet to fully capitalise on its…

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The Top Stops Along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

The best things to see along Ireland's most infamous drive

May Days / Getty Images

Stretching from Cork right through to Donegal, the Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland's showcase scenic route and the ultimate road trip you can have on the island. At around 1,550 miles (2,500 kilometers) long — the same distance from Brussels, Belgium to Moscow — the coastal drive also warrants plenty of stops along the way. 

The incredibly scenic drive works out to be about three times as long as California's  Pacific Coast Highway . The winding route skirts the entire west coast of Ireland and takes close to 50 hours of pure driving time to complete, so many visitors choose to tackle it in sections.

If you have the time and the driving skills, the Wild Atlantic Way is a fantastic way to see a great deal of Ireland. It passes through three Irish provinces ( Munster ,  Connacht , and Ulster), or nine counties — Cork,  Kerry , Limerick, Clare,  Galway ,  Mayo ,  Sligo ,  Leitrim , and Donegal. All in all, depending on the amount of time you have to spend and exactly what you want to see, there are countless possible stops along the famous road trip route but you should plan on a two week trip in order to be able to see everything without too much rush.

We'd recommend doing the Wild Atlantic Way clockwise, starting in the south and working your way up north. In Ireland, cars drive on the left, so heading in this direction means that you will always be on the side of the road closest to the ocean — finding breathtaking views around each little turn.

Here is a guide to the top stops along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, stretching from south to north as you take in the entire coastal route.

TripSavvy / Kathleen Messmer 

Ireland is brimming with charming villages but few are as picture perfect as the harbor town of Kinsale. The name of the town means “tides head” and this southern village has a very pretty waterfront filled with sailboats bobbing in the waves. Peel yourself away from the ocean scenes to explore the narrow lanes and colorful houses which fill the village of just over 5,000 people. It is an excellent stop for a seafood lunch to fortify you for the start of the Wild Atlantic Way drive, but from museums to the haunted ruins of Charles Fort — there are plenty of things to do in pretty Kinsale . 

 John Carey / Getty Images

After exploring Kinsale, hit the road for Mizen Head — the most southwesterly point in all of Ireland. These cliffs at the end of the Kilmore Peninsula in County Cork are ideal for spotting wildlife and taking in the rugged landscape. Due to its strategic location on the edge of Ireland, Mizen Head has played an important role in warning ships and communicating across the Atlantic, so there are multiple historic sites to visit as well. Pay the admission fee to visit the signal house built by Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi to send the first transatlantic telegraph messages, or stop in to see the light house that helped boats with a safe passage for decades. Even if you skip the visitor’s center, the seaside walks are breathtaking. 

Beara Peninsula

TripSavvy / Kathleen Messmer

Settling into a driving rhythm, it is time to enjoy the road as you loop along the Beara Peninsula. The beautiful area which crosses from County Cork to County Kerry is one of the most picturesque but under-visited parts of the Emerald Isle. Start with the rainbow of houses lining the streets of Eyeries before winding along to the jumping off point for the gardens of Garnish Island, one of the best islands in Ireland , which is reachable by ferry from Glengarriff. History lovers should then beeline for Derreenataggart Stone Circle, which dates back to the Bronze Age. Beachgoers will probably better enjoy a break on the white sand stretch of gorgeous seaside along Ballydonegan Bay.

Dursey Island

Mark Devine / Flickr /  CC BY-SA 2.0

Park on the car at the tip of the Beara Peninsula and take a small detour to Dursey Island. The voyage requires climbing onto a cable car which was originally built to transport more sheep than humans. In fact, there are only four people who live on the island full time so the best thing to do when you arrive is to soak in the tranquil, rural atmosphere and enjoy a pre-packed picnic lunch before taking the cable car back to the Irish mainland.

Sheep’s Head

John Carey / Getty Images

Take another road trip break near Bantry in County Cork to hike along the tip of the Sheep’s Head Peninsula. The roads along this stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way tend to be narrow and winding but quiet because they are too small for the large tour buses which clog up other parts of the route. Once you arrive at the western point, the prettiest walks in the rugged landscape lead out to the postcard-worthy lighthouse set on edge on the cliffs. 

Ring of Kerry

Daniel Dudek / Flickr /  CC BY 2.0

One of the reasons the Wild Atlantic Way is such an incredible driving route is because it also incorporates many of the island’s other bucket list road trips, such as the Ring of Kerry. This well-known circuit along the Iveragh Peninsula is famed for good reason: along the drive, you can detour into Killarney National Park to see Ross Castle, take a short hike off the road to Torc Waterfall, or take in the valley-filled vistas from Ladies View. This section of the Wild Atlantic Way also features ancient ring forts and pretty fishing villages. 

Dingle Peninsula

 maydays / Getty Images

Break away from the traffic along the Ring of Kerry to escape to the County Kerry countryside on the Dingle Peninsula. All of the Wild Atlantic Way offers amazing scenery but the views along this stretch of the drive are some of the best in the country. Pause to stretch your legs and watch the surfers along Inch Beach before continuing along to the ruins of Minard Castle . Spend the night in Dingle Town to have more time to leisurely explore the lovely town and all its foodie offerings or to spot Fungie the Dolphin, a marine creature who has a serious fan base across Ireland. After recouping in the beautiful seaside village, you will be ready to try to decipher the mysterious Gallurus Oratory , before tackling the cliffside hairpin turns which lead off the peninsula (but have the advantage of offering unrivaled views of the nearby Blasket Islands which lie just off the coast). 

Dunguaire Castle

honster / Getty Images 

Set on the banks of Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle was first built in 1520. Over the years, the fortified tower house has become less of a fortress and more of a sensation and is now one of the most photographed castles in Ireland thanks to its lovely setting and strategic position along the Wild Atlantic Way. Pop in to visit the small museum inside or stay for the medieval-themed dinners which are held here in summer. 

Peter Zoeller / Design Pics / Getty Images

Known for its buzzing pubs and live Irish music, Galway is still a university town at heart with plenty to do and see . The student life circulating through town adds vivacity to the medieval streets in the pedestrianized center. The best examples of Galway’s long past may be the Spanish Arch down the banks of the Corrib, but you can also spot the fortified, centuries-old home of Lynch's Castle on Shop Street. When the weather is nice, walk down to Salthill to watch swimmers plunge off of Blackrock diving tower. Before leaving town, explore the church of St. Nicholas, where Columbus supposedly prayed before leaving Europe behind to discover the New World. 

espiegle / Getty Images

The stunning Cliffs of Moher in County Clare are one of the most incredible places in Ireland. The windswept cliffs jut out into the Atlantic, offering sheer 700-foot drop-offs and unforgettable views. The best place to take it all in is from O’Brien’s Tower, a historic lookout point set on the edge of the cliffs by an enterprising Victorian politician. There is also a visitor’s center that can educate you more on the geology of the area — but the best way to experience this natural wonder along the Wild Atlantic Way is to go for a walk along the paths that skirt the drop-offs and take in the incomparable Irish landscape. 

Achill Island

Cezary Zarebski / Getty Images 

Connected to mainland Ireland via a bridge in County Mayo , Achill Island is one of the best islands in Ireland and a top stop while cruising along the Wild Atlantic Way. It is also the largest island in Ireland and has plenty to offer visitors, including the 15th century fortified tower of Carrick Kildavnet Castle, five blue flag beaches, the former home of Nobel laureate Heinrich Böll, and Neolithic ruins. It also has rural charm and excellent walking opportunities. 

Kylemore Abbey

 Image Source / Getty Images

This luxe estate in the Irish countryside is well worth a stop on a grand tour of the Wild Atlantic Way. The incredible mansion, reflected perfectly in the still waters of Lough Pollacapull, was once the idyllic home of the well-heeled Henry Family, who built the 33-bedroom castle in the 1860s. The London-based family loved to escape to this Connemara retreat, which includes beautiful walled Victorian gardens and numerous nature walks. These days, the mansion belongs to a group of Benedictine nuns who use the setting as a tranquil abbey. The first floor of the home has been fully restored and can be visited along with the extensive grounds and a neo-gothic church built to honor Margaret Henry, the wife of the original owner.

Slieve League

no_limit_pictures / Getty Images 

Overshadowed by the more southerly Cliffs of Moher, the real stars of the Irish landscape show are the Slieve League. This stop along the Wild Atlantic Way offers the highest sea cliffs in Europe, towering 2,000 feet above the turbulent ocean below. This rural part of Donegal is rarely crowded, meaning you can take in the mesmerizing landscape without jostling for the best view. Walk along the edges with care and savor the break from the road while enjoying the wild natural setting. 

 Michele Rossetti / Getty Images

It is common to say that Ireland stretches from Mizen Head to Malin Head, and once you reach this northernmost point on the Emerald Isle, you will know that you have completed the drive. The rocky coastline is a wonder in its own right but you can also explore the history of the area by seeking out the WWII era tower at the tiptop of Banba’s Crown or the rocks spelling out EIRE which was meant to signal to passing planes that they had reached neutral Ireland during the war. Celebrate the end of your epic road trip with a walk down to Hell’s Hole, a craggy sea cave where the truly wild Atlantic crashes against the rocks.

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Our 11-Day Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary Will Take You On The Road Trip Of A Lifetime

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: September 4, 2024

Welcome to our no-bullsh*t-super-detailed 11-day Wild Atlantic Way itinerary guide for 2024 and beyond.

This guide is for people looking to plan a Wild Atlantic Way road trip that’ll give birth to a million happy memories.

Here’s what you’ll get if you take the time to read it :

• You’ll be able to plan your Wild Atlantic Way road trip with ease
• You’ll get a full itinerary for 11 days with things to see and do
• You’ll get recommendations on places to stay each night

While this guide takes you to many well-known tourist attractions, it’s also packed with plenty of hidden gems that lay a little off the beaten track.

Note: If you want to plan your own route, hop into our guide to each of the counties of Ireland or nip into our Ireland itinerary planner .

Here’s a quick look at the route that  this  guide follows.

Table of Contents

Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary

• Day 1: West Cork
• Day 2: More West Cork and on to Kerry
• Day 3: Kerry
• Day 4: Kerry and Clare
• Day 5: Clare
• Day 6: Galway
• Day 7: Galway and Mayo
• Day 8: Mayo and Sligo
• Day 9: Donegal
• Day 10: Donegal
• Day 11: Donegal

Watch: Here are some  of the places you’ll visit on this Wild Atlantic Way road trip

 a wild atlantic way map & what you’ll get from this guide.

If you’re looking for a map of the Wild Atlantic Way, jump into the one below.

Note: It only covers the route in this guide.

Ready to dive into the guide? Let’s go!

Wild Atlantic Way Route: Day 1 – West Cork

Photo © The Irish Road Trip

West Cork is hands-down one of my favourite places on earth.

The wild, ever-changing landscapes, the isolation, the people and the fact that you’ll find that many places you visit will have few or no tourists milling about make it an absolute gem of a place to spend a day or 7.

Take your time on day 1.

Enjoy every second. And don’t be afraid to deviate off the itinerary and take any and every road and notion that captivates you.

Here’s everything you need to know about our first day on the road!

// What we’ll be doing //

• Visiting the wildest place in Ireland
• Soaking up the Sheep’s Head Drive
• Fooooooooooood in Bantry
• One of the craziest roads in Ireland
• More foooooooood, a few pints and a night in a town surrounded by mountains

// Where we’ll be sleeping //

• The Seaview Guest House, Allihies

// What you’ll need //

• Some snacks for the drive

1. Soaking up wilderness and isolation at Brow Head

// Brow Head – (arrive for 9:55) //

You may have heard me raving about Brow Head before – it’s justified, trust me!

Visiting places like Brow Head is what exploring Ireland is all about; experiencing the beauty of our island in its rawest, wildest form.

No fancy visitor centres. No crowds. Just nature, as it was intended.

In my opinion, these are the kind of places that you need on your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary.

It’s the off-the-beaten-track adventures that take a road trip from great to out-of-this-world.

Tip : There’s limited space to park at the top of the hill, and the road up. As you can see from the video above, is insanely tight – but it’s amazing.

2. The sensational Sheep’s Head drive

// Brow Head to the tip of Sheep’s Head Peninsula and on to Bantry – 65-minute drive (allow 3 hours with stops – leave Brow Head at 10:35 and arrive to Bantry for 1:45) //

Photo by Phil Darby/Shutterstock.com

For those of you that are avid walkers, you could easily spend a couple of days on the Sheep’s Head Peninsula, absorbing yourselves in the many wonderful walks that the area boasts.

For this road trip, we’re going to drive around it and hop out of the car whenever the notion takes us.

Measuring around 21km in length and roughly 4km across its widest point, Sheep’s Head is home to bucket-loads of wild, untouched scenery, picturesque loughs and other-worldly coastal views.

Bask in the silence. Let the windows down. Let the brisk coastal air slap against your face. And just relish every second of the glorious scenery that lays all around you.

3. Bantry for a bite to eat

// You should arrive in Bantry for 1:45 hungry, a little jaded from the driving, but full of the giddiness that accompanies a drive like Sheep’s Head. //

Head straight to Ma Murphy’s for food.

Make sure and stock up on coffee before leaving – we’ve a long, lovely journey before we reach our final destination for the night.

4. Hitting up Healy Pass (the most unique road on this Wild Atlantic Way trip)

// Bantry to Healy Pass – 48-minute drive (leave Bantry at 14:45, arrive at Healy Pass for 15:35) //

Healy Pass is 2nd craziest road that I’ve ever driven on in Ireland.

Here are several more mad Irish roads (if you follow the Kerry section of this Wild Atlantic Way itinerary, you’ll be taken along the craziest).

The road at Healy Pass, which was constructed in 1847 during the years of the famine, looks like a giant snake from above, slithering its way through the two highest summits in the Caha mountain range.

Cafe aside, Healy Pass is a corner of Ireland that looks like time passed it by and forgot all about it, leaving it untouched and unspoiled.

When I visited recently, I met 2 or 3 other cars, max, and from talking to people who live in the area, it’s easily missed/over-looked.

Drive the road and pull in (where possible) at the top for a view.

5. Your First Glimpse of Kerry

// No travelling needed for this one – you’re already there //

So, I didn’t realise how close to the border of Kerry the Healy Pass actually is – it’s literally kissing it.

Keep driving up along the Healy Pass (keep going past the café) until you reach the brow of a hill and you see a ‘Welcome to Kerry’ sign.

Just past the sign, there’s space for 3 or 4 (depending on how well people have parked) cars.

Pull in. Get out of the car. And walk up the grassy hill to your left. The view above is what you’ll be treated to.

6. The Postcard-Perfect Town of Allihies for the Night

// Healy Pass to Allihies – 58-minute drive (we’re going to allow for 2 hours for this final stretch of today’s trip – leave Healy Pass at 15:20, arrive in Allihies for 17:20) //

I did the drive from Healy Pass to Allihies very recently as part of the Ring of Beara drive , and it’s one I’ll remember for a long time to come.

This, in my opinion, is the best part of our Wild Atlantic Way itinerary. Like Sheep’s Head, the drive out to Allihies is sensational.

This corner of Ireland possesses the unique ability to make you feel like you’re the only person left on earth. It’s just you, the mountains, the wind and the waves.

The best recommendation I can give you with this stretch of the road trip is to get lost.

Literally. Take the roads that tickle your fancy. Follow your nose. And just be curious and inquisitive. Let the Wild Atlantic Way do the rest.

When I visited here in early 2018, I checked into the Seaview Guest House (super value for money and lovely clean and comfortable rooms) – you can stay where you want but I’d 100% recommend this place!

After dumping my bags I strolled the short distance to O’Neill’s pub and grabbed some food and a pint – you should definitely do the same! A cracking end to a long, eventful day.

Wild Atlantic Way Ireland Itinerary: Day 2 – West Cork and Kerry

Still with me? Great!

Day 2 sees us hop aboard Ireland’s only cable car, before moving into Kerry and taking one of the best road trip routes in the world, according to Lonely Planet).

Let’s get at it!

Here’s everything you need to know about day 2!

• Climbing aboard the Dursey Island cable car
• Exploring the gorgeous towns of Kenmare and Sneem
• Driving the Skellig Ring
• Fooooooooooood
• The Moorings Guesthouse , Portmagee

1. Jump aboard Ireland’s only cable car

// Allihies to Dursey Island Cable Car – 22-minute drive (leave Allihies at 9, arrive at 9:22) //

The first half of today is mighty! Point your car in the direction of Dursey Island and get ready to board the only cable car in Ireland.

Originally opened in 1969, the Dursey Island cable car remains, to this day, the most used means of transport across the choppy waters of the Dursey Sound.

The cable car runs 250m above the sea and takes just 10 minutes to transport explorers from the mainland to the most westerly of West Cork’s inhabited islands.

When you reach the island, have a ramble around and enjoy spectacular views of the gorgeous Beara Peninsula .

This is arguably one of the more unique things to add to your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary.

// Dursey Island to Kenmare – allow for 2 hours (leave Dursey Island at 10:40, arrive in Kenmare for 12:40) //

The road that’ll take you to Kenmare is a long and beautiful one, with an ever-changing tapestry of mountains, colourful towns (stop in Eyeries for a gander) and craggy coastline.

I haven’t put any stops in here, but I’m factoring in that it’ll take us 2 hours (the drive according to Google maps is 1 hour and 26 minutes)

There’s plenty of great restaurants in Kenmare to nip into when you arrive. Once you’ve eaten, have a stroll around the town.

Kenmare is somewhere I could see myself living. The people (the ones I’ve encountered the three times I’ve visited, anyway) are lovely, the pubs are buzzing and the town is surrounded by endless adventure opportunities .

Get your fill and let’s get going.

3. Sneeeeeeeeeem (…Sneem)

// Kenmare to Sneem – 28-minute drive (leave Kenmare at 1:40, arrive in Sneem for 2:10) //

Our next stop is the little village of Sneem on Kerry’s Iveragh Peninsula.

The view that unravels in front of you as you drive into Sneem is worth the visit alone – rolling mountains seem to fold in upon you from every angle as you enter one of Kerry’s most wonderfully quaint villages.

Imagine winding down with the view above laid out in front of you after a hard day exploring!

I love this place. We aren’t spending long here on this trip, but take a little time to admire the mountains that surround the town as you walk through.

4. The Sandy Shores of Derrynane Beach

// Sneem to Derrynane Beach – 27-minute drive (leave Sneem at 14:30, arrive to the sand for 15:00) //

Photo by Johannes Rigg on Shutterstock

Our next stop is a beach that you’ll regularly hear people state to be the best beach in Ireland.

You’ll find Derrynane Beach just two miles north of Caherdaniel on the Ring of Kerry .

The minute you step out of the car and start to soak up the view, you’ll understand why so many people recommended adding it to your itinerary. Derrynane Beach is beautiful.

It’s reasonably sheltered and boasts a natural harbour, and there’s a lifeguarded on duty during the summer months.

On the day that I was there, there were only three other people walking along the beach. A great little spot to clear the head.

5. The Wonderful Town of Waterville

// Derrynane Beach to Waterville – 20-minute drive (leave the beach at 15:35, arrive to Waterville for 15:55) //

Photo by WendyvanderMeer (Shutterstock)

I never need to plan a visit to Waterville . It’s like my subconscious arranges every trip to Kerry so that one way or another, I just end up there.

A friend who is unfortunately no longer with us took me here many years ago. Although I only spent 2 nights here, the place holds a lifetime of happy memories for me.

Fun fact : the town was a favourite holiday spot of Charlie Chaplin. He and his family first visited the town in 1959 and came back every year for over ten years. You’ll see a statue of him in the center of the village in his memory.

For those of you that are hungry or in need of a coffee, nip into An Corcan (the steak sandwich is unreal).

It’s a pokey little cafe/restaurant and the people working there are beyond warm and friendly. Waterville is lovely. Park the car. Stretch the legs.

6. Driving the Skellig Ring

// Waterville to Portmagee (via the Skellig Ring) – 44-minute drive, but we’re allowing for 2 hours – leave Waterville at 16:30, arrive in Portmagee for 18:30) //

Photo by Tom Archer

The next two hours are going to be special. We’re about to travel along an 18km route that links Waterville to Portmagee via Ballinskelligs (read our guide to driving the Skellig Ring in style!).

Expect raw, wild, magnificent scenery, with the jagged outline of Skellig Michael on the horizon rarely far from view.

The Skellig Ring is a very straightforward drive, where you’ll discover the best it has to offer as you spin along it.

The one stop-off point I’m going to recommend is the Kerry Cliffs .

I’ve visited the Kerry Cliffs twice now, and on both occasions, I was one of maybe 2 or 3 other people that were there at the time.

The cliffs, which are over 1,000 feet (305 meters) high, offer spectacular views of the Skellig Islands and Puffin Island.

This is one of those places that makes you really aware of how powerful mother nature is. The thunderous crash as waves collide with sharp cliff face rings out in your ears constantly.

7. Portmagee for the night

// You should arrive to Portmagee for around half six or so. //

Photo by Tom Archer via Tourism Ireland

Portmagee is one of the most beautiful little villages in Ireland .

I’m going to recommend that you stay in The Moorings Guesthouse , which is at the heart of the lovely little village of Portmagee .

Check-in and then head down to the bar for some food and a couple of pints.

You may have seen videos from this pub back when Star Wars was being shot in the area (Mark Hamill was shot pulling a pint at the bar).

Wild Atlantic Way Route: Day 3 – Kerry

Photo by Lukasz Pajor/shutterstock.com

Day 3 is one that I’ve been looking forward to since I started writing this guide.

It takes us through a corner of Ireland that I fell in love with many years ago, and that I revisit as often as physically possible.

Get some breakfast into you and prepare your mind for the beauty that awaits.

Here’s everything you need to know about day 3!

• Visiting Valentia Island (one of the best places to visit in Ireland in my opinion)
• Fooooooooood
• The Rossbeigh Loop Walk (the view from the top is insane)
• Lunch by the beach
• Saying ‘howaya’ to a dolphin in Dingle
• The Dingle Skellig Hotel
• Hiking boots
• Some snacks for the hike

1. Valentia Island

// Portmagee to Valentia Island – 2-minute drive (leave Portmagee at 9, arrive to Valentia for 9:02.. handy or what) //

Image © The Irish Road Trip

Ah, Valentia Island – easily one of my favourite places in Ireland.

Connected to the little town of Portmagee by the Maurice O’Neill Memorial Bridge, Valentia Island is one of Ireland’s most westerly points.

Our first stop-off is the car park near Bray Head.

For those of you that fancy an early morning walk, you can do the Bray Head Walk if you like, but for this trip we’re going to just admire the view below, out towards the Skellig Islands.

From here, make your way up to the Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs (€5 entry fee), and start the steep ascent (it’s insanely steep – keep the car in first gear the entire way up) towards one of the best views in Ireland.

Valentia Lighthouse: By Chris Hill

I’ve done a reasonable amount of travelling outside of Ireland, and there are very few places that I’ve been to that offer a view as spectacular as the Geokaun Mountain and Cliffs.

Kick-back, relax and just soak up what lies before you.

2. the Rossbeigh Hill Loop Walk

// Valentia Island to Rossbeigh Beach (aim for the car park) – 50-minute drive (leave Valentia at 10:20, arrive at the beach for 11:10) //

Photo by @adrian_heely (follow him on Instagram here )

We’ve a bit of walking up next. Aim the car in the direction of Rossbeigh Beach Car Park – the starting point for the Rossbeigh Hill Loop Walk.

This walk will take you between 3 and 4 hours depending on your fitness levels, and it offers a magnificent view out over the surrounding countryside.

The view of Rossbeigh Beach that you’ll be treated to is worth the trip alone.

3. Lunch by the sea

// Rossbeigh Beach to Inch Beach – 49-minute drive (leave beach 1 around 14:30, arrive at beach 2 for 15:20) //

We’re going to stop off at Inch Beach for a spot of lunch and a strong cup of coffee. This is arguably one of the best beaches in Kerry .

At this stage, you’ve packed in a lot already. Take some time to kick back and relax while gazing out at the waves.

If you’re not too fatigued, spend a bit of time walking along the shore – you usually get a good crowd of surfers here tackling the waves.

4. Checking out a dolphin in Dingle

// Inch Beach to Dingle – 26-minute drive (leave Inch at 16:20, arrive in Dingle for 16:50) //

Photo via Failte Ireland

Our last activity of the day will see us hop on a little boat (it’s a 1-hour trip and boats leave regularly)

If you’ve never heard of him (or her… I’m never sure which) Fungie is a wild Bottlenose Dolphin that lives in the waters around Dingle.

He has been in the area for around 32 years and according to experts, he has a lifespan of between 40 and 50 years.

The boats leave Dingle Pier at regular intervals during the day, all year round (weather permitting). This is a nice unique experience to round your day off in style.

5. Dingle for the night

// The Fungie tour takes around an hour, so your feet should be safely back on dry land for 18:00. //

Dingle is one of my favourite places to visit on the Wild Atlantic Way

It’s a cracking town packed with buzzy pubs and brilliant restaurants. Great as a base to explore the surrounding countryside and cracking for a weekend with friends.

I’m going to recommend staying in the Skellig Hotel this evening, so get checked in and chill for a while.

I recently ate in John Benny’s Pub and I’m going to recommend it for this evenings meal. Once you’ve been fed, head to Dick Mac’s Pub for a few and then on to Foxy John’s.

Two of my favourite pubs in the country.

Enjoy the food, the drink and the craic.

Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland: Day 4 – Kerry

Photo by Randall Runtsch/shutterstock.com

We’ve another adventure-packed day planned for today as we start to really explore the Dingle Peninsula .

From spinning along the Slea Head Drive to navigating our way along a road that’s unlike anything I’ve ever encountered, day 4 is all systems go from start to finish.

Fuel up with breakfast from your hotel and get ready for another eventful day.

Here’s everything you need to know about day 4!

• One of the most enjoyable driving routes in Ireland – the Slea Head Drive
• Fooooooooood and ice cream in Dingle
• The narrow road out of Kerry (not one for nervous drivers)
• The long road to Clare
• Lahinch Coast Hotel and Suites

1.The Unforgettable Slea Head Drive

// This Drive takes roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes – we’re going to allow 4 hours. Start the drive at 9:00) //

@ Tourism Ireland photographed by Tom Archer

I’m excited for any of you that are doing this drive for the first time.

The Slea Head Drive is a circular route that begins and ends in Dingle. It takes in an abundance of attractions and fabulous views on the western end of the peninsula.

My only piece of advice for this drive is to stop and wander wherever and whenever the feeling takes you.

The best parts of this drive aren’t the stops, they’re the ever-changing landscape that engulfs it.

Slea Head Stop #1 – The magnificent Coumeenoole Beach

Photo left: Adam Machowiak. Photo right: Irish Drone Photography (Shutterstock)

Our first stop is at Coumeenoole Beach , a place I’ve been to many times before.

This is a fantastic little beach that’s surrounded by jagged cliffs and spectacular coastal scenery.

For any fans of the movie ‘ Ryan’s Daughter ’, you may recognise Coumeenoole Beach as it was one of the locations used in the film. This place really is wild.

What you won’t get from the images above and below is the power of the wind that was gushing over me constantly, rocking me from side-to-side when I was taking the photos above and below.

Park the car and explore the area. The beach is to the left, down the little winding hill, and then to the right you have a path that, if you take it, will offer spectacular views of the surrounding area.

Slea Head Stop #2 – Admiring the view of Dunmore Head

Photo by Chris Hill

You’ll find the lookout point for Dunmore Head a short distance from Coumeenoole Beach, so make sure you keep an eye out for it.

This is another one of those places that tends to rock you a little bit (the best places to visit in Ireland generally do).

When you step out of your car and gaze out, the sound of wind and wave combined with the view that you’ll be treated to is immensely special.

Spend time here. Who cares how long. Soak up the sights and sounds. Put down the phone and the camera and focus on capturing this little chunk of bliss in your mind forever.

Slea Head Stop #3 – Dun Chaoin Pier

Photos via Shutterstock

Dun Chaoin Pier is the departure point for the Blasket Island Ferry, and you’ll find it at the northern end of a small secluded bay enveloped by rocky cliffs.

You can take a stroll down the pier itself or admire the view from above (be careful – the cliff is unguarded).

When gawked at from above, the narrow, winding road that leads up to the pier can only be described as a charming little slice of architectural madness.

The quirky road combined with the gorgeous rocky peaks that jut out from the water in front of the pier make for a wonderfully unique scene on County Kerry’s dramatic coastline.

Slea Head Stop #4 – the stop that isn’t a stop

I tried to emphasise this earlier, but I really believe that you need to go with your gut on this drive.

Take your time and just enjoy the scenery that envelopes you from start to finish.

If you’d like some more guidance on what to do here, hop into our guide to the Slea Head Drive stops .

2. Dingle for Lunch and Ice Cream

// The Slea Head Loop will get you back to Dingle for around 13:00 if you take 4 hours to drive it. //

We’re going to fuel up in Dingle for a long afternoon and evening on the road.

Head to Ashe’s Bar for a bite to eat and then tip on over to Murphy’s Ice Cream for a bit of a #TreatYoSelf buzz.

The Caramelised Brown Bread and the Dingle Sea Salt are both ammmmmmmmmmmazing!

3. The absolutely mental road at Conor Pass

// Dingle to Conor Pass – 8-minute drive (leave Dingle at 14:00, arrive for 14:08) //

It’s rare that a road bothers me in any way.

I love the narrow country roads that you encounter across Ireland, and I’m never (normally) in any way apprehensive about driving along them.

Until I drove Conor Pass for the first time recently, that is.

Conor Pass runs from Dingle out towards Brandon Bay and Castlegregory, and is one of the highest mountain passes in Ireland, standing a whopping 410 m above the sea level.

The tight, narrow road snakes alongside the mountain and weaves its way along sharp cliff faces on one side and an enormous drop to the other. Driving the Conor Pass was one of my highlights from my last trip to Kerry.

Yes, I had a semi oh-shit moment when I met a van coming towards me with no intention of stopping and I had to reverse back around the mountain on a road barely wider than the car, but it was amazing.

You can pull in at the side of the road before the pass and admire the views around you. On a busy day, this’ll be a nervous drivers nightmare, but just take your time and drive carefully.

4. Taking the long road to Clare

// Conor Pass to Kilbaha – 3-hour drive (leave at 14:25 and arrive for 17:25) //

Our 4 th stop of the day takes us out of Kerry, and on to the next coastal county that we’ll be diving into – Clare. Our first stop is to Kilbaha to check out the cliffs at Loop Head Lighthouse .

I’ve visited here a handful of times in the past and am always blown away by the sheer lack of people that you meet.

Park the car at the lighthouse and walk along the grass to the right of the wall that surrounds it. You’ll find a gorgeous sea stack and a wonderful view of the surrounding cliffs.

Warning: the cliffs are unguarded, so please be careful.

This is another place where you’ll feel the full force of Mother nature. The wind crashes against you from every angle and the thunder of the waves smashing against jagged cliff is like music to the ears.

5. Lahinch for the night

// Kilbaha to Lahinch – 1 hour and 5-minute drive (leave at 18:10, arrive to Lahinch for 19:05) //

Photo left: shutterupeire. Photo right: Kristin Greenwood (Shutterstock)

That was a pretty long day, so we’re going to head to our base for the night and then out for food.

I’m going to recommend you stay at Lahinch Coast Hotel and Suites . Check-in and then take a stroll to Danny Mac’s for dinner.

Get an early night, tonight, as we’ve another busy day tomorrow (we’ll factor in a lie-in, of sorts, for the morning of day 10… promise)

Wild Atlantic Way Route Planner: Day 5 – Clare

Clare is an absolutely magnificent county that often gets overshadowed by it’s biggest attraction – the Cliffs of Moher.

While we’ll be checking out the cliffs, we’ll also be exploring much more of what this fabulous county has to offer. Get up for 5 and get out the door for 7:45.

Here’s everything you need to know about day 5!

• The Doolin cliff walk
• Chocolate that’ll make you want to retire on Fisher St.
• Wandering around the Doolin Cave
• A ferry ride to the wonderful Inis Oirr
• The Cliffs of Moher boat tour
• Pints and food in Doolin
• The Limestone Lodge , Doolin
• Some snacks for the cliff walk

Note : If you’re looking to do the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days, you could easily plan your trip up until this point.

1. The Doolin Cliff Walk

// Lahinch to Fisher Street, Doolin – 18-minute drive (leave at 7:45, arrive for 8:03) //

Photo by Foto Para Ti on Shutterstock

The guided Doolin cliff walk is a unique and active way to experience the Cliffs of Moher and is run by local expert Pat Sweeney.

The 3-hour walk kicks off from Fisher Street in Doolin, just outside O’Connors Pub.

The walk takes adventurers towards Doonagore Castle and up to the walking trail along the Cliffs of Moher.

As you walk, you’ll be greeted with spectacular views of the cliffs as they rise up into view in the distance.

If you can manage to tear your eyes away from the scenery along the route, Pat will take you through the history of the area, recounting memorable stories, myths and past memories.

The walk costs just €10 and finishes up at the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre. As the car will be back in Doolin , we’ll need to take a shuttle bus back.

2. Chocolate…

// You should arrive back in Doolin for around 11:30 (depending on how long it takes to get the bus) //

So, we’re after doing a long-ass walk, and stop #3 is going to involve coffee, so we’re going to grab some chocolate to compliment it.

I’m not a huge fan of chocolate, but the stuff this place is churning out is just stupidly tasty.

Known as the Doolin Chocolate Shop, it’s actually a sister company of Wilde Irish Chocolates where they’ve been perfecting their craft since 1997.

Try the white chocolate Oreo meringue. It tastes even better than it sounds.

3. Caves and Coffee

// Fisher Street to the Doolin Cave – 9-minute drive (arrive for 12:00) //

Photo via the Doolin Cave

Hop back into the car and head in the direction of the Doolin Cave . After a long walk along the cliffs, a trip to the Doolin Cave is a perfect follow up.

Armed with a chunk of chocolate that’ll knock you sideways, grab a cup of coffee in the little café in the visitor center first, and rest your legs a little.

When you’re adequately satisfied and buzzed from copious amounts of caffeine and sugar, head off on the tour (book it when you arrive).

The Doolin Cave is home to the largest free-hanging stalactite in the Northern Hemisphere. Known as ‘The Great Stalactite’, it hangs from the ceiling like some giant cone-shaped chandelier.

Particularly mesmerising when you think it formed from a single drop of water many years ago.

The tour itself packs a punch, taking visitors to the natural entrance of the cave, a stream sink at the base of a cliff face, through the main chamber where a guide turns on a light to illuminate the Great Stalactite.

Definitely worth adding to your Wild Atlantic Way itinerary.

4. A Ferry to the Cliffs

// Doolin Cave to Doolin Pier – 10-minute drive (leave the cave at 13:30, arrive at the pier for 13:40) //

Our next stop takes us to Doolin Pier – the departure point for the ferry to Inis Oirr Island .

There are several ferry companies to choose from. I can recommend the Doolin Ferry Company based on past experience.

For this trip, we’re going to go for the ferry that cruises beneath the Cliffs of Moher on the return journey from Inis Oírr.

The trip to the island takes just 30 minutes but when you arrive you’ll reach a slab of rural paradise off Ireland’s West Coast.

Rent a bike for a tenner and cycle along the narrow country roads, surrounded by hand-built stone walls that separate the different fields on the island.

It’s like taking a step back in time. I can’t even begin to recommend this enough. Finish off your trip with a creamy pint of Guinness in the pub near the pier.

5. Sailing below the Cliffs of Moher

// This isn’t a stop – you’ll do it on the return leg of the ferry back to Doolin. //

This. Is. Amazing! So, you’ll have seen the cliffs during your walk earlier in the day, but this is a different ball game altogether.

I did this a couple of years back (OK… it’s way more than a couple of years at this stage…) and it’s cracking.

You get surprisingly close to the cliff face, and it’s only when you approach from below that you truly appreciate the sight of the 700-foot cliff that’s towering above you.

Couple the view with the fact that you’re on a relatively small boat that’s swaying side-to-side thanks to the rough Atlantic Ocean and you’ve an incredible experience, just waiting to be seized.

Tip : Read our guide to visiting the Cliffs of Moher to avoid getting scammed before/when you visit.

6. Warming up in Gus O’Conners

// You should aim to arrive back to Doolin Pier for around 16:40, depending on how long you spend on Inis Oirr. //

Photo via Gus O’Conners on Facebook

After the trip back across the sea from Inis Oírr and the busy day that you’ve had so far, the chances are you’ll be tired, hungry and probably cold/wet (hopefully just tired and cold).

Gus O’Conners pub is the perfect spot to recharge the batteries. This place has been rocking since 1832 – a welcome sight for many a weary traveller returning from a day of exploring.

For those in need of a feeding, the beef and Guinness stew is a hearty bowl of pure and utter goodness that’ll warm the coldest of cockles.

7. A bed with a view for the night

Photos via Booking.com

It’s been a long productive day. Hop into our Doolin accommodation guide to find a place to stay in the town.

There are plenty of restaurants in Doolin where you can grab a bite to eat and there are plenty of pubs in Doolin  for post adventure pints.

Wild Atlantic Way itinerary: Day 6 – Clare and Galway

Photo by Hillwalk Tours

Today is pretty packed. But packed in the best possible way. We’ll be squeezing in many of the best things to do in Galway over the next day or so.

Get a lie-in this morning and get on the road for 10:30.

Here’s everything you need to know about day 6!

• The magnificent drive from Doolin to Kinvarra
• Fooooooooood and a ramble in Galway City
• The Quiet Man Bridge
• The lovely road that leads to Clifden
• The sensational Sky Road
• Foyles Hotel , Clifden

1. The Drive from Doolin to Kinvarra

// Doolin to Kinvarra – 1-hour drive (we’re going to allow for 3 – Leave Doolin at 10:30, arrive in Kinvarra for 13:30) //

So, I’ve never known what this drive is called – I’ve spent time Googling it, but I can’t tell if it’s officially called ‘the Burren Drive’ or not.

Whatever it’s called, it’s amazing. I took this route very recently (see the video below for some clips towards the end) and it’s just special.

Via Google Maps

There’s no other way to describe it. The landscape changes by the minute, there’s a multitude of stop-off points, and it’s another fantastic example of why Ireland is such a wonderful place to road trip around.

This is another drive to play by eye, and to just let your nose lead the way (it’s a straight forward drive, so you’ll stumble upon the best bits.

Some places you can add into your sat nav

• Fanore Beach
• Ballinalacken Castle
• Poulnabrone Dolmen
• Aillwee Cave

You’ve three hours to explore as far and wide as you fancy (I’d recommend getting out in the Burren for a nosey around as the landscape is like something you’ll have never experienced).

2. Galway City for Lunch and a Wander

// Kinvarra to Galway City – 45-minute drive (leave Kinvarra at 13:30, arrive in Galway City for 14:15) //

Photo via Tigh Neachtain on Facebook

This is the only time that we’ll be in Galway City on this Wild Atlantic Way itinerary, so I’m keen for you to get as good a sense for the place as you can in a couple of hours.

For food, we’re heading straight for Dough Bros. It’s pizza. And it’s CLASS (aka amazing if you’re not familiar with Irish slang).

After you’re full to the brim, take a walk towards the City’s bustling Latin Quarter, take in the colourful pubs and shops, and bask in the City’s soundtrack that is chatter mixed with a good dash of street music.

3. The Quiet Man Bridge

// Galway city to the Quiet Man Bridge – 44-minute drive (leave the city at 16:15, arrive at the bridge for 17:00) //

Photo by Newbert12 via Wikicommons

This one is for everyone that’s watched the movie The Quiet Man starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara.

The Bridge is located around 5 miles past Oughterard, on the N59 heading west.

Even if you haven’t seen the movie, this is a real chunk of what I’d call ‘old world Ireland’ that’s worth checking out.

4. Slow down and take it all in

// The Quiet Man Bridge to Clifden – allow an hour with stops, but take longer if needed (leave the bridge for 17:10, arrive in Clifden at around 18:10) //

Photo via Google Maps

Ok, so this isn’t really a stop. After leaving the Quiet Man Bridge, you’ll be driving along the N59 road towards Clifden.

The mountainous, ever-changing landscape that you’ll pass through over the course of this stretch of road is simply superb.

Drop the windows (hopefully the rain isn’t hopping down), dial up the radio and just cruise and take it all in. We’re in no rush. Just soak up the magic of Connemara.

5. The Skyroad, Clifden

// Clifden village to the Skyroad viewing point – 11-minute drive (arrive at the viewing point for 18:22 – allow plenty of time to stop… it’s amazing) //

Photo by Andy333 on Shutterstock

Grab a cup of coffee to go from one of the cafes in Clifden and drive along the Sky Road at your leisure.

The Sky Road is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the Connemara region. It’s a circular route around 11km long that takes you out west from Clifden.

The scenery you’ll be treated to as you spin along the Sky Road will etch itself upon your mind.

There are few places in Ireland that can go toe-to-toe with Clifden when it comes to raw beauty.

As you travel away from Clifden, the Sky Road splits into a lower and an upper road. The lower road will give you a close-up gander of the landscape, while the upper offers views out over the entire area.

You can park your car at the highest point of the road and step out and soak of the glorious scene that lays in front of you.

If you visit Ireland during the winter months when the sun sets early, leave this drive until the morning.

7. Clifden for the evening

Your base for the second night is the bustling little town of Clifden. OK, first things first – let’s grab a bed for the night.

For this trip, I’m going to recommend Foyles Hotel as it’s extremely central, the reviews are exceptional and a bed for the night and a full Irish in the morning will set you back around €99.

For a bite to eat, nip into Guys Bar & Snug for fish and chips (or whatever you fancy, obviously). It’s a short stroll from your hotel and the reviews speak for themselves.

Next, we’re heading to Lowry’s Bar for drinks and live music. At this stage, you’ll have driven and walked a fair amount, so you should be wrecked.

Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip: Day 7 – Galway and Mayo

I know I keep saying it, but day 7 of our Wild Atlantic Way itinerary is AMAZING! We’ll be mixing road trippin’ and hiking to form an absolute peach of a day.

Drop into our guide to the best things to do and places to visit in Mayo if you fancy seeing what else this county has to offer.

Here’s everything you need to know about day 7!

• Hiking in Connemara
• Kylemore Abbey for a post-hike coffee
• Leenaun for lunch and a view
• Aasleagh Falls
• A drive that’ll stick in your mind forever
• Westport for lunch
• On to Achill
• Brannen’s in Newport

1. Diamond Hill

// Clifden to Diamond Hill (park at the visitor center) – 21-minute drive (Leave Clifden for 8:30, arrive at Diamond Hill for 8:52) //

Photo by Gareth McCormack

Our first stop of the day offers the perfect opportunity to escape the car and stretch your legs.

Something I’ve heard said on many occasions is that to truly appreciate the beauty of Connemara, you need to see it from above – enter Diamond Hill . There are two walks to choose from;

The Lower Diamond Hill walk

This trail measures around 3 km and has modest climbs along the route.

You’ll enjoy fantastic views of the surrounding Connemara countryside, coastline and islands over the course of the 1 – 1 and a half hours that it takes to complete.

The Upper Diamond Hill trail

This is a continuation of the Lower Diamond Hill walk which takes you up to the summit of Diamond Hill. For those that fancy giving this a shot, the entire circuit of the Lower and Upper trails measures around 7km and should take between 2.5 – 3 hours.

At the summit, you’ll be treated to panoramic views across all of Connemara. Expect to see the Twelve Bens mountain range, Tully Mountain and Mweelrea to the North.

2. Kylemore Abbey for coffee and a gawk

// Diamond Hill to Kylemore Abbey – 7-minute drive (Allow yourself 1.5 to 3 hours to climb Diamond Hill. We’re going to allow for 2.5 hours, so you’d arrive to the Abbey for 11:27) //

At this stage, you should be still buzzing from your early morning ramble. We’re heading straight for the café in Kylemore Abbey in Connemara for coffee and cake (if you’re feeling peckish).

The Abbey itself is a Benedictine monastery that was founded in 1920 on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, in Connemara. The whole place looks like something plucked straight from a fairy-tale.

When I visited here last, I literally just walked along the edge of the lake and took it all in from afar. You can do the tour if you like, but the view from the other side of the water is amazing.

3. The Lovely Little Village of Leenaun

// Kylemore Abbey to Leenaun – 20-minute drive (spend 40 minutes – longer if you do the tour – at Kylemore Abbey and get to Leenaun for 12:27) //

Photo by Big Smoke Studio

Leenaun is hands-down one of my favourite little (and I mean ‘little’) villages in Ireland.

It’s small, has a buzzy atmosphere from all of the tourists and locals milling about the place and the views out over the Killary Fjord are nothing short of sensational.

Any time I’m here I nip into the little café that’s attached to the gift shop right across from the big parking area (you literally can’t miss it).

I can vouch for the vegetable soup and coffee both being class.

It’s not long since you’ve eaten, but if you’re feeling a little tender after a few drinks the night before, grab a coffee by the window and soak up the view.

For those of you that have watched ‘The Field’, you may recognise Gaynors pub in Leenaun as the pub that featured so frequently in the movie.

4. Aasleagh Falls

// Leenaun village to Aasleagh Falls – 5-minute drive (spend 30 minutes in Leenaun – more if you’re eating – and aim to get here for around 13:00) //

Photo by Bernd Meissner on Shutterstock

There are few sounds that rival the soft ‘plops’ that emit from a waterfall the size of Aasleagh Falls .

You’ll find the waterfall a stone’s throw from Leenane village on the River Erriff, just before the river meets Killary Harbour.

You can park the car at a lay-by close to the falls and there’s a pathway that allows visitors to make the short stroll to the waterfall.

Stretch the legs and gulp down lungfuls of fresh air.

5. One of the most breath-taking drives in Ireland

// Aasleagh Falls to Louisburgh (Co. Mayo) – 40-minute drive but allow 1.5 hours minimum (you’ll have spent 20 minutes at Aasleagh Falls, so you should arrive in Louisburgh for around 14:50) //

OK, so this isn’t necessarily a stop, but you’ll be stopping plenty of times over the course of the drive. The Leenaun to Louisburgh Drive is special.

I’ve driven this route many times and on every occasion, I’ve been taken aback by the sheer lack of people driving along it. The scenery varies from icy lakes to rugged mountains to open country.

As you make your way along the road, you’ll pass Doo Lough, a long dark freshwater lake on the Murrisk peninsula.

Keep an eye out for a plain stone cross – it stands as a memorial to the Doolough Tragedy which took place in 1849.

The only advice I can give you during this drive is to take your time and stop and stretch your legs as often as possible.

6. Westport for a late lunch

// Louisburgh to Westport – 26-minute drive (arrive around 15:25) //

We’ve another tonne of things to do today, so we’re going to take some time to eat up in the gorgeous town of Westport.

I’m going to recommend you head to J.J O’Malleys Bar & Restaurant for a bite to eat but here’s a map of all of the best places to eat in the area – just zoom in on Westport.

Fuel up and have a ramble around the town before heading back to the car.

7. Exploring Achill Island (my favourite spot on our Wild Atlantic Way road trip)

// Westport to Achill – 52-minute drive (leave Westport at 16:55, arrive on Achill for 17:47) //

No Wild Atlantic Way itinerary (or Ireland itinerary , for that matter) is complete without a spin over to Achill.

Achill Island is (thankfully) connected to the mainland by The Michael Davitt Bridge, which makes getting to it an absolute doddle.

The island is scattered with peat bogs, rugged mountains, towering sea cliffs and beautiful clean beaches and bays.

We’re going to skip Keel beach on this occasion, but here’s a picture I took on a recent trip to give you a sense of what it’s like (feel free to stop here if you like).

Our destination for this road trip is Keem Bay. Pop it into Google maps and make your way there.

If you take the road that hugs the coast, you’ll be guided along narrow roads that, at times, meander through the island and are an absolute joy to cruise along.

The first time you lay eyes upon Keem Bay is something that carves itself upon your memory.

If you can, pull in at the side of the road after you come up the hill just before the bay comes into view (there’s limited parking on either side – literally enough space for one car).

Admire the scene in front of you from above, then make your way to the car park at the end of the winding road.

Spend some time on the beach admiring the view before making your way up a little way up the hill that sits to the right of Keem. From here, the view is just out of this world.

8. Newport for the Night

// Achill to Newport – 56-minute drive (leave Achill at around 16:55, arrive to Newport for 20:50) //

Now that, was a busy aul day. Time for a bit of R&R in a town called Newport. I’m going to recommend that you stay in a B&B called Brannen’s , which is right in the center of the town.

I completely stumbled upon this place last winter and managed to get a night’s bed and breakfast for €55 – bargain. Nip over to The Grainne Uaile for a bite to eat and then back to Brannen’s for a pint.

Brannen’s pub in Newport is one of those places that I imagine hasn’t changed a whole lot in 40 years – it’s what I’d call a proper traditional Irish pub.

No frills, pictures of local GAA teams on the wall, and locals sat up at the bar having a chat.

Chill for the evening. We have, you guessed it, another cracking day ahead tomorrow as we explore more of Mayo before heading onto Sligo and Donegal.

Wild Atlantic Way Ireland Guide:  Day 8 – Mayo and Sligo

The Gleniff Horseshoe Drive in Sligo

Today, we’ll be visiting a place that’s older than the pyramids, before driving along the gorgeous Mayo coastline that leads to Sligo.

Grab your breakfast in Brannen’s and then get on the road! Hop into our guide to the best places to visit in Sligo if you fancy seeing what else this county has to offer.

Here’s everything you need to know about day 8!

• The 6,000 years old Céide Fields
• An even older sea stack at Downpatrick Head
• A grand hike in Sligo
• Fish and chips by the sea
• A waterfall
• One of the best places to visit in Ireland if you’re a photographer
• The Benbulben Farmhouse B&B , Sligo

1. The Céide Fields

// Newport to the Céide Fields – 1 hour and 5-minute drive (leave Newport at 9:030, arrive at the Céide Fields for 10:05) //

Photo by Peter McCabe

Our first stop of the day is the Céide Fields. Beneath the boglands of North Mayo lies the Céide Fields – the most extensive Stone Age monument in the world .

The Céide Fields consist of field systems, dwelling areas, and megalithic tombs.

The magnificent stone-walled fields, which extend over thousands of acres, are a whopping 6,000 years old. 6,000… mad stuff!

Enjoy the drive on the way from Newport and then drop into the Céide Fields visitor centre for a ramble around.

2. Downpatrick Head

// Céide Fields to Downpatrick Head – 18-minute drive (spend 1 hour at the Céide Fields, arrive to Downpatrick Head for 11:25) //

You’re in for another early-morning treat. This is hands-down one of my favourite places to visit in Mayo.

Jutting out of the ocean and rising roughly 40m above the wild Atlantic waves, Downpatrick Head treats visitors to unparalleled views of the enormous Sea Stack known as Dún Briste.

Dun Briste (and the surrounding cliffs) were formed around 350 million years ago when sea temperatures were higher and the coastline was a greater distance away.

There’s something incredible about standing out near the edge of the cliff (be careful!) at gazing at 350 years’ worth of exposed rock layer. Spend a bit of time having a gander.

3. Enniscrone for lunch and a walk on the beach

// Downpatrick Head to Enniscrone Beach – 48-minute drive (spend 35 minutes at Downpatrick head, arrive to the beach for 12:48) //

Photo by walshphotos/shutterstock.com

We’re going to grab a spot of lunch in Gilroy’s Bar in Enniscrone.

Get fed and then head to Enniscrone Beach for a stroll to let the food settle.

4. Walking the Knocknarea Queen Maeve Trail

// Enniscrone Beach to Knocknarea – 47-minute drive (leave Enniscrone at 14:00, arrive at Knocknarea for 14:47) //

Photo by Alison Crummy

This is one of my favourite walks on our Wild Atlantic Way itinerary. We’re going to take the Queen Maeve Trail up Knocknarea Mountain, which should take us around 1 and a half hours to complete.

This mountain dominates the Sligo skyline from many angles, so you should get a good look at it from the distance as you approach.

When you leave the car park, follow the path along the bog bridge all the way until you reach the summit. You’ll be treated to panoramic views of Sligo from the top.

5. Fish and Chips by the sea

// Knocknarea to Shell’s Cafe – 11-minute drive (leave Knocknarea at 16:40, arrive at the cafe for 16:51) //

You’ll have built up an appetite after the stroll, so we’re heading to Shell’s Café for fish and chips by the sea.

Eat up, grab and coffee (and a cake, if you like) and walk outside to soak up a lungful of sea air.

6. Glencar Waterfall

// Shell’s Cafe to Glencar Waterfall – 30-minute drive (leave Shell’s at 17:30, arrive at Glencar for 18:00) //

If you’re familiar with the work of W.B. Yeats, then you may recall mention of a line in his poem ‘The Stolen Child’ that goes, ‘Where the wandering water gushes From the hills above Glen-Car’.

The place he referenced was none other than Glencar Waterfall, stop #6 for today.

This is a beautiful place to spend some time listening to the music of the water as it tumbles into the water from above.

7. The Gleniff Horseshoe Drive

// Glencar Waterfall to the start of the Gleniff Horseshoe Drive – 35-minute drive (leave Glencar at 17:25, arrive for 18:00) //

Photo by Hugh Sweeny via Failte Ireland

The final stretch of our day takes us on a lovely little drive that’ll take you through a part of Sligo that has graced many an Instagram feed.

Pop ‘Gleniff Horseshoe Drive’ into your phone or sat nav and start making your way there.

The Gleniff Horseshoe Drive is a roughly six-mile loop of single lane road enveloped by spectacular mountain views.

We’re going to take our time on this drive. Get out of the car at will and bask in the beauty that inspired one of Ireland’s most celebrated poets.

8. Enjoying Benbulben from your Bed

// We’ll be heading straight here from the drive, so aim to get to the b&b for 19:00) //

Photo via Benbulben Farmhouse Bed & Breakdast

Tonight, we’re staying in Benbulben Farmhouse B&B . Check-in and chill for the evening.

You’ll be waking up to an incredible view of Benbulben from the comfort of your b&b the following morning.

WAW road trip: Day #9 – Donegal

Photo by Martin Flemming

The next couple of days are dedicated to Donegal. Set the bar high in your head – they’re going to be a mind-blowing 48 hours as we make our way around one of the most breath-taking corners of our little island.

You’ll have gotten to bed early the previous night, so get up for 7, eat, and take a little stroll to check out Benbulben.

You need to be on the road for 8:30 – we’ve a long, wonderful day ahead.

Here’s everything you need to know about day 9!

• A stroll around the Slieve League Cliffs
• Moseying along the shores of Malin Beg
• Tipping on down to Glencolmcille Folk Village
• A spin along one of the most beautiful roads in Ireland
• Lunch in Ardara
• Glenveagh National Park
• An Chuirt , Gweedore Court Hotel

1. Slieve League

// Benbulben Farmhouse to Slieve League – 1 hour and 45-minute drive (leave the b&b at 7:00, arrive for 8:45) //

We’re having our earliest start of the whole trip this morning, but it’ll be worth it. The first stop of the day takes us to the Slieve League Cliffs (officially known as the Sliabh Liag cliffs ).

Towering above the ocean at 2000 foot (Twice the height of the Cliffs of Moher), the Slieve League Cliffs are an adventurers dream.

On a clear day the cliffs offer breath-taking views across Donegal Bay, Sligo and Mayo, and they’re perfect for those that may be unable to partake in any strenuous activity or for those looking to stretch the legs and get the heart rate up with a more vigorous climb.

2. Malin Beg and Silver Strand Beach

// Slieve League to Malin Beg – 37-minute drive (leave Slieve League at 10:00, arrive for 10:37) //

Photo by Paul_Shiels/shutterstock

Silver Strand Beach aka Malin Beg is one of those places that makes me question why I’m living in Dublin.

Whether you’re sitting on the grass above and gazing down at it, or walking along the sandy shores and listening to the waves crash, this horse-shoe shaped beach is an unspoiled gem.

Take your time here and bask in the brilliance that surrounds you. This is one of the best beaches in Donegal for good reason.

3. Glencolmcille Folk Village and/or beach

// Malin Beg to Glencolmcille – 15 minute drive (leave Malin Beg at 11:20, arrive to Glencolmcille for 11:35) //

Photo by Christy Nicholas/shutterstock

Our next stop is the Folk Village in Glencolmcille . This is a thatched-roof replica of a rural village offers a glimpse into what daily life was like in years past.

Each cottage is an exact replica of a dwelling used by locals in each of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. Wander through the village at your leisure or take a guided tour if it tickles your fancy.

If the Silver Strand gave you a lust for sea air, you can also take a stroll along Glencolmcille beach.

4. Spin along the Glengesh Pass

// Glencolmcille to Glengesh – 27-minute drive (leave Glencolmcille at for 12:15, arrive to Glengesh for 12:45) //

The chances of encountering another road like the one at the Glengesh Pass is slim to none.

It meanders through the seemingly endless mountainous terrain that connects Glencolmcille to Ardara, with more twists and turns than my stomach cares to remember.

Tip : As you approach Glengesh from the Glencolmcille side, you’ll come across a little van selling coffee, with a bench close by. Stop off here and you’ll get some great views of the valley below.

5. Assaranca Waterfall

// Glengesh to Assaranca Waterfall – 16-minute drive (leave Glengesh at for 13:15, arrive to the waterfall for 13:31) //

Photo by Yevhen Nosulko/shutterstock

The first time I visited here, we found it by complete fluke.

We had just driven along Glengesh and had managed to get semi-lost. We kept driving away hoping that we’d happen upon something interesting and BANG – Assaranca Waterfall .

What I love about this place is that it’s literally at the side of the road, so if it’s raining away you can kick back in your car, lower the window a tad and soak up the sights and the sounds.

A lovely little surprise.

6. The Caves of Maghera and Maghera Strand

// Assaranca Waterfall to Maghera Strand – 4-minute drive (leave the waterfall at 13:55, arrive at the strand for 14:00) //

Our next stop is just one kilometer from Assaranca Waterfall – Maghera Strand. Maghera Strand is wild. That’s the only way to describe it.

But wild in the best possible sense – it’s exactly as nature intended. Pure raw natural beauty.

You’ll find the Maghera Caves beneath Slievetooey mountain and some of the 20 caves are accessible when tides are low from Maghera Strand.

Note: you need to be extremely careful of tides and strong currents – check locally regarding the best time to visit.

7. A Late Lunch in Ardara

// Maghera Strand to Ardara – 17-minute drive (leave the strand at 14:40, arrive to Ardara for 14:57) //

By this stage you’re probably starving, so we’ll stop for a bit of food not far from Maghera Strand.

I’ve eaten in Sheila’s Coffee and Cream in Ardara twice now and on both occasions, it was brilliant.

If the weather is good, grab a seat outside and watch the world pass you by. Fuel up and get read for a busy afternoon and evening.

8. Glenveagh National Park

// Ardara to Glenveagh National Park – 1 hour and 2-minute drive (leave Ardara at 15:50, arrive to Glenveagh for 16:52) //

Photo left: Gerry McNally. Photo right: Lyd Photography (Shutterstock)

Spanning an impressive 16,000 hectares, Glenveagh National Park encompasses most of the Derryveagh Mountains, the Poisoned Glen and part of Errigal Mountain .

For those looking to get a lungful of fresh air, there are several walks you can choose from.

We’re going to do the View Point Trail (takes 1-hour) on this trip. Here’s how the folks at Glenveagh describe it;

‘The View Point Trail is perhaps the best short walk option in the Park. It leads to an ideal vantage point for enjoying views of the rugged scenery, with magnificent perspectives of the castle below, Lough Veagh and the surrounding landscapes.

This circular 1.5Km trail starts and ends at the castle, taking from 50-60 min at a leisurely pace. The surface is good at all stages and very steep for several short distances. Follow the direction of the road behind the castle, taking the path uphill just outside the garden gates. The route is signposted from here.’

Walk at your leisure and soak up the sights, smells and sounds.

9. Gweedore for the night

// Glenveagh to Gweedore – 20-minute drive (leave the park at 18:00 and arrive for 18:20) //

Tonight we’ll be staying in Gweedore – I’m going to recommend An Chuirt, Gweedore Court Hotel , but you can stay wherever tickles your fancy based on your budget.

Check into your room and chill for an hour or two. For dinner, drive to Leo’s Tavern – it’s is a leisurely 9-minute spin from the hotel.

Get an early night and bask in the happiness that accompanies a day of exploring like the one you’ve just had.

Wild Atlantic Way Ireland itinerary: Day 10 – Donegal

Photo taken by MNStudio (shutterstock)

Set your alarm for nice and early. I know I’m like a broken record saying this at this point, but you’ve a sensational day ahead.

Fuel up with a good breakfast and hit the road. If you fancy checking out the best that this corner of Ireland has to offer, hop into our guide to Donegal’s top attractions .

Here’s everything you need to know about day 10!

• A panoramic view of Donegal from Horn Head
• A ramble through Ards Forest Park before heading on to Killahoey Beach
• A castle that looks like something from a Disney movie
• The awe-inspiring Atlantic Drive
• Lunch in the Singing Pub
• Lough Salt for a view that’ll give you goosebumps
• Fanad Lighthouse
• Glamping by the sea
• Portsalon Luxury Glamping , Portsalon
• Hiking gear

1. An incredible view of Donegal from Horn Head

// Gweedore to Horn Head – 37-minute drive (Leave Gweedore at 8, arrive at Horn Head for 8:37) //

Photo by Susanne Pommer/shutterstock

Our first stop of Day 10 takes us up to Horn Head , close to the little town of Dunfanaghy.

There’s two options for this stop – you can throw on the walking boots and head off on a walk along the cliffs (takes roughly three hours), or you can drive the Horn Head loop.

If you’d prefer to avoid the walk (which we’ll be doing for this trip), the drive around Horn Head is also fantastic.

There are two viewing points where you can get out at and admire the scenery that surrounds you; the first is on the north side and here cliffs dominate.

The second overlooks Dunfanaghy with Muckish and the Derryveagh mountains providing the perfect backdrop.

2. Killahoey Beach

// Horn Head to Killahoey Beach – 13-minute drive (leave Horn Head at 9:47, arrive at the beach for 10:00) //

Photo via LR-PHOTO on shutterstock.com

You’ll hear Killahoey Beach often referred to as Dunfanaghy beach – it’s a gorgeous Blue Flag beach that’s popular for water sports.

Stop off here, take the shoes and socks off and get a lungful of Atlantic air as you trudge along the shore.

3. Ards Forest Park

// Killahoey Beach to Ards Forest Park – 12-minute drive (leave the beach at 10:30, arrive to the forest for 10:42) //

Photo left: shawnwil23. Right: AlbertMi/shutterstock

Our next stop is to Ards Forest Park where you can choose from nine different trails to head off on.

Over the course of your stroll you’ll encounter sand dunes, beaches, salt marshes, saltwater lakes, rock face and, of course, coniferous and deciduous woodlands.

You’ll also happen upon the remains of four ring forts together with a holy well and a mass rock. Grab a coffee in Ards Coffee Tree and head off on your merry way.

4. Doe Castle

// Ards Forest Park to Doe Castle – 13-minute drive (leave the forest at 11:50, arrive to Doe Castle for 12:03) //

Photo via Tourism Ireland

Doe Castle is one of those structures that looks like it was plucked straight from a Disney movie.

The castle was strategically built out on a jutting rock that places it within the protection of an inlet from Sheephaven Bay.

You can access the grounds of the castle for free or you can take a guided tour for €3 euro per person.

5. The Loop around Tra Na Rossan

// Doe Castle to Downings – 16-minute drive / Downings to Tra Na Rossan – 13-minute drive (leave the castle at 12:35, arrive to Tra Na Rossan for 13:05) //

The drive we’re about to do is called the Atlantic Drive. I did a trip around Donegal a few months ago and this, for me, was the best part of the trip.

The sun was blazing, the roads were quiet, and around every narrow bend some new, unexpected piece of scenery slapped me in the face.

From Doe Castle, you want to point the Batmobile in the direction of ‘Downings’ and continue on to ‘Tra Na Rossan view’ (it’s marked out on Google Maps).

Pull in to the first safe spot you find at the side of the road and just soak up the view.

6. Lunch at the Singing Pub

// Tra na Rossan view to the Singing Pub – 6-minute drive (leave the viewing area at 13:40, arrive at the pub for 13:46) //

Photo via thesingingpub.ie/

If you land here on a sunny day, grab a seat outside and enjoy the view.

I was driving by here and it was the name that caught my eye, so I decided to head up to see what it was all about.

The lads serving on the day were a bit of craic and more than happy to chat away, offering a good dollop of local knowledge along with a decent feed.

7. Lough Salt for an absolute peach of a view

// The Singing Pub to Lough Salt – 20-minute drive (leave the pub at 14:40, arrive to Lough Salt for 15:00) //

This became one of my favourite places to visit on the Wild Atlantic Way after I stumbled upon it last year.

I didn’t know this place existed – I simply saw a road that caught my eye and kept driving. Lough Salt is a small mountain lake located at the base of Lough Salt Mountain.

Keep driving until you come to the little parking area that’ll be on your left as you drive up an incline.

From here, you can check out the lake to your left. When you’ve had your fill, take a look around to your right and you’ll see a small grass hill.

Cross the road and climb up it. The 360 view you’ll be treated to is just out of this world. On the day that I visited, I took a book with me and chilled for an hour or so.

8. Fanad Head Lighthouse

// Lough Salt to Fanad head – 40-minute drive (leave Lough Salt at 15:40, arrive to Fanad for 16:20) //

You’ll see Fanad Head Lighthouse dominate many guides on the best things to do in Donegal.

There’s no real mystery why – it’s a special place. The drive to and from Fanad Lighthouse is worth the trip alone, as you pass through the beautifully quaint countryside that leads to it.

Standing proudly between Lough Swilly and sandy Mulroy Bay, Fanad Head Lighthouse has been voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world.

Sit up on the stone wall to the left of the lighthouse and switch off for a while. Soak up the sounds of the ocean and bask in the beauty of one Ireland’s most spectacular corners.

9. Ballymastocker Bay

// Fanad Head to Ballymastocker Bay – 22-minute drive (leave Fanad at 16:40, arrive to the bay for 17:02) //

Ballymastocker Bay is a superb Blue Flag beach, and it’s our final stop for day two of our road trip.

Once voted the 2nd most beautiful beach in the world by the Observer Magazine, it offers tremendous views out towards the Inishowen Peninsula .

When you’re finished here, take the short spin to Portsalon Beach and have a ramble or just kick-back and take it all in.

10. Glamping by the Beach

// You’re a 9-minute drive from your accommodation for the night – you should arrive here for around 18:00) //

Photo via Portsalon Luxury Camping

At this stage of the day you should be well and truly wrecked, but content that you’ve filled your day with a tonne of exploring.

Grab a bite to eat in the Pier Restaurant (7-minute drive from where you’re staying) and get back to enjoy your unique bed for the night.

Tonight, you’re glamping in Portsalon Luxury Camping , which is nestled on a hillside and enjoys spectacular views of Lough Swilly, Mulroy Bay, Knockalla mountain and the Inishowen Peninsula.

Kick-back in a hammock and listen to the crackle of the fire from your wood-burning stove.

Love staying somewhere unique? Check out our guide to the most unusual places to stay in Ireland .

Wild Atlantic Way road trip: Day 11 – Donegal

Photos by Ondrej Prochazka/Shutterstock

So, we’re on to our final lap of the Donegal stretch of our road trip as we move into day 11.

Just writing about Donegal has given me an itch to book a couple of nights there over the next few months!

If you can, get up early and enjoy the sunrise from your bed and then get on the road for 8.

Here’s everything you need to know about day 11!

• Grianan of Aileach (you’ll enjoy the drive up to this)
• Letting the mouth drop at Mamore Gap
• Glenevin Waterfall
• Kinnagoe Bay
• The Saltwater Bed and Breakfast , Portstewart

1. Grianan of Aileach

// Portsalon Luxury Camping to Grianan of Aileach – 1-hour drive (arrive for 9) //

The Grianan of Aileach is a hillfort that sits on top of the 801 ft high Greenan Mountain on Inishowen.

The stone fort is said to date back to the 1st century on the site of an early Iron Age multivallate hillfort.

The drive up to Grianan of Aileach is worth the trip alone.

When you reach the top you’ll be treated to a magnificent 360 view that takes in Lough Swilly, Lough Foyle and the gorgeous countryside of the Inishowen Peninsula.

2. Dunree Head

// Grianan of Aileach to Fort Dunree Military Museum – 40-minute drive (leave Grianan of Aileach at 9:50, arrive to the fort for 10:30) //

Photo left: Lukassek. Right: Lucky Team Studio/shutterstock

Our second stop of the day takes us to Dunree Head to check out Dunree Fort and the military museum.

The Museum is positioned in a wonderful setting that overlooks Lough Swilly on the on the Inishowen Peninsula.

There are several weather-beaten barracks which you can have a gander at and if you fancy along with an audiovisual presentation.

3. Mamore Gap

// Dunree Head to Mamore Gap – 15 minutes drive (leave the fort at 11:15, arrive to Mamore Gap for 11:30) //

If you’ve never visited Mamore Gap before, then you’re in for a treat.

Found on the Inishowen Peninsula this immensely scenic drive twists and turns through the gap along a steep route.

It’s hard not to admire the sheep and cyclists battling their way up the steep hillsides as your car (mine did anyway) struggles against the incline.

Once you reach the summit of Mamore Gap it’ll immediately become evident why this is one of the best things to do in Donegal.

The view from the top is one of those scenes that paints itself upon your mind forever. Wild. Remote. Unspoiled. Mamore Gap will take your breath away.

4. Glenevin Waterfall

// Mamore Gap to Glenevin Waterfall – 13-minute drive (leave Mamore at 12:10, arrive to the waterfall for 12:23) //

Photos by The Irish Road Trip

The first time I laid eyes upon Glenevin Waterfall it mustered up images in my mind of the first Jurassic Park movie.

The waterfall looks like something that you’d find on a prehistoric island from a land that time forgot.

Once you’ve parked the car, you’re around a 15 minute walk away that’ll take you along a lovely pathway that’s surrounded by trees. Glenevin Waterfall is well worth adding to your road trip itinerary.

5. Malin Head

// Glenevin Waterfall to Malin Head – 31-minute drive (leave the waterfall at 13:00, arrive to Malin Head for 13:31) //

Our next stop takes us to Malin Head – the most northerly point of the island of Ireland.

After visiting Malin Head recently, the one thing that hit me, and that stuck with me long after my visit, was the sheer power of mother nature.

As I stood and gazed out at the jagged rocks that jutted from the water nearby, I was half deafened from the whistle of the gales that whipped over the Atlantic coupled with the sound of water clattering against rock.

There are several walks you can do here – the road walk to Banbas crown is roughly 12km and will take you around 5 hours depending on fitness levels.

As you explore Malin head, keep an eye out for a large ‘EIRE’ on the ground nearby, written out in white stones to remind aircraft that they were flying over a neutral state during the war.

6. Lunch in the Seaview Tavern

// Malin Head to the tavern – 4-minute drive (leave Malin Head at 14:30, arrive for foooood at 14:34) //

Our stop-off point for lunch is a short 4-minute drive from Malin Head.

Drop by the Seaview Tavern and fuel up for the busy afternoon and evening ahead.

7. Kinnagoe Bay

// The tavern to Kinnagoe Bay – 38-minute drive (leave the tavern at 15:34, arrive to Kinnagoe for 16:15) //

Photo by Chris Hill via Failte Ireland

The final stop of our 11 day Wild Atlantic Way itinerary takes us to the gorgeous Kinnagoe Bay .

We’ve visited many a great beach over the past few days, and this one is the icing on the cake.

You can view the bay from the road above or take a walk down to the sand to give the legs a ‘wee stretch’.

That’s a wrap on our 11 day Wild Atlantic Way itinerary

I hope you’ve found the above guide useful.

Need help planning your trip or have a WAW related question? Add your question in the comments section below and we’ll help you out ASAP.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I originally published this guide at the start of last summer. Since then, I’ve received a fair few emails with questions about the Wild Atlantic Way.

Below, you’ll find the most frequently asked, along with some answers.

How long does it take to do the Wild Atlantic Way?

The Wild Atlantic Way is 2750km long. You could spend 11 days driving along it and you could just as easily spend 11 months. It depends on how long you have to explore.

Where does Wild Atlantic Way start and finish?

The Wild Atlantic Way beings on the beautiful Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal and travels through Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick and Kerry. It finishes up in Kinsale in Cork.

What counties are in the Wild Atlantic Way?

The Wild Atlantic Way takes in 9 coastal counties. Those who explore it in its entirety will visit Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick, Kerry and Cork.

Is the Wild Atlantic Way signposted?

While the Wild Atlantic Way  is  signposted, it’s worth having a physical or digital map handy to ensure that you’re staying on track. Of course, if you’d rather skip the maps, you can follow the signposts.

Is there a Wild Atlantic Way map that I can use?

If you’re looking for a map of the Wild Atlantic Way, scroll back up to the top of this guide and you’ll find one. If there’s a county in particular that you’d like to explore more of, dive into our counties of Ireland guide.

Can you do the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days?

The quick answer is no. It’ll take longer. However, if you’re looking to do the Wild Atlantic Way in 5 days, pick a chunk of the guide that tickles your fancy the most and run with it.

I’m only visiting for a week. This guide is too long!

Only visiting Ireland for 7 days? Check out our detailed guide to spending one week in Ireland .

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Tuesday 3rd of October 2023

You are a STAR. We have just returned to the UK after driving most of The Wild Atlantic Way over a few weeks, and all the information and tips that you gave in the guide for the Way made it an amazing trip, despite not being sunshine all the way. We loved it and have already said that we will return in the future. Thank you so much for all the hard work you must have put into the guide. Best wishes Yvonne & Robert

Martin jeffries

Tuesday 10th of January 2023

hi keith. i will be sailing from the uk do you know which port i sail from and which port in ireland do i sail into, im planning for 2024 possibly early august. thanks martin from wolverhampton.

Keith O'Hara

Monday 16th of January 2023

Hi Martin - I have absolutely no experience with sailing and I wouldn't like to provide you with inaccurate information that could potentially cause your trip a massive disruption. Apologies - I know this wasn't the reply you were looking for!

Monday 9th of January 2023

Hi Keith, My husband and I are travelling to Ireland from Toronto Feb 10-20, its our very first time there and we’re superr excited(despite all the rain we’re guaranteed)! Our Itenerary is below, this site has been an incredible resource so far and it would be a huge help if we could get some guidance/POV on this - are we trying to do too much, any major point that we’re missing? We’re not into heavy hikes but enjoy partying/eating/drinking and leisurely walks. We’ve booked our Galway stay already but completely flexible with the rest

Day 1 - Land in Dublin (rent car at 7am) Drive to Galway with a stop at Seans bar, spend the evening/dinner in Galway Spend 2 nights in Galway Day 2 - Explore Galway (or is it worth taking a Day trip to Mayo from Galway?) Day 3 - Checkout from Galway, drive to Limerick, stop at Cliffs of Moher, Donagoore Castle, Loop head lighthouse Spend 2 nights in Limerick Day 4 - Drive through Ring of Kerry (spend night in Limerick) Day 5 - Checkout from Limerick, Visit Adare, Tipperary, Cashel Spend 1 night in Cashel/Tipperary Day 6 - Drive to Cork and spend day exploring Cork city Spend 1 night in Cork Day 7 - Explore cork city, Cobh, drive to kilkea castle Spend 1 night in Kilkea Castle Day 8 - Drive to Waterford, spend day exploring Waterford, Drive to Dublin (return rental car in Dublin) Spend 3 nights in Dublin Day 9 - Explore Dublin, Trinity College, St Patricks Cathedral, Christchurch cathedral, brazenhead pub Day 10 - Take viator Day trip of Nothern Ireland (Belfast, Giants Causeway, Dunluce castle) Temple bar at night Day 11 - Take flight back to Toronto Thanks & Cheers!

Sorry it's taken me so long to get back to you!

Definitely add in Athlone Castle on day 1. On day 2, you've asked about Mayo. It's an incredible county, but I think you'll stretch yourself too thin, so dedicate the day to Connemara.

Day 3 - lot of driving on this day. The spin out to loop head, although well worth it, is quite long. Day 4, again, a lot of driving but doable if you're set on staying in Limerick. Day 5 looks fine. Day 6 looks fine.

Actually, at a glance at the other days everything else is fine, it's just a very busy itinerary.

It's not the kind of trip that would suit everyone, but if you're happy to pack in as much as possible then this all looks very doable to me.

Have a great, safe trip!

Murillo Fabris

Monday 17th of August 2020

Hey Keith, just passing by to say what an amazing guide, super well laid out! We are doing it in reverse, This is the only side of Ireland we haven't seen yet. Thank you again and keep up the good work!

Thursday 23rd of April 2020

Hi! This article is amazing, its got me fired up to do this as soon as possible! I was wondering what kind of budget you would recommend in terms of following pretty much exactly what you've written for the itinerary?

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Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip (all The Best Stops)

Are you looking to plan an Oregon Coast road trip? You’ve come to the right spot!

Berty and I are Pacific Northwest photographers who live and play in this area all year log.

We visit multiple times a year , and have deep knowledge of the best spots along the Oregon Coast (and even some secret ones too!)

The Oregon Coast is famous for its stunning beaches , jaw-dropping sea stacks, and endless opportunities for coastal adventures.

From the temperate rainforests around Lincoln City to the sand dunes of the Central Oregon Coast, there seems to be an adventure fit for everyone.

There are so many things to do on the Oregon coast, and we’re here to share the best of the best in this post.

Here, you can expect a full list of the best stops on the Oregon coast, hiking suggestions, example road trip routes, helpful driving tips, and so much more.

The Perfect Oregon Coast Road Trip ITINERARY

This is a HUGE post , including everything from the best stops, accommodations, the best Oregon coast beaches , attractions, and even a packing list! Use the table of content to jump to the spot you want to research first!

How To Get Around The Oregon Coast (Our Favorite Driving Resources)

The easiest way to get around the Oregon Coast is certainly by car.

If you are flying in from outside of Oregon, we highly recommend renting a campervan from Outdoorsy . This of it like Airbnb but for campervans. They’ve got tons to choose from – anything from vintage VW Westfalias, tricked-out sprinter vans, and even towable Airstreams!

Are you on a travel budget , looking for campgrounds along your route ?

Make sure to also download The Dyrt , the #1 rated camping app and website! Pro users can use their road trip planner, which allows you to route your trip with waypoints, to find the best campgrounds along the way. This app is an absolute road trip essential for us!

More Driving Resources For The Oregon Coast Highway:

• 15 Essential Road Trip Apps For Route Planning
• How To Plan A Trip To The Pacific Northwest
• 10 Insanely Easy Camping Meals To Make On The Road

The Best Time for an Oregon Coast Road Trip

The best time for an Oregon coast road trip really depends on what you’re looking for!

Granted, the summer months (July, August, September) have the best weather, but there are pros and cons to any time of year.

• Oregon Coast road trip in the SUMMER: Great weather, tons of hiking options, open campgrounds, tourism season means everything is open!
• Oregon Coast road trip in the WINTER: Cheaper hotel prices, fewer crowds, whale watching season

Personally, we love visiting the Oregon coast in the summer. This is when most Oregon coast campgrounds are open , tours are in full swing, and hikes are accessible.

However, if you’re on a budget and don’t mind a little rain, you can get the best bang for your buck if you visit the Oregon coast in the off season, between November and April!

What To Pack For The Oregon Coast

An Oregon Coast road trip is unlike any other American road trip.

You’ll have to prepare for spontaneous rain showers , muddy trails, sporadic coastal cities, and surprises around every corner (literally!).

Psssst, if you want the nitty-gritty (including a downloadable packing list) we wrote a whole post dedicated to the perfect Oregon Coast packing list !

Proper Rain Gear

The Oregon Coast averages about 150 rainy days per year . This means that no matter what time of year you go, there is a chance of rain!

Make sure you’re prepared for the elements by packing a lightweight raincoat , waterproof shoes , and a waterproof backpack for your gear.

This can also include throwing a pair of rain boots in the back of your car for those extra muddy hikes.

Read More: What To Pack When Hiking In The Pacific Northwest

A Paper Map

It’s likely that along Highway 101 there are areas that won’t reach cell service. If you like to know where you are (or just like marking your favorite spots on a map!) a paper one is a great option.

Alternatively, you can download offline maps from Google! We’ll show you how to do that and share other useful road trip planning apps here .

Emergency Road Trip Equipment

Hey, things can happen and it’s important to be prepared! Use this blog post to help yourself put together a DIY car emergency tool kit .

Any good west coast road trip requires a pair of jumper cables, extra phone chargers, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a warm blanket to help you through sticky situations.

See More: Emergency Winter Driving Toolkit

Road Trip Snacks

During your Oregon road trip, you’ll be spending a lot of time in the car.

Make sure to pack your favorite snacks and carry plenty of water! We recommend grabbing some fresh produce from a local grocery store for a healthy and budget-friendly way to snack on the road.

Read More: 30 Road Trip Essentials You Need To Be Packing

Oregon Coast Destinations (From North To South)

There are so many amazing places to see on the Oregon coast! We are sharing our favorites for an Oregon coast road trip from north to south.

If you are planning an Oregon coast road trip from Seattle , read this post from top to bottom.

However, if you are coming from San Francisco to the Oregon Coast , consider starting this post and the bottom and working your way back up, to plan your stops accordingly.

 North Oregon Coast Destinations

Astoria, Oregon

If you’re starting from Pacific Northwest destinations like Portland or Seattle and you want to see the entire Oregon Coast, start in Astoria for your Oregon Coast itinerary.

From Seattle, Astoria is a 3-hour drive  and 181 miles. From Portland, Astoria is a 1-hour 52-minute drive and 97 miles.

Astoria, Oregon is the perfect place to begin your Oregon road trip.

Here, you can experience the perfect combination of coastal vibes and eclectic city living. Astoria is known for its local brews, nearby forest hikes, and quirky culture.

We suggest taking a full day to explore this city just south of the Columbia River.

Spend some time digging for treasure at antique stores like Garbo’s downtown, and finish the day off with a cold one at a Buoy Beer Company . Buoy Beer Company even has a glass floor to peek at the lazy seals below on the boardwalk!

Memorable Locations and Beautiful Hikes In Astoria:

• Hike To Cathedral Tree (1.5-mile hike, but the tree is at the .5 mile marker)
• See The Peter Iredale Shipwreck at Fort Stevens State Park
• Take a Goonies Film Location Tour
• See The Astoria Column

The Best Astoria Restaurants and Cafes To Try:

• Street 14 Cafe (city cafe vibes with casual breakfast)
• Baked Alaska (upscale restaurant with river views)
• Astoria Coffeehouse and Bistro (eclectic and local)

Fort Stevens State Park

Fort Stevens State Park is a 4,300-acre park – one of the largest in the entire state!

Northwest of Astoria and Warrento, it is most well known for its military displays , specifically inside the military museum and numerous buildings around the park.

You are able to take a guided tour of an artillery battery , which served as a command center in World War II. It’s also one of the most haunted places in Oregon !

Here at Fort Stevens, you can go camping in their generously sized campgrounds (there are nearly 500 sites!), swimming in a freshwater lake (Coffenbury Lake), kayaking, wildlife viewing, and even pop into the city for a bite to eat.

During sunset, the coolest part of this park is the Peter Iredale Shipwreck . Perfectly accessible during low tide, you can get up close to this historic shipwreck!

The vessel ran ashore in October 1906 and was abandoned at the stop. The crew actually had plans to pull it back out to sea, but it embedded itself in the sand too deep – perfect for you or me who want to visit it today!

Seaside, Oregon

Seaside is a can’t-miss location on your Oregon Coast road trip!

This adorable town is one of the most popular oceanfront locations on the coast, and for good reason. There are so many family-friendly Oregon coast attractions here, with  activities for people of all ages .

One of the most popular attractions in Seaside, Oregon is the Seaside Aquarium . The aquarium is one of the oldest on the entire West Coast. Here, you can discover the marine life that lives on the Oregon coast, as well as feed the seals that live there!

Spend some time also walking on 1.5-mile long Ocean Promenade , which has panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean the entire way. The Seaside Promenade is a popular activity for families – you can stop at any point and run to the ocean, or find a beach swing to take a break!

This is a perfect place to get out of the car on your Oregon coast road trip, stretch your legs, and soak in the liquid sunshine at Seaside!

Ecola State Park

Ecola State Park is a protected area with 9-miles of Oregon coastline between Cannon Beach and Seaside, Oregon, and a definite highlight to any Oregon coast road trip!

This state park is commonly used for sightseeing, wildlife viewing, exploring iconic coastal tide pools , and (if you dare) surfing in the cold Pacific Ocean. The best part is, you don’t have to drive very far to start getting these incredible Oregon coast views!

Immediately on the winding drive-in, you’ll pass through a thick canopy of Sitka spruce trees , covered in moss and surrounded by ferns.

The drive is half the fun – but be careful because there are some pretty gnarly potholes in the road.

One of the best views of Cannon Beach and the Oregon Coast is right off of the Indian Beach parking lot in Ecola State Park.

Park as close to the ocean as you can, and take the south trail for just a few minutes until Cannon Beach and its sea stacks come into view.

On a clear day, you are able to see the waves crash on Cannon beach, and the town shimmer on the coastline!

For hidden views of the Oregon Coast, we suggest taking Crescent Beach Trail , a 2-mile moderately difficult hike that brings you to hidden beaches, stunning coastal views, and moody PNW trails.

Park Tip:  Ecola State Park requires a $5.00 day use fee , or you can purchase a one-year unlimited pass for $30.

Ecola State Park is a hidden gem on any Oregon coast road trip!

Discover Another Nearby Washington Park: Cape Disappointment State Park

• Cannon Beach

If you’re into long walks on the beach, this area of the North Oregon Coast is a must-see! Cannon Beach is one of the most popular and family-friendly beaches on the Oregon Coast .

It’s also one of the best Oregon coast towns to visit if you are just coming for a day trip from Portland .

On any given day of the year, you can expect families making sandcastles, people gathered around beach bonfires in Oregon , and happy dogs playing fetch through the water.

Cannon Beach is easily recognizable by its large sea stack , with a few smaller rocks at the base. The sea stacks are very close to the beach, which means during low tide you can get pretty close to them!

Again, this is the most popular and well-known stop on any Oregon Coast road trip.

While there may be crowds , don’t let that deter you from putting it on your Oregon road trip itinerary! Because of the popularity of Cannon Beach, there are quite a few amenities here to cater to everyone’s needs.

You can easily find and book Oregon coast accommodations, Airbnbs, and find everything you need for the rest of your Oregon Coast road trip.

At Cannon Beach, you can eat incredible food that’s freshly caught from local sources!

Here are some of our recommended coffee shops and restaurants to try at Cannon Beach, Oregon:

Driftwood Inn – Reasonable lunch prices and classic diner food with a seaside twist. Wayfarer Restaurant – Fresh, local cuisine, upscale eating with sea stack views. Mo’s Seafood and Chowder – Casual dining with eclectic gifts and seaside views. Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters   – Quirky, local cafe with pastries and good coffee. Insomnia Coffee Company  – Cozy place with lots of windows, great location to meet with friends.

Hug Point State Recreation Area is a 10-minute drive south from Cannon Beach , with significantly fewer crowds and tons of things to do.

It is one of the most easily accessible Oregon Coast beaches , and a must-visit for your Oregon Coast road trip.

Here, there are coves to explore, and seasonal Oregon waterfalls to discover. We suggest taking the Hug Point Trail , a 1.2-mile out and back hike that wraps around the cove to reveal tide pools, caves, and beautiful coves. Come during low tide to gain full access to this beach!

Be aware: It’s possible to get stuck or stranded in certain areas of Hug Point if the tide rises while you explore! Make sure to read these tide charts before you plan your trip beyond the main parking lot area.

More PNW Beaches: Hiking At Rialto Beach In Washington State

Oswald West State Park

Oswald West State Park is the best-kept secret of any good Oregon coast road trip.

With miles and miles of trail through the dense western hemlock and Sitka spruce trees, you can stay here all day and still find new trails to explore.

To reach one of many trailheads, there are a few parking lots to choose from right off of Oregon’s Highway 101. The trails intertwine with one another for endless combinations, so snap a quick picture of the map on your phone to keep track of where you are.

At the end of all the trails will be a popular surfing beach called Short Sand Beach. This area is only a half-mile walk through the woods and the perfect place to bring a picnic and watch the waves crash as you eat your lunch.

Oswald West State Park is probably the most overlooked location on any Oregon Coast road trip itinerary!

Make sure to put this as an afternoon stop for yet another beautiful Oregon beach on your way down the coast.

Read More PNW Adventures: Cape Flattery (The Most NW Corner of The US!)

Manzanita is a sleepy coastal town just 10 minutes south of Cannon Beach. If you crave a quieter, more scenic experience, we suggest staying overnight in Manzanita.

The town itself is incredibly walkable, with great food and local cafes to check out. Our favorites include Left Coast Siesta , Manzanita News and Espresso , and Big Wave Cafe .

We also suggest checking out the Oregon Coast Modern as your accommodation choice here. It sleeps 6 and had treehouse vibes while fitting in nicely among the neighborhood!

Read More: 10 Incredible Things To Do In Manzanita, Oregon

Tillamook Creamery

If you like ice cream and cheese, the Tillamook Creamery will probably be your favorite spot on your Oregon road trip itinerary!

The Tillamook Creamery is newly renovated as of June 2018 and is well equipped to accommodate their 1.3 million annual cheese-loving visitors.

One of the most prominent parts of the creamery is the massive cheese-making process hall. There are lots of glass windows that take visitors on a self-guided tour that explains the process of how the famous cheese is made, manufactured, and shipped.

In the end, you are able to taste cheese samples! (cue the applause here)

While it’s not a beautiful Oregon beach, this location is a must-see on your way down Highway 101. Make a quick stop, learn about Oregon cheese, and help yourself to their delicious ice cream cones on the way out.

The Tillamook Creamery is open year-round,  (with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas) from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm during the winter and 8:00 am to 8:00 pm during the summertime.

Three Capes Scenic Loop

If you are looking for a fun day drive with the family on the Northern Oregon coast , consider taking the Three Capes Scenic Route !

Beginning in Tillamook and going as far south as Pacific City, this short Oregon coast drive packs a whole lot of beauty into less than 50 miles !

The stars of the route are the three capes, named Cape Meares , Cape Lookout , and Cape Kiwanda (more on this one below!).

Spend time scouting out the best viewpoint spots on each cape (there are a lot of them) and consider choosing a few short hikes to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery.

Along the way, you can also visit Netarts Bay for some clamming (it’s known for its shellfish), the Sandlake Dunes , and the Cape Meares Lighthouse with the Giant Octopus Tree nearby too!

Finish your day at Pelican Brewery and Taproom at Pacific City , for lunch with incredible views of the sandstone cliffs and Haystack Rock just right outside the window.

Cape Kiwanda In Pacific City

Cape Kiwanda is one of the most famous beaches on the Oregon Coast . Honestly, we think the area deserves its own weekend in Pacific City to explore the whole thing!

It’s famous on the Northern Oregon Coast for its singular large sea stack in the middle of the beach, and surrounding natural area of fragile sandstone cliffs.

It’s also important to note that there is no Oregon coast state park camping at Cape Kiwanda – the nearest place to camp would be at Webb County Campground.

Safety Tip: If you explore up on the sandstone cliffs, take caution of the unpredictable weather up on the hills! The winds can get extremely strong on the Oregon Coast, thus creating an unpleasant combination of rain, wind, and sand. Take extreme caution on the edges of these cliffs. The sandstone is incredibly fragile, and many people have lost their lives from the ground crumbling underneath them. Don’t get too close!

Is the beach too busy for you? Consider heading just a 5-minute drive south to Bob Straub State Park .

Here, you can enjoy miles of walkable beach and tall sea grass on the peninsula. You won’t find sea stacks or dunes, but the ocean breeze and expansive views make up for it.

Read More: 25 Photos To Inspire You To Visit Cape Kiwanda

Neskowin Beach

Neskowin Beach is often referred to as “The Ghost Forest” for its collection of Sitka Spruce stumps scattered across the southern part of the beach. (Accessible only at low tide!)

This beach often remains a lot quieter than most Oregon Coast beaches , likely because it’s not visible from the highway.

One of its most recognizable features is Proposal Rock , a giant sea stack smack in the middle of the beach, and accessible during low tide.

Love to go hiking? Some of the best Oregon coast hikes are located on the southern part of the beach’s headlands, in Cascade Head . Explore Hart’s Cove Trail (#1303) and wander through the rainforest to emerge at a prairie headland overlooking the vast ocean. Cascade Head Trail (#1310) takes you through a Sitka-Spruce tree forest that has been studied by researchers since 1934. The easiest trail to take is the Nature Conservancy Trail (#1435) for stunning views of the headlands and coast.

Spend the day here enjoying the shallow rivers that flow to the ocean with the whole family.

You can grab a bite to eat at the small village ( Neskowin Trading Company has tons of great lunch options and a convenience store!) or visit the Neskowin Farmers Market, open every summer Saturday from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.

Want a little more adventure? Rent a kayak for the day and explore the Nestucca Bay Estuary , just a short drive north.

Devil’s Punchbowl (Otter Rock Community)

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area is one of the many beautiful landscapes you will see on your Oregon coast road trip. Located in the community of Otter Rock, the biggest attraction here is a giant sea cave with a hole in the ceiling.

This particular location at Devil’s Punchbowl likely started out as two simple sea caves that were carved deeper by the churning waves of the Pacific Ocean. As the roofs of these two sea caves collapsed, the bowl shape was created!

Important Note: Parking is limited here and you are only allowed to park in designated areas. There are bathrooms available, as well as showers (but we just used them to rinse off our feet after exploring the Oregon Coast – the water is COLD!).

During high tide, the waves crash and swirl and churn in the bowl, creating a violent and beautiful show to watch from the viewing platform above.

You can access the inside too, but it’s only safe to explore the inside of the bowl during low tide.

On the south side of the headlands is a popular place for beginner surfers – the Otter Rock Marine Reserve has consistent and mild waves!

To access the most area possible for your trip, we recommend planning your trip during low tide.

You can find the Devil’s Punchbowl tide charts here to help you plan out your perfect Oregon road trip itinerary.

During low tide, you can also explore the many tide pools around, Otter Crest Beach, and the Otter Rock Marine Garden all north of the cave.

Read More: 25 Stops To Make On An Epic Pacific Coast Road Trip

Garibaldi Pier

Stretching over 700 feet, Garibaldi Public Pier is the longest pier in all of Oregon state.

The Garibaldi Public Pier is open to public use year-round.  Many people come out to the pier to try their hand at crabbing, salmon fishing, and other recreational fishing.

There is even access to the beds below (via stairs) for clam digging! Garibaldi is an extremely popular Oregon coast crabbing location .

You can opt to pay for a guided tour from locals with charters like Garibaldi Charters , or do your own thing by finding all the information at the Oregon Fishing and Wildlife Department website .

Read More: 35 Fun Facts About Oregon

Central Oregon Coast Stops

God’ Thumb Trail (Lincoln City)

God’s Thumb is an area just north of Lincoln City, known for its strange land formation loosely resembling a thumb.

The surrounding area includes stretching meadows (where elk like to roam!), dense Sitka spruce tree forests, and dramatic coastal cliff dropoffs.

If you’re wanting to get out of the car and stretch your legs, we suggest hiking this trail called God’s Thumb .

This 4.6-mile out-and-back trail is of moderate difficulty , and likely very muddy, so wear your raincoat and rain boots for this one! The Central Oregon coast can be very rainy, especially during the spring months.

At the very end of the trail, you will be rewarded with this amazing landscape, surrounded either by delicate meadows or the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean.

If you wish to climb to the top, take caution because the trails are slippery with very steep dropoffs. Safety first!

Beverly Beach (And Campground)

Beverly Beach State Park is one of the best Oregon coast destinations for whale watching.

Come between late December and mid-March to have the best chance of spotting these majestic creatures.

Stop by the Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay, or visit these famous Oregon whale-watching viewpoints:

• Cape Foulweather
• Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
• Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint
• Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint
• Yaquina Head

When you are not busy whale watching or walking alongside the nearby beach, come relax at one of the best Oregon coast campgrounds – Beverly Beach State Park!

There are nearly 200 campsites among the sheltered, windswept trees alongside Spencer Creek.

It’s a very central locations to many other amazing Oregon coast destinations, we recommend staying here for a few days!

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area is predominantly known for the famous Yaquina Head Lighthouse, but that’s not all there is to do!

Here, you can discover tide pools teeming with life, stunning basalt headlands, and historic exhibits.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse on the Oregon coast , standing at 93-feet tall. It was first lit in 1873, and now serves as a marker of Oregon history.

Pay a visit to the interpretive center to learn about nearby marine life, how lighthouses work, and the wildlife that live on Colony Rock just offshore. Spend some time walking around Cobble Beach if you want to put your toes in the sand.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area  is an absolute must-visit location on your Oregon road trip. This amazing area of the Oregon coast is known for its violent waves, jagged coastline, beautiful ocean overlooks, and amazing trails.

This is an especially wooded area of the Oregon Coast, which makes for amazing pictures of the forest seemingly dropping straight off into the ocean.

It’s also a hub for trail hikers and campers , with tons of family-friendly trails in the Siuslaw National Forest area.

Make sure to check out the Cape Perpetua Visitors Center just two miles south of Yachats, Oregon. Here, you can find lots of information about other locations in the area, including scenic viewpoints, coastal trails, and places to camp nearby.

Some other amazing Oregon photography locations to see at Cape Perpetua Scenic Area:

• Devil’s Churn
• Spouting Horn
• Captain Cook Point
• Cook’s Chasm
• Cape Perpetua Lookout (an amazing Oregon photography location with a winding coastal road)
• Sea Lion Caves (South of Cape Perpetua)

Read More:   10 Epic Things To Do In The Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Heceta Head Lighthouse

Heceta Head Lighthouse is one of the most visited lighthouses in the United States, and one of the most photographed locations on the Oregon Coast.

It may be because of its accessibility, but we think the beauty and history of this place is the real driver of visitors! It attracts lighthouse and spooky story lovers alike, this place is commonly referred to as one of the most haunted places in Oregon !

Positioned at the mouth of Cape Creek , Heceta Head is positioned 200 feet up on a bluff with the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean below. It began working in 1894 and could shine 21 miles off the coast to help boats arrive at the shore.

The lighthouse is cared for by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and is open from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm for staff-led guided tours.

On hours when the staff is not available, you can take yourself on a self-guided tour along the trails of the lighthouse.

Want to stay overnight? The Innkeeper’s House just steps away from the lighthouse is a historic bed-and-breakfast! Take your loved one there and wake up to the crashing waves on the Oregon coast!

Florence, Oregon

Florence, Oregon is located in Lane County, on the Central Oregon coast. It’s known for its quirky downtown shopping , delicious restaurants, and annual community events.

Some of our favorite restaurants include   River Roasters   for a morning coffee and a local pub called  Homegrown  for delicious and locally sourced food.

Florence is also a springboard town for surrounding outdoor activities like hitting the sand dunes, canoeing on freshwater lakes, and seeing iconic landmarks on the Oregon coast.

This is a great place to stay for a few days and take day trips to the coast AND inland. There are amenities and comforts for everyone in your caravan in Florence, Oregon.

Ready for a little city life? Take a day trip to Eugene , and see what other adventures are in the area! (Like the EPIC Diamond Creek Falls in the Cascades !)

Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area

With over 40 miles of coastal dunes next to the ocean, there are tons of opportunities for activities like riding dune buggies , sand-boarding , and even taking a leisurely walk on the beach .

The most thrilling way to get out on the sand is by renting an ATV, and the most convenient business being Spinreel Dune Buggies in North Bend, OR.

If you care for a more casual stroll, consider the famous John Dellenback Dunes Trail by Eel Creek Campground. You can choose to talk the small loop for a quick tour or the dunes or take the trek all the way out to the ocean.

Southern Oregon Coast Stops

The Coos Bay area (Often called the Oregon Coast’s “Bay Area”) is the most populated area on the Oregon Coast .

You can find a ton of general amenities here, but the real draw to the area is the sheer amount of outdoor activities to do in the area. (more on that below!)

From canoeing on Ten Mile Lake to riding dune buggies on the 40-mile stretch of coastal dunes, Coos Bay is an adventurous stop on the Oregon Coast.

If you are interested in enjoying the coast in style, consider staying at the modern glamping resort, Bay Point Landing . They have RV hookup sites, airstreams & cabins for rent, and amazing amenities like an indoor pool, trails, and upscale bathrooms.

Some of our favorite things to do in Coos Bay include visiting the surrounding state parks (Sunset Bay, Cape Arago, and Shore Acres), exploring Oregon coast hikes , and visiting epic beaches like Bandon Beach!

Best Spots Around Coos Bay For Oregon Coast Photography:

• Simpson Reef Overlook (tons of sea lions and marine life!)
• The Elk Refuge in Reedsport (For wildlife viewing!)

Read More: 10 Amazing Things To Do In Coos Bay, Oregon

Shore Acres State Park + Sunset Bay State Park

Located off the Cape Arago Highway, this trifeta of state parks (Sunset Bay State Park, Shore Acres State Park, and Cape Arago State Park) can al be found within a short drive from one another.

There is a lot to see between these state parks, so we’ll highlight the best activities below:

• Shore Acres – gorgeous formal Japanese-style garden, with blooms and plants in season almost any time of the year.
• Simpson Reff Overlook – loud gatherings of sea lions on the collection of offshore rocks.
• Sunset Bay State Park – Gregory Point and Cape Blanco Lighthouse views along the headlands trails.
• Cape Arago State Park – The North and South Cove trails brings visitors to exception tide pools, secluded beaches, and beachcombing opportunities in the Pacific Northwest .

Bandon, Oregon

Bandon, Oregon is one of the small southern Oregon coast towns located south of Coos Bay, sitting between several amazing Oregon coast state parks.

One of the best features here is Old Town Bandon, a 10-square block section of shopping, dining, and tourist activities.

Spend some time enjoying the hand-made goods by local artists, and walk the boardwalk among these historic buildings.

This is a great stop for a quick meal, before you continue on your Oregon coast road trip route.

Face Rock State Scenic Area

Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint is arguably our favorite stop on the Oregon Coast.

Everywhere you turn, there are incredible sea stacks, each with their own unique story and history from the Nasomah (Coquille) tribe . Spend some time enjoying the view from above and then head down to the beach to see the sea stacks up close.

Some of the most iconic rock formations are Face Rock, Cat And Kittens Rock, Wizard’s Hat, Gravel Point, and Table Rock.

Other Things To See Near Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint:

• The Coquille Point Stairs at Bandon Beach
• Devil’s Kitchen (The Southern Oregon Coast’s “Haystack Rock”)
• The Bandon State Natural Area

Read More: 9 Stunning Sea Stacks to see at Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint

Floras Lake State Park

Floras Lake State Park is a sparsely visited area of the Oregon Coast , mostly because of it’s lack of infrastructure and amenities .

However, don’t let the lack of convenience deter you from visiting! The Oregon coast beach found here is one of the most beautiful and remote in the entire state!

It really feels like this beach was plucked right out of Iceland and placed on the Oregon Coast – the completely straight coastline rigth next to towering cliffs make it ones of the prettiest natural Oregon photography locations in the entire state.

For the easiest access to the beach, park at Boice-Cope Park and walk around Floras Lake to the ocean. Here, you can take a flat and very long walk all the way down the beach – you likely will have it all to yourself too!

Want to see what they views are like from the cliffs above? Follow the trail to Blacklock Point , a promontory rock that juts out far into the ocean, giving you spectacular views north and south for miles.

Cape Blanco State Park

Cape Blanco State Park is the state’s westernmost tip , teeming with rich history and rugged adventure.

Stay the night in Port Orford and then wake up bright and early to walk the rugged beach trails and view the incredible solitary rock formation right offshore.

Afterward, stop by the Cape Blanco Lighthouse , the oldest of the lighthouses in Oregon built in 1870.

One really cool feature of this Oregon coast beach is that it’s horse-friendly ! You can bring you own horse and camp on the beach, or sign up for a guided tour for a one-of-a-kind adventure as you travel Oregon.

Gold Beach is a small town on the Oregon Coast, right at the mouth of the Rouge River . The beaches here are known for collecting treasures that float in from the sea, perfect for beachcombers!

Stop at iconic beaches like Meyers Creek Beach or Kissing Rock to put your toes in the sand.

Want more things to do? Consider visiting Otter Point State Recreation Area , Humbug Mountain State Park , or even stopping at the Prehistoric Gardens.

Here, you can see kitschy life-sized statues of dinosaurs, scattered within the old-growth forest.

Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor

Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor is a real treat to visit along your Oregon coast road trip route.

This is a perfect stop to have a quick picnic lunch before heading on your way again. There are picnic tables, viewpoints, and short trails to keep everyone happy on this fun Oregon coast stop.

The quick turnoff on Highway 101 climbs all the way to the top of these headlands, giving views in all directions that go for nearly 50 miles in each direction!

To the north, you can spot Humbug Mountain and to the south, you can see Crescent City and the Point St George Lighthouse .

On the way to the south viewpoint, you will drive through a thick, dark forest of Sitka spruce trees, which we think is the perfect place for a spooky photoshoot .

If you want to stretch your legs a little longer, there is a 1.5-mile walking trail (3-miles total) down to the beach. However, no need to travel far here, the views from the top are spectacular too, and a perfect post (with binoculars) for whale watching season.

A deep forest of Sitka spruce covers most of the park and a 1.5 mile walking trail takes you out to the lower levels of the cape.  If you’re lucky, the trail will give you a chance to enjoy awe-inspiring views of the gray whales on their bi-annual migrations.

• Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

If you think you’ve seen the best of the best during your Oregon coast road trip, the state appears to have saved Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor for the grand finale.

This area is one of the most beautiful stops on the Oregon Coast, and we really mean that!

Dramatic cliffs, impressive sea stacks, and endless photo opportunities await you at this amazing Oregon coast location! This area was named after Samuel H. Boardman, the first Oregon State Parks director.

Best viewpoints at Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor :

Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint : This 1-mile trail takes you through breathtaking views of amazing Oregon coast photography locations. This is a popular spot whale watching in fall and spring, and wildflower viewing in the summertime.

House Rock Viewpoint : Take a short walk to a stone Samuel H. Boardman memorial, with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and the craggy cliffs. Here you can take many side trails to secret and secluded beaches.

Whaleshead Beach & Overlook : Named after the sea stack that looks like a whale’s head, this beach is flat and easy to reach. A perfect place to pull over and have a quick bite to eat.

Natural Bridges Viewpoint : This place holds one of the most iconic views in the corridor — seven arched rocks and blowholes surround a cove (pictured above) for a beautiful example of all the Oregon Coast captured in one photo.

Secret Beach: This secluded cove is home to some of the most iconic sea stacks on the Oregon coast! It’s a little tricky to find, so make sure to read our guide on directions, tips, and routes to know before you go.

Arch Rock : A convenient parking lot right off of Oregon’s Highway 101 brings you down a short trail to a viewpoint. This area includes a cluster of sea stacks, with one that has a hole right through the middle, forming an “arch”.

Other stunning Oregon Coast road trip stops at Samuel H. Boardman:

• Spruce Island From Deer Point
• Thunder Rock Cove
• North Island
• Thomas Creek Bridge
• Indian Sands
• Lone Ranch Picnic Area

Are These All The Places To See On An Oregon Coast Road Trip?

Absolutely not! We have yet to see all the amazing things the Oregon coast has to offer. That is why we will continually update this post with more information about beautiful locations as we keep returning to Oregon!

Keep updated on our whereabouts on our Instagram account, @themandagies ! You will get up to date info about our next adventures, and plans for our next Oregon road trip itinerary to share with you all!

Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary Examples

Wondering if you can see all these iconic landmarks in one Oregon road trip?

To accommodate different trip lengths, we’re sharing some example itineraries for a 3-day, five-day Oregon Coast trip, a one-week Oregon Coast trip, and finally 10 days on the Oregon Coast.

Consider us your own personal Oregon coast road trip planner and read below to find your perfect route!

Note: These journeys start in the north and make their way south. If you are extending a Northern California roadtrip or starting from somewhere south, just reverse the itinerary!

Oregon Coast 3 Day Itinerary

Highlights: Pull-out viewpoints, popular stops, and convenient towns.

While it’s totally possible to plan an Oregon Coast 3 day itinerary, you’ll just be covering the most popular spots! If you are planning an Oregon Coast weekend trip, here is an example itinerary for you below:

Note: These will be long driving days, so arm yourself with great road trip podcasts , fun road trip questions , and lots of snacks!

• Day 1: Astoria to Pacific City. Stop by Seaside, Cannon Beach, and watch the sunset at Cape Kiwanda.
• Day 2:  Pacific City to Coos Bay. Stop at Otter Rock (Devil’s Punchbowl), Cape Perpetua Lookout, and Heceta Head Lighthouse for quick stops.
• Day 3:  Coos Bay to Brookings. Drive up to Face Rock Lookout, lunch at Gold Beach, and explore Samuel H Boardman for sunset.

Five Day Oregon Coast Itinerary

Highlights: Pull-out viewpoints, short hikes, accessible beaches.

Five days on the Oregon Coast is a perfect way to see all the highlights on a quick Oregon road trip. With a five-day Oregon coast itinerary, you will have lots of time to explore the coast’s most easily accessible beaches and attractions.

Prepare for long days of driving , but it shouldn’t be a problem because this Oregon coast road trip route will take you to the most beautiful stops and easy hike!

• Day 1: Astoria to Cannon Beach (stops at the Promenade at Seaside and Ecola State Park)
• Day 2:  Cannon Beach to Newport (stops in Hug Point, Oswald West SP, at Cape Kiwanda)
• Day 3:  Newport to Coos Bay (stops at Cape Perpetua Lookout, Heceta Head Lighthouse)
• Day 4:   Coos Bay to Brookings (Stops at Face Rock State Park , Devil’s Kitchen , Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor)
• Day 5:  Brookings to… Northern California !

One-Week Oregon Coast Itinerary

We think one week is the ideal amount of time to spend on an Oregon coast road trip. During this time, you can do everything a 5-day trip would do. However, you’ll have more time to take longer hikes and reach more hidden places.

This will give you a deeper look into the hidden gems of the Oregon Coast, and allow you to see places not many others get to experience!

To read this one week Oregon road trip itinerary – see the 5-day itinerary above, with these additions below:

• Day 1: Astoria to Cannon Beach
• Day 2: Cannon Beach To Rockaway Beach (hikes to Hug Point Natural Trail)
• Day 3: Rockaway Beach to Pacific City (stops in Tillamook Creamery, Garibaldi Pier, and Cape Meares )
• Day 4: Pacific City to Florence (Hike to God’s Thumb , Drift Creek Falls, and Devil’s Punchbowl)
• Day 5: Florence to Bandon (Explore The Oregon Dunes)
• Day 6: Bandon To Brookings (take Samuel H. Boardman hikes)
• Day 7: Brookings to Northern California

10-Day Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Looking to spend up to 10 days on an Oregon Coast road trip? Since there is so much to cover, we’ve actually created a free downloadable itinerary for you! Sign up below and subscribe to our email list, and you’ll get a free copy in your inbox!

Oregon Coast Attractions (Museums + Fun Stops)

You may be wondering if there’s more to the Oregon Coast besides beautiful beaches, hikes, and sea stacks? Which all of this is wonderful, don’t get us wrong!

While these things alone can make for an extraordinary trip, sometimes the weather will leave you no choice but to spend some time indoors. 

Below is a list of the best Oregon coast attractions, ranging from museums, aquariums, and other interesting coastal sites.

These are the perfect places to visit if/when the weather turns bad. Or maybe if you just want a different way to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest!

Seaside Aquarium

The Seaside Aquarium is located in Seaside, Oregon, just north of Cannon Beach.

It’s one of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast . Built in 1924 and opened in 1937 , it’s still operated by some of the younger generations of previous owners!

This Oregon Coast aquarium has many educational programs provided to guests and school-aged children.

Topics like north marine awareness, beach discovery programs, and many conservation subjects are covered during the month. Call ahead to see if you will be coming during one of these programs!

Oregon Coast Aquarium

While the Seaside Aquarium may be the oldest on the west coast, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is the largest on the Oregon Coast.

This aquarium is located in Newport, Oregon. It focuses on the flora and fauna of the Oregon Coast, sharing local sea plants, marine life, and other unique features of this area.

It also ranks among one of the top 10 aquariums in the entire country! If you love marine life, this is a must stop on your Oregon coast road trip.

Tillamook Creamery and Cheese Factory

If you love cheese, you must make time for this stop on your Oregon road trip itinerary!

You can read more about it above (see stop #7) to see why it’s a unique stop on Highway 101.

We wanted to mention it again here because the Tillamook Creamery is a great option for an indoor activity if the weather isn’t looking good for outdoor exploring.

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad

The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad is a stretch of track that runs 46 miles between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach .

Daily tours are conducted on steam-powered trains. On board, you get to learn about the history of the tracks and how they changed this part of Oregon.

They also run special holiday trips! Inquire about these events and times on their website to learn more. Add this to your Oregon coast road trip if you love history!

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

Yaquina (pronounced ya-kee-nuh) Head Outstanding Natural Area is home to the tallest lighthouse on the Oregon Coast!

It stands 93 feet tall on the edge of basalt headlands, just north of Newport, Oregon.

Take a tour of the inside of Yaquina Head Lighthouse on a rainy day , or visit the inside of the interpretive center for more information about this beautiful area on your Oregon coast road trip.

Make sure to add this place to your Oregon Road trip itinerary if lighthouses are your thing!

Heceta (pronounced ha-see-ta) Head Lighthouse is located on Siuslaw tradition tribal land , where they historically hunted sea lions, gathered bird eggs, and used the dramatic cliffs as protection.

If you want to stay longer, the Innkeepers House is actually a bed and breakfast . It’s located just steps away from Heceta Head Lighthouse.

Make your Oregon road trip memorable and stay at this historic and beautiful Oregon location!

Florence’s Historic “Old Town”

This quaint little town on the Oregon Coast is anything but quiet! With unique shops, delicious restaurants, and fun year-round events , Florence knows how to celebrate the best of the coast.

Stop by for lunch at Mo’s Chowder House for an eclectic, seaside meal. Afterward, wander through old town and explore the many local businesses and artists in the area.

Best Beaches On The Oregon Coast

Read The Full Post Here: The 25 Best Beaches On The Oregon Coast

It’s no secret that some of the best beaches in the Pacific Northwest are located on the Oregon Coast. The sheer diversity of the coastline is what brings people out here. The discovered beauty is what makes them stay!

Thanks to the Oregon Beach Bill , all Oregon coast beaches from north to south are public property.

The People’s Coast recently celebrated its 50th anniversary of this bill . To this day Oregonians from all over the state have pride of ownership to this ever-changing, beautiful oceanfront.

While there are more than 50 easily accessible Oregon beaches to enjoy, we’re sharing some of our favorites below to get you started on your epic Oregon coast road trip!

• Peter Iredale Shipwreck at Fort Stevens State Park
• Cape Kiwanda
• Hug Point Recreational Area
• Harris Beach State Park
• Rockaway Beach
• Bandon Beach (Devil’s Kitchen, Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint , Coquille Point Stairs)

Read More: The 10 Best Washington Beaches To Add To You Pacific Northwest Road Trip

Iconic Oregon Coast Hikes

Read The Full Post Here: The 26 Best Oregon Coast Hiking Trails

Craving some hikes on the Oregon Coast ? Lucky for you, there are plenty to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging backpacking routes. Here are some of our favorites listed below:

Easy Oregon Coast Hikes

• Samuel H Boardman Hikes – see above for a list of lookouts and short walks here.
• Ecola State Park Loop – short, paved trail with a spectacular view
• Cape Kiwanda – fun sand dunes to climb with a great perspective
• Oswald West State Park – many little trails leading to a surfing beach

Moderate / Intermediate Oregon Coast Hikes

• God’s Thumb Hike In Lincoln City
• Cathedral Tree Trail In Astoria
• Cascade Head Trail in Otis, Oregon

Challenging / Long Distance Oregon Coast Hikes

• The Oregon Coast Trail (tip to tip -382 miles long)

Best Places To Stay On The Oregon Coast

Looking for a place to stay or a city to explore? There are many Oregon Coast towns and cities to make your home base during your adventurous time here!

We’re going to share a range of budget options . It will be everything from Oregon coast camping locations and affordable vacation homes, to luxury accommodations and dreamy stays.

Keep reading for our favorite suggestions of places to stay on the Oregon Coast!

Camping Locations ON THE OREGON COAST

Read The Full Post: 25 Oregon Coast Campgrounds to Book ASAP Oregon Coast Yurts – Yurt camping can be a fun and convenient way to see the coast and save a ton of money. Click here to see a full list of cabins and yurts on the Oregon coast. Oregon Coast Disperse Camping – Truthfully, finding free camping is very rare on the Oregon coast. However, there are some in select places, mostly in the Central and Southern oregon coast. Research “disperse camping” for your desired area of the Oregon coast, but our favorites are in the Siuslaw area . *Note: some areas require off-road vehicles to access. Make sure to fully research your disperse camping locations before your trip by reading our guide to free camping here!

Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals and Airbnbs

Looking for some fun cabin rentals on the Oregon Coast? These vacation home can provide a unique experience, with tons of different features and prices to fit your requirements!

Browse our favorite cabins on the Oregon Coast , or check out these suggestions below:

($) Charming Seaside Beach House (Inexpensive if split, sleeps 4) ($) Beachbunker and the Fox Hole (large house in Lincoln City. Sleeps 8) ($) Mingus Park Place (walkable to Coos Bay Downtown + food, sleeps 6)

Oregon Coast Hotels and Resorts

Wanting to splurge on your trip? Maybe it’s your honeymoon or maybe you just want to experience the best that the coast has to offer!

Here are some of the best luxury hotels and resorts on the Oregon Coast:

Heceta Head Lighthouse – A Historic Bed and Breakfast Cannery Pier Hotel & Spa – Hotel on the Boardwalk in Astoria Inn at Cannon Beach – Highly-rated, walkable to Cannon Beach Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa -Pacific City, Oregon

FAQ About An Oregon Coast Road Trip Route

How long is the oregon coast highway 101.

The Oregon Coast Highway (Highway 101) is 363.2 miles long. It takes about 8 hours to drive the entire Oregon Coast highway, with minimal stops (but we don’t recommend that!).

Can I Drive On Oregon Coast Beaches?

Yes, you can drive on SOME Oregon Coast beaches.    Click here for a more detailed description of where you can drive your car on the Oregon coast.

List of Beaches That Allow Driving Cars On The Beach:

• Warrenton to Gearhart (10-mile stretch, starting at Peter Iredale Shipwreck)
• Tierra Del Mar
• Lincoln City

What Permits Do I Need To Visit Oregon’s State Park Areas?

America The Beautiful Pass: This pass will allow you to get into all the United States National Parks. It will also grant you access to Oregon national forests and grasslands. Example: Umpqua National Forest ‘s hot spring – Umpqua Hot Springs !

Oregon Pacific Coast Pass: This pass will grant you access to State and Federal parks located on the Oregon Coast. If you are planning to make many stops in these locations, a pass can save you a lot of money!

• An annual pass for the Oregon Pacific Coast Passpor t is $35 per car. Alternatively, you can purchase a $10 5-day pass just for the length of your trip.

Northwest Forest Pass: The Northwest Forest Pass ( $30 annually ) will grant you entry to all Washington and Oregon day-use fee areas. This is different from the Oregon Pacific Coast Passport as it grants entry statewide rather than just on the coast.

Any Tips For An Oregon Coast Road Trip In Winter ?

The Oregon Coast does not fluctuate in temperature a lot during the year . That makes it an excellent option for a scenic road trip in the winter!

Yes, it rains more from November through March, but that also means fewer crowds and more parking spots!

A winter road trip to the Oregon Coast doesn’t change much for you, except for the type of clothing you pack. Bring warmer, more waterproof items and you’ll be a-okay!

To be extra safe, we would suggest saving this Oregon traffic updates website on your phone for up-to-date alerts.

How Much Should I Budget For An Oregon Coast Road Trip?

The cost of an Oregon Coast road trip can vary in price , depending on how much you are willing to spend on things like food, accommodations, and entry tickets to exhibits. It can be done incredibly cheap…or not! The beauty of it all is that it’s up to you.

A generous Oregon coast travel budget would come down to around $80-$100 per person per day. This covers $45 for food ($15 per meal), $30 for accommodation, and $25 for miscellaneous spendings like gas and admission fees.

More Money Tips While Traveling: 8 Clever Ways To Save Money While Traveling Travel on a Budget in the Pacific Northwest

Not Ready For Your Oregon Road Trip Adventures To End?

Extend it Northbound: The Olympic Peninsula Road Trip Route in Washington

Extend it Southbound: The Best Northern California Road Trip Route or continue along the ocean for a California Coast road trip .

Connect It On A Bigger Trip: The Complete Pacific Coast Road Trip Route

Or better yet…take your trip inland! There are so many beautiful and hidden places in Oregon state that an extension trip is totally encouraged!

Here are some of our favorite locations to extend your Oregon road trip:

• Things To Do In Eugene, Oregon (Central Oregon)
• Sahalie and Koosah Falls (Central Cascade Mountains)
• Alvord Hot Springs (Southeast Oregon)
• Painted Hills (North Central Oregon)
• The Best Eastern Oregon Road Trip Route
• Columbia River Gorge (45-minute drive east from Portland, Oregon) ** Click here to see updates on trail openings.

What are your favorite places to explore on an Oregon Coast road trip? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

Wow such detail you two are truly gifted in writing and photography. You are inspiring to all that read your blog and follow you. The amount of time you spend on writing and links. Thank you so much.

Gregory & Althea Bardon Minnesota

If you get to the east side of Oregon a visit to Succor Creek is a must-see. We’ve been half a dozen times and never tire of the scenery. Rocky spires of different colors and layers of rock are amazing. The entrance is off Oregon hwy 201/Idaho hwy 19 about 11 miles from Homedale, Idaho. There are green opaline bulges and cliffs, a few arches, a small-ish campground and Succor creek. We’ve hiked up to a few caves but didn’t venture too far in due to lack of a flashlight. At one look-out point just up from the campground the view to the creek below is dizzying. The road does lead you out close to Jordan Valley, Oregon on Hwy 95.

Hi S.Lynn! Thanks for the cool recommendations! We will for sure check that out if we are ever in the are! Have a great day and thank you!

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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