Best Coastal Routes for Bicycle Touring: Top Destinations for Scenic Cycling Adventures

“Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride.” — John F. Kennedy

There’s something special about riding your bike with the ocean beside you. The wind in your face. The steady rhythm of waves crashing nearby. Whether you’re into short scenic rides or long journeys along the shore, coastal bicycle touring combines beauty, adventure, and peace in one unforgettable trip.

If you’ve been looking for the best coastal routes for bicycle touring, this guide is for you. We cover epic routes in the U.S. and top overseas trips, plus planning tips, and safety advice — all suited to beginner and experienced riders alike.

Why Choose a Coastal Bike Touring Route?

• Stunning ocean views: Watch the sea change colors as you ride beside cliffs, bays, and beaches.
• Gentler terrain: Many coastal roads are flatter, making them easier for long-distance riders.
• Charming coastal towns: Enjoy seafood, art galleries, and local hospitality along the way.
• Positive mental health: Seaside air and open space help clear the mind and boost your mood.

Best Coastal Routes for Bicycle Touring in the USA

• Pacific Coast Highway (California to Washington): Stretching over 1,800 miles of coast, this iconic route offers redwoods, cliffs, and ocean air all the way. Expect hills in spots, but endless beauty around every bend.
• Outer Banks Scenic Byway (North Carolina): Flat, breezy, and filled with lighthouses. Ferry rides and wild horses make this a must-ride for explorers.
• Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail: Ride across bridges and islands for 100+ miles of subtropical coastal bliss. Stop for snorkeling or a fresh seafood lunch along the way.
• Cape Cod Rail Trail (Massachusetts): A 25-mile paved path that winds through pine forests and coastal villages. Great for families or shorter daily rides.

Gear Tips for U.S. Coastal Trips:

• Use panniers or bikepacking bags: Keep your load balanced and dry in ocean air.
• Plan your resting towns early: Popular spots book up fast in summer.
• Study elevation maps: Not all “coastal” means flat!

Top International Coastal Bike Touring Routes

• Great Ocean Road (Australia): 150+ miles of dramatic cliffs and surf beaches. Look out for koalas hanging above as you pedal through eucalyptus trees.
• Atlantic Coast Route (EuroVelo 1 – Portugal to Norway): A 5,000-mile path through beaches, fjords, fishing villages, and wild oceanscapes. Ride a portion or take it country by country.
• Garden Route (South Africa): Combine mountain views, indigenous forests, and crashing Indian Ocean waves. Beware: sections are remote—carry spares!
• Ami Ama Coastline Trail (Japan): Off the tourist path, this coastal route winds past fishing villages and peaceful bays.

International Touring Tips:

• Learn key local phrases: It helps in rural areas where English isn’t spoken.
• Check local cycling laws: Helmet rules and road sharing vary by country.
• Use map apps with offline modes: Data can be unpredictable in remote spots.

How to Plan the Perfect Coastal Bicycle Tour

• Pick the right bike: Touring bikes work best. Use wider tires for sandy or rocky edges.
• Plan your mileage: 30-60 miles a day is a good range. Build in fun rest days.
• Choose places to stay: Campsites feel wild but hotels offer comfort. Mix both if possible.
• Pack for sun and salt: Sunscreen, electrolyte tablets, and light layers are key to staying strong.
• Monitor seasons: Coastal winds, rain, and heat vary — research the best months to ride.

Tips for a Memorable and Safe Coastal Ride

• Wear strong sunblock and UV clothing: Coastal exposure can hit fast.
• Watch for strong wind gusts: They’re fun until they aren’t. Keep both hands on the bars.
• Clean your chain often: Salt and sand are rough on moving parts.
• Use cycling apps and local forums: Stay up to date on trail closures or rider warnings.
• Always carry water: Coastal paths might lack fresh water, especially on isolated stretches.

Conclusion

Coastal cycling tours mix adventure, beauty, and peace in a way few other trips do. From the sunny islands of the Florida Keys to the wild edges of South Africa’s Garden Route, the best coastal routes for bicycle touring offer something for every rider.

Plan smart. Pack light. Ride steady. And most of all — enjoy the ride. The sound of waves might just become your new favorite playlist.

Inspired to hit the coastal roads on two wheels?
Let us know your favorite route in the comments below — or download our free Coastal Touring Checklist to start planning your next adventure!