In Cape Town, we’re lucky enough to have an ocean only a short drive away whenever we want it.

A drive along our incredible coast is always time well spent.

That said, some coastlines have that something extra that sets them apart, making them travel destinations that attract visitors from across the globe.

Here’s CNN‘s pick of 10 of the best coastlines in the world, including a South African favourite.

(Yes, for now, you won’t be visiting any of these, but let’s just try and have a quick break from coronavirus stories…)

Turquoise Coast, Turkey

The coastline along Turkey’s southwest shore is one of the lesser-known natural wonders of the Mediterranean Sea. You’ll want to experience this coastline from the ocean so book a sailboat.

Big Sur, California

This coastline inspired famous works by authors Hunter S. Thompson, Jack Kerouac and Henry Miller, artist Ansel Adams, and even the Beach Boys.

Garden Route, South Africa

We’re not really surprised that this gen made the cut. The Garden Route stretches on the southern coast from Heidelberg to the Tsitsikamma Forest and Storms River has an undeniably beautiful coastline.

It has everything that you need to turn a road trip into a feast for the eyes, from unique fynbos and vegetation on sprawling hills to incredible ocean views. You can also partake in a little outdoor adventure, wilderness hikes like the Otter Trail, or get your adrenaline going with the world’s highest commercial bungee jump.

Antrim Coast, Northern Ireland

The Antrim has long been known for its natural beauty and basalt columns created by an ancient volcanic eruption. More recently, it was made famous as one of the spots where Game of Thrones was filmed.

Malabar Coast, India

The coast stretches from Goa to India’s southern tip. Take it in from a houseboat, or the beaches, or if you’re feeling fancy, from one of its oceanfront resorts.

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

Another African gem, the Skeleton Coast features one of the most pristine shorelines in the world. This secluded stretch of coast is scattered with shipwrecks and home to an array of wildlife.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

This coastline extends 243 kilometres from Torquay and Warrnambool along the southern shore of the state of Victoria. It features the famous surfing spot Bells Beach and some spectacular fauna and flora.

Nā Pali Coast, Hawaii

Famed as the place where Steven Spielberg filmed the original Jurassic Park, Kauai’s north shore features secluded waterfalls, steep cliffs, and beaches that can only be reached by hiking for half a day.

Andaman Coast, Thailand, Malaysia and Myanmar

The Andaman Coast stretches all the way from southern Myanmar to northern Malaysia and boasts legendary dive spots like the Similan Islands.

Beagle Channel, Chile and Argentina

The Beagle Channel was named after a Royal Navy ship that took Charles Darwin on his worldwide trip of discovery. It runs 240 kilometres along the south side of Tierra del Fuego island.

To armchair travel along more incredible coastlines, view the full list, here.

And, if you haven’t visited the Garden Route, you might want to get on that as soon as we’re allowed to travel again.

[source:cnn]