Where land dramatically meets sea, coastal cliffs create some of our planet’s most spectacular landscapes. While the Cliffs of Moher and Norway’s fjords often steal the spotlight, countless other remarkable coastal formations offer equally breathtaking experiences without the crowds.
From towering sea stacks to rainbow-striped cliffs, these natural wonders showcase the raw power of ocean forces and the stunning results of millions of years of geological artistry.
Kalaupapa Cliffs, Hawaii
The world’s tallest sea cliffs rise nearly 3,000 feet straight out of the Pacific along Molokai’s north shore. Waterfalls cascade down verdant walls while spinner dolphins play in the waters below, creating a scene accessible only by mule train or on foot through the historic Kalaupapa Peninsula.
Bunda Cliffs, Australia
Stretching for 40 miles along the Great Australian Bight, these limestone cliffs offer uninterrupted views of the Southern Ocean. Between May and October, you might spot southern right whales breaching below these 300-foot walls while driving the Nullarbor Plain.
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Los Gigantes, Canary Islands
‘The Giants’ live up to their name with near-vertical walls rising 1,600 feet from the Atlantic Ocean. These ancient volcanic cliffs create a dramatic backdrop for the charming town below, where boats depart daily for close-up views of the massive rock faces.
Cape Enniberg, Faroe Islands
The northern tip of Viðoy island presents a sheer 2,470-foot drop to the churning North Atlantic waters. Seabird colonies swirl around these dramatic cliffs while hardy sheep graze on seemingly impossible slopes above the waves.
Qingshui Cliffs, Taiwan
Marble and metamorphic rock create stunning green-tinted walls that plunge straight into the Pacific along Taiwan’s east coast. The coastal highway here offers heart- stopping views, while trails provide access to temples seemingly carved into the cliff face.
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Cape Pillar, Tasmania
Dolerite columns rise 1,000 feet straight out of the Southern Ocean, creating Australia’s highest sea cliffs. The Three Capes Track allows hikers to safely experience these dramatic formations while watching albatross soar on Southern Ocean winds.
Vixia Herbeira Cliffs, Spain
Europe’s highest coastal cliffs offer vertigo-inducing views over the Atlantic from heights of nearly 2,000 feet. Traditional farmers still tend fields that reach almost to the cliff edge, creating a unique blend of cultural and natural heritage.
Ponta do Castelo, Azores
Geometric basalt columns frame a dramatic headland where an ancient volcano meets the Atlantic. The site includes a lighthouse perched precariously on the cliff edge, offering spectacular views of passing whales during migration seasons.
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Londrangar Cliffs, Iceland
Twin volcanic plugs rise like medieval towers from dramatic basalt cliffs along Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Arctic terns and puffins nest in these walls, while northern lights sometimes dance above the jagged coastline during winter months.
Kilt Rock, Scotland
Basalt columns draped with waterfalls create the appearance of a pleated kilt along this dramatic section of Skye’s coastline. The 295-foot cliffs offer stunning views across to the mainland, while golden eagles frequently soar along the cliff faces.
Gregory Bight Cliffs, Saint Helena
Volcanic cliffs in shocking colors of red, purple, and orange rise from the South Atlantic on this remote island. These dramatic formations tell the story of ancient volcanic eruptions while providing nesting sites for endangered seabirds.
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Cape Hauy, Tasmania
Towering dolerite spires rise from the ocean like nature’s skyscrapers along this dramatic headland. Rock climbers tackle the famous Totem Pole sea stack, while hikers enjoy spectacular views from well-maintained clifftop trails.
Cabo Girão, Madeira
One of the world’s highest ocean cliffs features a glass skywalk suspended 1,900 feet above the Atlantic. Traditional farmers still tend to small cliff-side vineyards accessed by cable cars, creating a unique cultural landscape.
Red Cliffs, Prince Edward Island
Dramatic red sandstone cliffs contrast beautifully with green fields above and blue waters below along this lesser-known Canadian coastline. Constant erosion reveals new layers of 250-million-year-old rock, while beach walks reveal countless fossils.
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Horn Head Cliffs, Ireland
Lesser-known than their southern cousins, these northern cliffs rise 600 feet from the Atlantic winds. Ancient signal towers dot the clifftops, while golden eagles have recently returned to nest in these dramatic walls.
Cathedral Cove Cliffs, New Zealand
White limestone cliffs frame a magnificent natural arch along the Coromandel Peninsula. Crystal-clear waters below offer excellent snorkeling, while sunrise transforms the cliffs into glowing golden walls.
Acantilados de Los Gigantes Maro, Spain
Dramatic limestone cliffs plunge straight into the Mediterranean along Spain’s southern coast. Hidden caves and waterfalls dot these walls, while the clear waters below offer excellent snorkeling opportunities in hidden coves.
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Contemplate Earth’s Raw Beauty
These coastal cliffs remind us of nature’s incredible sculptural power and our planet’s dynamic geology. Whether you’re seeking photography opportunities, hiking adventures, or simply a place to contemplate the raw beauty of where land meets sea, these locations offer unforgettable experiences.
Remember to respect safety barriers and local guidelines – these dramatic landscapes command both admiration and caution.
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