Cliffs vs. Reef: The 7 Most Beautiful Coastal Scenes in The World

Is there a battle for supremacy between the sea cliffs and the rocky sea? Make your decision after seeing these seven most beautiful sea cliff views.

Moloka'i Sea Cliffs, Hawaii

Towering at 3,900 feet above the Pacific, these are Earth's highest sea cliffs. Their majestic beauty draws intrepid travelers, though their remote location near a historic leper settlement maintains their seclusion. No roads access the island's northern cliffs; visitors must embark on helicopter tours or navigate steep coastal trails to witness these emerald slopes. Frequently veiled in mist, the cliffs maintain an aura of mystery despite the often-cloudy conditions.

Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), Norway

Ascending this 1,900-foot granite plateau above Lysefjorden rewards adventurers with one of Scandinavia's most dramatic viewpoints. The expansive, level summit provides ample space to contemplate Norway's majestic fjords and mountain ranges. For additional spectacular Norwegian vistas, explore the country's designated National Tourist Routes.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Perched atop the very cliffs that once protected against pirate invasions, these five vibrant fishing villages now captivate global travelers. The 6-mile Tyrrhenian coastline features brilliantly colored settlements that remained largely unknown until recent decades. While daytime crowds can be overwhelming, ascending into the surrounding hills reveals tranquil pathways connecting villages through terraced vineyards and classic Italian countryside.

Leitisvatn, Faroe Islands

Situated between Iceland and Norway, the 18-island archipelago boasts winding fjords, distinctive geology, and among Europe's tallest sea cliffs. Leitisvatn Lake offers particularly fascinating perspectives—when photographed from specific angles, the landscape creates stunning optical illusions of impossible heights and dramatic drops.

Étretat, France

The northwest French coast's iconic natural arches and needle-like formations establish this resort area's dramatic character. Their familiar appearance stems from frequent depiction in art museums worldwide—the spectacular white chalk cliffs inspired masters like Claude Monet, who repeatedly painted these formations during the 19th and 20th centuries.

White Cliffs of Dover, England

Among England's most cherished landmarks, these brilliant chalk faces hold deep sentimental value as the first and final sight for generations of Channel travelers. Gazing toward France across the Strait of Dover, these cliffs have served as strategic observation points since Roman times nearly 2,000 years ago.

Twelve Apostles Marine National Park, Australia

While some cliffs intimidate with their sheer scale and vertical drops, Australia's famous coastline offers accessible exploration. The Great Ocean Walk meanders between the Twelve Apostles and Apollo Bay, tracing the shoreline for 65 miles of continuous ocean views. This carefully maintained path ensures visitors experience crashing waves, pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and limestone stacks throughout their journey.