If you love thrills, you can find mesmerizing mountain ranges and sun-drenched beaches anywhere. Which locations stand out with surfing, hiking and engaging activities? Here are the top six destinations for connecting with Mother Nature.
If you like surfing, it’s hard to find a better place than Gold Coast, Australia. This city is south of Brisbane and overlooks the Coral Sea, featuring attractive surf opportunities. It has about 32 miles of beaches, and tourism has more than doubled since 2021. Snapper Rocks, Kirra and Burleigh Heads are just a few spots with year-round waves. Besides surfing, you can swim and play beach volleyball with friends. Travel inland to explore Lamington National Park, which is famous for its waterfalls and ancient trees. Locals and tourists explore Gold Coast through walking paths and scenic cycling routes.
If you prefer cooler weather, Reykjavik could be up your alley. Iceland’s capital has dramatic natural environments like glaciers and volcanoes. Take a short trip from the city to Mount Esja, which offers scenic views of the city and Faxa Bay. While colder temperatures are normal, you can warm up in geothermal areas like Blue Lagoon. Despite colder weather, the nation has year round surfing opportunities in the Reykjanes Peninsula. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy winter waves due to consistent storm swells from north, south, east and west.If you’d rather be out of the water, consider sea kayaking and paddleboarding. Whale watching is another popular activity on the coastline.
Hokkaido is a Japanese prefecture with four seasons of outdoor activities. Travel to the capital city of Sapporo to maximize fun on your next trip. Nearby Shikotsu-Toya National Park is popular thanks to its volcanic landscapes and caldera lakes. You can also enjoy hiking along Mount Tarumae or enjoy the views of Lake Shikotsu. Winter’s arrival means it’s time to get the snowboards and skis ready for fun. Sapporo has resorts with slopes for all levels to increase accessibility. One underrated spot includes Jozankei Onsen, which has mountain hot springs.
Costa Rica is famous for its exceptional landscapes and unique wildlife on the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts. Experts say the country contains nearly 6% of the world’s biodiversity, as it attracts North and South American species. La Fortuna is one location where you can maximize outdoor time and connect with Mother Nature’s best. Head there to see Arenal Volcano National Park and an extensive trail network. Locals and tourists go on guided hikes to see the stunning volcano and Lake Arenal. While there, visit La Fortuna Waterfall for a brave jump or relaxing views below. Other Costa Rican outdoor adventures include ziplining, canopy tours and whitewater rafting.
Cape Town features mountains, ocean views and winelands for varied terrain. This South African capital has excellent hiking opportunities at Table Mountain, Platteklip Gorge and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Your trek could include magnificent sunsets and wildlife like baboons and antelope. Consider an evening hike in L'Agulhas, which is a short trip from Cape
Town. South Africa is another nation famous for surfing, especially around Cape Town. Beginners should head to Muizenberg Beach because its waves are gentler than at other shores. Meanwhile, advanced surfers can check out Long Beach or Dungeons for more challenging sites. Thrillseekers can also head to Table Mountain to rock climb and bike.
Cusco is in the heart of the Andes Mountains and features the Inca Trail’s gateway. This majestic pathway is a multiday hike that takes you to Machu Picchu, which is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Your journey to the UNESCO World Heritage site includes cloud forests and Andean scenery. Southern Peru is mountainous and famous for cycling and hiking opportunities. Trek through the Sacred Valley on foot or by mountain bike as you view the Inca ruins and traditional villages.
Tourists also arrive for wellness retreats, which leverage holistic practices for spiritual healing. Besides hiking and biking, you can enjoy whitewater rafting on the Urubamba and ApurÃmac Rivers.
There’s something for everyone in each corner of the globe. From Australia to Argentina, you can enjoy challenging mountain hikes and high tides for surfing. Remember to be courteous and respect local environments regardless of where you travel.
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