10 Reasons the USA Is Better for Coastal Road Trips Than the UK

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Thinking about hitting the road and soaking up some coastal views? When it comes to road trips with endless ocean views and varied landscapes, America has got the UK beat. The USA’s coasts offer longer drives, bigger views, and more fun stops along the way. Here’s why coasting along the USA’s shores might just be the perfect idea for a road trip adventure.

1. Longer Uninterrupted Coastal Highways

The vast stretches of coastal highways in the USA mean you can drive for hours with the ocean in your constant view. Imagine cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway with no need to stop unless you want to grab a bite or snap a picture. This allows for a more relaxed and immersive driving experience compared to the shorter stretches in the UK, where frequent detours and stops are common.

2. Larger-scale Ocean Views

The USA offers some truly grand ocean vistas that are tough to match. From the rugged coasts of Oregon to the sunny expanses of California’s beaches, the scale of views you get is simply massive. This makes for an exhilarating driving experience where each turn brings a breathtaking view that seems to stretch on forever.

3. More Varied Coastal Landscapes

Drive along the US coastlines and you’ll see a dizzying variety of scenes. From lush green forests in Washington state to rocky cliffs in Maine, and tropical beaches in Florida, the diversity is astounding. The UK has beautiful coasts, too, but the variety within shorter distances in the USA is unbeatable.

4. More Scenic Driving Routes

Scenic routes along the US coasts are plentiful and each offers a unique driving experience. Whether you’re winding down the dramatic Big Sur or rolling through the remote stretches of the Outer Banks in North Carolina, these routes are designed to be visually pleasing and soothing.

5. Bigger Distances Between Stops

In the USA, the longer distances between stops mean you can enjoy uninterrupted driving for hours. This is great for those who love the feeling of hitting the open road and experiencing the thrill of exploration without needing to stop too often. It gives a sense of freedom that’s hard to find on more crowded island roads.

6. More Dramatic Coastal Cliffs in Some Regions

Certain areas along the US coastline, like the cliffs of Big Sur or the rugged shores of the Pacific Northwest, offer some incredibly dramatic cliffside views. These towering cliffs add a dramatic backdrop to any road trip and are perfect for those looking for that wow factor in their travels.

7. Better Weather Consistency in Certain States

States like California and Florida offer consistently good weather for most of the year, making them ideal for road trips. You can plan your trip without worrying too much about running into bad weather, which can often put a damper on travel plans in more unpredictable climates like the UK.

8. More Roadside Attractions

The US is famous for its quirky and abundant roadside attractions. From giant donuts to museums of the weird, there’s always something interesting to check out when you need a break from driving. These spots add fun breaks in your trip and are great for creating lasting memories.

9. Easier Parking Along Routes

Compared to the UK, finding a place to park along the coast in the USA is generally easier and often free. This makes it more convenient to stop wherever and whenever you want, whether it’s to enjoy a quick beach stroll or capture a sunset.

10. More Iconic Driving Experiences

The USA is home to some of the most iconic coastal driving experiences in the world, such as the Pacific Coast Highway and the Florida Keys’ Overseas Highway. These drives are bucket-list favorites and offer unforgettable views that make every mile memorable.