It’s hard to get sick of Taipei: the city is electric, full of activity and excitement!
Whether you’re exploring the urban architecture or snacking at one of the many night markets in Taipei, it’s nearly impossible to get bored of all the great things to do in Taipei.
However, you can get a bit tired of the constant flow of traffic and go-go-go atmosphere of city life anywhere, and Taipei is no exception.
Luckily, one of the most amazing things about Taipei is just how accessible this city of nearly 3 million people is to such green, beautiful nature.
Even better, Taiwan’s excellent transit system makes it pretty easy to get just about everywhere you’d like to go — an epic Taipei day trip is always within reach.
Like Yangmingshan National Park – a mere 40 minutes from central Taipei!
I was initially a bit nervous to try to traverse Taiwan’s public transportation given that I neither speak nor read Chinese: turns out I shouldn’t have worried at all!
Like I learned while navigating the Taipei airport, the public transportation here has excellent signage with plenty of English language directions.
And in my few moments of confusion, Taiwanese locals have always proven to be extremely friendly and ready to help!
(That said, one of my top Taiwan tipsis to have a SIM card and to use Google Translate’s camera feature to help you translate Chinese characters when needed — it always is handy to be self-sufficient when possible!).
Tours, however, can make the experience incredibly easy: this day tour even picks you up and drops you off at your hotel, including stops at Pingxi, Shifen Old Street, and Shifen Waterfall.
There’s a reason why Shifen is among the most popular Taipei day trips: not only is it beautiful and interesting, but it’s quite easy to get to Shifen from Taipei independently.
First, you’ll want to to take the MRT to Taipei Main Station.
From there, you can board any northbound train except a Keelung-bound train and then get off at Ruifang (note: the express trains are called Tzechiang, and I believe those cost a bit more).
As of 2023, the cost of the trip is 49 TWD from Taipei Station to Ruifang Station, which is about $1.50 USD.
This is the only place I found the signage a bit confusing, as it wasn’t immediately apparent which trains were going to stop at Ruifang.
You might want to ask a local to be sure you’re getting on the right train if you don’t read Chinese!
At Ruifang, transfer to the Pingxi line and ride that all the way to the end.
The best deal is to buy a day pass for the separate Pingxi line. As of 2023, it costs 80 TWD ($2.60 USD).
The Pingxi line can be quite crowded and you may have to stand – but try to look out the window as you go because you’ll cross some really beautiful scenery!
Via Tour
Me on the suspension bridge walking to Shifen Waterfall!
Alternately, you can skip the headache of navigating public transit and take a tour, as many of them are quite reasonably priced for a day trip.
This is a good idea if you have limited time on your Taipei itinerary and really want to make the most of your time.
This day tour includes hotel pickup and drop off and includes the town of Pingxi, as well as Shifen Old Street, and Shifen Waterfall.
There are also full-day tours that include several epic Taipei day trip spots in one, like this Yehliu, Shifen, and Jiufen tour that ticks off 3 day trip-worthy spots in one single day!
Originally built during the Japanese colonial area for the purpose of transporting coal, the Pingxi railway runs right through the heart of Shifen, and the Old Street clusters around that.
The train still runs through the middle of the street today! Watching it pass by is a unique experience that you can’t find in many other places — though Shifen Old Street does remind me a bit of that famous Train Street that goes right through a market in the center of Hanoi.
As you pull into town, the bell will ding manically, telling the people standing in the train tracks taking selfies and sending lanterns into the sky to get off the rails.
This train ritual is a well-oiled machine though (pun fully intended — I can’t help myself), and plenty of conductors are present to direct the selfie-stick wielding crowds off the tracks in a timely and safe manner.
You’ll cross the tracks and immediately, you’re in the heart of Shifen’s Old Street, where plenty of delicious and tempting Taiwanese street snacks await you.
Eat all the delicious snacks along Shifen Old Street.
Some personal favorites are Taiwanese fried chicken and xiao long bao (pork soup dumplings — look for steam rising from bamboo baskets!).
My Taiwanese girlfriend’s favorite street snacks are stinky tofu (she swears it tastes like blue cheese — I’ve yet to confirm it!) and pork pepper buns, so keep an eye out for those while you visit Shifen Old Street.
You can also look for delicious taro balls and grilled sausages, and a variety of tasty fried goodies!
For a sweet treat, keep an eye out for peanut ice cream rolls — they’re another one of my girlfriend’s favorites.
Light a lantern and make a wish.
The quintessential thing to do in Shifen is light a lantern for good luck and send it off into the sky.
It has an interesting history and isn’t just a tourist trap — it actually has rich cultural history to the region as reported on by Al Jazeera.
This tradition goes back to the 16th century, and the original purpose is thought to be to deliver messages during wartime, or to let outsiders know the village was being invaded.
The lantern was used as a method of protecting the candle or oil lamp within from getting blown out with the wind while their message was being delivered.
With phones and the internet, lanterns are no longer necessary to send out such alerts, but the artistry of the tradition continues.
And tourists are welcome to join in on the fun!
It costs 150 TWD (around $5 USD) for one color, or 200 TWD (around $6) for 4 colors; each color is symbolic and represents a wish you’d like to come true.
Ever the narcissists, we chose attraction and popularity (in reality, Janet just wanted a pink one!).
Jury’s still out on if it’s working yet.
Jokes aside, while touristy, I’ll admit it was a fun experience!
It was a cool experience to write our wishes (and our blog names, because again, #narcissists) on the lantern, light it up, and watch it go careening into the sky to disappear somewhere over Taiwan’s green mountains.
Getting from Shifen Old Street to Shifen Waterfall
Shifen Waterfall’s nickname is “Little Niagara” – you can see why!
Once you’ve snacked to your heart’s content and sent your wishes skyward, it’s time to visit the stunning Shifen Waterfall.
We were able to rent an electric bike for an hour for 200 TWD (about $6 USD), which carried two people — barely.
At some points, I thought I was going to have to get off and let Janet scoot her way up the hill, as all the xiao long bao I’ve consumed over the past few days certainly wasn’t helping our center of gravity.
To be honest, though, the electric bike ride was so short that I don’t even know if it’s worth it unless you’re really in a rush.
I think it would have only been like 30 minutes walking to the parking lot (signs say it’s one hour, but that includes the walk from the parking lot).
You have to walk about 20 minutes once you’ve reached the parking area anyway, so an e-bike only saves you about a 30-40 minute walk… but it is rather fun!
Visiting Shifen Waterfall
The walk to the waterfall is a real beauty, passing two suspension bridges, an insanely turquoise river set into luscious green mountains, and countless photo spots.
It struck me when I was there that this is a side of Taiwan that too few people know about.
Most people who haven’t been to Taiwan probably just think of Taipei and Chinese food (if they think about it at all, to be frank).
They don’t think about the verdant green mountains, stunning landscapes, or ease of access to an abundance of different natural wonders within a maximum two hour train ride from the city.
The walk to Shifen Waterfall is easy, and there’s also some cafés here in case you get peckish (though after visiting Shifen Old Street, I’d doubt you are!).
The offerings here looked a little less interesting and fresh than on the Old Street, so I’d recommend eating in the town first.
Make sure you go to the Observation Point Trail past the first major viewpoint of the falls.
You can walk nearly all the way to the bottom of Shifen Waterfall where you’ll get the best view and photos (that is why you came, no?).
Shifen Waterfall is probably Taiwan’s most famous and has been nicknamed “Little Niagara” because the horseshoe shape mimics North America’s most famous waterfall.
It’s not as tall nor as wide, at 20 meters high and 40 wide — though it is incredibly powerful. It is, however, insanely beautiful!
Tips for Photographing Shifen Waterfall
To get the best photos of Shifen Waterfall, I recommend using a manual camera where you can change the settings.
I set mine to f/22 (as high as it could go, to let in less light), 0.5 seconds shutter speed (to keep the shutter open longer), and my ISO to 100 (to decrease light sensitivity).
I balanced my camera on the fence to reduce my hand shaking, as I have perpetually caffeinated twitchy fingers.
As you can see, there’s a slight blur on some of the foreground, but I don’t think it impacted the shot negatively.
If you’re super prepared, which I am never, you’d bring a tripod and maybe some filters to let you take an even longer exposure.
But I found with these settings, I was able to get that silky smooth waterfall look I was aiming for.
What Else to Do on a Shifen Day Trip
If you’ve finished up in Shifen and are looking to add something else to your day trip from Taipei, I have two suggestions.
One is to visit Houtong Cat Village, a village packed with stray cats that’s now become a tourist attraction in its own right.
The location is super easy to add on to your Shifen day trip as it’s right on the Pingxi line on the way back to Taipei from Shifen.
We didn’t get a chance to visit here, as we ran out of time, but I’m hoping to have a chance to visit on an upcoming trip to Taiwan!
What we did instead was return to Ruifang and then catch a bus to Jiufen in time for sunset.
As soon as you step off the bus in this hillside town, you’re treated to epic views of Taiwan’s beautiful, temple-studded coastline.
Climbing up through the Old Town, you’ll get even better views which you can enjoy with a sunset cup of (overpriced) coffee or dessert.
Once the sun is down, thousands of orange paper lanterns light up the streets and it becomes incredibly crowded — even on a normal-seeming Monday night in the middle of winter.
Still, even with all the crowds, it’s beautiful and quite easy to combine Shifen and Jiufen into a one-day trip from Taipei.
We did this independently with public transportation (and then shared a taxi back — there are several shared taxis that wait around at the overcrowded bus stop!)
Mosquito repellent: As per my Taiwanese girlfriend… the mosquitos in Taiwan are bad enough to leave you traumatized years later, especially in the summer coming off the end of the rainy season. She recommends lathering up in Picaridin and treating your clothes with Permethrin before you go.
Bug bite treatment: … And since a few bites are inevitable, the best way to help is with immediate heat treatment ASAP. My girlfriend is both traumatized by mosquitos and very into tech, and she discovered this awesome product called heat it that works with your smartphone! Basically, you open the app, plug the little treatment wand into your phone, let the phone’s power heat it, then you press it on your bite until the app notifies you. I’ve tried it and I can admit it is mildly painful, but it does relieve the itching significantly! Read about it and check it out — we’re truly living in the future!
Rain jacket: Since you never know if a rain shower is in the forest while you visit Taiwan, even in the so-called ‘dry season’, be sure to have a jacket at hand just in case. I love the Marmot PreCip jacket because it has zippered underarm vents (to keep you from getting overheated in hot summer rain, if you’re visiting Taiwan at that time of year!)
Comfortable walking shoes: I love Hoka shoes for travel — I’ve never worn a more comfortable walking shoe in my life! They’re a bit chunky, but apparently that’s the look and they’re very trendy in the Bay Area right now — I literally see almost every other person at my gym wearing them these days! Trendy or not, I’ll always wear them now, because they’re just that comfortable.
Allison Green is a former teacher who has been travel blogging since 2016. She has a Masters in Teaching and a B.A. in English and Creative Writing. Her blog posts merge her background as an educator with her experience traveling to 70+ countries to encourage ethical, meaningful travel. She has been a speaker at the World Travel Writers Conference and her writing, photography, and podcasting work has appeared in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, CBC Canada, and Forbes, amongst others. Now a full-time traveler, she has lived in Prague, Sofia, New York City, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
After being stricken with altitude sickness and spectacularly failing to climb Mt. Fuji in Japan in Japan, I was a woman defeated.
Despite knowing that turning back was the right thing to do, I couldn’t shake the feeling of failure.
So it became my personal mission – almost a grudge, even – to finally find and summit the perfect mountain.
When I arrived in Žabljak, Montenegro, the gateway to Durmitor National Park, I at first had no idea I’d be summiting my first mountain the following day.
I had simply been told by a fellow traveler in Kosovo that the landscape in Durmitor was unreal, and to stay at Hikers Den.
After meeting some fellow travelers at the hostel who wanted to hike Bobotov Kuk, the highest peak in Durmitor National Park, I was a woman with a mission: I was summit no matter what.
Spoiler alert: I did.
The Details on Bobotov Kuk
Bobotov Kuk is actually a fairly good mountain for beginners to climb.
With an elevation of 8,278 feet (2,525 meters), it’s high enough to give you an amazing view and sense of accomplishment, yet low enough that altitude sickness is not a huge threat.
Altitude sickness typically begins to afflict climbers after 8,000 feet (2,438 meters).
At less than 300 feet over this threshold, Bobotov Kuk does not present a particular danger for altitude sickness.
That is not to say you won’t feel the effects of limited oxygen at altitude, just that it is less likely to present significant health risks.
The way to Bobotov Kuk!
Another thing that makes Bobotov Kuk a good mountain for beginning climbers is that you start off at a relatively high altitude to begin with.
Žabljak is the highest town in the entire Balkans, at 4,777 feet (1,456 meters).
That means you gain a total of 3,501 feet of altitude (1,069 meters) over the course of the hike.
For someone in moderate physical condition, this should not place any particular strain on your body’s limits – though that’s not to say it won’t be tough.
Ignore my atrociously tied jacket around my waist, plz. Although now I realize I’ve totally just made you stare at it.
Getting to Bobotov Kuk Without a Car
This is all assuming you’re already in Žabljak. If you’re not in Žabljak, you’ll need to get there first.
Take a direct bus from Kotor or Podgorica, each of which will take approximately 3 hours.
If you’re coming from another smaller town in Montenegro, or from over the border in Serbia, Bosnia, or Kosovo, you will want to find a bus that stops at Nikšić and arrange onward transit to Žabljak from there.
To get to Bobotov Kuk from central Žabljak, the best way is to hire a taxi to take you to and from the trailhead at Sedlo.
Alex from Hikers Den was able to arrange a roundtrip transfer for our group, which cost 4 euros per person.
It is also possible to start in Sedlo by taxi and finish the hike by walking to all the way back to Žabljak, passing by the beautiful Crno Jezero (Black Lake).
See why it’s called “Black Lake”?
Theoretically, it is also possible to start from Žabljak and hike all the way to Bobotov Kuk and return the same way, though I imagine this would take all day.
If you stay at Hikers Den, Alex will map out all these possible routes for you and offer advice on the best way to go.
If you stay elsewhere, you can ask your host or seek out information at the Durmitor National Park Visitor Center.
Safety and Difficulty of Hiking Bobotov Kuk
While Bobotov Kuk is not that high, it is technically demanding, though certainly not impossible for novice hikers with decent stamina, myself included.
You should not attempt it in poor weather unless you are an experienced hiker.
The main risk in climbing Bobotov Kuk is rolling an ankle.
The ascent is quite rocky. In fact, one portion of the hike is just a straight uphill scrabble up a wall of loose rocks and boulders – not my idea of fun, but the subsequent views were so worth it.
Hiking boots here would have been perfect, but unfortunately I didn’t have any with me and brought along my crappy trail running shoes instead.
It worked, but my ankles paid for it the next day.
Success! Muddy success, but success nonetheless.
The last stretch of the ascent involves balancing on precarious rocky ledges using ropes to maintain your balance.
While this may sound stressful, take it slow and steady and you’ll be fine.
Also, early on, there can be muddy portions if there’s been recent rain – a definite possibility, especially in September when I was making the climb.
Walk slowly and purposefully so as not to slip in any puddles, as I most clearly did. Evidence above.
For incredibly fit people, the trek from Sedlo to the peak and back to Sedlo should take 5-6 hours.
My group took about 6.5 or 7 hours, though to be honest, that was mostly me — my cardio health is so whack (and I hadn’t done anything close to this kind of gluteus maximus exercises in years.)
If you plan to hike from Sedlo to Bobotov Kuk and hike/walk back to Žabljak, I’d give yourself a healthy cushion of about 8 hours.
Try to find a hiking buddy by staying at a hostel or guesthouse with many other people around if you are traveling solo.
It’s possible to hike solo, but I felt much more comfortable knowing I had people who knew I was out there and checking in on me periodically.
What to Pack for Hiking Bobotov Kuk
The walk back to Zabljak from Black Lake is so cute!
You don’t need any technical equipment for Bobotov Kuk.
I highly recommend hiking boots — I did not wear hiking boots, just trail shoes, and my ankles were definitely worse for wear for it.
Alex at Hiker’s Den has some hiking boots you can borrow if you’re lucky enough to have your size there, but I recently invested in some Ahnus and I wish I had them for my trip!
Plenty of water: I recommend bringing at least 2L of water per day. If you have a filter water bottle like this LifeStraw integrated filter, you can fill up at various lakes in the area, as it will filter out any bacteria or nasties in the water and make the water safe to drink.
Plenty of snacks: I become ravenous when I hike. I always bring some kind of nuts (almonds or cashews are my favorites), cheese, and some sort of snack food like pretzels or chips. Burek is also a great snack for the road when in Montenegro!
Hiking boots: Like I said before, I did the hike to Bobotov Kuk in my running shoes… which may have something to do with why I ended up falling in mud a lot.
I was super envious of everyone with proper hiking boots and now that I’m older and wiser and have invested in proper hiking boots I can assure you that they would have done me a world of good in Durmitor.
I recommend getting ones that go up over your ankle as it’s annoying to always have to stop and pull up your socks as you hike.
A light waterproof shell: Summer hiking in Durmitor National Park doesn’t require that many special items but I do suggest having a good waterproof shell you can throw on in case the weather turns crappy unexpectedly.
I wear this Marmot PreCip all the time, and it’s kept me dry even on hour-long bike rides through pouring rain.
It has underarm vents that help your jacket breathe a bit, which come in handy when it’s both hot and raining (aka hell) at the same time.
Headlamp: I know it sounds like overkill to bring a headlamp for a day hike, but I’ve done several hikes in the past where I ended up descending in way darker light than I thought.
Of course, it’s better to not need to use it, but you’ll be grateful you have it if you need it.
First aid kit: Bring basics like Band-Aids, an Ace bandage, and alcohol wipes. It’s easy to just buy a pre-made first aid kit that contains everything.
Camera: For the photos in this post, I used a Sony A6000 — I bought it because I liked that it can connect with my phone via Bluetooth so that I can use my smartphone as a remote for selfies, and that I can also send photos from my camera straight to my phone for Instagram.
I bought that several years ago and it’s no longer the same deal that it was — I now use a Sony A7 II, which is a good deal for a full-frame camera compared to what the A6000 now costs.
Rehydration packets: I find it really hard to use most rehydration packets because I’m sensitive to stevia and other artificial sweeteners, and I also get migraines from Red 40 dye.
So I was really happy to find (after so much searching) that DripDrop Hydration packets only use natural sugars and fruit and vegetable-based dyes. (If you prefer to avoid sugar, they do have keto ones that have all the artificial sweeteners).
You’ll get quite dehydrated on your hike to Bobotov Kuk, so make sure you have this.
Layers: Make sure you dress warm! It’ll be cool when you start, though it can get a bit hot from time to time, especially as you work up your heart rate and start sweating.
Wear breathable clothing and layer for maximum comfort. I kept taking on and off my layers like a crazy person!
Just make sure you’re prepared for how cool it can be at the summit of Bobotov Kuk!
Once you’re at the top, you can enjoy a view of three different countries, all from one vantage point: Montenegro, Serbia, and Bosnia. Where else can you do that?
FAQ About Bobotov Kuk
How long does it take to climb Bobotov Kuk?
It depends what route you take!
From Sedlo Pass to the peak and back, it should take around 5-7 hours depending on your level of fitness.
From Zabljak to the peak and back, it’s a lot longer — expect a minimum of 8-12 hours return (the latter being more likely).
What does the name Bobotov Kuk mean?
The exact name of the Bobotov Kuk is hard to nail down, and no authoritative source exists defining its name.
I can only tell you from my own knowledge of Slavic languages, although I don’t speak Montenegrin (just a bit of Bulgarian, Czech, and Russian).
The word “Bobotov” likely means “of Bobot”, as “-ov” is a suffix that determines belonging in Slavic languages (the possessive case).
It’s also often used in Slavic last names, especially ones from Bulgaria and Macedonia as well as Russia.
“Kuk” means either “hip” or “rump” in Serbian, which is closely related to Macedonian, so the words are likely the same in both languages.
Combining this knowledge, we can assume that one possible translation of “Bobotov Kuk” is something like “Bobot’s butt!”
This is just my personal theory after doing some research and combining that knowledge with my limited Slavic language knowledge — if you’re Montenegrin and know the local lore for this mountain’s name, let me know.
How tall is the tallest mountain in Montenegro?
Bobotov Kuk was long mentioned as the tallest mountain in Montenegro. And that’s true — with an asterisk.
Bobotov Kuk is the tallest mountain that is solely in Montenegro.
There are three mountains that share the Montenegro-Albania border that are technically taller than Bobotov Kuk.
The tallest of those three is Zla Kolata, which stands at 2,534 m (8,314 ft).
By contrast, Bobotov Kuk is 2,523 m (8,278 ft) — a rather minimal difference, but a difference nonetheless.
Allison Green is a former teacher who has been travel blogging since 2016. She has a Masters in Teaching and a B.A. in English and Creative Writing. Her blog posts merge her background as an educator with her experience traveling to 70+ countries to encourage ethical, meaningful travel. She has been a speaker at the World Travel Writers Conference and her writing, photography, and podcasting work has appeared in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, CBC Canada, and Forbes, amongst others. Now a full-time traveler, she has lived in Prague, Sofia, New York City, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
You can make your way to none other than Colorado, one of the most stunning southwestern destinations, for some beautiful colors as well.
In Colorado, most of the state gets all four seasons, including autumn, with one of the most breathtaking shows of color in the country.
Because of that, there are countless epic fall foliage destinations in Colorado, from beautiful drives to small towns and even cities.
By the end of this post, you’ll be planning your next fall trip to Colorado. Be sure to save the post for later to make sure you don’t lose it!
Here are the best places for fall foliage in Colorado!
Best Places for Fall Foliage in Colorado
Aspen
First up is none other than Aspen, one of the top destinations in Colorado to visit if you’re on the hunt for fall foliage.
Most people hit up Aspen in the winter for its skiing and snowboarding, but the fall colors are honestly more magical than the winter snow!
Fall foliage in Aspen starts around September. Because of the different elevations in Aspen, part of the town sees a lot more fall colors than the rest, making for some unique photos and experiences.
Around Aspen, there are quite a few spots to check out the fall foliage.
The most popular spot is Maroon Bells, which you’ve probably seen a photo of online already without even realizing it!
This area is surrounded by beautiful aspens set against Maroon Lake.
Other significant areas for fall colors in Aspen include Castle Creek Road, Aspen Mountain (try one of the hikes!), and Smuggler Mountain. No matter which you pick, you’ll truly be rewarded with epic views and beautiful fall foliage.
Breckenridge
This post would not be complete without including Breckenridge! Famously known as a ski and snowboard winter destination like Aspen, Breckenridge is easily one of the best fall foliage spots in Colorado.
During the fall, Breckenridge’s mountains get covered in the most beautiful colors from top to bottom.
Whether you like going hiking and want to go to high altitudes to take in the colors from above on one of these great Breckenridge hikes, or you’d rather stay in the town, you’ll be able to witness it all.
One of the best spots to see fall colors in Breckenridge is at the French Gulch. This area is filled with great trails and is near the Golden Horseshoe.
Here, you can check out the aspens as they change colors in the fall!
Idaho Springs
Idaho Springs is one of those destinations that is often overlooked as a place to visit in Colorado.
With a population of less than 2,000, people think that this probably that there isn’t much going on in this small town!
However, it’s a beautiful small town in Colorado that’s perfect for checking out fall foliage in the state.
If you’re up for doing a bit of a drive to get fall colors here, consider going on Squaw Pass.
It goes between Idaho Springs and Evergreen and goes near the beautiful Echo Lake. It even passes Mount Evans Byway, another excellent road trip spot.
Should driving not be what you’re interested in, head to St. Mary’s Glacier, which you can get to from Fall River Road. Many events are held in the fall in Idaho Springs so that you can take in the colors from downtown!
Estes Park
If you’ve heard of Colorado, you’ve probably heard of Estes Park. It’s located in the northern part of Colorado and is a perfect home base for those who want to visit Rocky Mountain National Park.
The best spot to see fall foliage here is to take the Estes Park Aerial Tramway! This tram brings you to the top of nearby Prospect Mountain.
From here, you can look out and see the town and surrounding mountains covered in fall colors.
You can also enjoy the fall foliage by just exploring the town of Estes Park itself. It’s filled with great restaurants and fall events that you won’t want to miss out on!
Most people situate themselves in Estes Park while visiting, but you can also opt to stay in Grand Lake, which is another great town.
The absolute best spot that Rocky Mountain National Park is pretty well known for is Trail Ridge Road. Along this drive, you can see so many amazing views of the fall foliage, and they don’t even compare to other spots on this list.
You could also consider doing one of the many hikes located in the park, like the Keyhole Route, which is recommended for only the most experienced of hikers. A decent portion of it is just climbing rocks, but the view is fantastic!
Steamboat Springs
Next is Steamboat Springs, located in Yampa Valley. This mountain town has a very small-town feel, but it’s still much larger than Idaho Springs, with a population of around 13,000 people.
When visiting Steamboat Springs, be sure to stop by the Old Town Hot Springs.
This is one of the best places for fall foliage, and you’ll be able to relax outside in beautiful hot springs while looking around and checking out the colorful mountains.
If outdoor adventuring is more your style versus relaxing, you can go biking on the Steamboat Brew Trail or other trails in the area. You can also consider going hiking or camping!
Independence Pass
Independence Pass is one of the most unreal mountain drives that you can do while visiting Colorado in fall!
As you might imagine, you’ll be able to get unparalleled views during the entire drive, which is why it’s such a great spot to see Colorado’s fall foliage.
This drive which also sometimes still goes by its former name, Hunter Pass, has an elevation of about 12,000 feet.
It goes right through what’s called the Continental Divide and passes near Aspen, Colorado, another great spot on this list.
The entire drive only takes about an hour or two, but of course, that depends on the number of times you stop along the drive. Parts of the drive are very steep, so if you’re not a fan of heights, you might want to skip out on this drive!
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
While most people know Colorado for its four national parks, it has terrific state parks that are perfect for visiting if you want to see fall foliage with fewer crowds. Golden Gate Canyon State Park is no exception to that!
The park covers around 12,000 acres and has more than 40 miles of trails that you can hike if you’re an outdoor lover.
Each one of these hikes provides the perfect opportunity to witness Colorado’s fall foliage firsthand.
It’s located near Golden, a delightful small town that’s not that far from Denver. This is a great place to stay while exploring the park.
While in Golden, be sure also to check out the local breweries and maybe even tour Coors Brewery if you have the time.
San Juan Skyway
The San Juan Skyway is one of the most unique drives on this list just because of the fantastic views of the San Juan Mountains.
If road trips are your thing, then you’re going to love this drive for checking out the fall foliage.
This is a rather long drive compared to other ones on this list. It’s just over 200 miles long, and you’ll be able to finish the entire drive in about seven hours tops.
However, it could take longer if you make lots of stops along the way. Because of the views, you just might want to!
Great spots to stop off in the area include Telluride and Durango.
Durango, in particular, is home to an amazing railroad that allows you to see fall colors from a unique perspective: from a locomotive twisting through the mountains!
Durango
Next up is Durango, which is a spot near the San Juan Skyway! This town is located in southwestern Colorado near New Mexico.
While it’s a lot further south than most of the other locations on this list, it’s still an epic spot for fall colors in Colorado.
The best way to witness the fall colors here is to ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway.
It offers scenic viewpoints the entire way, and you will honestly love the whole experience. Plus, it’s about five hours long, so you get your money’s worth from it.
Another way to witness fall foliage here is to go on one of the many hiking trails! Some of the most popular include the Cascade Creek Trail, Colorado Trail, and Hermosa Creek Trail.
Each one is great, but they range in difficulty, so be sure to pick one based on your hiking experience.
Ouray
Ouray is probably the smallest town on this list, with a population of fewer than 1,000 people.
However, it’s nestled right in the mountains, making it a beautiful destination if you plan on witnessing fall foliage in Colorado.
It’s also another destination near the San Juan Skyway.
Fall foliage is an absolute must-see in Ouray just because mountains surround it; you can’t possibly miss the changing of the leaves here, even if you tried.
The best time to catch fall foliage here is between September and October.
If you come too late in the season that everything may have already fallen off the trees as winter starts to come early sometimes, depending on the year.
Some of the most popular things to do while visiting here are to check out Perimeter Trail, Box Canyon Waterfall and Park, and the Yankee Boy Basin.
Kebler Pass
For a beautiful mountain drive, look no further than Kebler Pass.
This mountain pass is located at just over 10,000 feet high in elevation, and the drive goes through the mountains and is surrounded by beautiful trees.
To do the drive, you can start in either Panoia or Crested Butte. Both are great starting spots.
The entire drive is just around thirty miles long, so it’s not the longest drive. However, there are some fantastic viewpoints along the way, so you may want to make consistent stops.
In total, the drive takes about two hours. Be on the lookout for the beautiful aspen and evergreen trees, which turn into beautiful colors in the fall.
Keep in mind that the majority of the road is not paved, so some spots of the road may be kind of rough.
Boulder
Known for being one of the best day trips from Denver and also for being home to the beautiful Flatirons, Boulder is one of the top spots to check out fall foliage in Colorado.
Boulder is at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and turns gorgeous colors in the fall.
Easily the most incredible way to check out the fall foliage in Boulder is to do one of the incredible hikes through the Flatirons.
There is a wide range of trail options, and each one will bring you right along the beautiful mountain range here.
Another great way to enjoy the fall foliage here is to head downtown. This is a great option if you’re not much of an outdoors person. Check out Pearl Street Mall and walk along the street to enjoy some great shops and beautiful trees.
Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest
Colorado is also home to a beautiful national forest called Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest.
It’s located near Boulder and Fort Collins, two great spots to situate yourself while exploring this area.
As you might imagine, this is an incredibly epic spot to witness fall foliage because it’s a forest. Almost everywhere you look, you can see the trees in mystical fall colors that will truly take your breath away.
The easiest way to witness the fall foliage here is to go hiking on one of the many trails. They range in distance from three miles all the way to fourteen miles or so.
The most popular hikes here include the Chicago Lakes Trail, Grays Peak National Recreation Trail, Chief Mountain Trail, and Cascade Creek Trail.
Telluride
Telluride is another one of the most popular winter destinations like Aspen and Breckenridge that’s located in the Rocky Mountains.
It used to be a mining town during the Victorian era, so it has a fascinating history that you won’t want to miss out on.
Because it’s located in the mountains, it’s surrounded by excellent fall foliage spots. It starts here around late September and lasts through October. Sometimes it begins in early September, too; it depends on the year.
To get an unforgettable view of the fall foliage while visiting Colorado, you’re going to want to take a ride on the Telluride and Mountain Village Gondola.
It will give you genuinely unparalleled views because the gondola is so high up compared to other spots in the area. Plus, all you have to do is sit and relax in the gondola!
Crested Butte
Crested Butte is easily one of the most recognizable spots in Colorado.
It’s a great spot that people flock to for winter because of the many Nordic ski routes in the area, but it’s amazing during autumn if you want to check out Colorado’s fall foliage.
There are stunning drives that are incredibly scenic in Crested Butte to witness fall colors.
The West Elk Loop is a great one that people love driving, and it can take about a full day or so. Other fantastic rides include Kebler Pass, which was mentioned earlier in this post.
For small-town fall colors, head downtown. The downtown area is filled with great restaurants and fun little local shops worth exploring.
Plus, the streets are lined with trees, so you can witness the fall foliage in a fun way. You may even be able to meet with some locals!
If you want an even more amazing time while in Crested Butte, try renting one of the beautiful wooden lodges in the area.
Each of them is situated in a spot with great views of the mountains, and they’re all pretty large so you can travel with a large group of people.
Vail
Vail is famous for its skiing trails because it’s home to its epic ski resort of the same name.
It’s a place that almost feels European when you visit it, making you forget that you’re just in Colorado. However, it’s also a fantastic spot to go and check out fall colors in the state.
Fall colors in Vail are pretty easy to spot, but here are a few of the best-recommended spots to check out.
A super-easy way to check out fall colors is to hop on the gondolas, which will bring you up and down the mountain range.
The Eagle Bahn Gondola is a popular one to check out, as is Gondola One, located in Vail Village.
If you love the outdoors, you can also consider checking out the many biking and hiking trails. Vail is pretty well known for its excellent mountain biking, so even if it’s entirely new for you, you’ll enjoy it here.
Frisco
Frisco, Colorado, is a small town with a population of around 3,000 people.
It’s near Breckenridge but is just as much worth visiting if you’re on the hunt for excellent fall foliage in Colorado!
Frisco is a top-rated destination among skiers because it’s right in the mountains — which also makes it perfect in fall in Colorado as well!
For outdoor enthusiasts, be sure to witness the fall colors on the Vail Pass Bike Shuttle.
It’s about fourteen miles long and will bring you to downtown from Vail Pass. Plus, it’s a well-paved bike path, so you won’t have to worry about accidentally biking into rocks.
If you’re traveling with kids or you just want to have some fun, you’ll want to hop on the Rocky Mountain Coaster.
It’s located at Copper Mountain and is one of the longest coasters of its kind. It’s just shy of 6,000 feet long and will provide you with epic views of the surrounding area while getting your adrenaline pumping!
Georgetown Loop Railroad
While this may seem like a bit of a weird thing to include on this list of the best places for fall foliage in Colorado, it truly is a place with incredible views!
It’s located about an hour or so from downtown Denver, making it a great destination to check out.
The train runs between Silver Plume and Georgetown and is only about two miles long. However, the views along the way are amazing.
It crosses some great bridges too, so you’ll be able to look out and take some photos of the landscape.
They only run the train a certain amount of times each day, so you’ll have to check their online schedule to see when you can catch it.
While it’s not the longest train to take in Colorado, it sure does offer a fun way to see the scenery.
You probably think that being a big city, Denver would not be a good spot for checking out leaves and the changing colors, but it totally is. The secret is that you have to check out the many parks in the area.
City Park is one of Denver’s largest parks, and it’s also home to the Denver Zoo. This is a great spot to bike or walk the trails.
It’s perfect for outdoor recreation, so you really can’t go wrong here. You can check out the fall colors with all the surrounding trees.
Other amazing spots to check out the fall colors here include Sloan’s Lake Confluence Park.
Confluence Park, in particular, has some great hills that look out into the surrounding mountains in the Denver area.
If you really want to enjoy the fall colors while doing something outside in Denver, you could head to Wash Park.
This park has a great lake in it where you can go boating on kayaks, canoes, or even pedal boats. Just head to the boat rental center right by the lake and take your pick of boats!
Krystianna is a brand and web designer who runs her own studio and is always chasing her wanderlust. After studying abroad in Dublin for six months, she was bitten by the travel bug and hasn’t looked back. She runs the travel blog Volumes & Voyages.
Glacier National Park is an impressive wilderness destination that’s growing in popularity every year.
The western entrance to the park is located in Northwest Montana, near Columbia Falls. From there, the park extends all the way up to the Canadian Border.
It’s no wonder that visitors want to see the famous crystal blue water of the lakes in the area.
The forest is a lush green, drawing hikers from all over the world to bask in its natural beauty.
Wildlife roam through the park freely, making it an ideal destination for photographs and outdoor enthusiasts.
Due to its growing popularity, the park has introduced a reservation system for visitors.
This guide will tell you the do’s and don’t of planning your trip, along with your can’t-miss itinerary for the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road.
The Reservation System
Over the pandemic, national parks started to implement reservation systems to help with social distancing.
This allowed guests to be able to keep their distance from other visitors and follow federal guidelines.
Glacier National Park has a similar system, but for a very different reason.
Theirs was put in place to preserve the land from the impact of the increasing number of people visiting each year.
Demand for the park has grown by over a million visitors per season over the past couple of years.
Even though the reason for the timed entry is valid and important to keep the land well, it can make visiting a bit harder, especially if you’ve got your heart set on seeing everything the park has to offer.
It’s a bit of a challenge to get tickets to enter the west entrance, which includes Going-to-the-Sun Road and many of the park’s most iconic sights, like Avalanche Lake.
In short, you’ll need both a National Park Pass and an Entry Ticket or Service Reservation to fully access the park.
Sound complicated? Don’t worry! I’m here to walk you through the ins and outs of making your Glacier National Park trip possible.
First, let’s start with the basics: just try to get tickets! You’ll see the option on recreation.gov to buy entry passes to the park.
Don’t be fooled, entry passes won’t get you into the Going-to-the-Sun Road entrance. In order to enter the west entrance, which is the most popular, you’ll need both the entrance ticket and the sun road ticket.
If you have a National Park Pass, it’ll allow you to waive the entrance ticket, but it doesn’t get you the Going-to-the-Sun Road Ticket either.
Landing a rare ticket to that specific entrance is the hardest part of the whole process.
The tickets are released online, sixty days in advance from the desired date.
That means if you need to buy a seven-day reservation ticket for July 1st, youcan purchase that ticket 60 days before July 1st. It is then valid for that whole week.
These advance tickets typically sell out within just a few minutes, especially for dates in high demand.
The park also releases a small batch of tickets two days before their entry date at 8:00 AM MST, giving visitors a second chance to score a chance to see Glacier National Park.
Most of the time, both options sell out, leaving travelers frustrated and hopeless.
Luckily for you, there are a few tricks to get around this, with exceptions listed on recreation.gov.
1. Have overnight reservations at Fish Creek Campground & Apgar Campground group sites
Try to score a camping reservation!
Tent sites are typically cheap and can be reserved online at Fish Creek Campground and Apgar Campground.
Even if you weren’t planning to camp originally, it’s still a possibility to get into the park.
You can also take advantage of these tent site deals if you do get a ticket; just bring your tent and spend your night under the Montana stars!
2. Have reservations at any lodges, motels or chalets located within Glacier National Park’s GTSR corridor.
Get a reservation at Lake McDonald Lodge, but be warned. It’s a popular lodging option, so it does sell out relatively quickly.
Checking daily up until your travel date could help you score a night at the lodge, since last-minute cancellations can be common.
This is one of the few accommodations in the park, making it a once in a lifetime opportunity to spend the night there.
3. Have reservations for horseback rides, guided hikes or boat tours within Glacier’s GTSR corridor.
If riding a horse through a national park is the only way to get in, well, that sounds like a win-win to me. Swan Mountain Outfitters is the only horseback riding offered in Glacier National Park.
A one-hour trail ride starts at $55 per person. They have other tours including ride and dine, which is an hour trail ride with dinner included, all for only $85 per person.
Other tours range from 3 hours to even an all-day tour. This is a unique way to see this park on a guided tour, so why not check it out?
Glacier Park Boat Company offers tours of Lake Mcdonald. The tours are offered five times a day and leave from the Lake Mcdonald Lodge Dock.
Tickets for the tour are $22 for adults and $11 for children.
The boat tour is an hour-long educational journey on a historic boat. Each tour has their own guide who teaches you about the area and wildlife.
If you can’t attend the tour but need the ticket to get in, that’s fine. If you’renot there 15 minutes prior to your reservation they’llgive up your ticket to those waiting.
The boat tour is a great way to break up your day of hiking and exploring. Take a relaxing ride on Lake Mcdonald and then enjoy some lunch at the lodge afterwards.
4. Have a bus Ticket-to-Ride for the park’s internal shuttle.
If your heart’s truly set on getting into the park but you don’t want to commit to an activity, then try to get a reservation for the Ticket To Ride Shuttle, for only $2 a ticket!
The shuttle leaves from Apgar Campground and has drop off locations through Going-to-the-Sun Road, making it perfect for travelers who aren’t comfortable with mountain driving.
The stops include Apgar Campground, Lake Mcdonald, Avalanche, Logan Pass, Sun Point, Rising Sun, Rising Sun Boat Dock, and the St. Mary Visitor Center.
For those looking to go to Logan Pass or further, you’ll have to transfer shuttles at Avalanche Trailhead. You will transfer to a smaller van which is allowed on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
The shuttle tickets are reserved in one hour intervals, so that will be the time you’re allowed to enter. If your shuttle isn’t until later in the day, the pass will still get you into the park.
Shuttle Tickets can be purchased in advance. If tickets are sold out, new ones will be released 48 hours prior to the departure date.
What Happens If I Show Up Without a Going-to-the-Sun Road Ticket?
I know what you’re thinking. How bad could it be if I just… show up?
Maybe the Ranger will be in a good mood. Maybe the person working at the booth will only be half paying attention to their job.
Don’t count on it!
This was by far the strictest and organized system I have seen yet at a national park.
Upon entering the park there are rangers lined up on the side of the road. They’ll ask you if you have both the entry pass and the Going-to-the-Sun Road reservation.
If you say no to either of those questions, they’ll have you follow a line of cars to the ranger station. There, a ranger will come up to your car to explain your options.
If you don’t have a ticket or an exception then you have to leave the park. The Ranger will recommend you drive to the Two Medicine entrance which is on the East Side of the park.
To access this entrance you would need to drive out of the park and go an hour east to the other entrance.
Even though this side of the park is also beautiful, it won’t bring you near Going-to-the-Sun Road.
They don’t sell any tickets at the ranger station; they just give you options of other ways to see different sides of the park.
The Best Going-to-the-Sun Road Stops: A Driving Itinerary
After you get through the entrance gate with your proof of reservation and entry ticket, it’s finally time to explore the park!
You’ll follow the road that brings you to Apgar Campground, but right before the campground you’ll turn left and begin your journey on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Since it’s a 49.7-mile journey on a windy mountain road with stunning views and stop offs, the road may seem overwhelming at first. Having a plan and knowing where to stop will be your go to on making sure you see everything.
Stop One: Lake McDonald – Glacier’s Largest Lake
First on your list is gorgeous Lake McDonald.
This is the largest lake in Glacier National Park, which automatically makes it a must-see destination for traveling photographers.
If you’re lucky enough you can even grab a reservation at Lake McDonald Lodge.
The reservations sell out relatively quickly, but early planners can normally reserve a room.
The lodge was built in 1913 and it’s on the eastern shore of the lake. There are 82 guest rooms between the main lodge rooms and guest cabins.
You can always visit the lodge for a quick look around, even without having a reservation.
Reserving a boat tour is a great way to learn about the history in the area. Glacier Boat Tours hosts three tours a day and can be booked in advance.
As previously mentioned, this tour also gets you entry to Going-to-the-Sun Road.
The boat tour is about one hour long. Your guide will bring you out onto Lake Mcdonald while sharing facts and history about the area.
The lake is known for its vibrant rocks. When the sun hits just right, you can see the rocks glistening underneath the crystal blue water.
Stop Two: Avalanche Lake – The Prettiest Hike In The Park
Shortly after leaving Lake Mcdonald, you’ll see signs for the Avalanche Lake Trailhead.
The Avalanche Lake hike is probably one of the most popular hikes in the park, and for good reason!
The trail starts from the Trail Of Cedars, a stunning trail that leads you through the vibrant green forest on a wooded boardwalk trail.
You can spot deer and various birds all while enjoying the beautiful sound of waterfalls.
After that, you’ll walk along cascading waterfalls and clear blue creeks. This part of the trail is flat and good for all skill levels.
When the trail breaks off from Trail of Cedars you begin your actual hike to Avalanche Lake. The hike is mainly uphill and is rated as moderate.
The trail is mostly on dirt with lots of steps near the end, making it mildly strenuous but worth every step once you reach the top.
Personally, I have to say Avalanche Lake is the prettiest hike I’ve ever done.
One you reach the end of the uphill climb you find yourself surrounded by what looks like a green rainforest of trees.
A short distance away you will see the vivid turquoise water with a mountainous backdrop.
Most people kick off their hiking boots and soak their feet in the ice cold water. Others sit down on the sandy beach and take in the view.
This is a great place to enjoy your lunch or hiking snacks. The hike averages about 757 feet of elevation gain with a distance of 5.9 miles.
Prepare for a bit of extra mileage due to filled parking lots.
If you only have time for one hike in Glacier National Park this should be it, since it’s an unforgettable once in a lifetime hiking experience.
Stop Three: Weeping Wall- The Most Unique Stop In The Park
If you continue on Going-to-the-Sun Road you’ll begin to leave the forest and start driving up into the mountain pass.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to the beautiful sight of three hundred sixty degree mountain views with waterfalls flowing along the rocks.
The road itself has bricks that form a small barrier so the drop-offs aren’t as terrifying as other mountain roads.
One must-see spot is Weeping Wall.
Sitting on the left side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road when heading east, Weeping Wall is one hundred feet of cascading water that is only visible in the early summer.
The combination of melting snow and natural spring water causes the falls to ramp up in the early summer months, shortly after Going-to-the-Sun Road opens for the season.
This wall of waterfalls is a popular stop off for those looking to cool off on hot days. Some even hang out of the car windows when driving by, to catch the mist of the waterfalls.
Be mindful that mudslides could happen here on rainy days. Only approach the falls in good weather.
Most importantly, have fun here and enjoy! This natural phenomenon brings photographers and hikers to the area, but Weeping Wall is a Glacier favorite.
Note that it can sometimes get overlooked by visitors seeking the more popular trails and viewpoints.
Stop Four: Logans Pass – The Highest Elevation By Car In The Park
Logan’s Pass is the highest elevation that can be reached by car in the park. This distinction makes it a busy destination .
Due to the demand there are free shuttles that bring you to Logan’s Pass throughout the park. The popularity of this location is also because of the two popular trails nearby, Hidden Lake Trail and the Highline Trail.
If the parking lot is full, you can find additional parking about a half a mile back down the road.
Hidden Lake Trail is a 5.3 moderate trail with 1,374 elevation gain, a gorgeous hike that has full mountain views the whole time.
Unfortunately, this trail was closed when I visited due to extreme grizzly bear activity (always check with a ranger before hitting the trail!)
If Hidden Lake is closed head across the street to the Highline Trail for a fun 14.9 mile hike. Go as far as you’d like to adventure on this trail.
In the beginning, the trail is quite narrow as you stay close to the large rocky mountain. There’s a rope available for anyone who wants a little extra security.
Certain areas do have large drop offs, so staying close to the edge is not advised. Once you make it around that you will enter a more wooded area.
The trail is narrow and can be slippery due to the mini waterfalls and rocks on the trail. Go slow and enjoy the views.
Be mindful of other hikers and switch off on giving the right away for passing.
This trail was fabulous for spotting wildlife including adorable mountain goats.
Enjoy watching them and take as many pictures as you’d like, but remember to give all wildlife enough space while you’re a guest in their home.
Stop Five: St Mary’s Lake – A Beautiful Ending To Going-to-the-Sun Road
Coming down from Logan’s Pass is St Mary’s Lake. The second-largest lake in Glacier National Park, St Mary’s is located near the east entrance of the park and sits along the north shore.
The lake is ten miles long and provides fun activities for everyone. This lake also has a boat tour similar to Lake Mcdonald.
End your Going-to-the-Sun Road tour by stopping at the St Marys Lake Visitor Center.
This is a great place to ask the rangers any questions you have. They will also provide you a hiking map and let you know about recent bear activity.
Two grizzly bears with their cubs were spotted in the distance on our way to the lake, so there were rangers around to ensure nobody got too close to the bears.
Even though grizzlies are present in this area, the rangers are continuously reported of any sightings from visitors. Always be bear aware but still go out and see the beauty of the lake and surrounding areas.
St Mary’s Lake also has lodging options available, making this a great place to stay if you want to explore the east side of the park.
Safety Note: Be Bear Aware
Part of what makes Glacier so amazing is the way that they protect the wildlife in the area. Northern Montana is bear country, and the rangers make the park feel safe and educational.
Not every visitor will spot a grizzly bear even though it can be common from a distance.
Glacier is home to both grizzly and black bears. While they do look alike, grizzly bears have hump on their back and tend to be a lighter color. Black Bears have no hump and tend to be darker colors.
The best thing you can do when you encounter a bear is to keep your distance. The park rangers recommend that you keep within 100 yards away.
Be sure to keep the bear in your line of sight, but back away slowly. If you are planning on hiking, be sure to hike in large groups or on more popular trails.
Joggers and runners need to be especially careful since they could surprise a bear. Surprising a bear is the most common cause of bear attacks.
The park recommends that you carry bear spray with you at all times in case of an encounter.
Making noise is a great way to let the bear know you are there.
Bears don’t want to see people as much as we don’t want to run into them. They’re mainly peaceful animals unless you approach a cub or catch them off guard.
Whatever you do, if you happen to stumble across a bear up close and personal, do not run. This will agitate the bear and they will feel threatened.
If you find yourself in that position, talk calmly and back away slowly and do not make eye contact.
Out of the two million visitors the park gets a year there are only two non lethal bear attacks each year. Only ten related deaths have happened in the park since it opened in 1967.
Glacier should be a place where you can learn about nature and enjoy your surroundings. Bear attacks are uncommon and shouldn’t cause fear for visitors.
Just be bear aware since we are visitors in their home!
When it comes to picking out the best dive computer, there’s a lot of noise to cut through.
Air integration this, trimix that: it can get quite confusing if you don’t know all the proper terminology, especially if you’re a beginner diver looking for your first dive computer.
Don’t worry, though: this post aims to demystify the best dive computers for beginners, without all the technical mumbo jumbo, because that has me running screaming for the hills.
I’ll admit it: I’m a proud Luddite, which is a bit ironic for being a person who makes her living online.
However, technology and I have never gotten along, and my ADHD means that my frustration tolerance equals that of a toddler.
I want something easy. I want something intuitive. I want something affordable.
But I also don’t want something that will break or be useless in a few years, because let’s face it: dive addiction is a disease and it’s terminal.
Your relationship with your dive computer will be one of the most important relationships you have. OK, I’m being a little extra here, let me get serious again.
Ahem. After your regulator, your dive computer is the most important safety tool in scuba diving there is.
However, regulators are bulky, difficult to transport, and often easier to rent at your destination.
They’re expensive and they need to get serviced about once a year, which can also add up costs.
A dive computer, however, is something you should have from the get-go: it’s one of the few essentials on my dive trip packing list.
While you can borrow a dive computer from a dive shop (I did for my first 15 or so dives), having your own dive computer that you are intimately familiar with will bring your diving up a level.
My beloved Shearwater Peregrine — Look at that battery life after 7 days at surface (and 10 days and 15 dives!)
Your scuba diving computer is exactly that: a complex machine that calculates RGBM dive tables, informs your dive plan, monitors every aspect of your dive from current depth to ascent rate, and more.
It helps you know that your surface interval has been sufficiently timed, and as you become a more advanced scuba diver, you’ll learn its other features like gas switching and entering in the right gas blend for nitrox mode, NDL planning, and checking your dive profiles.
For this post on the best beginner dive computers, I’m going to focus on what a recreational diver needs.
This post will only look at entry-level dive computers, since that’s my current knowledge area and where I focused my research while I was deciding what dive computer to buy.
It may not be the longest list on the internet, but I think that’s probably better — there’s already a lot of information out there and decision overwhelm, so I’ve tried to simplify it as much as possible.
Beginner Dive Computers at a Glance
I’ll go into more detail about these dive computers in the review section below, but here’s a quick table to compare them.
Since the prices do change, I chose to categorize them in a price range from $ (cheapest) to $$$$ (most expensive).
Click the link to see current, most-up-to-date prices.
Best Beginner Dive Computers: What I Picked + 5 Other Great Options
Overall Best Dive Computer for Beginners: Shearwater Peregrine Dive Computer
However, it has several features that are far superior to the most budget dive computers on this list, so I’ll explain why this is the dive computer I personally chose to buy…. and why I have not a single regret.
First and foremost, the Shearwater Peregrine is for recreational divers who want a dive computer that will grow with them, without being too intimidating to use from the get-go.
It has all of the basic features a beginner diver needs (multi-gas usage with nitrox and trimix modes, NDL dive planning, depth monitor, ascent rate monitor) but several other advantages over other dive watches.
The main perk is its large, easy to read interface. It is a bit bulky with a more rectangular face as opposed to the round, wristwatch-style dive computers.
However, that larger size (a little over 2” wide) means that you have lots of room for the important data you need to monitor during a dive, without any need to toggle between modes or screens.
You likely won’t need to touch your dive computer a single time during your dive, which is ideal for new divers.
Another reason I love the Shearwater is its crisp color display that draws your eye to the most important parts of the watch and the sheer (heh) readability of the watch.
It’s very clear what numbers mean what, whereas I’ve used other dive computers as rentals from dive shops where I’m not always clear what number means exactly what on first glance.
Most dive computers I’ve rented look like this… technically functional, but not well-kept or easy to read
The backlight display is very bright, to the point where it was completely visible without any assistance from my dive torch when I did my first night dive.
That was really cool and helped me reduce the anxiety of being the pitch-black waters, since I always knew my depth and dive time.
Another huge perk of the Shearwater is its long battery life. I took it on 15 dives while on a 10-day dive trip to Cozumel, and I still came back with a nearly-full battery, and I don’t think I even charged it once during my trip.
I looked at my dive computer 7 days later and it was still on, not close to running out of battery!
Plus, when it does run low on battery, you can simply recharge it on a wireless charger powered by a USB (just place the dive computer on top of it — no need to plug anything into the computer itself).
I also appreciated that instead of having a loud, annoying beep for ascent and safety stop alerts, it uses strong vibrations / haptic notifications.
The vibration alerts were strong enough that I noticed them even through a 5mm wetsuit, so I wasn’t at risk of not seeing an important notification.
There are visuals too, like an intuitive color-coded ascent graphic that shows your ascent rate, so you can know how fast you’re ascending before your dive computer alerts you that you’re ascending too quickly.
But I’ve saved my favorite feature for last: the excellent Shearwater app that you can use to upload all your dives to via Bluetooth with a few simple button clicks.
In just moments, you’ll have a digital cloud copy of all your dive logs, including detailed graphs of your dive profiles, water temperature, bottom time, etc.
There’s plenty of room for you to take notes on your dive (from problems with gear to things you spotted underwater).
It’s so easy to log your dives right on the trip — forget about that water-damaged paper logbook you got with your PADI certification course.
One final pro is that it has two-strap design, so you can really “lock in” the wrist strap so that it’s nearly impossible to fall off during a dive.
Single-strap designs are inherently a little risky, as a nudge or two in the wrong direction can lead to your dive computer being lost to the deep blue!
The only complaint I can reasonably have about this dive watch is that the two-button interface isn’t the most intuitive to use.
Again, I am a Luddite, but I did find it a little tricky to do things like switch up my nitrox gas percentage in the settings.
My dive instructor was similarly perplexed by it, but we figured it out after some fiddling.
That said, these are problems you only will have above water — you won’t really need to touch your dive computer underwater.
In 15 dives, I only needed to touch my dive computer underwater once, on a deep dive when I approached the 5-minute mark before I needed to ascend a bit to increase my NDL limit.
The only other negatives are features that beginner dive watches don’t really have. Namely, it doesn’t have wireless air integration or a dive compass feature.
However, dive computers that also have compasses typically exceed $1,000 (though the Garmin is an exception!) — and if you have air integration, that typically requires buying a wireless transmitter for your tank, costing several hundred dollars more.
The full monty with air integration and digital compass would be triple the cost of what I paid for my dive computer. For not having those two features, I’m okay.
For now and into the foreseeable future, I’m happy to use my pressure gauge to monitor my air consumption, and to use a dive compass if I ever do a shore dive without a divemaster.
The last and final drawback I can say is that it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing watch. I wouldn’t wear it out and about above the water, let’s just say that.
But I’m also not looking for a dive smartwatch that I can wear both in the water and out of the water, so that’s not a problem for me.
Runner-Up for Best Dive Computer: Aqua Lung i300c Dive Computer
The Aqua Lung i300c is the dive computer I also considered, and I almost bought it because my girlfriend who is an avid diver has a discontinued version of this dive computer and loves it.
It’s less expensive than the Shearwater, but it’s still a fantastic choice for recreational divers as it has most of the modes you’d need — air, nitrox, free diving — although it doesn’t have a trimix function.
However, that’s not something you’d use as a rec diver; it’s strictly for technical divers who exceed the AOW depth limit way beyond 30 meters / 100 feet.
That’s not really relevant for beginner divers, as only technical divers will need this functionality.
Like the Shearwater, the Aqua Lung i300c has an excellent Bluetooth pairing to app cloud storage solution.
You can wirelessly log your dives for easy data retention, note taking, and analyzing your dive specs.
While it’s not as obviously bright as the Shearwater, it does have a backlit display that does allow for viewing in low light conditions like caves and swim-throughs.
However, others have said (and my girlfriend agrees) that the watch isn’t backlit enough to read during night dives, and you still have to use your dive torch to see your dive computer properly.
The dive computer is definitely more sleek and watch-style than the Shearwater; that said, I wouldn’t say you’d look cool wearing it on land, it is a lot less bulky and the strap is quite long.
It is really a dive computer first and foremost, and not an interchangeable dive computer-smartwatch combo (and there are those as options, if that’s something that appeals to you — check the Garmin Descent).
A few downsides are: it does not have haptic/vibration alerts, only audible alerts. These are a bit annoying for me personally, and I prefer the quiet but easy-to-notice vibration of my Shearwater.
Another downside is that it has user-replaceable batteries instead of being rechargeable like the Shearwater.
While Aqua Lung assures that the batteries are globally available, found at markets around the world, I would hate to be stuck in a situation on a dive trip (or much worse, a liveaboard) where my battery is running low and I don’t know where to buy a new battery.
It also only has a single-strap design, which is not as secure as two-strap designs that make it extremely hard for your dive computer to fall off underwater.
The strap is so long many people consider cutting it, so it seems somewhat foolish to me that it doesn’t have a two-strap design for added security and to be able to tuck in the strap’s excess length.
Lastly, as mentioned above, the display is not as bright as my Shearwater, and there is only gray and black, no color.
Visually, the round matrix of data is not as easy to read as the rectangular matrix of the Shearwater, which also has color to draw your eye to the most important parts, such as any alerts.
That said, the Aqua Lung i300c is a couple hundred dollars cheaper than the Shearwater.
It’s definitely not the absolute cheapest dive computer out there, but it does offer probably the best bang-for-your-buck at this price point.
The Garmin Descent dive watch is ultimately a smart watch that also helps you engage in safe diving, with all the features you need from a beginner dive watch.
But it’s also a watch you can grow into: it has multiple dive modes, including nitrox, trimix, freediving, and even rebreather modes.
So if you think you might be getting hooked on diving and will need more advanced features eventually, the Garmin Descent is a great choice because it’s not as expensive as the next-level dive watches specifically built for technical diving.
Another big perk of this dive watch is its durability… I mean, it literally has rugged in the name.
It’s been tried and tested to withstand the toughest of conditions, both underwater and on land.
It’s also rechargeable, like the Shearwater and unlike the Aqua Lung i300, which is extremely handy.
Like I said above, you don’t want to have to search for replacement batteries while you’re on a dive trip; it’s much more convenient to have a rechargeable dive computer.
Its battery life goes up to 80 hours, so unless you’ve been extremely lazy about charging your device, you won’t need to worry about running out of power mid-dive.
There are two really cool dive features that the Garmin Descent G1 has that other dive computers at this price point don’t have.
For one, the Garmin Descent has a 3-axis compass built into it. This is a pretty insane perk at this price point — normally, dive watches that have a compass integration have a price tag that reaches 4 digits.
Even cooler, the Garmin Descent also has GPS functionality, which is perhaps not at all surprising given that Garmin started off as a GPS company.
You can mark your entry and exit points while you’re diving, which makes shore diving a lot safer and easy to navigate as you’ll have coordinates as well as a compass to look to.
Because of these two excellent features, I would say that the Garmin Descent may even have the slight edge on the Shearwater if you do a lot of shore diving and not a lot of boat diving.
When you’re not on the water, you’ll still get use out of your Garmin smartwatch: the watch mode tracks your heart rate during workouts like walking and running, and it also monitors your sleep and gives you a sleep score.
And of course, Garmin is well-known for its excellent functionality between the devices themselves and their proprietary apps (with Bluetooth connectivity).
Like the Shearwater and the Aqua Lung, you can easily log your dives wirelessly and on the go, adding your dives to the cloud where you can see detailed graphs of your dive profiles.
That said, there’s also a good amount of storage on the dive computer itself: you can store up to 200 dives before you start needing to move them off your watch and onto the cloud.
The Garmin Descent has a two-strap design, making it very sturdy and hard to dislodge from your wrist on accident.
However, there are a few cons. The main one is that Garmin is not primarily a dive company — and that has a few ramifications.
While the Garmin is absolutely capable of handling the depths you’d dive as a recreational diver, it is not quite as intuitive and streamlined in terms of its display as similar dive computers made by dedicated dive companies.
Additionally, some users have complained that the interface is hard to customize, so you may not see the exact display that you want to while diving.
One final note against it is that while it is backlit, it is not very bright compared to some other dive computers, and you will likely need to shine a dive torch on it to see it properly if you are doing a night dive, something I didn’t need to do with my Shearwater.
In summary, if you’re serious about diving as well as your overall fitness and health, and want a computer that can keep up with you both above and under the water, the Garmin Descent G1 Rugged Dive Computer is the way to go.
For beginner divers who don’t want to shell out the cost of an entire dive trip on a new dive computer, the SUUNTO Zoop Novo is an affordable yet reliable option that also happens to be rather aesthetically pleasing (it’s made in Finland, so you know they’re going to work their Nordic design magic).
This dive computer offers a range of modes – including air, nitrox, gauge, and free diving – making it versatile for any type of recreational diving. And with the ability to customize your nitrox settings, you’ll have the flexibility to match your diving needs.
The Zoop Novo features audible alarms (but unfortunately, no haptics/vibrations) as well as a backlit display, which makes it easy to read underwater in low-light conditions.
That said, similar to other devices, it’s not as bright as some other full-color displays, or its fancy older sibling, the SUUNTO D5 (which is almost three times the cost).
Another thing that sets the Zoop Novo apart is its 4-button navigation system, which is more intuitive to use than similar systems like the 2-button Shearwater Peregrine, which is initially a little tough to figure out.
It also comes in some fun bright colors, like this neon yellow!
Some users did report that the buttons are a little stiff and sticky, but that eventually, they got used to how to press the buttons and it wasn’t a long-lasting issue or something worth returning the dive computer over.
Another cool perk of the Zoop Novo is that you can make your own adjustments to the dive algorithm to be more or less conservative depending on whether or not you you DCS risk factors (or just your own personal preference).
There are three modes that progressively get more conservative. Keep in mind that on the most conservative mode, you’ll have decreased bottom times, though!
From the visuals, it appears that the Zoop Novo has a two-strap design for added security, or at the very least, a more secure strap can be purchased separately.
One thing to note is that the battery is replaceable (user-changeable) rather than rechargeable.
While generally, the batteries are quite long lasting — some not needing to be replaced for even a full year — this is not the kind of issue you want to have at the last minute, before (or worse, on!) a dive trip.
Another thing to note is that there are only audible alarms and no haptic alarms. While I prefer the vibration alerts, this may not be a big deal for other divers, who aren’t as annoyed by audible alarms.
One final con against this is that there is a USB cable that you have to buy separately from the watch itself, in order to upload your dive logs to PC or Mac. There is no phone compatibility, nor any Bluetooth functionality.
That said, you can save about 100 dives worth of data if you’re doing SCUBA (fewer if you are freediving) before you need to upload it to your computer.
One thing that is neither a pro or a con but something to consider based on your needs is the fact that the SUUNTO’s display is rather large, with a nearly 1.5” diameter.
The digits are really large and clear — which is great if your eyes aren’t as good as they used to be — but that does make this a watch that you won’t really want to wear out of the water, so it’s not a good all-purpose smartwatch.
All in all, the SUUNTO Zoop Novo is one of the leading entry-level dive computers for a reason, and at its price point, it’s hard to find another contender that does as much for as little.
For one of the cheapest dive computers that is also reliable and easy-to-use, many people opt for the Cressi Leonardo.
At one of the cheapest price points, this dive computer has all of the features that you need to make your dives safe and enjoyable.
The single-button design is extremely simple to use underwater (that said, as with my Peregrine Shearwater, it does sometimes take some time to understand how to navigate through the settings while on land).
It has three operating modes (air, nitrox, and gauge) and you can adjust the nitrox settings with different air percentages and oxygen toxicity threshold settings.
While the dive computer technically has a backlit display good for low light conditions, it’s not as bright as some other devices.
You can press down the button for 5 seconds to get it to light more brightly. However, the numbers are still rather large and easy to read underwater.
Personally though, I don’t like the blue-lit backlighting of this device. I prefer a more matte lighting where the background is gray and the numbers are black.
However, for some people, the blue-lighting may be just the kind of contrast they prefer. It depends on your preference, I guess!
Like most dive computers, it uses only audible alarms and no haptics. For better or worse, the alarms will almost certainly get your attention!
I have used this dive watch as a rental on a few dives before I bought my own dive computer, and wow, this one is loud.
It gave me quite a scare when it beeped, so it’s not the most Zen choice, if you’re the kind of diver who likes to bliss out underwater.
It has a decent amount of storage for an entry-level dive watch, with about 60 dives worth of logging capable of being stored.
At that point, though, you’ll have to transfer everything over to a paper logbook or a digital logbook app, as there is no syncing functionality with this dive computer and any sort of device (phone, tablet, laptop, etc.), unlike the others on this list.
And Bluetooth? Definitely not.
Similar to the SUUNTO above, there are three algorithms you can select between when it comes to how conservative you want your dive profile to be.
Some divers did complain about having very conservative NDL limits that made them have to abort their dives early while others were going strong.
That said, I can’t be sure what level of conservative-ness these reviewers had selected: it’s possible that they had selected an overly conservative mode and this caused this.
It also uses a user-replaceable battery instead of having recharging functionality, so the same cons to that apply here.
However, users have generally said it has good battery life, though you should expect to change it perhaps once a year or so depending on usage.
Another con is that users are really not a fan of the wrist strap — it’s extremely long and even the tightest settings can feel a little loose on slimmer wrists.
Especially considering its single strap design (my Peregrine has a two-strap design for added security), that’s a bit of a risk!
Even though it might be the cheapest beginner dive computer on this list, you’d still feel the sting of the loss if it landed on the bottom of the ocean!
For a dive computer that truly stands out (with bright visuals and a surprisingly elegant design), the Deepblu Cosmiq+ looks far more expensive than it is.
At its price, the Deepblu Cosmiq+ underpromises but overdelivers — something we love to see in the dive world, where everything is so expensive.
It’s extremely modern, with its rechargeable lithium ion battery (a rarity in dive computers at this price point), its large rectangular display, and brightly illuminated screen that makes it perfect for low light conditions and night dives.
The two button design and audible, visual, and buzzing alarms ensure that you can operate the device with ease and stay aware of important dive information at all times.
Yes, buzzing alarms like my beloved Shearwater Peregrine, but about a third of the price cheaper.
Not only can this beauty store up to 200 dive logs on the computer itself, but it also offers Bluetooth connectivity for seamless uploading to your profile.
But what really sets the Deepblu Cosmiq+ apart is its app.
With the ability to plot photos from a camera to your profile at the exact depth and duration, you’ll be able to keep track of all your memorable diving moments in stunning detail.
I don’t think I can emphasize enough how cool that is — and how badly I wish my own dive computer did that!
Plus, like the Shearwater, it uses a cordless magnetic charger, which provides 7-12 hours of dive time (condition-dependent) and a 30-day standby period.
It’s not as long-lasting of a charge as my Shearwater, but there’s a reason why this computer is cheaper.
I’ll admit that on Amazon, it doesn’t have the most stellar reviews, and a handful of people have reported it failing.
That said, one of my neighbors used to run a dive shop and this was the only dive computer he liked enough to sell.
Respectfully, he’s a salty sea dog who eschews most modern technology, thinks a zip-tie will fix just about anything, and tries to get his customers the cheapest equipment possible, even if it’s not the fanciest.
Yet this was the one dive computer he liked enough to stand behind, and I think that says a lot more than anonymous reviews which can potentially be gamed.
While I ended up opting for the Shearwater Peregrine, I did look at this one for a long time because it’s a good deal cheaper than the Shearwater without sacrificing many of the things I liked about it.
However, at the end of the day, I wanted the security of a more highly-trusted brand, and I was willing to pay extra for it because I only ever want to buy one dive computer!
I see a dive computer as an investment in your safety, your memories, and your overall dive experience.
And that’s why I wrote this post with as much attention to detail as I did, because I’m invested in other people having as great of a time diving as I do.
For new divers who are just starting their SCUBA journey, that means having a reliable, beginner-friendly dive computer that they trust implicitly and know intuitively.
At the end of the day, any dive computer on this list (and frankly, any dive computer on the market) will have you diving as safely as humanly possible.
While nothing can ever fully prevent the risk of DCS, these dive computers all use reliable, trusted algorithms that will have you diving well within safe, conservative diving profiles.
The big differences here are not in the safety of these dive computers — all these computers have the ultimate safety standards in common — but rather in the little details.
The comfort of the strap, the crispness of the display, the sound or feel of the alerts, the brightness of the screen, the seamlessness of connecting the computer to the cloud: these small things are what you should factor in when picking the right beginner dive computer for you.
Allison Green is a former teacher who has been travel blogging since 2016. She has a Masters in Teaching and a B.A. in English and Creative Writing. Her blog posts merge her background as an educator with her experience traveling to 70+ countries to encourage ethical, meaningful travel. She has been a speaker at the World Travel Writers Conference and her writing, photography, and podcasting work has appeared in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, CBC Canada, and Forbes, amongst others. Now a full-time traveler, she has lived in Prague, Sofia, New York City, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
If you ask anyone who knows me what my favorite national park is, I don’t think a single one would hesitate to tell you it’s Grand Teton.
Of course, this may have at least a little (or maybe a lot) to do with the fact that I am constantly talking about it.
If I’m not already planning my next visit to Grand Teton, there’s a good chance I’m reminiscing about past trips, or, better yet, hiking on the trail pointing out cool things!
What can I say? Grand Teton is a huge part of my life, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
Want to know why this magical park has become so near and dear to my heart? Well, for starters it’s simply amazing, in every way.
Between towering, rugged mountains that speak something prehistoric to your soul, crystal clear turquoise lakes around every corner, and wildlife like you’ve never seen anywhere outside of Yellowstone, Grand Teton has everything.
Plus, it has a fraction of the crowds of nearby Yellowstone, and its smaller size makes it much more manageable to visit if you only have one day in Grand Teton.
If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, it’s literally impossible to spend a day in Grand Teton and leave without a smile on your face.
A visit to Grand Teton is bound to change your life. Am I being dramatic? Maybe, but you’ll just have to see for yourself!
Phew, now that I’ve got that out of my system, let’s get down to business.
I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve visited Grand Teton and by now it feels like I must have explored every inch. Okay, okay. That’s a slight exaggeration, but cut me some slack!
The park is more than 300,000 acres and I’ve explored the frontcountry as much as possible, so now I’m slowly but surely making my way through the countless backcountry trails.
In any event, I think it’s pretty safe to say that if you’re looking for an expert to help plan your day trip to Grand Teton, I’m your girl!
As an avid lover of Grand Teton NP, I could (and will!) argue that there is no bad time to visit the park.
While in a technical sense, that’s not wrong, even I have to admit that a winter visit isn’t for the faint of heart.
The scenic drive closes in the winter, which means you’ll be traveling on foot once you get into the park.
So, if you aren’t quite ready to snowshoe 10 miles or more to see famous views like Jenny Lake, I highly recommend that you plan your trip between April 30 and November 1st.
For a truly unforgettable experience without the headache of possible winter storms, the fall colors are spectacular in late September through early October.
What to Bring for a Day in Grand Teton
This list definitely depends on the time of year and the weather conditions but there are two absolute essentials you should have with you no matter what!
Bear Spray
Seriously. I can’t emphasize this one enough.
Grand Teton is in the heart of bear country and even a short 15-minute stroll can lead to a bear encounter.
Always, always, always have your bear spray on you and within easy reach. Oh, and know how to use it, too.
Layers
Even during the summer months, Grand Teton can get pretty chilly so do yourself a favor and pack that hoodie…
And then throw in a lightweight down jacket, just to be safe.
Your One Day in Grand Teton Itinerary
Take in the sunrise at Oxbow Bend (or anywhere, really).
Remember that point I made about bear spray earlier? This is why.
Okay, I’ll be honest with you.
I’ve spent many nights (and woken up at an ungodly early hour for many sunrises) in Grand Teton and I have learned something…
There is literally no bad place to see the sunrise when you’re somewhere this beautiful.
In fact, the morning that I saw the most wildlife (including two grizzly bears) was the same morning I woke up late and didn’t get on the road until the sun was already rising.
Within five minutes of leaving my campsite, I was pulling over to experience one of the most magical moments I have had in the park!
So the bottom line is… Don’t stress about the details!
I know deciding where to watch the sunrise in a place as beautiful as Grand Teton National Park can seem like an impossible task, but I assure you that anywhere you pick will reward you with a stunning sunrise view.
With that said, if you’re truly overwhelmed by the choices and you don’t know where to begin, Oxbow Bend is your best friend.
With a peaceful bend in the river, Mount Moran showing off in the distance, and great odds of spotting wildlife, you can’t go wrong.
Enjoy a 1950’s style breakfast at Jackson Lake Lodge.
I stumbled upon this place one lazy morning (talk about pure luck) when I decided it was finally time to visit the Jackson Lake Lodge.
I was already swooning over the adorably rustic, yet somehow very new feeling of the grand lobby when I turned a corner and found myself in Grand Teton breakfast heaven.
Enjoy a classic breakfast of eggs and bacon, build your own omelet or go for a local favorite like the huckleberry pancakes.
Just make sure to get something hearty and fuel up for this busy day — with only one day in Grand Teton, you’re going to need it!
Whatever you decide, you’ll get to enjoy it at a breakfast counter (which is how all breakfasts should be eaten, in my humble opinion) that zigzags throughout the entire restaurant.
Some even say that it is the longest continuous counter in existence, but you’ll just have to see for yourself!
So bring your own coffee up, if you so choose, or snag some here, and enjoy a delicious breakfast in a charming setting with seating that’s perfect for making some new friends or exchanging trailhead tips!
Take a slow drive to your next stop.
One of the things I love most about Grand Teton (okay, okay, who I am kidding, I love everything) is that the adventure starts the second you drive into the park and it just keeps on going until the second you leave.
There’s fresh dense greenery and wildlife everywhere, not to mention the Teton range showing off some of the most stunning mountain views on this green earth.
It’s safe to say you could never leave your car and still have a memorable time in the park.
But while every road in Grand Teton is guaranteed to amaze you, one particular stretch stands head and shoulders above all the rest – Pilgrim Creek.
Why? Well, it may have something to do with the fact that it is the location that the legendary Grizzly 399 has been spotted most frequently… adorable cubs and all!
As if that wasn’t reason enough, how about the fact that the area’s open fields also welcome moose and herds of elk you’d be hard-pressed to see anywhere else?
So, after your leisurely breakfast, hop back in the car and take a nice slow drive to your next stop, and keep an eye out, because you never know what beautiful creature you might see along the way.
Tip: If you drive from Jackson Lake Lodge right to your hike for the day, you’ll only see a small portion of Pilgrim Creek. To increase your chances of a wildlife encounter, drive to Colter Bay first and then make your way back, and be sure to take your time!
Hike around a lake (or five).
I can assure you from experience that no matter which of Grand Teton’s lakes you choose to hike around, you’re in for a great time, since each is somehow more beautiful than the last
But here’s the thing – when every option’s a good option, it means we’re in for a tough decision, and as my mother likes to remind me, I don’t exactly do well with tough decisions. (Just kidding…sorta).
So, here’s the plan. I’m going to give you all the info you’ll need to make the perfect decision for your vacation, and leave it up to you to make the final call!
Which lake is right for you?
At Taggart Lake on a rainy day in June
Taggart and Bradley Lake: This hike is a popular choice. Take the short hike to Taggart (just 3 miles roundtrip) and then decide if you want to take the extra journey to Bradley (an additional 2.9 miles roundtrip).
What I love about this hike is that even though the parking lot can look full and scary when you pull in, once you get on the trail you’ll find no shortage of quiet places to enjoy a moment of solitude.
Do note that this is a destination hike, so you’ll be spending most of your time in the forest, rather than walking the rim of a lake.
If you’re anything like me, the fun lies in the journey for you and you don’t mind waiting til the end for your breathtaking lake view, so this one’s for you.
It’s also important to note that this hike offers views of the Grand Teton but not the entire range.
At String Lake on a beautiful summer day
String Lake and Leigh Lake: Here we have an even more popular choice with an even scarier parking lot. Similar to Taggart and Bradley, you have a couple options available when you get here.
Hike along the edge of String Lake until you make it to Leigh Lake (2 miles roundtrip) or gain some elevation on the String Lake Loop (3.7 miles roundtrip) and see both lakes from above.
This is definitely a busier trail so don’t expect to get it to yourself… unless you take the loop trail.
After all, it might be harder, but with more distance comes less people. Now that’s a math equation I can get behind!
Unlike Taggart and Bradley, this is a journey-and-the-destination hike.
Every inch of the loop trail is peppered with lake views, panoramas, the Teton range, adorable bridges crossing babbling brooks, and the occasional wildlife sighting. What more can you ask for?
This is the hike for you if you don’t mind toughing it out through some steep sections for some epic views. I promise the reward is higher than the effort.
Two Ocean Lake: This one’s an absolute hidden gem. This loop is a bit longer, at 6.4 miles roundtrip but you don’t have to circle the entire lake to bask in its awesome views – you can turn back earlier if you so choose.
Just a short drive off the main road, it’s amazing that this hike has stayed off everyone’s radar.
The last time I was here was in the middle of the summer (aka peak season) and I only saw one other group. However, what I did see a lot was wildlife!
Over just one magical hour, I saw a grizzly bear, a moose, and a bunch of deer. Of course, I should warn you it wasn’t all quite so magical as all that, as this trail is also home to more than a few mosquitoes!
Wildlife lovers, this is the hike for you if you don’t mind loading up the bug spray and would rather spend your day as far away from other people as possible.
Just don’t forget the bear spray (and bug spray, just bring all the sprays), and remember to always keep a safe distance!
Pig out at Signal Mountain’s Trapper Grill.
I don’t know about you but every time I get close to the end of a long hike, I start daydreaming about the delicious lunch I’m about to enjoy.
If you’ve been hiking for any amount of time, you already know; everyone’s got their own go-to “end-of-hike” reward meal. For me, it’s always been a burger with a side of fries.
Of course, that was before I ran across the delightful Trapper Grill and their incredible menu shook me up out of that rut.
My first time there, I was 100% prepared to order my usual post-hike meal.
But then the guy at the table next to me (who may or may not have seen me eyeing his meal), leaned over and told me that I just had to get the Philly cheesesteak.
I’m always open to recommendations from my fellow travelers, so I did and let me tell you… I still daydream about it.
So do yourself a favor and make Trapper Grill your lunchtime destination.
Oh, and you just have to get the Philly cheesesteak.
Take the shuttle boat to Inspiration Point… or not.
Okay, so, cards on the table: I’m a bit biased on this one and if I’m being completely honest…
I don’t think it should be what you prioritize on your trip, especially with only one day in Grand Teton.
But, with that said, it’s also one of the most popular things to do in Grand Teton, if not the number one pick, so what kind of guide would this be if I didn’t include it?
A girl’s got to think about her credibility!
You may think I’m being a bit harsh but let me explain where I’m coming from.
Gorgeous views and Jenny Lake? 10000% worth it. The shuttle boat across the lake? Pretty darn cool.
Sharing a very small viewing space with over a hundred people to see a beautiful view when there are beautiful views literally everywhere around you, and then waiting in line for over an hour to take the shuttle bus back?
Not so great. In fact, it is the opposite of great.
So while I highly recommend that you visit Jenny Lake and walk around its shoreline at least a little bit because it truly is a sight to behold, I’m hesitant to recommend the trip across the lake to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.
Hidden Falls is beautiful but crowded!
But hey! What’s all my Grand Teton expertise good for if not offering you some alternative options?
Option One: Take the shuttle boat across the lake, shuffle through the hundreds of people to see the famous views, and then walk back around the lake to avoid the line (3-ish miles).
Option Two: Take the last shuttle boat across the lake, stay awhile until everyone leaves, enjoy the views at sunset with fewer (but still not zero) other people, and then walk back around the lake.
If you take this option, remember – your headlamp and bear spray are NOT optional.
Drive up Signal Mountain for sunset.
So. Sunset, if you think about it, sure is an awful lot like sunrise, but in reverse.
Should I go through my speech again about how there is no bad place to experience the park at sunrise, but the sunset version?
Driving up to Signal Mountain is a cool experience all on its own and once you get to the top, you’re greeted with spectacular views of Jackson Hole and the Teton range.
Even better, though, is planning your trip at just the right time of year, as you will also be surrounded by wildflowers.
Without a doubt, Signal Mountain really is an amazing sunset location. But of course, there are also tons of other amazing sunset locations throughout the park!
So if sunset’s approaching, Signal Mountain is too far away and you have dinner reservations at Gather in Jackson (and you definitely should), you can always opt for equally spectacular locations.
Two of my alternate favorite sunset spots are Schwabacher Landing or Mormon Row, both more convenient options if you’re short on time!
Don’t miss a meal at Gather in Jackson – the perfect treat to cap off a successful day in Grand Teton!
Where to Stay Near Grand Teton
Grand Teton is an amazing vacation destination for its scenery alone, so the abundance of accommodation is just icing on the cake.
National parks always get extra brownie points from me if they have a place to stay inside the park, but Grand Teton is so far above and beyond, it should be in a category of its own.
Not only does this park offer accommodations, but it offers a huge range of choices, varying in comfort level to suit your vacation style.
So the question isn’t “will I have a place to stay?”, but rather “where should I stay?” Let’s take a look at the options!
Whether you’re planning a quick trip for just a day, spending two days in Grand Teton, or traveling around more of Wyoming, here are some great choices.
Camping
Jenny Lake Campground: There’s a good reason that this campground sells out minutes after the spots release (and this is six months in advance, no less!) and it’s the view.
If you don’t mind sleeping right in the middle of nature and you’re dying for a glorious morning view of the Teton Range, mark your calendar and don’t miss these spots!
An alternative option is Lizard Creek Campground: Quiet, laid back, and bordering Jackson Lake, this is a great option if your idea of camping is less focused on getting the absolute best view and more focused on immersing yourself in nature.
Cottages
Colter Bay Village: Like the idea of connecting with nature, but a little freaked out by the thought of sleeping in a tent in bear country?
Grab your sleeping bag and head to one of Colter Bay’s adorable cabins, complete with a cozy wood-burning stove to keep you warm at night!
Hotels
Jackson Lake Lodge: A National Historic Landmark, this lodge has floor to ceiling windows overlooking Jackson Lake and… you guessed it!
Glorious views of the magnificent Teton range, right from the comfort of your soft hotel bed.
Plus, there’s three restaurants and an abundance of recreational activities sure to please all types of visitors. What more could you ask for?
If you’re visiting Yellowstone the next day, look no further than Headwaters Lodge & Cabins, since it is perfectly placed at the edge of Grand Teton and just a short drive from Yellowstone.
Nicole is a freelance travel writer who loves traveling and hiking in America’s National Parks, particularly in Utah, Wyoming, and California. Her favorite place is just about anywhere where snow-peaked mountains can be seen in the distance.
Hiking on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi is one of the greatest opportunities to enjoy incredible landscapes and inspiring views.
The Big Island is otherwise known as the island of Hawaiʻi, and it’s received the nickname of “The Big Island” to distinguish itself from the U.S. state of Hawaii.
The Big Island is of the most beautiful places on earth to hike. One of the coolest things about the Big Island is that there are eight different climate zones. On just one island, you can explore rainforests, desert areas, and ice caps (plus more).
When you come to Hawaiʻi, you will realize that it is largely made up of two massive mountains, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea.
Mauna Loa is the largest mountain by volume in the world, whereas Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world if you count what’s below sea level — move over, Everest!
These massive mountains lend themselves to some pretty stellar hiking on the Big Island, as you can imagine!
There is also incredible hiking in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, where you may even get to see lava flowing.
The Big Island is named so because the lava is always flowing, and therefore new land is born every day.
It’s the biggest island of the Hawaiʻian islands, but it’s also the newest. There are five volcanoes on the island of Hawaiʻi: Kīlauea, Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea (Maunakea), Kohala, and Hualālai.
When I lived on the Big Island, I was able to walk right up to the lava flow when hiking in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park!
However, this was because of the timing and is not guaranteed. It just depends on what the lava is doing.
This is also why helicopter rides are a popular attraction on the Big Island. You can always see the flow overhead; it is just too difficult to get to if the lava is flowing in a remote area.
In addition to high elevation climbs and hiking amongst volcanoes, the Big Island is full of beautiful green forests and offers coastal hiking and gorgeous valleys.
Hike on the desert plains, along the shoreline, in the rain forest, or through lava tubes. It does not really matter; every place is spectacular. The Big Island is just that amazing.
We will categorize these Big Island hikes based on regions: Kaʻū, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hilo, Hāmākua, Kohala, Kona, Saddle Road, and Puna.
First, though, let’s talk some quick logistics about getting to Hawaiʻi in these current pandemic times as well as how to get around Hawaiʻi once you arrive!
This post was originally published on June 5, 2021 by guest writer Allison Coulter, who lived on the Big Island of Hawaii for six months traveling by van. It has been updated several times since and was last updated March 29, 2023 to reflect changes and updates since it was written.
Getting Around Hawai’i
Your best bet is to rent a car when you come to the Big Island, especially if you are hiking.
The public bus system does not necessarily go to all these trailheads, and it is just not reliable, especially if you want to see all you can.
Not sure where to get the best deal on your rental? I’ve rented cars dozens of times through various search engines and have settled on Discover Cars as the best car rental search engine.
First, we have rural and scenic Kaʻū, which is home to South Point, the southernmost point in the United States.
There are great places to hike on the plains of this area while enjoying the intensity of the dramatic landscapes, as the ocean is always in sight.
There are no amenities in the Kaʻū hiking areas, so bring what you need to have a safe, comfortable journey: some local Hawaiʻian foods to snack on, plenty of water, comfortable clothing and footwear, and anything you need for camping.
You can, however, freely camp on the public lands here. Leave no litter or trash behind, and be sure to dig a hole for your bathroom needs.
South Point
Length: 0.5 miles Rating: Easy Route Type: Out and back
You can drive down the dirt roads leading to South Point, where you can then take the short hike to South Point, the southernmost point in the United States.
You may see people jumping off the cliff into the ocean here.. and, you may want to join them! There is a ladder you can climb back up after you jump.
Regardless of whether or not you decide to jump off the cliff, you will enjoy spacious views of the Pacific Ocean.
Papakōlea (Green Sands Beach)
Length: 5.6 miles Rating: Moderate Route Type: Out and back
From South Point, you can make the trek to Green Sands Beach. This unique beach gets its name from mineral deposits of olivine crystals.
These deposits come from an ancient lava flow which formed this beach. The beach also contains black and white sands so it is greener in some areas than in others.
The hike follows a dirt road, which makes it easy to navigate. You may even be able to hop a ride with a local driving to the beach. Hitchhiking is very common on the Big Island.
However, I would not recommend driving a rental to Papakōlea unless it’s a 4-wheel drive, as the road is rough.
Once you arrive, either hiking or hitchhiking your way to the beach, stop for a few moments and breathe and take in the beauty. The views are wonderful.
Note: Do not remove any sand from here or any Hawai’ian beach – it’s illegal and fines can be as high as $100,000 (plus Pele may curse you!)
Kaʻū Desert Trailhead
Length: 3.8 miles Rating: Easy Route Type: Out and back.
When visiting the Kaʻū district, you want to be sure to check out this trail on the Big Island! It’s special because you will have the opportunity to see fossils of human footprints in the rock along the path.
You will be exposed to the Kaʻū “desert,” which is largely desolate. You should bring lots of water, a hat, and sunscreen.
You will see some wildflowers and the prolific ohia tree along the way. Plus, enjoy more impressive views of the Pacific!
Punaluʻu (Black Sands Beach)
Length: 5.8 miles Rating: Moderate Route Type: Out and back
Come here if you want to see sea turtles — they are almost always laying on the beach!
Plus you get to see rare black sand beaches made of lava rock. You can tweak this hike to your liking or hike the entire length of Punaluʻu Bay.
Plus, there are many places to post up on the beach here. There are also restrooms and sometimes food vendors.
Hikes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
This park has it all… including a luxury hotel! There are camping areas here as well if you’re looking for a more low-key way to spend a few nights in this gorgeous national park.
You can fill your water at the visitors center and check out the displays, or head down Chain of Craters Road to view the sea arch. You can find petroglyphs, lava tubes, rainforest, and desolate craters. It is of the ultimate in Big Island hiking destinations!
You can even see the glow of Kilauea Caldera at its corresponding museum! Peep the steam vents on your way down Crater Rim Drive to see the caldera. The glow of the caldera can be seen from long distances
Halapē (Puʻu Loa via the Puna Coast Trail)
Length: 11.3 miles Rating: Difficult Route Type: Point-to-point
This hike is not for you if you are an inexperienced hiker. You will need a water filter to refill water, or you’ll have to bring a lot of water to handle this 11-mile one-way, 22-mile roundtrip hike.
Due to its length, this hike is ideal for an overnight backpacking trip; however, you will need a permit for backcountry adventures.
You will find Halapē on the Puʻu Loa via the Puna Coast Trail. You will begin and end on a road, so if you’re traveling with a friend and two cars, you may want to leave vehicles on either end.
Otherwise, you’ll have to prepare a ride ahead of time or hike all the way back, doubling the length of this difficult hike.
This will be a tough but rewarding Big Island hike with some pretty hefty elevation gains. However, you won’t be disappointed with the result. The reward of hiking to Halapē is supreme!
Picture a private beach and freshwater swimming holes in an incredible oasis amongst the desolate lava fields, practically all to yourself.
Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs Trail
Length: 1.2 miles Rating: Easy Route Type: Out and back
This is a convenient trail stop-off on your way down Chain of Craters Road, which you can take to check out the sea arch.
This road is a major pipeline through the park with many stops along the way which make a great introduction to hiking on the Big Island.
We like this stop as it is an easy hike with an incredible connection to the ancient Hawaiʻians, where you can acknowledge and pay your respects to their centuries of stewardships of the island.
There is a boardwalk along with parts of the trail which increases the ease of this walk, so this is really one that shouldn’t be skipped while hiking the Big Island.
Kīlauea Craters Trail and Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tubes)
Length: 8.0 miles Rating: Moderate Route Type: Loop
This trail will give you a well-round experience of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. You will hike in the craters of long-since-erupted areas of the volcanoes you will be walking on. You may even see steam rising from the ground!
You will get to experience jungle and rare plant species that can only grow in this unique landscape. Plus, as you hike, you’ll walk across lava fields and through lava tube caves — be sure to bring sturdy hiking shoes, as these volcanic rocks can be jagged and rough!
Big Island Hikes in Hilo
Hilo is a rainy area of the Big Island, so you’ll want to come equipped with some weatherproof gear if hiking near Hilo.
It is one of the busier areas of the island, though it is not as busy as Kona. There are lots of places to check out here, but we will stick with hikes for now!
One of the main draws for hikes in this area is the waterfalls: there are several, and we’ll cover a few of the best Big Island waterfall hikes below.
Rainbow Falls (Waiānuenue)
Length: 0.1-0.2 miles Rating: Easy Route Type: Out and back
This is one of the most photographed spots in Hilo, and the hike couldn’t be easier!
You can easily view them after a short 0.1-mile hike. Then hike further up the trail to the upper falls (0.2 miles).
When you venture upwards you will get to view one of the most incredible banyan trees I have ever seen — it is over 1000 years old and truly majestic.
Trust me, you will want to climb it. It is not too difficult as the tree allows for “hallways” that form along its many branches. It is a spectacular sight to see and a fun playground for all.
Waiʻale Falls Trail and Boiling Pots Lookout
Length: 0.6 miles (plus an additional 0.3 miles for the Boiling Pots lookout). Rating: Moderate Route Type: Out and back
Here you can view another gorgeous waterfall, plus the Boiling Pots Lookout is pretty stellar, too, and the rapids below will surely impress!
It is also nice as these are two more short hikes with great rewards. You can easily do Rainbow Falls and Waiʻale Falls in a single day of hiking in Hilo. Have a waterfall-themed hike day!
Liliʻuokalani Botanical Garden, Banyan Drive, and Coconut Island Loop
Length: 2.3 miles Rating: Easy Route Type: Loop
This is a great way to see a few Hilo landmarks in one fell swoop!
The Liliʻuokalani Gardens are absolutely lovely: you’ll feel like you’re in Japan as you walk through these 25-acre gardens, which were built in 1917 as tribute to the Japanese immigrants who came to Hawaiʻi to work the sugar cane fields.
The gardens are named after the last reigning monarch of Hawaiʻi, Queen Liliʻuokalani, who was overthrown when the United States invaded the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, as a way of honoring her.
You’ll continue down along Banyan Drive, which is cool because of the beautiful banyans, of course! The banyans were planted by celebrities who have placards on the trees. It’s known as the “Hilo Walk of Fame”.
Finally, Coconut Island is a tiny little island with a park, restrooms, and some beaches. It is popular to jump off the tower in the waters of Hilo Bay from here.
Fun fact: Coconut Island was originally called Mokuola by the Native Hawai’ians. It translates literally to “island [moku] of life [ola]” but can be understood as meaning “healing island”. It was said that one could heal themselves by swimming around the island three times!
Big Island Hikes in Hāmākua
Head north from Hilo to picturesque Hāmākua, which is an excellent part of the island for “rainbow hunting” in the wet climate of Hilo… plus it is just such a beautiful part of the island!
Get lost in the jungle or a sacred valley as you explore Hāmākua.
Waipiʻo Valley Trail
Length: 4.7 miles Difficulty: Moderate Route Type: Out and back
This is by far one of the most beautiful hiking spots on the Big Island! It is truly magical.
You will have to endure the steep grade of the road down into the valley, but it is worth every step.
Also, be aware that there is a river crossing here. At times the river is not passable due to heavy rainfall, so keep that in mind.
Waipiʻo Valley is a sacred valley to the Native Hawaiʻians (kānaka maoli). It was a place where they lived and celebrated together. In fact, King Kamehameha — the first ruler of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi — was raised in this valley.
I urge you to remember this when you visit. Hold space for the remaining kānaka maoli, the Native Hawaiʻians, from whom this beautiful land was taken, and who suffered devastating effects from U.S. imperialism, colonization, and annexation.
You can do this by ensuring history stays alive by learning the history of Hawaiʻi and approaching the culture and language of Hawaiʻi with curiosity.
You will have a fuller, more rewarding experience in Hawaiʻi in general if you hold to this rule of respect and curiosity.
Best Big Island Hikes in Kohala
Kohala is situated at the very top of the Big Island. There are just a couple of spots for hiking here.
Be sure to stop in the wonderful town of Hawi to fuel up for your trip. The town is so charming, you might not ever want to leave!
Pololū Trail and ʻĀwini Lookout
Length: 0.9 miles (3.9 miles to ʻĀwini) Difficulty: Moderate Route Type: Out and back
This Big Island trail will take you down to Pololū Valley, where you can enjoy views of the ocean and the green mountains which cascade along the coastline.
There are some swings here for you to enjoy. We suggest bringing a hammock to relax in while taking in the sights and sounds.
The beach is pretty rocky in parts, but if you bring a hammock, you will be all set!
To explore the area more, keep hiking past the beach and follow the trail up to ʻĀwini Lookout. It can be pretty wet and muddy to hike but you get great views and the heart pumping. This is where the 3.9 miles comes in!
Big Island Hikes in Kona
Next, we have the “Kona side”. There is a huge amount of things to do in the Kona district!
One of the big draws of Kona is hiking to some hidden beaches along the coast. Plus there are forest and lava hikes for you to enjoy among the many other activities in Kona!
Makalawena Beach (Pu‘u Ali‘i)
Length: 2.2 miles Difficulty: Easy Route Type: Out and back
This is the best beach on the Big Island (the hike is fully worth it!)! It is rarely crowded by beachgoers because of the effort it takes to get there.
You will walk down a road to reach the beach. It has no shade so be sure to bring your reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Once you reach the beach you can continue walking to make this a 4-mile hike if you desire. The waters are usually calm for swimming so you may want to just jump right in and enjoy the blue water and white sandy beach!
Puʻu Wa’awa’a Cinder Cone Trail
Length: 7.1 miles Difficulty: Moderate Route Type: Loop
Puʻu Waʻawaʻa Cinder Cone State Park has many great hikes! We like this one as you end up at the top of Puʻu Wa’awa’a
You will get to see an awesome view of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of my favorite mountains in the world.
The rock formation is also super cool, and you can enjoy wildflowers and spacious views from here
Kealakekua Bay
Length: 3.8 miles Difficulty: Moderate Route Type: Out and back
To find the unmarked trailhead, park on Nāpōʻopoʻo Road at telephone pole #4. There are other turn-outs to park in so please do not block the road!
This is an awesome Big Island hike that ends at the bay, so you may want to bring snorkel gear along. You may get to see ruins from old Hawaiʻian villages.
At low tide, you may see the placard which marks where Captain Cook landed. The story is that Captain Cook was killed by Native Hawaiʻians, but the full story is rarely told.
The real story is that Captain Cook, on this third voyage to Hawaiʻi, attempted to kidnap the King Kalaniʻōpuʻu to hold for ransom in return for a stolen boat, and that Captain Cook died in the struggle. (So, yeah, if you attempt to kidnap the king, you can’t really be surprised by the results…)
Along this hike, besides seeing this interesting historical landmark, you may also get to see Hawaiian spinner dolphins and other beautiful wildlife.
Best Saddle Road Hikes on the Big Island
Cutting across the island is Saddle Road. It is from here you can access hikes on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. You may even want to summit them!
Prepare for the cooler temperatures that occur at higher altitudes. Also, be aware that hiking at these elevations can cause Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Remember to stop frequently if you choose to hike up the mountain, which is almost 14,000 feet!
Bring plenty of water and snacks. Take your time and allow yourself to acclimate to the elevation. Be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen. It feels cool, but you are super exposed to the sun!
Mauna Loa Summit
Length: 13 miles Difficulty: Hard Route type: Out and back
When you climb Mauna Loa, you are hiking on the world’s largest mountain by volume in the world and the world’s largest volcano!
To get to the trailhead, take Saddle Road to Mauna Kea Observatory Road (between mile markers 27 and 28). Park at the trailhead after 17.5 miles of driving on this road. It is one lane in some spots and rough so drive carefully.
Bring a map, although the route is marked with cairns so it is relatively easy to navigate. Just be sure not to hop on the Mauna Loa Trail that begins in the lowland; that is not the same trail you are on here.
Mauna Kea (Maunakea) Summit via Humu’ula Trail
Length: 12 miles Difficulty: Hard Route Type: Out and back
To get to the trailhead follow the same directions for Mauna Loa’s trailhead but stop at Ellison Onizuka Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station after about 6 miles.
This is where the trailhead will be. You need a permit to hike Mauna Kea (spelled Maunukea in the Hawaiian language), but it is easy to do with a self-registration station at the trailhead. Be sure to drop off your registration at the visitor center!
You will get to hike past Lake Waiau which is the highest lake in the Pacific Basin. Plus when you climb Mauna Kea, you are hiking the highest mountain in Hawaiʻi, in the Pacific Rim, and the highest sea mountain in the world.
Mauna Kea is named for the Hawaiian sky god Wākea, making this a sacred mountain. Please remember this as you climb. Do not litter or remove anything from the island you are not permitted to.
Honor the tumultuous history of this mountain. There are still many activists protesting the 30 Meter Telescope and further development of Maunakea, as it is just that sacred to the kānaka maoli.
A note about “leaving no trace”: this is a Western concept that is not practiced by many Indigenous groups. You may see some offerings made by the Native Hawaiʻians to the goddess of Maunakea, Poliʻahu; however, this is not needed by outsiders as it can be offensive if done incorrectly.
You absolutely should not interfere with anyone you see leaving an offering, as this is not your place as a visitor. “Leave no trace” does not apply to Indigenous people following their ancestral Indigenous practices, and enforcing this on them is a form of cultural erasure.
In addition to these massive Big Island summit hikes on Saddle Road, there are plenty of shorter hikes you can do.
Puʻu ʻo‘o Trail (8.3 miles), Pu’u Kalepeamoa Loop (1.3 or 3.8 miles), or Kaūmana Trail (2.7 miles) are some other great options for this area.
Hikes in the Puna District
The only district not fully covered in this article includes the Puna District. This is where a lot of the rainfall on the island occurs.
If the lava is flowing in the right direction, you can access the lava flow from the Puna District. Hiking on the Kalapana Lava Fields to see lava pouring from the mountainside is truly awe-inspiring.
I hope you get to experience it when you visit the Big Island. There are many beautiful spots along the Red Road to explore, as well. Puna is a really special part of the island, so don’t count it out!
***
The Big Island is full of adventure and learning opportunities, where you can learn the history of these islands through connecting with its nature and its beauty.
Show up with an open heart and an open mind full of curiosity, and the island will embrace you. Honor the ancient and present-day Native Hawai’ians through educating yourself and taking care of this sacred place.
It is full of jaw-dropping views and incredible experiences, so leave it just as beautiful as you found it. Enjoy your exploration as you hike the Big Island!
Allison is a writer, herbalist, musician, and lover of nature. She is an avid traveler and backpacker, having traveled throughout most of the United States and through parts of Asia and Europe. She has lived in Hawaii, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Boston, and of course, California. Allison has lived in California for 5 years, working on farms and in Yosemite National Park. She has been all over the state, enjoying many cities and of course, the many amazing outdoor wonders California offers. She currently resides in Aptos, Santa Cruz County, CA.
Oahu is within the Hawaiian Island chain. It was formed from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago.
Oahu is known for mesmerizing natural beauty — complete with white sands, humpback whale watching, tropical flora, dense jungle and waterfalls.
Oahu is also a culturally rich and historically significant place. It’s known for important landmarks that should be on any Honolulu itinerary, like Pearl Harbor and the Iolani Palace.
Visitors can enjoy extravagant luaus, sip Mai Tais, and learn about the island’s early Polynesian inhabitants.
Tackling these incredible hikes in Oahu, you’ll also experience the island’s captivating allure. See its beauty first hand. Visit historically significant locations, and connect with locals.
These Oahu hikes are perfect for backpackers, tourists, and adventurers. These hikes span a variety of skill levels, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
A Note on Visiting Hawaiʻi
One important thing to mention about the island of Hawaiʻi is that it is the home to the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, which is under U.S. occupation.
When you visit this island, be curious and respectful of the Native Hawaiian way of life. The state we now know as Hawaii was forcibly annexed, without treaty or legal right, from the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi.
This island is their ancestral land, and many of the locations mentioned here are sacred to them. Do not take anything from the island, including lava rock. It is said it will bring you bad luck if you do!
If you are respectful, you will have a wonderful time on this island. It is full of magical, intense energy. With the right mindset, visiting the Big Island, the land of aloha, can be transformative.
Move with Aloha
A note on the concept of aloha: Despite what popular culture portrays, aloha is more than just hello and goodbye!
In the Hawaiian language, “Alo” means “presence.” “Ha” means “the essence of life.” It is an expression of love and understanding that we are all connected to spirit.
When you live with aloha, you live with passion and considerations for the natural world, its creatures, and your fellow humans. Isn’t that a great way to be?
So try it out while you move through this Big Island itinerary. I promise you won’t regret it, and you may walk away with a new point of view!
Enjoy and move with aloha in your heart during your five days on the Big Island.
5 Best Hikes in Oahu
All of these hikes are impressive in their own way. You’ll be guaranteed to enjoy stunning views and natural features. Some of these hikes are very low key, and others are quite challenging.
This guide includes all the information you’ll need to pick the hike that’s right for you… or enjoy them all!
Diamond Head
2023 NOTE: A permit is now required to hike Diamond Head.
Diamond Head is one of the top attractions on the island of Oahu. It is a massive volcanic tuff cone located on the island’s southern shore.
This crater is over 300,000 years old! Also, the topography you see was all made from one single eruption!
Diamond Head is a short 30-minute bike ride from Waikiki. Waikiki Beach is one of the popular places to stay in Oahu among tourists.
Waikiki is where you’ll find all the best shopping, dining and entertainment on the island.
Besides insane geological history, Diamond Head also has a unique military history. The US Government purchased this land in 1905 and built Hawaii’s first military reservation here.
The slopes of the crater were used to store guns and ammo.
Some of these tunnels created by the military still remain, and you’ll be able to walk through one of them!
You’ll also be able to lay eyes on a WWII bunker & the famous Diamond Head Lighthouse.
At Diamond Head, visitors can hike to the edge of this prehistoric volcano. Views from the top are amazing!
Enjoy a 360-degree panorama of the Pacific Ocean and spot the city of Honolulu in the distance.
This out and back trail span 1.8 miles. Along the way, you’ll climb some stairs and gain nearly 500 ft in elevation.
This trail is rated moderate in difficulty. It’s best to arrive early in the morning because the sun can be unrelenting. There is no tree cover along this path.
Waimea Falls
Waimea Falls is a very short and scenic hike. It’s perfect for families. This 1 mile out and back path takes you through lush botanical gardens, ending at a waterfall.
Waimea Falls is located on Oahu’s North Shore. This place has an interesting history as well.
In the past, it was an community entertainment venue where locals would come to watch cliff jumpers and hula dancers.
Today, Waimea Falls is still a cultural hub. Make sure to check their schedule for workshops, activities and classes offered.
It’s a great place to learn more about Hawaiian culture and history.
Once you hike to the waterfall, you will be provided with life jackets. This is one of the few waterfalls in Oahu that you are able to swim up to!
Jump in and enjoy the surrounding jungle views!
Manoa Falls
Manoa Falls is one of the most captivating waterfalls in Oahu!
The water falls over 150ft over the edge of the mountainside. It’s a popular hike among tourists and locals alike.
It’s a 1.7 mile out and back trail that’s rated moderate. You gain over 600 ft in elevation.
The trail can be a bit slippery and muddy, so be sure to wear appropriate attire and shoes. Along this hike, you can spot guava, bamboo and eucalyptus plants! It takes most people about 30 minutes to reach the falls.
Disclaimer: This is not a waterfall you can swim in! There are some big slippery rocks in the pool and some microbes that can cause disease.
When visiting Manoa Falls, be sure to check out the nearby Lyon Arboretum.
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail
The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Hawaii.
It’s a 2 mile round-trip trek that offers panoramic views of Oahu’s southeastern shoreline. Along your hike, you’ll be able to catch glimpses of the Koko Crater and Koko Ridge.
The trail’s namesake is the Makapu‘u Lighthouse. This historic lighthouse was built in 1909 and displays an iconic red roof.
It has the largest lens of any lighthouse in the United States, and it’s been listed as one of America’s Historic Places.
Makapu‘u Point is the southeasternmost point on Oahu. Before the lighthouse was built, this area was vital to maritime commerce.
When the lens for this lighthouse was created, it was an engineering and technological marvel. It was displayed proudly at the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893.
During your hike, you’ll be able to see beautiful views of this distinct lighthouse, and postcard perfect pictures!
On a clear day, you may even be able to see to Moloka‘i and Lana‘i.
Just offshore of the hiking trail, there are many nature sanctuaries including a bird refuge. You can also spot migrating whales! This is a place where you’ll want to bring your binoculars.
There’s not much shade along this trail, so make sure to bring a hat and sunscreen!
Koko Stairs
The Koko Stairs are also called the ‘Koko Crater Trail.’ It’s a challenging hike that involves climbing up 1,000 stairs! Seriously.
This trail is rated difficult and it’s 1.8 miles total out and back. Hikers will gain nearly 1,000 ft in elevation during this climb!
The Koko Crater is another volcanic tuff cone.
The “stairs” aren’t really stairs. It’s actually an old railroad line that’s been attached to a hillside. One could easily twist an ankle here! So, please bring appropriate footwear.
These stairs also have ties to military endeavors during WWII. They were built to lead up to one of the famous Pillbox bunkers.
At that time, a railway was used to carry essentials up to the bunker.
It’s usually easy to find parking at the base of this hike. It starts off pretty easy, but gets progressively more challenging as you climb.
There is also one scary area where you will have to pass over a questionable bridge. Although, alternative route options are available for hikers wanting to skip that part.
Although, you’ll be graciously rewarded at the top. Soak in the mesmerizing views of Hanauma Bay and the Port Lock Peninsula! Make sure to take plenty of breaks and to pace yourself on the way to the top. There is limited shade on this hike.
Author Bio
Valentina’s Destinations was born from my obsession with meticulously researching, organizing, and planning my travel itineraries. I’m originally from Serbia, but I grew up in Chicago. I love hunting down local restaurants, unique experiences, and hidden gems.
Allison Green is a former teacher who has been travel blogging since 2016. She has a Masters in Teaching and a B.A. in English and Creative Writing. Her blog posts merge her background as an educator with her experience traveling to 70+ countries to encourage ethical, meaningful travel. She has been a speaker at the World Travel Writers Conference and her writing, photography, and podcasting work has appeared in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, CBC Canada, and Forbes, amongst others. Now a full-time traveler, she has lived in Prague, Sofia, New York City, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Ah, Catania! This gorgeous region of Sicily’s coast is one of the great delights of the Italian island, and that’s saying something.
Looking back at my time in Italy, some of the best memories I have are from days spent wandering Catania’s scenic coastline, taking in the gorgeous colors of the Mediterranean, or even just lying back and soaking up the warm sun on a beautiful black sand beach.
It may be better known as the gateway to Mount Etna, but Catania can also be a lovely beach vacation destination in its own right.
The city has so much to offer, including everything from gorgeous Baroque churches to monumental squares and incredible museums.
However, if none of that is calling your name, or if you just need to soak up some rays and swim in the gorgeous waters of the Mediterranean, you can find many beautiful beaches near Catania within a short drive or bus ride.
Any time between April and October is a perfect time for a little seaside rest and relaxation when visiting Catania.
The long stretch of sandy beach along the south of Catania runs for several kilometers, which means there’s plenty of spots to roll out your towel and just settle in for a perfect day at the shore.
Close to Catania, you can find a nice mix of beaches, from white sand to rocky and volcanic ones.
As a general rule, in the north of Catania, you’ll mostly find rocky beaches, while in the south, you can enjoy big stretches of sand.
I was lucky enough to explore the area surrounding Catania on a couple of occasions, and my favorite places were always the rocky beaches in the north and the charming little fishing villages that accompany the beaches.
To be fair, though, spots like those may be better for short sightseeing stops, but not so great for spending an entire day, unless you like lying out on hard rocks… in which case, don’t let me stop you!
In the guide that follows, I’ve included a variety of Catania beaches to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for a popular beach with bars and restaurants, a charming village, or a vast sandy beach to relax all day long, you’re guaranteed to find it here.
Getting to These catania Beaches
Driving in Sicily gives you a lot of freedom!
I’ve noted where you can easily reach a particular Catania beach by public transit.
However, I’ve also listed beaches near Catania that are harder to get to and thus best accessed by rental cars.
Whether you choose to rent a car depends on your Sicily itinerary and destinations — meaning it’s not mandatory, but it may be helpful.
On the other hand, if you are primarily focused on city time, visiting only larger destinations like Catania and Palermo, a car may not make the most sense — unless you want to make lots of stops along the way.
If you do rent a car in Catania, I highly recommend (and personally use!) Discover Cars.
They always find the best prices compared to other car rental search aggregators. Plus, they show ratings and reviews from recent renters, so you can easily weed out unreliable companies.
Plus, their full coverage insurance is some of the cheapest around, typically adding only around $7 a day to have total peace of mind about your rental.
Tip: Be aware that Italy rental car prices only include a collision damage waiver, not full coverage, so you’ll definitely want to add on full coverage to avoid any headaches if something goes wrong with your rental.
This search engine not only looks at the typical rental car agencies (which can be $$$), it also looks at local, small Sicilian agencies that may offer better deals. Their pricing is straightforward (no bait-and-switches) and they offer free cancellation if you need it.
Starting off our list, we’ve got the most convenient beach to check out in Catania, called, well… Playa di Catania.
Yes, you read correctly, that’s the name, and no, it’s not Spanish; it’s just the local dialect.
The coastline here is known as Plaia, since it’s a stretch of sandy beaches extending 18 kilometers south of Catania all the way to the village of Agnone Bagni.
Traveling from the port, as you go further south, the beaches just get better and better.
Sharp-eyed travelers may notice that the various beaches are numbered, so you’ll find Spiaggia 1, Spiaggia 2, and Spiaggia 3, which are the closest to Catania.
If you’re looking for a clean beach with gorgeous sand and crystalline waters, head over to Spiaggia 3.
Traveling by car? Drive south for just about 15 minutes from the center of Catania.
No car? No worries! You can also reach Spiaggia 3 by public transport. Catch bus D from Piazza Borsellino and get off at Kennedy Est (3).
Once you arrive, there’s a big stretch of free beach and a few beach bars nearby, where you can rent sunbeds or just kick back and watch the waves while enjoying a nice cool drink.
Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti
The stunning beach of Spiaggia San Giovanni Licuti is so close to Catania’s historical center that you can even walk there if you’re staying in the northern part of the city.
If you want to save your energy for swimming, though, the fastest way to get there is bus 935, which departs from Corso Sicilia and stops at Messina Piccanello, just a 10-minute walk from the beach.
The beach is a mix of eye-catching black sand and big volcanic rocks. There’s some great spots to stretch out along the sandy portion, but you’ll want to get there pretty early in the morning before the beach fills up!
A long wooden footbridge leads directly into the water, sparing you a tough scramble through the rocks.
Conveniently, this beach is super close to the city, so when you’re ready to head back, you can find all types of restaurants and bars just minutes away
All in all, this may not be the most peaceful and relaxing beach, but it’s a great option if you’re short on time and just need a a beach near Catania to chill for a few hours and cool off with a dip in the Mediterranean.
Riviera dei Ciclopi, Aci Trezza
The charming Aci Trezza is a small fishing village north of Catania, known for the landmarks called the Islands of the Cyclops.
Why? Just off the coast, three striking sea stacks stand out from the waves.
According to legend, these are the very same stones that the monster Cyclops hurled at Odysseus in the epic poem, The Odyssey.
Continuing the mythological naming trend, Riviera dei Ciclopi is the coastline looking out on the stunning rock formations.
The beach here is rocky, but if you look hard enough, you can find a few spots to lie down and enjoy the sun after going for a swim in the crystal-clear waters.
You may not be comfortable spending a whole day, but it’s worth stopping by for a couple of hours to take in the gorgeous landscape, and combining it with a stop at the charming little seaside village.
You can reach Aci Trezza by bus 534 from Piazza Borsellino, or just a quick 20 minute trip by car.
Aci Castello
Continuing south from Aci Trezza, Aci Castello is another lovely seaside village.
The village is best-known for the ruins of the Norman Castle of Aci, perched on a huge rock on the coast.
The historical castle looks over the Lungomare of Aci Castello, where you can stretch out on the rocky beach and swim in the deep blue waters.
Similar to Aci Trezza, there is no sandy beach at Aci Castello. However, the crystal clear waters and the volcanic rock beaches are spectacular.
You can easily visit both Aci Trezza and Aci Castello in one day. The same bus, number 534, stops in Aci Castello as well. If you’re renting a car, they’re also quite close.
While you’re in town, be sure to check out the views from the castle and stop for lunch at one of the seafood restaurants, such as Ristorante GiancarloBarone Acicastello.
The local dishes made from fresh-caught seafood are absolutely exquisite!
Spiaggia del Mulino di Acireale
Further north of Aci Castello and Aci Trezza, you can find the town of Acireale.
Much bigger than the previous villages, Acireale is served by the railway, so you can get there by train from Catania in just 20 minutes. By car, it can take anywhere from 25 to 40 minutes.
Spiaggia del Mulino di Acireale is part of the nature preserve Riserva Naturale Orientata La Timpa.
To access it, you’ll have to descend a winding road known as Sentiero delle Chiazzette.
Once you get there, just take a moment to bask in the natural beauty; the rocky beach is surrounded by lush greenery and bathed by clear waters.
Not far from the beach, you’ll find the restaurant Al Molino S. Maria la Scala and the bar Bora Bora where you can have a refreshing drink.
This Catania area beach might be a little harder to reach than some of our other options, but trust me, the spectacular coastal views are absolutely worth the trip.
Spiaggia di Praiola
Moving further north, you can find Praiola, a small beach belonging to the town of the same name.
Be sure to pack a pair of beach shoes, since the beach here is made of small volcanic pebble stones and rocks, while the seabed is coarse black sand.
Like all the beaches north of Catania, this may not be the ideal spot to relax for an entire day, but if you’re looking to dive in and swim in crystal clear waters, it’s perfect!
One quick word of caution for those traveling with small children: the waters may be clear and gorgeous, but they get pretty deep just a few steps from the shore!
The beach can get quite crowded in the summer months, so you’ll want to get there early to make sure you can find a good spot.
You can get to Praiola by train from Catania Centrale, but be prepared, it’s a 20-minute walk from the train station to the beach.
The train takes about half an hour to get to Carruba, the closest station to Praiola.
If you’re lucky enough to be traveling here by car, it’s just over half an hour from Catania.
Spiaggia di Mascali, Fondachello
Still in the north of Catania, Spiaggia di Mascali is a long stretch of stony beach covered in tiny pebbles.
Here, you’ll find many areas of free beach, but there are also several bathing establishments (lidos, if you want to feel fancy and Italian about it!) if you want to rent sunbeds and umbrellas.
This beach is a great choice if you want to spend an entire day sunbathing and swimming in the beautiful waters.
The sea is crystalline and ideal for some incredible Mediterranean snorkeling. The water is immediately deep right off the shore, so it’s perfect for diving.
The beach is in Fondachello, roughly 30 kilometers north of Catania.
By car, it only takes a bit more than half an hour to get there, but if you’re relying on public transport, leave early, since it’ll be a bit of a longer journey.
You can catch the train to Mascali and walk about half an hour to the beach or the Interbus bus towards Taormina, which will let you off a 20 minute walk from the beach.
Oasi del Simeto
Hoping to see some wildlife on your Sicilian vacation? Oasi del Simeto is a wonderful nature preserve just south of Catania.
The area is mostly a wetland, ideal for birdwatching, but on the shore, you’ll find long stretches of sandy beach. The beaches here are perfect for a relaxing day surrounded by nature!
You’ll find long stretches of free beach interrupted by a few beach bars and bathing establishments.
Rent a sunbed and umbrella to lie comfortably in the shade, or bring a towel and lie on the soft sand.
Ready for a delicious lunch break or a refreshing drink? Check out one of the many beach bars.
From the city center, you can reach the area by car in just 15 minutes or catch a bus.
Line D is the fastest option, as it only takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on where you want to stop.
Vaccarizzo-Delfino
South of the Oasi del Simeto, Vaccarizzo-Delfino is a small seaside village with long stretches of gorgeous white sand beach.
The beach is one of the favorites among Catania locals, but not very popular among tourists.
If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy a relaxing day the way the locals do, this is a great option off the beaten path.
Stop at Lido Vacarizos if you want to rent a sunbed, or continue further south and enjoy the free beach.
Just a heads up before you plan your trip: the village is mainly a summer destination, so most places are only open during summer.
But that’s probably not going to be a problem, unless you’re planning some sort of winter beach vacation, you brave soul!
You can also find many options for accommodations here if you’d like to spend a few days by the beach and get out of the hustle and bustle of Catania’s city center.
The bus from Piazza Borsellino in Catania to Vaccarizzo takes just about an hour, so bring a book and be prepared to settle in for a whole day at the beach to make the most of that travel time!
Spiaggia Viale dei Fiori
The beach resort of Agnone Bagni is another popular vacation destination, especially among locals.
Less than half an hour south of Catania, the town is home to lovely sandy beaches and clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
Spiaggia Viale dei Fiori is probably the best area, although it’s all a part of the long sandy beach known as the Plaia that starts in Catania.
Aside from being a well-serviced area with many beach bars and restaurants nearby, the beach in Agnone Bagni has a spectacular view of Mount Etna in the background.
Depending on the time of year, you could even admire its snow-capped volcano peak while swimming in the pleasant waters – talk about contrast!
The only downside is that the area is not connected to Catania by public transport. This option is only possible if you can rent a car or are willing to pay a significant amount for a taxi.
Giardini Naxos
If you’re up for a longer trip from Catania, you may want to check out Giardini Naxos.
By car, it only takes about 40-45 minutes, but by public transport, the trip can take up to two hours.
The easiest way is to catch the train from Catania Centrale and get off at Alcantara.
The train station of Alcantara is a 20-minute walk from the center of Giardini Naxos, where you’ll also find the main beach.
The town is a popular tourist destination in its own right, due to the archaeological area and museum.
This popularity comes with a cost, though, as the beach can get extremely crowded in the peak season, so either get there early or avoid it in July and August.
Because of its proximity to the ever-popular town of Taormina, Giardini Naxos is one of the preferred beaches near Taormina for tourists and locals looking for a beach break.
However, even with the crowds, the charming town has a lot to offer, so you can combine your beach day with a nice walk around the small historical town and stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants.
Check out the lively and colorful C’era Cu C’era for Sicilian dishes or try the pinsa at Che bella pinsa”ta.
Given its proximity to Taormina, Giardini Naxos would make a great stop between Catania and Taormina if you are driving by car and want to make a stop between destinations.
Sbarcatore dei Turchi
The entire coastline of Augusta, a town south of Catania, is spectacular!
The beautiful Sbarcatore dei Turchi (Italian for Turkish boatman) is just one of the many spots you can check out here!
If you’re willing to drive for about 40 minutes or catch a train for an hour, then be sure to add this place to your Catania itinerary.
The mix of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue water and the dramatic coastline combine to make this place one of the most picturesque on the eastern coast of Sicily.
When you imagine the beauty of the Mediterranean, this coastline is exactly what you’re picturing!
There is no sandy beach, just rocks and cliffs, but the landscape alone is worth the trip.
You can still find areas where you can lie on the rocks and go for a swim, but be careful and avoid swimming if the sea is too rough.
Sbarcatore dei Turchi is a pretty wild area, so don’t expect to find bars and restaurants. Better to plan ahead and bring some food and water for your trip!
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With these 12 beaches, you should have plenty of options near Catania. If you want even more options, check out the best beaches near Taormina, since these two Sicilian destinations are rather close to one another!
Roxana is a Romanian-born freelance travel writer who has lived in Italy for over 15 years. She has a Master’s in Journalism and a Bachelor’s in Film Studies, and she studied at Università degli Studi di Roma Tre. Besides her native Romania, Roxana has lived in Rome, Lisbon, and Berlin, and she has traveled through much of Europe in search of hidden gems, history, and culture.
