There’s something unbeatable about waking up to ocean air, waves crashing outside your RV, and endless shoreline drives ahead. This guide rounds up the best coast-hugging campgrounds around the world—with budget tips, booking hacks, and digital nomad-friendly stays in all the right spots.
1. Highway 1 Coastal Stops – California, USA
Why Stay Here?
The iconic Pacific Coast Highway winds along dramatic cliffs with ocean views at nearly every bend. Popular beachside campgrounds like Kirk Creek and Moro Campground give front-row access to sunsets over the Pacific.
Review & Budget Tips
Spots fill up fast—book through ReserveCalifornia early. Expect $35–$60/night for basic RV hookups. Don’t miss nearby Big Sur, coastal hikes, and off-season rates in spring and fall.
2. North Coast 500 – Scotland
Why Stay Here?
This world-famous Scottish route wraps around the northern Highlands, with remote beaches, cliffside campgrounds, and moody sea views. Beach lovers will appreciate sites like Clachtoll Beach Campsite.
Review & Budget Tips
Sites range from free wild camping to £25/night with electric. Use Campercontact to find off-grid spots. Be prepared for changing weather and stunning scenery all the same.
3. Great Ocean Road – Victoria, Australia
Why Stay Here?
Towering limestone cliffs and rainforest-meets-ocean landscapes make this coastal drive a van-lifer favorite. Campgrounds near Apollo Bay and Port Campbell put you near the 12 Apostles and surf-ready beaches.
Review & Budget Tips
Expect $20–$40 AUD per night. WikiCamps Australia is great for last-minute finds. Go off-peak in late spring (October–November) for fewer crowds and warm days.
4. Praia da Marinha Region – Algarve, Portugal
Why Stay Here?
Golden cliffs and turquoise waters make the Algarve one of Europe’s most photogenic beach zones. Campgrounds in towns like Carvoeiro offer ocean views and sunny year-round weather.
Review & Budget Tips
RV sites cost around €15–€30 per night. Park4Night helps spot hidden beaches with overnight options. Many sites offer Wi-Fi and are walkable to scenic coves.
5. Garden Route Coast – South Africa
Why Stay Here?
Stretching from Mossel Bay to Storms River, this coastal drive showcases whale-watching bays, beach forests, and surf towns. Camp in nature reserves or seaside parks like Ebb & Flow Rest Camp.
Review & Budget Tips
Camping runs about R150–R300 per night (~$8–$16 USD). Visit in shoulder seasons (April–May or Sept–Oct) to dodge crowds and hike comfortably.
6. East Coast – Queensland, Australia
Why Stay Here?
From Brisbane to Cairns, palm-lined beaches and laid-back surf towns define the coast. Stay near Mission Beach or Airlie Beach for access to reef adventures and rainforest day trips.
Review & Budget Tips
Prices vary, but budget stays can be found under $30 AUD/night. Book through Hipcamp Australia for private, scenic options with local hosts.
7. Vancouver Island – British Columbia, Canada
Why Stay Here?
Rugged Pacific beauty meets mellow coastal vibes. Campgrounds near Tofino and Ucluelet give access to surf beaches, tide pools, and stunning sunsets.
Review & Budget Tips
Expect CA$25–$45 per night. Use iOverlander to find forest pull-offs and less crowded government sites. Pack for misty mornings and damp ocean air.
8. Baja Peninsula Coast – Mexico
Why Stay Here?
Long stretches of desert meet the sea along the Baja coastline. Camp beachside in places like Bahía Concepción and El Pescadero, where the sea is warm and the tacos are close.
Review & Budget Tips
Dry camping is often free or $5–$15 USD/night. Check Campendium for reviews of solar-friendly spots. Stock up on essentials before long off-grid stretches.
Tips for Living/Lodging on the Road
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Use Hipcamp for scenic, affordable stays often missed by big platforms.
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Track fuel stops and detours with iOverlander on long shoreline routes.
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Find last-minute beach access with Park4Night, especially in Europe.
Final Thoughts
From crashing surf to quiet coves, beachside camping has never been more rewarding—or easier to plan. With these coastlines calling, the only question is: which ocean view will you wake up to
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