Here are 10 Amazing Coastal Cities in America for Cycling

When it comes to beach towns, the combination of sun, surf, and cycling creates a perfect getaway, especially when it comes to coastal cities. Here, visitors and residents alike typically embrace a more leisurely pace of life, encouraging both locals and visitors to ditch their cars and explore their surroundings on two wheels. With picturesque views, charming streets, and an abundance of outdoor activities, here are 10 bikeable coastal cities across the U.S., showcasing some hidden gems along the way.

1. Hilton Head, SC

Hilton Head Island is a cyclist’s paradise with its commitment to bike-friendly infrastructure. Boasting 12 miles of hard-packed beach, you can ride right along the water—just be sure to go at low tide to keep your bike safe from saltwater. In addition to beach biking, the island has an extensive network of multi-use pathways, particularly in the popular Sea Pines Plantation, where cyclists can explore scenic routes surrounded by lush landscapes. Exploring Hilton Head Island by bike is one of the best ways to see the island’s many attractions. From the scenic South End with its award-winning beach and historic Charles Fraser statue to the vibrant mid-island area featuring Shelter Cove Harbour, Coligny Beach, and Lowcountry Celebration Park, there’s plenty to see. Don’t miss stops like Palmetto Bay Marina for a relaxing meal or Chaplin Community Park for beach access and sports activities. For history buffs, a bike ride to the North End includes sites like Mitchelville Freedom Park and the Civil War-era Fort Howell.3.

2. Huntington Beach, CA

Famed for its surf culture, Huntington Beach also boasts a fantastic biking scene. Biking through Huntington Beach offers a fun and scenic way to explore the area’s top attractions. Cruise along the famous Huntington Beach Pier, where you can enjoy ocean views and stop at nearby shops and restaurants. Ride down the Huntington Beach Bike Trail, stretching along the coast, offering beautiful beachside scenery and access to Bolsa Chica State Beach, perfect for a break or a picnic. Don’t miss Huntington Central Park, home to trails, a lake, and botanical gardens. For nature enthusiasts, the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve provides opportunities for birdwatching and peaceful rides through wetlands. The mild climate year-round ensures that biking remains a popular activity for both residents and tourists.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Visit Huntington Beach (@surfcityusa)

3. Corpus Christi, TX

Situated along the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Corpus Christi is an ideal destination for exploring by bike, offering plenty of scenic routes along the coastline and through the city. Bike rental shops are conveniently located around town, offering cruisers, mountain bikes, and even e-bikes for those who want a little extra boost. Popular spots for cycling include the Corpus Christi Bay Trail, which offers stunning views of the bay, and the North Beach area, where you can ride along the shoreline and visit attractions like the USS Lexington and Texas State Aquarium. For a peaceful ride, venture out to Mustang Island State Park or Padre Island National Seashore, where miles of sandy beaches and nature trails await. Remember to check the weather and bring plenty of water, especially during hot Texas summers.

4. Bellingham, Wash

Bellingham is a hidden gem on the Pacific Coast known for its breathtaking natural beauty and bike-friendly atmosphere. The city offers a well-developed network of cycling paths, making it easy for both locals and visitors to explore its scenic landscapes. The South Bay Trail provides stunning views of Bellingham Bay and connects to the waterfront, while the downtown area features bike lanes that make navigating the city a breeze. Cyclists can venture into the nearby Chuckanut Mountains, which offer a plethora of mountain biking trails suitable for all skill levels. For a more leisurely ride, the scenic Chuckanut Drive winds along the coast, providing stunning vistas and access to charming spots like Larrabee State Park. The city’s vibrant culture, with its breweries, local eateries, and arts scene, adds to the charm. The Fairhaven Historic District is particularly appealing, showcasing unique shops and waterfront views.

Bellingham, Washington

5. Miami, FL

Miami may be best known for its vibrant nightlife, but it also features a burgeoning cycling culture. The city hosts one of the largest monthly Critical Mass bicycle rides in the U.S., attracting thousands of cyclists. Beyond these events, Miami offers an array of bike-friendly routes that connect neighborhoods, beaches, and parks. The Miami Beach Boardwalk runs alongside the ocean, providing stunning views and a pleasant ride. Virginia Key Park is another gem for cyclists, featuring winding trails and beautiful landscapes. With its tropical climate and lively atmosphere, Miami is perfect for a cycling adventure any day of the week.

Ocean Drive, Miami

6. Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach is a prime destination for cyclists looking to combine beach fun with outdoor activities. The area is home to a plethora of scenic bike trails, including the Waccamaw Neck Bikeway, which spans 12 miles and offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Additionally, the Huntington Beach State Park features a 26-mile trail through beautiful natural scenery. The town’s Market Common district offers quick rides with vibrant shops and eateries, while the Conway Riverwalk provides a peaceful escape along the Waccamaw River. With miles of trails and a welcoming atmosphere, Myrtle Beach is perfect for cyclists of all levels.

7. Outer Banks, NC

The Outer Banks are a stunning chain of barrier islands along North Carolina’s coast, featuring over 105 miles of bike paths. Cyclists can enjoy breathtaking views of salt marshes, historic lighthouses, and expansive beaches while pedaling along dedicated bike lanes and multi-use paths. Popular destinations include Nags Head and Kitty Hawk, where cyclists can experience both the beauty of the coast and rich historical sites like the Wright Brothers National Memorial. The flat terrain is ideal for leisurely rides, making it accessible for families and novice cyclists alike. With its unique landscapes and coastal charm, the Outer Banks offer an unforgettable biking experience.

Bicycles in the Outer Banks, North Carolina

8. Palm Beach, FL

Palm Beach is not only known for its upscale lifestyle but also for its scenic biking opportunities. The Lake Trail runs for five paved miles along the waterfront, providing stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway and the luxurious mansions lining the coast. The numerous parks in Palm Beach County also feature pedestrian-friendly paths, perfect for a relaxing ride amidst nature. The area’s mild climate encourages year-round cycling, and visitors can explore various local attractions, including art galleries and shops. Palm Beach blends luxury with outdoor adventure, making it a unique cycling destination.

9. Santa Barbara, CA

With its Mediterranean charm and stunning coastal views, Santa Barbara is a premier destination for cyclists. The city boasts an extensive network of bike paths and lanes, making it easy to explore everything from the palm-lined beaches to the historic downtown area. The Cabrillo Bike Path runs along the coast, offering breathtaking ocean views and access to popular spots like Stearns Wharf and East Beach.

Cycling in Santa Barbara (Photo by Ron Johnson)

For more adventurous riders, the routes through the Santa Ynez Mountains provide challenging climbs and spectacular vistas. The city’s year-round mild climate, combined with its commitment to sustainability and active outdoor lifestyle, makes Santa Barbara a cyclist’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy rides through wine country or along the beachfront, with plenty of stops for local cuisine and culture along the way.

10. Bar Harbor, ME

Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, is a hidden gem for cyclists seeking stunning coastal views and breathtaking scenery. The town is adjacent to Acadia National Park, which offers miles of scenic carriage roads perfect for biking. Riders can explore beautiful landscapes, including rocky shorelines and lush forests, all while enjoying the fresh ocean breeze. The Park Loop Road is another popular route that takes cyclists around the park, providing access to iconic spots like Cadillac Mountain. With its charming downtown and abundant outdoor activities, Bar Harbor is an ideal destination for those looking to combine cycling with coastal adventure.