6 of the Best Coastal Motorcycle Rides
The U.S. is filled with scenic destinations perfect for cruising on your motorcycle. The coastlines, especially, offer breathtaking sights and scenery. From rocky shorelines to sandy beaches, Cycle Trader is spotlighting six of the best coastal motorcycle rides.
1. Acadia Park Loop Road in Maine
Acadia National Park is a breathtaking destination on Maine’s coastline. Park Loop Road is a fan favorite among the three major road systems on the island. This 27-mile-long roadway directs bikers around the east side of Mount Desert Island, around the national park’s lakes, mountains, and shoreline. Hop off the loop to explore popular areas, including Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach, and Otter Point. You’ll need to purchase a standard entrance pass to get into the park on your motorcycle.
2. Cape Flattery Tribal Byway in Washington
The Cape Flattery Tribal Byway is a 12-mile highway on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula. This is the first tribal road to earn a scenic byway designation by the U.S. Department of Transportation, crossing the ancestral home of the Makah Tribe who have resided in the region for thousands of years. Take in the historic, cultural, and scenic sights, including the remote and historic town of Neah Bay and the Makah Cultural and Research Center to learn more about the tribe’s connection to the land.
3. Outer Banks National Scenic Byway in North Carolina
Ditch the mainland and maneuver the barrier islands of the Outer Banks along the 138-mile Outer Banks National Scenic Byway. Hop on your motorcycle and tour the Outer Banks’ underdeveloped beaches, natural wildlife preserves, and towering lighthouses, keeping an eye out for a variety of marine, avian, and terrestrial wildlife. Stretch your legs as you explore the coast’s charming beach towns nestled along the Atlantic Ocean. The entire scenic byway takes about five-and-a-half hours to ride, including three-and-a-half hours on two ferries.
4. Overseas Highway in Florida
Known as the “Highway that Goes to the Sea,” the Overseas Highway is the southernmost leg of U.S. Highway 1. Navigate 113 miles of roadway, from Key Largo to Key West, across the blue-green waters of the Florida Bay, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic Ocean. Take in the coral and limestone islets as you make your way to each of the keys, making pit stops at these lively communities along the way such as Islamorada and Marathon.
5. Pacific Coast Highway in California
Cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway is a classic American road trip. The PCH offers a chance to explore the West Coast, from Seattle to San Diego. This 1,650-mile highway features a number of sought-after destinations including national parks, such as Olympic National Park in Washington and Redwood National Park in California, and popular cities like Portland, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles. Many bikers who take a long-distance ride along the PCH plan for at least three days on the road.
6. Tunnel of Trees in Michigan
Maneuver along Lake Michigan via the historic M-119 scenic route, also known as the Tunnel of Trees. Situated between Harbor Springs and Cross Village, this 20-mile drive boasts beautiful, towering tree canopies. Thrill seekers won’t want to miss the chance to wind along the Horseshoe Curve or tackle the twists at Devil’s Elbow. Along the way, you can hop off your bike and indulge in delicious local restaurants located in the quaint small towns.
Across the country, scenic roadways await. Each offers an array of breathtaking sights throughout the year. If you’re ready to start exploring, make sure you have the perfect motorcycle by shopping for new and used bikes, nationwide, on Cycle Trader.
Arielle Patterson
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