There’s nothing like standing on the edge of a cliff, heart racing, the horizon stretching endlessly, and realizing no Wi-Fi signal could ever compare. From Ireland’s rugged coastlines to Hawaii’s jungle-draped sea walls, here are 13 jaw-dropping cliffs around the world you absolutely need to see.
1. Cliffs of Moher – Ireland
- Height: 700+ ft (214 m) above the Atlantic
- Why Go: Dramatic green cliffs, seabirds soaring, and waves crashing below
- Best Time: Sunrise or sunset for golden light
- Travel Tip: Dress in layers — Irish winds are fierce
2. Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) – Norway
- Height: 2,000 ft (604 m) above Lysefjord
- Why Go: Iconic flat plateau with unmatched fjord views
- Experience: A 4–5 hour scenic hike
- Travel Tip: Stay back — no guardrails here!
3. Toroweap Overlook, Grand Canyon – Arizona, USA
- Why Go: Sheer vertical drop into the Colorado River
- Experience: Rugged and remote, with fewer tourists than the South Rim
- Travel Tip: High-clearance vehicle required; pack water and snacks
4. El Capitan – Yosemite, USA
- Why Go: A 3,000 ft granite wall adored by climbers
- Experience: Watch climbers inching up its face
- Travel Tip: Binoculars or a zoom lens enhance the view
5. Kalaupapa Cliffs – Moloka’i, Hawaii
- Height: Nearly 4,000 ft (1,200 m), the tallest sea cliffs on Earth
- Why Go: Emerald walls plunging into deep blue Pacific waters
- Experience: See them via flight, guided tour, or mule ride
- Travel Tip: Go with local guides for Hawaiian history
6. Bunda Cliffs – Australia
- Why Go: Endless limestone walls along the Great Australian Bight
- Best Time: May–October, whale-watching season
- Travel Tip: Strong winds — don’t edge too close
7. White Cliffs of Dover – England
- Why Go: Famous chalk cliffs over the English Channel
- Experience: Walk clifftop trails and spot historic lighthouses
- Travel Tip: Seek out WWII tunnels hidden in the cliffs
8. Na Pali Coast – Kauai, Hawaii
- Why Go: Jagged, jungle-green cliffs above turquoise seas
- Experience: Hike, kayak, or helicopter for the best views
- Travel Tip: Seas can be rough — motion sickness meds recommended
9. Trolltunga – Norway
- Why Go: A dramatic rock ledge hanging over Lake Ringedalsvatnet
- Experience: A tough 10–12 hour hike
- Travel Tip: Start early and bring layers + snacks
10. Tiger Leaping Gorge – Yunnan, China
- Why Go: Towering cliffs carved by the Jinsha River
- Experience: Multi-day hikes with village homestays
- Travel Tip: Trails are rugged — hire a local guide
11. Knife-Edge Bridge, Victoria Falls – Zambia/Zimbabwe
- Why Go: Roaring waterfalls, misty rainbows, and thundering views
- Experience: Walk a narrow bridge drenched in spray
- Travel Tip: Visit Feb–May for the most powerful flows
12. Cliff of Bandiagara – Mali
- Why Go: UNESCO site with Dogon villages built into sandstone
- Experience: Explore ancestral cave dwellings and mud homes
- Travel Tip: Travel respectfully with local guides — this is living heritage
13. El Tajo Gorge – Ronda, Spain
- Why Go: A dramatic 390 ft gorge splitting a historic town
- Experience: Walk across Puente Nuevo bridge or hike below
- Travel Tip: Sunset brings golden hues for epic photos
Final Cliff Notes for Travelers
- Safety First: Don’t risk your life for a selfie
- Gear Up: Hiking boots, layers, water, and a good camera
- Respect Nature & Culture: Stick to trails, respect sacred sites
✨ Whether rugged, green, or carved by rivers, these cliffs prove that Earth’s edges hold some of its most breathtaking views.