10 Stunning Rock Formations to Explore
It’s a challenging time for coastal rock formations, with many iconic structures facing natural erosion. For example, Malta’s Azure Window collapsed into the sea in 2017, and New Zealand’s Elephant Rock lost its trunk in a 2016 earthquake. However, the world still boasts numerous weird and wonderful rock formations for geology enthusiasts and lovers of seaside scenery to admire. Here are ten of our favorites.
Durdle Door – Dorset, England
This natural limestone arch on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast resembles a sea serpent quenched with water. It ranks among England’s cherished natural wonders, attracting photographers and picnickers to the pebble beach during warm weather. Its name derives from the Old English ‘thirl’, meaning ‘pierce’ or ‘drill.’ To access this stunning site, park high on the cliffs and hike down or follow the one-mile coastal path from Lulworth Cove. Just west of Durdle Door, a series of jagged islets awaits, creatively named the Bull, the Blind Cow, the Cow, and the Calf.
Yehliu Geopark – Taiwan
Nestled on a spit of land stretching into the East China Sea, Yehliu Geopark is a fairyland of mushroom-, dragon-, and tree-shaped rock formations, offering a surreal experience reminiscent of a distant planet in a sci-fi movie. The formations, known as ‘hoodoos’, form when softer rocks like sandstone are capped with harder volcanic rock. As the softer layers erode, thin columns with bulbous tops are created. Must-see Instagram spots include Elephant Rock, Fairy Shoe, and Queen’s Head, each exhibiting unique characteristics. After exploring, enjoy freshly caught seafood at nearby restaurants.
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks – South Island, New Zealand
Located on New Zealand’s rugged northwest coast, one of the world’s great geological roadside attractions can be found. These stacked limestone cliffs, formed 30 million years ago from decayed marine life, are extraordinary even without the dramatic sea. During storms, water shoots explosively through blowholes, creating an unforgettable sight. The cliffs are easily accessible via a 20-minute loop track. For the most breathtaking views, visit during stormy weather to witness the seething ocean, and if fortunate, catch a glimpse of dolphins in the chilly waters below.
Source d’Argent Beach – Seychelles
Enormous, crenellated granite boulders blanket the edge of this powdered sugar-sand beach on the southwest coast of La Digue, resembling ancient guardians of the shore. The rocks create a dramatic ambiance for beachgoers, who can snorkel in the warm, shallow waters while searching for sea turtles or avoiding sea urchins. After a swim, luxuriate on the soft sand with a fresh coconut and gaze at the emerald hills of nearby Praslin Island. Visiting at low tide is recommended, as high waters can wash the beach away.
Arch of Cabo San Lucas – Baja California Sur, Mexico
At the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, where the Gulf of California meets the Pacific, lies the striking natural arch known as ‘El Arco’. This location, also referred to as ‘Land’s End’, is only reachable by water. Visitors can access it through a glass-bottom boat tour or a sunset catamaran cruise from the nearby marina. Kayaking is an option for adventurous travelers, but caution is necessary due to rough waters along the Pacific side. This remarkable arch showcases colonies of lively sea lions, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Enjoy a delicious meal of tacos and sip on local mezcal afterwards in Cabo San Lucas.
The Remarkable Rocks – Kangaroo Island, South Australia
Wind and waves sculpted these granite boulders over the course of 500 million years, resulting in striking shapes that resemble sculptures by Henry Moore. The rocks feature swirling blends of mica, quartz, and feldspar, while rust-like orange lichen adds vibrancy to their appearance. Visiting during sunset enhances the experience as the lichen glows golden with the setting sun. Additionally, the surrounding landscape of Kangaroo Island includes pristine beaches filled with playful seals and fragrant lavender fields.
Hopewell Rocks – New Brunswick, Canada
Off the densely forested coast of New Brunswick in the Bay of Fundy, towering sandstone pinnacles, many crowned with trees, present two distinct experiences. At low tide, visitors can wander the seabed for over a mile, marveling at formations with whimsical names like Lover’s Arch and Dinosaur Rock. Conversely, deep waters permit kayaking among the stones and exploring concealed coves during high tide. Over millennia, these monoliths have been shaped by ice and rain and serve as a reminder of nature’s relentless forces; the famous Elephant Rock even collapsed in 2016.
Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland
According to legend, these extraordinary rock formations were constructed by the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill as a bridge to Scotland. In reality, the Giant’s Causeway comprises 40,000 interlocking basalt columns resulting from ancient volcanic activity. Today, it stands as one of Northern Ireland’s premier tourist attractions. To avoid parking fees, consider walking from Bushmills, which takes around 45 minutes and rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the crashing Atlantic Ocean. Walking out onto the causeway itself is a must-do for photography enthusiasts and geology buffs alike.
High Island Cliffs – Hong Kong
While many visualize Hong Kong as a bustling metropolis filled with neon lights, just a short drive away lies a breathtaking coastal landscape. The High Island cliffs showcase closely packed, towering hexagonal columns created 140 million years ago from lava flows of long-extinct volcanoes. Today, this area is recognized as a Unesco geopark and is popular among hikers seeking stunning views of the turquoise seas and lush jungle-covered islands. Following an exploration of the cliffs, consider a taxi ride to Sai Kung town for a delightful seafood dining experience.
The Glass Window – Eleuthera, Bahamas
The stunning island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas is exceptionally narrow, allowing visitors to feel the breeze from both the east and west coasts. At its center, the island shrinks to an astonishingly slender 30 feet, creating a geological wonder known as the Glass Window. One side reveals the tranquil Caribbean Sea, while the other showcases the tumultuous Atlantic Ocean. For the best views, scramble up the nearby bluffs, taking care on windy days. Afterward, consider a refreshing dip in the Queen’s Baths, where sun-warmed rock pools await.
