The science of ecology deals with environments and the unique wildlife that inhabits them. My “Ecological Travels” series is a survey of different ecological habitats around the world. It’s amazing how similar, for example, rivers are on different continents, even though the actual creatures that inhabit the rivers may be separate species. So this series will take a look at similar ecological zones in different tourist destinations.
As the name of this environment suggests, these are the rough, jagged, irregular shorelines that harbor tidal pools and creatures that can attach to a surface. They are the most dramatic and dynamic seaside habitats.
Rocky Shores Around the World:
Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick, Canada — These mammoth offshore seastacks, with their crown of plants, have become the symbol of the province of New Brunswick.
Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick
Marginal Way, Ogunquit, Maine, USA — Here is a wonderful walking path along the rugged coastline, with many dramatic overlooks and several places to sit and ponder the magnificence of creation.
Marginal Way, Ogunquit
Ruby Beach, Olympic Peninsula, Washington, USA — This solitary beach, with its piles of driftwood, represents the unspoiled Washington coast. It is an integral part of the Olympic National Park.
Ruby Beach, Washington
Big Sur, California, USA — This is one of the most beautiful sections of one of the most scenic of America’s highways.
Big Sur, California
Monterey Peninsula, California, USA — Seventeen Mile Drive is a popular excursion from Monterey. It passes by many palatial residences as well as several of America’s most famous golf courses.
Monterey Peninsula, California
Makapuu Point, Oahu, Hawaii, USA — The rugged, volcanic rocks of this prominence is in direct contrast to the lush, verdant hillsides along much of Hawaii’s coastline.
Makapuu Point, Hawaii
Cliff Walk, Newport, RI, USA — This popular walking path offers dramatic views of the RI coastline as well as views of the backyards of several Newport mansions.
Cliff Walk, Newport
I Faraglioni, Capri, Italy — The beautiful coastline of the Isle of Capri is captured in these prominent offshore seastacks.
I Faraglioni, Capri
Bathsheba Beach, Barbados — This rugged shoreline contrasts dramatically with the calm, expansive beaches typical of the Caribbean Islands.
Bathsheba, Barbados
Gay Head, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, USA — The colorful layers of rock here are perhaps the most beautiful photo op on this interesting island.
Gay Head, Martha's Vineyard
Road to Hana, Maui, Hawaii, USA — This impressive scenic drive along the rugged Maui coastline offers stunning viewpoints and numerous hairpin turns.
Road to Hana, Maui
