A guide to the best nature coffee table books for any nature lover out there
Do you love flipping through glossy photos of gorgeous landscapes or wildlife while sipping your morning coffee?
As a fellow wanderlust-stricken traveler, I know how inspiring it can be to immerse yourself in beautiful images from around the world on your days stuck at home.
These nature coffee table books are a great way to daydream about future adventures or revisit past trips when you need an escape, even for a little while.
An adequately chosen selection of coffee table books and adventure books that spark curiosity will transport you to new places through stunning photography, appealing to armchair travelers and die-hard globetrotters alike.
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Top Nature Coffee Table Books – My top picks
| Category | Name | Image | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best travel coffee table books | National Geographic Stunning Photographs |  | Click here |
| Best surf coffee table books | There and Back: Photographs from the Edge |  | Click here |
| Cheap coffee table books | Seeing Silence: The Beauty of the World’s Most Quiet Places |  | Click here |
| Best ultimate guide | National Geographic Stargazer’s Atlas: The Ultimate Guide to the Night Sky |  | Click here |
| Nature and World Photo Book | Forest |  | Click here |
1. National Geographic Stunning Photographs
by Annie Griffiths
As I flipped through the pages of National Geographic’s stunning photography books, I was transported to different parts of the world with just a glance.
The breathtaking images their renowned photographers captured reflect our planet’s beauty and diversity.
Each photo is a work of art, revealing unique moments frozen in time.
From the majestic landscapes of the Arctic to the vibrant colors of the rainforests, these photographs offer a window into the world we might never see in person.
Whether you’re an avid traveler or simply a photography lover, the National Geographic coffee table books are a must-have addition to your collection.
They reveal our planet’s wonders in a beautiful and insightful way, and it’s a delight to just go through the pages of some of the best travel coffee table books.
2. There and Back: Photographs from the Edge
by Jimmy Chin
I am a lover of nature, that’s no secret, and I recently picked up a copy of “There and Back: Photographs from the Edge” by Jimmy Chin and was blown away by the stunning images captured in death-defying moments.
From climbing the highest peaks on all seven continents to surfing massive waves, Chin’s photographs transport you to the edge of these adventures and inspire awe and wonder.
But what differentiates this book from other nature coffee table books is Chin’s personal storytelling and practical advice for sustainable travel.
He encourages readers to become more conscious and eco-friendly travelers through personal anecdotes and tips.
Using lists and headings also makes navigating and understanding the information presented easier.
If you’re looking for a book that will inspire you to explore nature responsibly, “There and Back: Photographs from the Edge” is one of the best surf coffee table books out there.
3. Seeing Silence: The Beauty of the World’s Most Quiet Places
by Pete McBride
I remember first picking up “Seeing Silence: The Beauty of the World’s Most Quiet Places” by Pete McBride.
As an avid fan of nature photography coffee table books, I was immediately drawn to the cover, showcasing a stunning Atacama Desert image.
With every turn of the page, I transported myself to some of the earth’s most remote corners—places that I had never even heard of, let alone imagined visiting.
McBride’s beautiful photography captures what it means to experience true solitude in nature.
Each image tells a unique story, from the frozen tundras of the Antarctic Peninsula to the bustling rivers of India.
This book is more than just a collection of photographs; it’s a call to action, encouraging readers to become more mindful travelers and protectors of this precious planet we call home.
Want to buy some cheap coffee table books? This book fits this category as well
4. National Geographic Stargazer’s Atlas: The Ultimate Guide to the Night Sky
by National Geographic
Hey there, star enthusiasts! You must check out the National Geographic Stargazer’s Atlas if you’re like me and can’t get enough of the night sky.
Let me tell you, this book is an absolute gem for anyone who loves photography and coffee table books.
The stunning visuals alone are enough to take your breath away, but this guide’s depth of knowledge and information is truly remarkable.
Suppose you’re just starting to learn about constellations or are a seasoned telescope observer.
In that case, the National Geographic Stargazer’s Atlas is the ultimate guide to navigating the night sky and discovering all its hidden treasures.
It’s a must-have for any stargazer or astronomy enthusiast.
5. Forest
by Matt Collins and Roo Lewis
I love getting lost in nature and discovering the wonders hidden within the world around us. That’s why I’m absolutely captivated by this stunning coffee table book, Forest by Matt Collins and Roo Lewis.
With stunning photography and fascinating stories, this enchanting book takes you on a journey through some of the most breathtaking forests in North America, the United Kingdom, and Europe.
From towering firs to striking birch groves, Forest celebrates the beauty of nature and the deep connection we have with the trees that surround us.
If you’re a lover of nature coffee table books, be sure to add this one to your collection.
6. Wise Trees
by Diane Cook
As a lover of nature and photography, I have read my fair share of books on the subject. One book that stands out is Wise Trees by Diane Cook and Len Jenshel.
This stunning color-photography book contains over 50 historical trees worldwide, each with a unique story.
I was captivated by the beauty and wisdom of these ancient trees as I glanced through the pages.
Photographers, environmentalists, history buffs, and nature lovers alike will appreciate the extraordinary stories within Wise Trees’ pages.
If you’re looking for the best nature photography book, this one should be at the top of your list.
7. Blue Ridge Dreaming
by Mike Poggioli
Are you looking for a stunning coffee table book that celebrates the raw, natural beauty of one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States?
The Blue Ridge Dreaming is the one! Written and illustrated by a New York native turned Asheville, North Carolina resident, Mike Poggioli.
Poggioli, who abandoned busy cityscapes for the majestic mountains and glistening rivers of the Blue Ridge Mountains, masterfully conveys the enchantment and drama of this breathtaking region through his trademark gloomy, dreamlike landscapes and unusual orange and blue color scheme.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a fan of coffee table books, or simply looking for a breathtaking new perspective, Blue Ridge Dreaming is the perfect way to transport yourself to the gorgeous terrain of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
8. Elements: In Pursuit of the Wild
by Rucksack Magazine
I just got my hands on the most fantastic coffee table book! It’s called Elements: In Pursuit of the Wild, like nothing I’ve ever seen.
This book is all about nature and adventure, and it’s filled with stunning photographs that take you on a visual journey through some of the most beautiful and untouched places on Earth.
And the best part? It’s a collection of predominantly new material not published anywhere else, so you’re getting a fresh perspective on the world of wildlife coffee table books.
I’m obsessed with this book and can’t wait to show it to all my friends.
9. Yellowstone: A Land of Wild and Wonder
by Christopher Cauble
I recently stumbled upon a breathtaking book on wildlife photography that showcases one of America’s most iconic parks: Yellowstone.
I was transported to a realm where nature reigns supreme and natural beauty abounds as I glanced through the pages of the Yellowstone: A Land of Wild and Wonder.
Christopher Cauble’s pictures are magnificent, capturing Yellowstone’s soul in ways that words cannot.
This book is an immersive retreat into the heart of the park, one that puts you in awe of the natural environment, with sweeping panoramas of snow-capped mountains and close-ups of bison and elk.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates stunning photography or is looking for the best national park coffee table books.
10. National Geographic Rarely Seen: Photographs of the Extraordinary
by National Geographic
Have you seen National Geographic Rarely Seen: Photographs of the Extraordinary?
I do love photography very much and I think this book is the best book on landscape photography I’ve ever come across!
The images are breathtaking and show us an unseen and unheard-of world. Everything in this book is incredible, from 30,000-year-old cave art to volcanic lightning.
Most people will never get to witness these moments, but thanks to these photographers, we can experience it all through their eyes.
Stephen Alvarez’s introduction is the cherry on top of the cake, giving us a sneak peek into the work these photographers do to capture these once-in-a-lifetime moments.
National Geographic Rarely Seen is a must-have for anyone who loves photography and wants to explore the hidden wonders of our world.
11. Let’s Get Lost: the world’s most stunning remote locations
by Finn Beales
If you’re anything like me, you’ve been itching to return and explore the world again.
Luckily, award-winning photographer Finn Beales has curated a stunning collection of remote and awe-inspiring locations in his new book Let’s Get Lost.
With over 200 breathtaking shots of off-grid coasts, rugged mountains, majestic forests, and expansive wildernesses, flipping through this coffee table book is the perfect way to reignite your wanderlust from the comfort of your own home.
As you turn each page, you’ll feel a sense of adventure stirring within you, as if you were taking in the beauty of these incredible locations firsthand.
So pour yourself a cup of coffee and lose yourself in the wonder of Let’s Get Lost, a great book to get you started on coastal coffee table books.
12. The Life & Love of the Sea
by Lewis Blackwell
Oh man, have you ever seen a book with the absolute best animal photography? Look no further than The Life & Love of the Sea by Lewis Blackwell.
I’m not kidding, this book is a visual feast for any nature lover, especially those drawn to the ocean.
The collection of photos is unreal – from coastlines to wave photography to some of the most extraordinary undersea creatures you’ve ever seen.
Blackwell’s writing is just as engaging as the photos he’s curated. It’s the book you can spend hours flipping through, taking in every shot.
If you’re looking for new beach coffee table books to add to your collection, this one is a must-have.
My final thoughts nature coffee table books
Nature coffee table books are aesthetically pleasing and offer a wealth of educational content.
From ornithology to marine science, there is something for everyone. As you explore the incredible range of these books, consider how they can spark conversations and inspire eco-friendly living in your home.
I invite you to learn and think critically about conservation efforts. Take this moment to rethink how we consume, create, and conserve our environment.
And lastly, remember to appreciate the beauty of nature coffee table books, as well as my collection of black-and-white coffee table books.
FAQ about nature coffee table books
What are the best film photography coffee table books?
Some of the best film photography coffee table books are Accidentally Wes Anderson, Film Noir Portraits, or Peter Lindbergh. A Different Vision on Fashion Photography.
What are the best landscape photography coffee table books?
Some of the best landscape photography coffee table books are the Art of Photography by Bruce Barnbaum, the National Geographic Stunning Photographs
by Annie Griffiths, or the Blue Ridge Dreaming by Mike Poggioli
What are the best photography coffee table books of all time?
Some of the best photography coffee table books of all time are the From Above: the Story of Aerial Photography, Light Waves. Abstract Photographs of Reflections from Lake Superior, or the Overview: A New Perspective of Earth.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
