Australia’s Best Beaches: Discover Iconic Beaches and Hidden Coastal Gems
Australia’s best beaches deliver everything from world-famous surf breaks and sheltered bays to hidden tropical coves. Whether you want powdery white sands, vibrant coastal towns, or remote natural beauty, this guide will help you find the perfect spot for your next coastal escape.
Discover Australia’s Best Beaches: Your Essential Guide
With over 25,000 kilometres of coastline, Australia is home to some of the world’s most spectacular beaches. This guide is designed for every kind of beachgoer—from surfers chasing the perfect wave to families looking for safe swimming spots, snorkelers exploring marine reserves, and travellers seeking quiet, scenic retreats. Use this list to plan your ultimate coastal getaway, whether you’re road-tripping through states and territories or searching for local hidden gems. Each section includes practical details on access, facilities, safety tips, and nearby attractions so you can easily choose the right beach for your adventure. Dive in and discover the diverse landscapes, vibrant local cultures, and breathtaking natural beauty that make Australia’s beaches truly unforgettable.
Best Beaches in New South Wales: Australia’s Best Beaches Highlights
Explore New South Wales’ stunning coastline, featuring iconic surf beaches, tranquil bays, and family-friendly spots. Whether you’re looking to catch waves or relax by calm waters, these beaches have something for everyone.
Beach
Location / Access
Features & Facilities
Safety & Best Time
Nearby Attractions
Avalon Beach
Northern Beaches; accessible by car and public transport
A laid-back surf beach with consistent waves, perfect for experienced surfers. Features a scenic ocean pool for safe swimming and great cafes nearby for a post-beach meal. The beach has amenities like showers and grassy picnic areas. It’s less crowded than some Sydney hotspots, making it popular with locals.
Lifeguards patrol in summer; surf conditions can vary. Best year-round, but check swell forecasts.
Avalon Village shops, local art galleries, coastal walks along the cliffs.
Bondi Beach
Sydney; easily reached by bus or train
Australia’s most famous urban beach, Bondi boasts a wide sandy stretch, rolling surf, and buzzing atmosphere. It has surf schools, ocean pools, beachside cafes, and plenty of rental facilities. The beachfront is lively with markets, street art, and people-watching spots. It’s perfect for both tourists and locals who want iconic Sydney coastal vibes.
Lifeguards year-round; very busy in summer. Swim between the flags and watch for rips.
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, Bondi Icebergs, local weekend markets.
Hyams Beach
Jervis Bay; parking available nearby
Renowned for having some of the whitest sand in the world, Hyams Beach is a serene spot for swimming and snorkelling. The clear turquoise water is inviting for families and couples alike. Minimal facilities make it feel unspoiled, but there are nearby cafés in Jervis Bay village. Early mornings or off-season visits offer a quieter experience.
No lifeguards; best visited in summer and autumn when waters are warm and calm.
Jervis Bay Marine Park, Booderee National Park with hiking trails and Aboriginal heritage sites.
Main Beach (Byron Bay)
Byron Bay; parking and shuttle services available
Byron’s iconic Main Beach has gentle waves, lifeguard patrolled areas, and easy access to shops and cafes. It’s popular with both swimmers and beginner surfers. Vibrant street culture and buskers add to the relaxed vibe. It's an excellent base for exploring Byron's famous laid-back lifestyle.
Lifeguards in summer; busy surf spot. Best conditions in spring and autumn.
Byron Bay town centre, Cape Byron Lighthouse walk, whale watching in season.
Manly Beach
Sydney; ferry from Circular Quay, buses, parking
A long, popular beach ideal for surfing, swimming, and walking. It features wide promenades, surf schools, shaded picnic lawns, and lively cafes. The ferry ride offers iconic Sydney Harbour views. Manly has a family-friendly feel with a bustling Corso for shopping and dining.
Lifeguards year-round; generally safe with sheltered areas for families. Best in summer and spring.
Manly Corso shopping strip, Shelly Beach with snorkelling and protected marine reserve.
Palm Beach
Northern Beaches; parking and bus access
Known for golden sands and dramatic headland views, Palm Beach is perfect for scenic walks and swimming. It’s the filming location for Home and Away and has a distinctly upmarket, resort-town feel. Facilities include cafes, picnic spots, and walking trails to the lighthouse. Best for a relaxed day trip with coastal luxury.
Lifeguards in summer; generally safe, family-friendly. Best in late spring to early autumn.
Barrenjoey Lighthouse walking trail, Palm Beach cafes and boutiques.
Shelly Beach (Manly)
Manly; walk from Manly Beach or ferry
A sheltered cove popular with snorkellers and swimmers thanks to its calm, clear waters and protected marine reserve. It has picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and gentle sandy entry ideal for kids. The short scenic walkway from Manly makes it easily accessible. Early morning is peaceful before crowds arrive.
No lifeguards; conditions generally calm. Best in summer and autumn for clear water.
Cabbage Tree Bay Marine Reserve, coastal walk back to Manly Beach.
Wategos Beach
Byron Bay; parking nearby, short walk from town
A small, crescent-shaped beach known for its scenic headland views and longboarding-friendly waves. It's quieter than Main Beach, attracting those seeking a more laid-back vibe. Facilities include toilets, BBQs, and parking (which fills fast). Ideal for sunrise walks and spotting dolphins from shore.
Lifeguards in summer; sheltered and safe but check swell. Best in autumn and spring.
Cape Byron Lighthouse, The Pass surfing spot, Byron town centre cafes.
Yamba Main Beach
Yamba; parking and town nearby
A classic Aussie beach with a long sandy stretch, excellent surf breaks, and a historic ocean pool carved into the rock. Family-friendly with grassy picnic areas, nearby cafes, and a relaxed coastal town vibe. Great for beginner to intermediate surfers. Less crowded than Byron but equally charming.
Lifeguards in summer; generally safe but watch for rips. Best in summer and autumn.
Yamba town shops and cafes, Angourie surf point, Clarence River estuary.
Australia’s Best Beaches in the Northern Territory
The Northern Territory’s coastline is rich with long sandy beaches, vibrant markets, and scenic walking trails. Although some beaches here are less crowded and lack lifeguards, they provide wonderful opportunities for swimming, sunset views, and cultural experiences. Mindil Beach, for example, is famous for its lively sunset markets.
Beach
Location / Access
Features & Facilities
Safety & Best Time
Nearby Attractions
Casuarina Beach
Darwin; accessible by car, parking available
A long, quiet beach with sandy stretches perfect for walking at low tide and watching dramatic sunsets. Features shaded walking trails through Casuarina Coastal Reserve. Popular with locals for dog walking and picnics, though facilities are minimal. It feels wild and unspoiled, ideal for peaceful escapes.
No lifeguards; best in the dry season (May–October) when humidity is low. Watch for strong currents and croc/stinger warnings.
Casuarina Coastal Reserve with nature trails and lookouts, nearby cafes in Darwin suburbs.
Mindil Beach
Darwin; parking and public transport nearby
Best known for its iconic sunset markets, Mindil Beach comes alive in the dry season with food stalls, crafts, and live music. The wide sandy beach is perfect for sunset watching and evening picnics. Facilities include BBQs, toilets, and shaded areas. It’s an atmospheric, social spot.
No lifeguards; swimming not recommended in wet season due to jellyfish and crocs. Best for dry-season evenings.
Mindil Sunset Markets, George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, walking tracks to the Esplanade.
South Bank Beach, Brisbane
Explore Queensland’s Coastal Highlights
Queensland boasts some of Australia’s best beaches, from bustling Gold Coast surf breaks to serene island coves. Moreover, whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping surf at Burleigh Heads or tranquil snorkeling at Whitehaven Beach, these coastal gems deliver unforgettable experiences. For example, you can explore vibrant marine life on the Great Barrier Reef one day and unwind at a palm-fringed beach the next.</p> <p>
Beach
Location / Access
Features & Facilities
Safety & Best Time
Nearby Attractions
Burleigh Heads
Gold Coast; parking & public transport
Famous for its point break and laid-back surf vibe. Great walking trails wind through the headland park with ocean views. The beachfront has grassy picnic areas, BBQs, and cool cafes. Popular with surfers and families wanting a classic Gold Coast experience away from high-rises.
Lifeguards year-round; patrolled areas marked. Best in autumn for consistent surf.
Burleigh Head National Park, beachfront markets, trendy local bars.
Coolangatta Beach
Gold Coast; parking & public transport
A relaxed southern Gold Coast spot with golden sand and excellent surfing at nearby Snapper Rocks. Patrolled swimming areas make it family-friendly. Wide promenades, cafes, and surf clubs add to its holiday vibe. It feels more laid-back than central Surfers Paradise.
Lifeguards in summer; safe flagged areas. Best in autumn for surf.
Snapper Rocks, Kirra Beach, Coolangatta dining strip.
Four Mile Beach
Port Douglas; parking & shuttle service
A long, palm-fringed beach perfect for sunrise walks and peaceful swims. Minimal development keeps it serene and natural. Features include bike paths and picnic areas. Great base for exploring the reef or rainforest while enjoying a quieter tropical vibe.
No lifeguards; best in the dry season (May–October). Check stinger nets and warnings in summer.
Great Barrier Reef tours, Daintree Rainforest, Port Douglas Marina.
Mooloolaba Beach
Sunshine Coast; parking, nearby surf clubs
Family-friendly beach with gentle waves and a vibrant esplanade lined with cafes and shops. Patrolled swim zones ensure safety for kids. Plenty of grassy picnic spots and shaded areas make it perfect for all-day visits. Popular with locals and tourists alike.
Lifeguards in summer; safe, gentle swell. Best year-round.
Mooloolaba Esplanade, Sea Life Sunshine Coast Aquarium, coastal walking paths.
Noosa Main Beach
Sunshine Coast; parking & shuttle bus
One of the few north-facing beaches on Australia’s east coast, offering sheltered, gentle surf. Facilities include boardwalks, surf schools, and shaded lawns. It has a stylish but relaxed vibe, ideal for families, couples, and beginner surfers. Boutique shops and dining nearby.
Lifeguards in summer; very popular, arrive early. Best in autumn and spring.
Noosa National Park with scenic coastal walks, Hastings Street shopping and cafes.
Palm Cove
Far North Queensland; accessible by car, resorts nearby
Tranquil, palm-lined beach with soft sand and a laid-back resort town atmosphere. Perfect for swimming in stinger-netted areas during the season. Beachfront dining under the palms is a highlight. Great for honeymooners or slow-paced tropical holidays.
Lifeguards during tourist season; stinger nets in summer. Best in dry season (May–October).
Great Barrier Reef trips, Cairns Esplanade, Daintree excursions.
South Bank Beach
Brisbane; inner-city, public transport nearby
A man-made beach lagoon in the heart of Brisbane with white sand, clear pools, and city skyline views. Patrolled and designed for families with playgrounds and picnic lawns. Great for those wanting a beach day without leaving the city. Cafes, shops, and markets steps away.
Lifeguards in summer; calm, safe. Best year-round.
South Bank Parklands with museums, dining, Wheel of Brisbane.
Surfers Paradise
Gold Coast; parking, public transport
The Gold Coast’s most famous stretch, with wide sandy beaches, consistent surf, and buzzing nightlife. High-rise views line the shore. Lifeguard towers and flagged swim zones ensure safety. Great for people-watching, shopping, and experiencing the energy of the strip.
Lifeguards year-round; can get very crowded. Best autumn/spring for weather.
SkyPoint Observation Deck, Cavill Avenue shops and bars, beachfront markets.
Trinity Beach
Cairns; accessible by car, parking
Family-friendly northern Cairns beach with palm trees, BBQ areas, and laid-back local cafes. The calm, sheltered waters are good for swimming in stinger-netted zones. Less crowded than tourist hubs. Popular for relaxed day trips.
No lifeguards; stinger nets in season. Best in dry season.
Great Barrier Reef tours, Kuranda Railway, Cairns Esplanade.
Whitehaven Beach
Whitsunday Island; boat access only
World-famous for its pure white silica sand and turquoise water. No built facilities keep it pristine and remote. Best for swimming, photography, and scenic walks to Hill Inlet. Tours often include guided walks with panoramic views.
No lifeguards; plan with tour operator. Best in dry season (May–October).
Whitsunday Islands National Park, Hill Inlet Lookout, sailing tours.
South Australia’s Best Beaches
South Australia offers a diverse coastal experience, from vibrant city beaches near Adelaide to rugged cliffs and tranquil bays on Kangaroo Island. These beaches are perfect for beachcombing, snorkeling, and enjoying peaceful natural surroundings. Each spot invites visitors to explore its distinctive character.
Beach
Location / Access
Features & Facilities
Safety & Best Time
Nearby Attractions
Glenelg Beach
Adelaide; tram, parking, cafes nearby
Popular city beach with a long jetty, calm waters for swimming, and plenty of dining options along Jetty Road. The foreshore has lawns, playgrounds, and shaded seating, perfect for families. Summer evenings see lively crowds and sunset views. Easily accessible via the city tram.
Lifeguards during summer; best in warmer months. Very busy on hot days.
Glenelg town centre shops, Beachouse amusement complex, Marina Pier dining.
Second Valley
Fleurieu Peninsula; parking and walking trails
Dramatic coastal scenery with rocky headlands and sheltered turquoise waters. Great for snorkelling around the rocks and exploring small coves. Facilities are minimal but the nearby car park is convenient. Feels quiet and wild—perfect for photographers and adventurers.
No lifeguards; safe for confident snorkellers. Best in calm summer and autumn days.
Second Valley Conservation Park, Rapid Bay jetty dives, scenic drives along the Fleurieu.
Vivonne Bay
Kangaroo Island; parking and picnic facilities
Stunning curved bay with white sand and striking clear blue water. Very peaceful, with limited development—ideal for beachcombing and picnics. Facilities include shaded picnic tables and parking close to the sand. The vibe is raw, natural, and unspoiled.
No lifeguards; best in summer for calm water. Beware strong currents further out.
Kangaroo Island wilderness, Seal Bay Conservation Park, nearby sand dunes for exploring.
Tasmania’s Best Beaches: Australia’s Best Beaches Guide
Tasmania’s beaches feature pristine white sands, unique rock formations, and clear waters, often set against wild natural backdrops. Ideal for hiking, fishing, or surfing, these beaches are less crowded yet offer breathtaking scenery that highlights Tasmania’s rugged charm.
Beach
Location / Access
Features & Facilities
Safety & Best Time
Nearby Attractions
Bay of Fires
East Coast; parking and walking trails
Famed for its white sand beaches and striking orange lichen-covered granite rocks. Long, quiet stretches ideal for walking, fishing, and photography. Minimal facilities keep it pristine. Best visited on sunny days to see the colours pop.
No lifeguards; best in summer/autumn with stable weather. Watch for cold currents.
Mount William National Park, Binalong Bay for local cafes and accommodation.
Boat Harbour Beach
North West Coast; parking and picnic areas
Small, sheltered bay with crystal-clear water and soft white sand. Popular with families for safe swimming and picnicking on grassy areas. There are basic amenities like toilets and shaded spots. The local town has a laid-back, welcoming vibe.
No lifeguards; calm and safe conditions most of the year. Best in summer.
Boat Harbour town cafes, Rocky Cape National Park, scenic coastal drives.
Wineglass Bay
Freycinet National Park; hiking access
Iconic curved beach framed by granite peaks. Reached via a moderately challenging hike offering amazing views from the lookout. No facilities on the beach itself, maintaining its remote, wild feel. Ideal for photographers, hikers, and adventurous travellers.
No lifeguards; best in summer for clear, calm conditions. Prepare for changing weather.
Freycinet National Park hikes, Coles Bay village for food and tours, kayaking in Great Oyster Bay.
Victoria’s Best Beaches in Australia’s Best Beaches Collection
Victoria’s coastline is known for its dramatic cliffs, famous surf breaks, and family-friendly spots. From the world-renowned Bells Beach to the calm waters of Wilsons Promontory, Victorian beaches provide diverse landscapes for beachgoers, surfers, and nature lovers alike.
Beach
Location / Access
Features & Facilities
Safety & Best Time
Nearby Attractions
Bells Beach
Surf Coast; parking and walking trails
Legendary surf beach famous for big swells and the annual Rip Curl Pro. Facilities include viewing platforms for spectators and parking lots close to the action. No swimming areas due to strong surf. The vibe is raw, windswept, and iconic.
No lifeguards; surf competitions only. Best in autumn for big waves.
Great Ocean Road scenic drive, Torquay surf shops and museum.
Norman Bay
Wilsons Promontory; parking and walking trails
Calm bay with shallow, family-friendly waters surrounded by bushland. Popular for camping trips and easy coastal walks. Has basic amenities and parking near the beach. The setting is scenic and natural, perfect for spotting wildlife.
No lifeguards; generally safe. Best in summer when water is warmer.
Wilsons Promontory National Park walks, wildlife encounters with wombats and kangaroos.
Squeaky Beach
Wilsons Promontory; parking and picnic areas
Named for its fine, squeaking quartz sand, this is one of Victoria’s most photogenic beaches. Giant granite boulders create sheltered pockets for sunbathing and exploring. Picnic facilities available but minimal development keeps it pristine.
No lifeguards; generally safe. Best in summer and early autumn.
Wilsons Promontory National Park scenic trails, nearby Tidal River campground.
St Kilda Beach
Melbourne; tram, parking, cafes
Iconic city beach with a long pier, palm-lined foreshore, and lively cafe scene. Great for sunset strolls, watching kite surfers, or visiting the local penguin colony at dusk. Easy tram access from the city. Very popular on hot days.
Lifeguards in summer; safe but busy. Best in summer evenings.
St Kilda Esplanade markets, Luna Park, Fitzroy Street dining.
Western Australia’s Best Beaches
Western Australia’s beaches range from rugged coastlines with strong surf to tranquil bays with calm, clear waters. Whether you’re keen to explore marine parks, swim with stingrays, or relax on long stretches of white sand, WA’s beaches offer spectacular natural beauty and a wide variety of activities.
Beach
Location / Access
Features & Facilities
Safety & Best Time
Nearby Attractions
Back Beach
Back Beach Rd, Albany WA 6330
Rugged, dramatic coastline perfect for surf fishing and long walks along windswept dunes. Features parking and basic access tracks. Less crowded and raw in feel, great for photography and wild coastal experiences.
Moderate surf; no lifeguards. Best in autumn for fishing and cooler weather.
Albany town centre, Torndirrup National Park with The Gap and Natural Bridge.
Cable Beach
Cable Beach Dr, Broome WA 6725
Iconic 22 km white sand beach famous for sunset camel rides. Facilities include showers, toilets, and picnic shelters. Family-friendly areas for safe swimming with lifeguards during peak season. A must-see for stunning outback-meets-ocean sunsets.
Lifeguards in tourist season; safe flagged areas. Best May–October.
Broome town tours, Gantheaume Point dinosaur footprints, local pearl shops.
Cottesloe Beach
Marine Parade, Cottesloe WA 6011
Perth’s most famous city beach with clear water for swimming and snorkelling. Bustling cafe strip right on the sand. Grassy terraces for picnics, art installations in season, and stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean.
Lifeguards in summer; safe flagged areas. Best late spring to autumn.
Perth CBD access, Rottnest Island ferries nearby, Sculpture by the Sea event.
Greens Pool
William Bay Rd, Denmark WA 6333
Sheltered natural pool with calm, crystal-clear water perfect for families. Surrounded by granite boulders creating protected swim zones. Picnic areas and parking close by. Less crowded than big city beaches.
Generally safe; no lifeguards. Best in summer for warm, calm water.
William Bay National Park walks, Elephant Rocks nearby, Denmark town for dining.
Hamelin Bay
Hamelin Bay Rd, Hamelin Bay WA 6288
Famous for friendly stingrays that visit the shallows, making it a unique wildlife experience. Sheltered bay good for swimming and snorkelling. Minimal facilities but parking and picnic areas available. Quiet, relaxed vibe.
Safe for swimming; no lifeguards. Best year-round.
Margaret River wineries, Cape to Cape Track, historic Hamelin Bay jetty ruins.
Lucky Bay
Cape Le Grand National Park, Esperance WA 6450
Iconic for kangaroos lounging on brilliant white sand. Crystal-clear, calm water ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Campground nearby but limited facilities keep it feeling wild. Stunning turquoise water on sunny days.
Generally safe; no lifeguards. Best in summer for calm seas.
Esperance town, Cape Le Grand National Park hikes, Frenchman Peak climb.
Middleton Beach
Middleton Rd, Albany WA 6330
Albany’s main city beach with calm waters for swimming, a long promenade, and cafes nearby. Patrolled in summer for family safety. Picnic lawns and shaded areas perfect for relaxed afternoons. Popular with locals and visitors alike.
Lifeguards in summer; safe flagged areas. Best in summer and early autumn.
Albany town centre, National Anzac Centre, Middleton Beach lagoon.
Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach Rd, Denmark WA 6333
Wide surf beach popular with boardriders and those seeking a dramatic coastal vibe. Features coastal walking trails and lookout points for whale watching. Facilities include parking and basic toilets. Can be wild and windswept in winter.
Surf best in winter; variable swimming conditions. No lifeguards.
Denmark town cafes, William Bay National Park, local wineries.
Scarborough Beach
The Esplanade, Scarborough WA 6019
Perth’s lively surf beach with wide sandy stretches, beach volleyball courts, skate park, and bustling cafes. Great for both sunbathing and active beach sports. Modern facilities and an urban energy attract a young crowd.
Lifeguards in summer; safe flagged areas. Best late spring to autumn.
Perth CBD, Hillarys Boat Harbour, local bars and nightlife.
Smiths Beach
Smiths Beach Rd, Yallingup WA 6282
Strong surf breaks make this a favourite with experienced surfers. Features picnic areas, walking tracks to nearby lookouts, and a raw coastal feel. Less developed with a rugged, natural vibe. Parking is available but fills quickly in season.
Surf strong; best in autumn/winter. No lifeguards.
Yallingup town, Ngilgi Cave, Margaret River wine region.
Turquoise Bay
Ningaloo Marine Park, Cape Range NP WA 6701
Famous for drift snorkelling over vibrant coral reefs right from the shore. Pristine, clear water and white sand. Very minimal development preserves the wild beauty. Ideal for wildlife encounters like turtles and reef sharks.
Calm, clear conditions best in dry season (April–October). No lifeguards.
Exmouth town for supplies and tours, Cape Range National Park hikes.
Trigg Beach
West Coast Dr, Trigg WA 6029
Perth surf hotspot with consistent breaks, a relaxed surf culture, and local cafes across the road. Also offers calmer areas for swimming. Grassy picnic spots and dunes make it scenic. Easy access by car or bike.
Lifeguards in summer; surf can be strong. Best autumn/spring.
Perth city, Scarborough precinct, coastal cycle paths.
Yallingup Beach
Caves Rd, Yallingup WA 6282
Picturesque beach with dramatic headland views and strong surf. Popular for swimming in calmer spots, exploring nearby caves, and relaxing in the surf-town vibe. Local cafes and art galleries nearby.
Lifeguards in summer; surf strong. Best autumn to early summer.
Ngilgi Cave, Yallingup town, Margaret River region.
How to Plan Your Beach Visit
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Check Accessibility
Look for parking, public transport, and walking track details in each listing. Many beaches are easy to reach by car or bus, while remote spots may require 4WD or boat access. -
Safety and Lifeguards
Always check if lifeguards are on duty, especially if swimming with children or in surf-prone areas. Conditions can change quickly, so follow local signage and advice. -
Seasonal Weather
Plan your trip around the best times for each region, from dry season in the tropics to warm summer days in the south. Check for jellyfish or stinger alerts in northern Australia. -
Nearby Facilities
Many beaches feature cafes, shops, picnic areas, or even markets. Use this guide to find beaches with the amenities you want for a stress-free visit.
A Beach for Every Traveller in Australia
From the wild, remote shores of Western Australia to Queensland’s tropical islands and New South Wales’ iconic surf spots, there’s an Australian beach to match every mood and style of travel. Use this guide to find your ideal destination, plan your trip with ease, and make the most of Australia’s spectacular coastal landscapes. For more travel ideas, tips, and detailed guides on where to stay, eat, and explore, check out our other Australian destination articles and start planning your perfect beach adventure today.
Beach Lovers’ Corner: Stories, Tips & Hidden Gems
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