Australia’s Best Beaches: Discover Iconic Beaches and Hidden Coastal Gems

Best Beaches in Australia

With over 25,000 kilometres of coastline, Australia boasts some of the most spectacular and diverse beaches on the planet. From the shimmering turquoise waters and powdery white sands of tropical paradises to rugged cliffs and surf-perfect waves that challenge even the most experienced surfers, each beach offers its own unique charm and character. Whether you seek tranquil bays ideal for swimming and relaxing or wild, untamed shores for adventure and exploration, Australia’s coastline has something to captivate every kind of beach lover.

This carefully curated list of the best beaches—organised by state—showcases the remarkable variety found along Australia’s vast seaboard. It highlights not only the breathtaking natural beauty of these destinations but also what makes each spot truly special, from world-class surfing breaks and vibrant marine ecosystems to family-friendly shores and secluded hideaways. Whether you’re a surfer chasing the perfect wave, a swimmer seeking crystal-clear waters, a photographer looking for stunning coastal landscapes, or simply a beachcomber yearning for a peaceful escape, there’s a perfect stretch of sand waiting for you somewhere on Australia’s magnificent coastline.

Best Beaches in New South Wales

Beach	Location / Notes
Bondi Beach	Sydney – Iconic surf beach known for its consistent waves, vibrant culture, and historical significance.
Hyams Beach	Jervis Bay – Renowned for its powdery white sand, often cited as the whitest in the world, and crystal-clear waters.
Main Beach	Byron Bay – Famous for great surfing conditions and vibrant beachside cafes and shops.
Manly Beach	Sydney – Combines surfing opportunities with a relaxed atmosphere, accessible via a scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay.
The Basin	Rottnest Island – Popular for its clear waters, snorkeling opportunities, and proximity to the island’s main settlement.
Wategos Beach	Byron Bay – Sheltered cove ideal for swimming and longboarding, with scenic views of Cape Byron Lighthouse.
Yamba Beach	Yamba – Known for its long sandy stretch, excellent surf breaks, and laid-back coastal town vibe.

Best Beaches in the Northern Territory

Beach	Location/Notes
Mindil Beach	Darwin – Known for its vibrant sunset markets, offering a mix of food stalls, crafts, and live entertainment against the backdrop of stunning sunsets.

Best Beaches in Queensland

Beach	Location/Notes
Whitehaven Beach	Whitsunday Island – Celebrated for its 7 km stretch of 98% pure silica sand, giving it a brilliant white color, and turquoise waters.
Burleigh Heads	Gold Coast – Offers a blend of surf culture and natural beauty, with a headland providing panoramic views and walking trails.
Four Mile Beach	Port Douglas – Known for its expansive sandy shoreline, swaying palm trees, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef.
Noosa Main Beach	Sunshine Coast – Family-friendly beach with gentle waves, adjacent to a bustling boardwalk and national park trails.

Best Beaches in South Australia

Beach	Location/Notes
Vivonne Bay	Kangaroo Island – Praised for its clear waters and pristine sands, ideal for picnics and beachcombing.
Second Valley	Fleurieu Peninsula – Offers dramatic cliffs and calm waters, making it a picturesque spot for photography and snorkeling.

Best Beaches in Tasmania

Beach	Location/Notes
Wineglass Bay	Freycinet National Park – Features a perfectly curved white sand beach, accessible via a hike offering panoramic views of the bay.
Bay of Fires	East Coast – Noted for its white beaches, blue waters, and orange-hued granite rocks; offers excellent opportunities for photography, fishing, and surfing.

Best Beaches in Victoria

Beach	Location/Notes
Bells Beach	Surf Coast – World-renowned surf break, hosting the annual Rip Curl Pro surfing competition, attracting surfers globally.
Squeaky Beach	Wilsons Promontory – Named for its fine, white quartz sand that squeaks underfoot, set against striking granite boulders.
Norman Bay	Wilsons Promontory – Offers calm waters suitable for families, surrounded by natural bushland and scenic walking tracks.

Best Beaches in Western Australia

Beach	Location/Notes
Cable Beach	Broome – Famous for its 22 km of white sand, camel rides at sunset, and the unique red cliffs of Gantheaume Point.
Cottesloe Beach	Perth – Popular for its clear waters, beachside cafes, and vibrant sunsets, making it a favorite among locals and tourists.
Lucky Bay	Cape Le Grand National Park – Known for its white sands and the frequent presence of kangaroos lounging on the beach.
Turquoise Bay	Ningaloo Reef – Offers excellent snorkeling opportunities with vibrant coral reefs just meters from the shore.

A Beach for Every Traveller

No matter where your travels take you in Australia, you’ll find a beach that captures your heart. From the wild and remote shores of Western Australia to the family-friendly coves of New South Wales and the tropical jewels of Queensland, each beach tells its own story. Whether you’re chasing waves, wildlife, sunsets, or serenity, these coastal gems offer more than just a place to swim—they’re an invitation to experience Australia’s natural beauty at its finest.

Beach Lovers’ Corner: Stories, Tips & Hidden Gems

Where to See Kangaroos in Australia: A Sunrise Encounter at Cape Hillsborough

Animal Experiences, Australia’s Best Beaches, Australian Mammals, Queensland, Road Trip

Kangaroos are one of Australia’s most iconic animals, and seeing them in their natural habitat is a truly memorable experience. Whether watching them bound across open plains, lounge on beaches, or hop through national parks, Australia offers many fantastic spots to encounter kangaroos up close. This guide will help you discover the best places to see kangaroos in Australia, with tips on when and where to visit, and what to expect.