Australia is home to some of the most stunning beaches on the planet. With over 25,000 kilometres of coastline, the country offers a rich variety of golden shores, turquoise waters, and peaceful coves that appeal to beach lovers of all kinds.
Whether you're in the mood for an adrenaline-packed surfing day or a tranquil escape into nature, the best beaches in Australia promise unforgettable memories. From bustling city beaches to remote natural gems, each destination brings its unique charm.
Australia's friendly weather, diverse marine life, and scenic surroundings make beach travel a top priority for both locals and international visitors. Here, we explore the top 15 best beaches in Australia, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and soul-refreshing relaxation.
Top 15 Best Beaches in Australia
| Beach Name | State/Territory | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Whitehaven Beach | Queensland | Silica white sand, turquoise water, Hill Inlet views, boat/seaplane access |
| Bondi Beach | New South Wales | Surfing, Bondi Icebergs pool, coastal walk, vibrant urban atmosphere |
| Cable Beach | Western Australia | Camel rides, 22km of sand, sunsets, 4WD beach driving |
| Wineglass Bay | Tasmania | Pink granite peaks, crescent bay, nature hikes, wildlife spotting |
| Manly Beach | New South Wales | Surf schools, ferry access, Corso walkway, family-friendly vibe |
| Noosa Main Beach | Queensland | Gentle surf, boutique cafes, Hastings Street, eco-conscious culture |
| Burleigh Heads | Queensland | Surf culture, coastal walks, weekend markets, lush headland |
| Bells Beach | Victoria | Surf championships, dramatic cliffs, surf history |
| 75 Mile Beach | Queensland | Fraser Island, 4WD highway, Eli Creek, Maheno Shipwreck |
| Turquoise Bay | Western Australia | Ningaloo Reef snorkelling, drift snorkel, marine life |
| Hyams Beach | New South Wales | Whitest sand, peaceful setting, marine park, nearby bushwalks |
| Lucky Bay | Western Australia | Kangaroos on the sand, turquoise water, remote and pristine |
| Palm Cove | Queensland | Palm-lined beach, luxury resorts, reef & rainforest gateway |
| Cottesloe Beach | Western Australia | Indian Ocean sunsets, swimming, grassy picnic areas, family-friendly |
| Four Mile Beach | Queensland | Long sandy stretch, sunrise walks, close to reef and rainforest |
1. Whitehaven Beach, QLD
Whitehaven Beach lies in the heart of the Whitsundays and is often hailed as the crown jewel of the best beaches in Australia. The beach stretches over seven kilometres and is world-famous for its brilliant white silica sand that feels soft and cool underfoot.
The waters here are bright turquoise, creating a stunning contrast with the sand. Hill Inlet at the northern end is known for swirling tidal patterns perfect for panoramic photos. Accessible only by boat, helicopter, or seaplane, Whitehaven Beach remains uncrowded and peaceful.
Swimming here feels surreal due to the crystal clarity. It’s also part of a national park, which means the beach is protected and stays clean. Whether you're on a romantic getaway or a solo escape, Whitehaven is a must-see. It’s remote, serene, and naturally spectacular, often ranked among the best beaches in Australia.
2. Bondi Beach, NSW
Bondi Beach is one of the best beaches in Australia and perhaps the most iconic. Just minutes from Sydney’s CBD, it boasts golden sands, rolling surf, and a buzzing lifestyle. Surfers ride the waves year-round, while swimmers enjoy the flagged zones under the watch of lifeguards.
Bondi also hosts various surf events and beach festivals, adding to its lively charm. A major highlight is the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, offering cliffside views, ocean pools, and cosy cafes. The Bondi Icebergs pool, an oceanfront swimming club is a popular photo stop.
Surrounding the beach are trendy shops, restaurants, and health-conscious cafes that reflect Sydney’s beach culture. From yoga on the grass to Sunday markets, Bondi combines energy, beauty, and accessibility all in one, making it a standout among the best beaches in Australia.
3. Cable Beach, WA
Located in Broome, Western Australia, Cable Beach is one of the best beaches in Australia thanks to its pristine stretch of white sand, camel rides, and stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean. The beach spans 22 kilometres, offering visitors ample space and solitude.
Camel rides along the shore during golden hour have become an iconic Australian experience. The beach is vehicle-friendly too, with 4WDs permitted on designated sections. Cable Beach is safe for swimming in the dry season, although marine stingers can be a concern in summer.
Visitors love the contrast of red cliffs, bright blue water, and soft sand. It’s also a great spot to watch humpback whale migrations between June and September. If you're looking for romance, space, and unforgettable views, Cable Beach is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Australia.
4. Wineglass Bay, TAS
Wineglass Bay in Tasmania’s Freycinet National Park is a stunning example of the best beaches in Australia. Its crescent shape, pink granite surroundings, and vibrant waters make it visually iconic. The beach is framed by untouched wilderness, creating a peaceful escape.
Reaching it requires a hike through the national park, but the panoramic views from the lookout make it worth every step. The waters are calm and clean, perfect for a quiet swim or kayaking. It’s not commercialised there are no shops, only the sound of waves and wildlife.
This makes Wineglass Bay a haven for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts. Dolphins, sea birds, and occasionally whales can be seen offshore. With its raw natural appeal, Wineglass Bay deserves its reputation as one of the best beaches in Australia.
5. Manly Beach, NSW
Manly Beach is a vibrant coastal retreat and a key player among the best beaches in Australia. Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Sydney, it blends beach life with urban energy. Its golden sands and moderate surf attract both beginners and seasoned surfers.
Manly’s pedestrian-friendly Corso links the beach to shops, cafes, and restaurants. Activities like paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and snorkelling add to its appeal. Nearby Shelly Beach and North Head Sanctuary offer nature trails and lookout points.
Families, couples, and solo travellers find Manly an ideal day trip or holiday destination. Its accessibility, scenic beauty, and lively community ensure it stands tall among the best beaches in Australia.
6. Noosa Main Beach, QLD
Located on the Sunshine Coast, Noosa Main Beach combines luxury and nature, earning its place among the best beaches in Australia. One of the few north-facing beaches, it’s shielded from strong winds, resulting in calm waters ideal for families.
The beach is patrolled year-round, making it safe and welcoming. Nearby Hastings Street is lined with boutiques, cafes, and fine dining. This allows visitors to transition from swimming to upscale experiences seamlessly.
The adjacent Noosa National Park features coastal trails with scenic lookouts and wildlife like koalas and dolphins. Noosa’s eco-conscious culture, scenic beauty, and relaxed luxury make it a standout in any list of the best beaches in Australia.
7. Burleigh Heads, QLD
Burleigh Heads on the Gold Coast is a gem among the best beaches in Australia. It’s known for consistent surf, a laid-back atmosphere, and its iconic headland. The beach attracts surfers and sunbathers alike.
Burleigh Head National Park adds a lush backdrop to the coastline, offering hiking paths and ocean views. The beachfront park is perfect for picnics and weekend yoga. Local cafes and food markets provide community charm.
Whether you’re riding waves or watching them, Burleigh offers balance between nature and culture. Its friendly vibe and accessible amenities help it hold its spot as one of the best beaches in Australia.
8. Bells Beach, VIC
Located along Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, Bells Beach is a surfer’s dream and firmly holds its place among the best beaches in Australia. Known globally for the Rip Curl Pro, it features powerful waves and an energetic surf culture.
Towering cliffs surround the beach, giving it a rugged and wild character. It’s not ideal for casual swimming, but it’s excellent for surf watching and photography. Viewing platforms offer panoramic ocean views.
Nature and thrill coexist here. Walks along the coast provide solitude, while the history of surf events inspires awe. Bells Beach represents the adventurous spirit of the best beaches in Australia.
9. 75 Mile Beach, QLD
On Fraser Island, 75 Mile Beach is among the most adventurous entries on the list of best beaches in Australia. It doubles as a sand highway for 4WDs and features natural wonders like Eli Creek and the Maheno Shipwreck.
Swimming is discouraged due to riptides and sharks, but exploration is key. The beach also serves as a landing strip for small aircraft. Coloured sand cliffs known as The Pinnacles provide stunning photography spots.
Those seeking thrill and scenery will love 75 Mile Beach. It’s ideal for beach driving, inland lake visits, and coastal camping. It offers a different kind of beach experience raw, wild, and unforgettable.
10. Turquoise Bay, WA
Turquoise Bay in Cape Range National Park is a snorkeller’s paradise and ranks high among the best beaches in Australia. Located near Exmouth, it features warm, shallow waters beside the Ningaloo Reef.
The famous drift snorkel allows swimmers to float over colourful coral gardens. With minimal currents and abundant marine life, it’s ideal for beginners and seasoned snorkellers alike.
Beyond snorkelling, the beach provides quiet, uncrowded sands and clear skies. The natural setting is pristine, with little commercial interference. For a peaceful retreat into nature, Turquoise Bay is unmatched among the best beaches in Australia.
11. Hyams Beach, NSW
Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay is often said to have the whitest sand in the world and once you arrive, it’s easy to believe. The fine, powdery sand glows under the Australian sun, making it a magnet for nature lovers and photographers. The beach is calm and uncrowded, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply sunbathing in peace.
It sits within a marine park, so the waters are teeming with sea life, including dolphins and tropical fish. With nearby bushwalks in Booderee National Park and minimal commercial development, Hyams Beach feels like a well-kept secret. Ideal for couples, families, and solo travellers seeking serenity, it’s one of the most beautiful and peaceful best beaches in Australia.
12. Lucky Bay, WA
Lucky Bay, near Esperance in Western Australia, is a dream for beachgoers seeking nature, beauty, and wildlife. It’s famous for its impossibly white sand and the kangaroos that casually rest along the shore making for unique and memorable photo opportunities.
The turquoise water is great for swimming and snorkelling, and the beach is part of Cape Le Grand National Park, a haven for hiking and stargazing. With camping facilities nearby, you can fall asleep to the sound of waves.
The isolation enhances its magic; there’s little commercial noise, just the pure elements of sand, sea, and sky. For those in search of an unspoiled natural retreat, Lucky Bay easily ranks among the best beaches in Australia.
13. Palm Cove, QLD
Palm Cove is a peaceful coastal village north of Cairns, offering a balance of tropical charm and modern comfort. The beach is lined with swaying palm trees, giving it postcard-perfect appeal. Its tranquil waters make it great for gentle swimming and paddleboarding. The town is home to luxury resorts, boutique spas, and open-air restaurants that serve fresh seafood just steps from the sand.
Beyond relaxation, Palm Cove is a gateway to two World Heritage sites the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest making it an excellent base for eco-tourism. Whether you're indulging in a spa day or adventuring underwater, Palm Cove delivers a refined, serene experience. It’s easily one of the best beaches in Australia for couples and families.
14. Cottesloe Beach, WA
Cottesloe Beach, just a short drive from Perth, is one of Western Australia’s most popular city beaches. Known for its clean, soft sand and incredible Indian Ocean sunsets, it’s a favourite for swimmers, snorkellers, and sunbathers alike.
The water here is clear and inviting, and the gentle waves are ideal for casual swims. A broad grassy area shaded by Norfolk pines sits behind the beach, perfect for picnics and gatherings. Cafes, pubs, and ice cream shops nearby add to the laid-back beach culture.
Whether you’re watching surfers, sipping coffee, or capturing sunset shots, Cottesloe delivers a relaxed and scenic day out. With its charm and accessibility, it earns a spot on any list of the best beaches in Australia.
15. Four Mile Beach, QLD
Four Mile Beach in Port Douglas is a tropical paradise stretching along the Coral Sea for you, guessed it, four uninterrupted miles. Framed by palm trees and low-lying mountains, it offers stunning sunrises and long, meditative walks. The beach is wide and flat, making it perfect for jogging, cycling, or playing beach games.
The waters are generally calm, safe for swimming during patrolled seasons, and ideal for families and couples alike. Because it rarely feels crowded, even during peak season, it offers a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots. Located close to the Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef, Four Mile Beach is more than just scenic, it’s strategically placed. It definitely deserves recognition among the best beaches in Australia.
Final Words
Australia’s beaches offer more than just scenic beauty they create unforgettable experiences. Whether you're travelling solo, with a partner, or the whole family, the best beaches in Australia deliver a magical blend of sun, surf, and serenity. From the pristine shores of Whitehaven Beach to the surfing waves of Bells Beach, every coastline tells its own story.
These beaches don’t just represent a destination. They embody the lifestyle, culture, and natural elegance of Australia. You can chase waves, hike through national parks, snorkel with marine life, or simply unwind with your feet in the sand. For every type of traveller adventurer, nature lover, or chill seeker there’s a beach waiting.
When you plan your next coastal trip, use this list to find the perfect spot. Pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and get ready to explore some of the most breathtaking stretches of sand on Earth. The coastlines of Australia await you, peaceful, powerful, and positively unforgettable.
Also Read: Best Things to Do in Australia in May 2025
FAQs
What is the best beach in Australia for photography and scenic views?
Whitehaven Beach in Queensland often tops the list. Its white silica sand and swirling turquoise waters seen from Hill Inlet create picture-perfect moments. It's ideal for drone shots and nature photography lovers.
Are Australia’s beaches safe for swimming and surfing?
Yes, most are safe especially patrolled beaches like Bondi, Manly, and Noosa Main Beach. However, always swim between the red and yellow flags. Some remote beaches may have strong currents or stingers, so local signs should be followed.
Where can I see kangaroos on the beach in Australia?
Lucky Bay in Western Australia is your best bet. Kangaroos are known to lounge freely on the sand, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, offering a truly unique beach wildlife experience.
Which beach in Australia is best for snorkelling?
Turquoise Bay in Western Australia, near the Ningaloo Reef, is perfect. You can snorkel right from the shore and enjoy vibrant coral, tropical fish, and even turtles. It's quiet, clear, and ideal for marine exploration.
What’s the best beach for families in Australia?
Noosa Main Beach in Queensland is a favourite for families. It has gentle waves, lifeguards on duty, nearby cafes, and easy access to the town, making it perfect for a safe and relaxing family holiday.
Are there beaches in Australia that are close to big cities?
Absolutely! Bondi Beach and Manly Beach are both easily accessible from Sydney. Cottesloe Beach is just minutes from Perth. These urban beaches offer great surf, vibrant local culture, and modern facilities.
