Planning a coastal escape? Australia’s shoreline ranges from squeaky-white silica coves to fiery outback sunsets and world-class surf. Use this guide to shortlist spots that match your style - family paddles, turtle-friendly snorkels, or head-high point breaks - so you really experience the best beaches in Australia (not just the crowded ones).
Quick picks by travel style
- For families: Noosa Main Beach (QLD), Hyams Beach (NSW)
- For snorkelling: Turquoise Bay (WA), Wineglass Bay (TAS – calmer days)
- For sunset & 4WD vibes: Cable Beach (WA), Lucky Bay (WA)
- For surf: Burleigh Heads (QLD), Bells Beach (VIC)
- For photographers: Whitehaven Beach (QLD), Wineglass Bay (TAS)
Top 10 Beaches in Australia
1) Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, QLD
Powder-fine silica sand and electric-blue shallows make Whitehaven a bucket-list classic. Access is via tour boat, seaplane, or private charter. Go early for softer light and fewer day-trippers, and walk to Hill Inlet Lookout for the swirling tidal colours.
2) Turquoise Bay, Ningaloo, WA
One of the easiest “drift snorkels” anywhere: enter up-current, float over coral gardens, exit before the point. Check local advice on currents and avoid windy afternoons. Bring a long-sleeve rash vest and reef-safe sunscreen.
3) Wineglass Bay, Freycinet, TAS
A short but steep hike delivers a famous lookout; continue down to the beach if conditions are calm. Water is crisp year-round - pack a towel robe or light jacket outside of summer. Combine with a Hazards Beach loop for a quieter alternative.
4) Cable Beach, Broome, WA
Twenty-two kilometres of hard-packed sand, camels at sunset, and a sky that turns copper. Tides are huge; plan your walk or 4WD access around low tide and observe local rules for vehicle zones.
5) Noosa Main Beach, QLD
A rare north-facing, patrolled beach that stays gentle most days - ideal for learners and younger kids. The National Park boardwalk connects to Tea Tree and Granite Bay; start early to snag parking and beat the midday heat.
6) Hyams Beach, Jervis Bay, NSW
Renowned for bright white sand and typically clear water. Aim for shoulder seasons or early mornings to avoid peak crowds. Nearby Greenfield, Chinamans, and Murrays provide beautiful Plan B options.
7) Lucky Bay, Esperance, WA
Snow-white sand, turquoise water, and (if you’re fortunate) kangaroos on the beach. The bay is broad and often breezy - bring sand pegs for shade tents. 4WD access may be permitted; check local signage before driving on sand.
8) Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, QLD
A point-break mecca with a laid-back headland vibe. Pack a picnic for the grassy hill, watch the lineup, or stroll the oceanway to Miami. Great mix of cafés, surf culture, and family-friendly facilities.
9) Bells Beach, Surf Coast, VIC
Home to the world’s longest-running professional surfing contest. Powerful swells and dramatic cliffs make this more of a scenic stop for most travellers; safer swimming is often at nearby, patrolled beaches.
10) Bondi Beach, Sydney, NSW
Bondi is iconic for a reason: a beautiful urban crescent with dependable patrols, ocean pools, and a coastal walk to Bronte and Coogee. Visit early on weekends; public transport beats parking stress.
How to choose among the best beaches in Australia
- Season & wind: Northern tropics are summer-wet with stinger seasons; the south warms later but can be windy.
- Shelter vs. swell: Families generally prefer north-facing or protected bays; surfers and snorkellers need specific conditions.
- Access & parking: Island or national-park beaches can require tours, park passes, or longer walks.
- Facilities: Patrolled flags, toilets, shade, and cafés can make or break a family day.
- Crowds: Aim for sunrise, weekdays, and shoulder seasons to experience the best beaches in Australia without the crush.
Safety & local etiquette (read this before you swim)
- Swim between the red–yellow flags on patrolled beaches; rips are common and deceptive.
- Tropical stingers: In parts of QLD/NT, check local signage, wear stinger suits in season, and follow lifeguard advice.
- Sun safety: UV can hit extreme levels; pack UPF rash vests, hats, and reapply SPF50+ every two hours.
- Wildlife & dunes: Observe from a distance and stick to marked paths to protect nesting areas and fragile vegetation.
- 4WD on sand: Deflate, carry recovery gear, know tide tables, and respect exclusion zones.
Practical add-ons that make your beach day better
- Two-bag system: Daypack for valuables and swim gear; soft cooler for water and snacks.
- Microfibre towel + change robe: Light, fast-drying, and wind-blocking for chilly exits.
- Reef-safe sunscreen & long-sleeve rashie: Better for skin and reefs.
- Compact shade: UPF beach shelter with sand pegs; practice setup at home.
- Snorkel basics: Low-volume mask, short fins, and a bright rash vest for visibility.
- Navigation: Download offline maps when heading into parks or remote coasts.
- Accessibility tip: Many councils lend beach wheelchairs/mats - call visitor info ahead of time.
7-day sample route ideas
- East-coast family loop: Bondi → Jervis Bay → Noosa (mix city, calm bays, gentle waves).
- West-coast nature loop: Turquoise Bay → Cable Beach → Lucky Bay (snorkel, outback sunset, silica sands).
- Cool-climate classic: Wineglass Bay plus East Coast Tasmanian beaches, then mainland surf at Bells.
Packing checklist (quick copy-paste)
Rash vest (UPF) • swim set • hat with strap • polarised sunnies • SPF50+ & zinc • microfibre towel • 1L+ water bottle • snacks/cooler • dry bag • wet bag • compact shade • first-aid mini kit • phone pouch • change of clothes • sand pegs (south/windy coasts)
Final word
Australia’s coastline is wildly diverse - choose a region that suits your season and plans, then match the beach to your activity. With smart timing and the right kit, you’ll experience the best beaches in Australia at their absolute peak - and come home with more than just sandy shoes and sunset photos.