
Australia’s best beaches
Bright blue waters, soft sand and incredible surf are just a few things you’ll enjoy at any one of Australia’s most beautiful beaches.
Beaches are a favourite Australian pastime. Whether it’s a game of cricket, an early-morning surf or a lie in the sunshine, beach culture truly encapsulates the 'no worries' attitude that defines so much of Australia. The beach is a place that exudes calm and relaxation, and with so much coastline to go around, it’s not hard to find a quiet space of sand all to yourself.

There is nothing better than waking up and jumping straight into salty water, going for a surf with the family, grabbing a fantastic coffee at your favourite café.
Beaches near Perth

Kangaroo at Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park, Western Australia
Cottesloe Beach
While many of Western Australia’s most impressive beaches lie in remote locations, you’ll find one of the state’s best beach attractions just a 30-minute drive from Perth. A favourite for both locals and visitors, Cottesloe Beach is divided into three sections. The main area of Cottesloe Beach is perfect for swimming and walking, while North Cottesloe Beach is home to Peter’s Pool - a great spot for snorkelling. South Cottesloe doesn’t have any sand for sunbathers, but it does have amazing waves for local surfers.
Show moreBeaches near Darwin

East Point Reserve, Darwin, Northern Territory

Jess Mauboy
"Running along [Mindil Beach], which is always quiet, and seeing the sun set is my way of knowing I am home."
Mindil Beach
Also near Darwin is Mindil Beach. Although swimming isn’t recommended, the beach is still well worth a visit because of the festivities that happen along its shores during the dry season. At the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, you’ll find food from all over the world as well as an incredible view of the town’s famous sunsets. If you need to cool off, visit Darwin’s Waterfront Precinct. Located just a five-minute walk from the city centre, you’ll find a man-made lagoon for children, a popular wave pool, a saltwater beach and several great eateries.
Show moreBeaches near Adelaide

Gunyah Beach Sand Dunes, Eyre Peninsula, South Australia

Travel tip
McLaren Vale isn't the only Australian wine region with nearby beaches. Western Australia's Margaret River region is home to spectacular stretches of sand, including Smith's Beach and Hamelin Bay.
Sellicks Beach
Near the relaxed wine country of McLaren Vale you’ll find beaches that seem to stretch forever. Spend a morning at Sellicks Beach where you can swim, surf and fish. Or take a drive over to Goolwa Beach to spot dolphins from the sand, cast a line out in the water or dig for cockles with your feet.
Show moreBeaches near Cairns

Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, Queensland
Queensland is home to some of the most iconic beaches in Australia. The Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast and the Great Barrier Reef all create their own unique stretches of sand and surf.
Whitehaven Beach
Perhaps the most famous is Whitehaven Beach, and it’s no mystery why. Located in the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands, the sand seems impossibly white as it swirls together with pristine turquoise water. Visit the beach during a variety of Whitsunday cruises, or stay on Hamilton Island and take the 30-minute boat ride.
Show moreBeaches near Brisbane

Rainbow Beach, Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Noosa
Drive just two hours north from Brisbane and you’ll stumble upon Noosa, a sleepy seaside town with impeccable beaches. Visit Noosa Main Beach for calm waves and beautiful blue water. Sunshine Beach offers 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) of open beach bordered by tropical palm trees.
Show moreBeaches near Sydney

The Pass, Byron Bay, New South Wales
Shelly Beach
Thousands of people soak up Sydney’s beaches every year, but there’s more to explore than the big name beaches of Manly and Bondi. Manly Beach’s lesser-known neighbour, Shelly Beach, is not only great for surfing but also snorkelling and scuba diving. The shallow marine reserve offers sheltered water perfect for families as well. After your swim, take the easy track up the headland for scenic views out to the ocean. Alternatively, grab a bite to eat at The Boathouse Shelly Beach, one of the area’s buzzy cafes.
Show moreBeaches near Canberra

Huskisson Beach, Huskisson, New South Wales
Jervis Bay
Because the ACT is landlocked, it doesn’t have any ocean beaches. However, you don’t have to go far to find a stretch of sand by the sea. Head to the Jervis Bay region of the South Coast, located in New South Wales about 2.5 hours from Canberra, for countless beautiful beaches. One of these is Pretty Beach. With glassy water and lush greenery, its name is well-deserved. You may even spot friendly kangaroos sharing the sand.
Show moreBeaches near Melbourne

Ninety Mile Beach, Gippsland, Victoria

Fun fact
Australia has almost 12,000 beaches along it's 60,000-kilometre (37,282-mile) coastline. If you visited one beach per day, it would take you more than 32 years to see them all.
Brighton Beach
Victoria offers expanses of wilderness to explore, but one of the state’s best beaches is just 30 minutes south of Melbourne. On Brighton Beach, you’ll savour the soft golden sand and calm ocean water, as well as the exceptionally photogenic bathing boxes. Over 80 small, colourful wooden structures line the foreshore, making Brighton Beach one of Australia’s most charming.
Show moreBeaches near Hobart

Swimming, Freycinet, Tasmania
Seven Mile Beach
Tasmania is renowned for its jaw-dropping nature, including some exceptional beaches. Just 20 minutes from Hobart lies Seven Mile Beach, a long crescent of sand dotted with hills, pine forests and luxe resorts. Take a dip on the beach’s western end, or embark on a bushwalk across the headland.
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