The ultimate guide to Australia's beaches

Beaches in Australia conjure up dreamy visions of golden sands, turquoise waters, and that unmistakably Aussie laid-back vibe. The beaches Down Under seem to have been designed specifically for chasing waves, snorkelling in Australia's clear waters, and soaking up the sun with an icy cold Victoria Bitter beer in hand. With more than 12,000 beaches to choose from along the 60,000km (37,282 mi) coastline, travellers are spoiled for choice. From iconic surf spots to off-the-beaten-path wildlife havens, Australia's beaches offer something for the entire spectrum of beach bums. Pack your sunnies, slather on some SPF, and get ready to explore these bucket-list beaches in Australia.

Whitehaven Beach

Welcome to the crown jewel of Australia's beaches. Tucked in the heart of the Whitsundays, Whitehaven Beach is the stuff of postcards. With impossibly white silica sand and electric blue waters, it's no wonder this beach consistently ranks among the best beaches in Australia (and the world). Take a scenic flight, sail its dreamy expanse, or wiggle your toes in the squeaky sand. Whitehaven is the epitome of tropical beach perfection.

See it for yourself on: Best of Australia

Bondi Beach

You haven't experienced Aussie beach culture until you've sprawled out on Bondi Beach. Just a stone's throw from Sydney's buzzy city centre, Bondi is a blend of bronzed bodies, crashing waves, and funky cafés. Surfing in Australia wouldn't be the same without a Bondi session, whether you're a pro carving the waves or a newbie learning to hang 10 for the first time. Don't miss out on the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, a must for ocean views.

See it for yourself on: Sydney Roundtrip: Australia's Greatest Hits

75 Mile Beach

75 Mile Beach on K'gari (formerly known as Fraser Island) is not your typical sunbathing spot — think more rugged adventure than luxe lounging. This epic stretch of sand doubles as a highway for 4WD enthusiasts and even has its own airstrip. Along the way, you'll spot the iconic Maheno shipwreck, the Champagne Pools for a refreshing dip, and an array of Australian wildlife, from dingos to sea eagles. This beach isn't for swimming, unless you fancy a run-in with the local tiger sharks.

See it for yourself on: Brisbane to Cairns Experience: Sand Dunes & the Whitsundays

The Pass, Byron Bay

Byron Bay has long been a hub for boho beach lovers and free spirits, and The Pass is where the magic happens. With its perfect right-hand point break, this beach is a paradise for those seeking the best surfing in Australia. Byron's relaxed vibe is great for catching a wave or kicking back with an organic smoothie bowl and the sound of buskers. The Pass is a quintessential Aussie beach experience.

See it for yourself on: Australia to New Zealand: The Best of the South Pacific

Wineglass Bay

Tasmania's Wineglass Bay is the kind of place that makes you believe in love at first sight. This crescent-shaped beach, tucked away in Freycinet National Park, has some of the clearest waters and softest sands in the country. Hike up to the lookout for a knockout view that will take your breath away, and then head down for a swim or a picnic surrounded by Tasmanian devils and wombats.

Four Mile Beach

Port Douglas' Four Mile Beach is where green rainforest meets the Coral Sea. Stroll along the palm-fringed shore or venture out for some snorkelling in Australia's famed Great Barrier Reef. This beach is an idyllic tropical paradise. Be sure to catch the sunrise; it's a spiritual experience.

See it for yourself on: Journeys: Discover Australia

Tangalooma Beach

Located on Moreton Island just off the coast of southeastern Queensland, Tangalooma Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and marine life. In this haven for snorkelling in Australia, visitors can explore sunken shipwrecks teeming with colourful fish and kaleidoscopic coral reefs.

Burleigh Heads Beach

The Gold Coast is synonymous with surfing in Australia, and Burleigh Heads Beach is a standout. Known for its world-class surf break and laid-back vibe, Burleigh is where surfers, yogis, and foodies converge. Enjoy a coastal walk through Burleigh Head National Park, indulge in the café culture, or kick back and watch the pros carve up the waves.

Bells Beach

If Australia had a hall of fame for surfing, Bells Beach would be front and centre. Located along the Great Ocean Road, this legendary surf spot hosts the annual Rip Curl Pro, drawing surfers from around the globe. Even if you're not a surfer, the dramatic cliffs and roaring waves make for a spectacular sight. Bells Beach is pure surf culture: rugged, raw, and ridiculously beautiful.

See it for yourself on: Best of the South Pacific: Ultimate Australia & New Zealand

Sunshine Beach

Tucked away from the buzz of Noosa, Sunshine Beach offers a more relaxed vibe without skimping on the beauty. With its golden sands and consistent surf, it's a favourite among locals and those in the know. Keep an eye out for migrating whales or take a leisurely walk along the nearby Noosa National Park trails. If you're looking for a beach with soul, this is it.

See it for yourself on: Most of the Coast: Sydney to Cairns

Cable Beach

If you're after a beach with a side of drama, Cable Beach in Broome delivers. Think fiery red cliffs meeting a 22km (13.7 mi) stretch of powdery white sand set against a backdrop of Indian Ocean blues. This beach is famous for its camel rides at sunset, a surreal experience. If you're lucky, you might even spot the bizarre "staircase to the Moon" phenomenon, in which the Moon is reflected on the mudflats at low tide.

Lucky Bay

You'll find Lucky Bay in Western Australia's Cape Le Grand National Park, and the name does not lie. This beach boasts some of the whitest sand in the world, and if that's not enough, it's home to a friendly mob of kangaroos that love to laze on the shore. Snorkelling in Australia doesn't get much better than this, and its crystal-clear waters teem with marine life.

Elephant Cove

Located in Western Australia's William Bay National Park, Elephant Cove is known for its striking rock formations resembling, you guessed it, a herd of elephants. The cove's turquoise waters and granite boulders create a natural playground for swimming and exploring.

Mindil Beach

Darwin's Mindil Beach is a feast for the senses, and not just because of the sunsets over the Timor Sea. The famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets bring the place alive with food stalls, live music, and a fusion of cultures that capture the Northern Territory's spirit. Indulge in laksa or soak in the tropical ambiance. Whatever you choose, Mindil Beach is a unique experience.

Turquoise Bay

Situated in Ningaloo Reef within Cape Range National Park in Western Australia, Turquoise Bay lives up to its name with brilliantly clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It's a top spot for snorkelling in Australia, where you can drift along with the current and spot a range of marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles, reef sharks, and stingrays.

Hyams Beach

Famous for having some of the whitest sand in the world, Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay is an eye-catching escape with calm, clear waters ideal for swimming and kayaking. Protected on either end by Jervis Bay National Park and Booderee National Park, Hyams Beach is about as protected as it gets. These conditions make it a prime spot for swimming, diving, and whale-watching. Birders are drawn to the shores for the flurry of endemic species that fly above the coastline.

Mandalay Beach

Mandalay Beach offers rugged coastal beauty with wide panoramic ocean views and the chance to spot the remnants of the wrecked Mandalay ship when the tide is right. It's a remote and scenic beach that draws photographers and nature enthusiasts. Fishing and whale-watching are two of the most popular activities here. The best time to spot whales is during the winter season between June and September.

Brighton Beach

Known for its iconic colourful bathing boxes, Brighton Beach in Melbourne offers a mix of history, culture, and the coast. Stroll along the foreshore, enjoy a swim, or snap a selfie in front of the colourful beach huts that date from the early 1900s.

See it for yourself on: Iconic Australia: Famous Cities & Red Centre Explorer

Stokes Bay

Carved along the coast of Kangaroo Island, Stokes Bay is a hidden paradise which earned the title of Australia’s best beach in 2023. Accessible through a labyrinth of rocks, the beach opens up to reveal a sheltered lagoon with calm, inviting water. The surrounding rock pools offer fascinating glimpses into marine life, making this a family-friendly favourite.