Australia is famous for its beautiful beaches in Australia, which rank among the best in the world. Soft sand and clear blue seas stretch for miles, inviting travelers to explore. Moreover, every region has its own unique style, from tropical islands to rugged southern shores.
In the north, palm islands welcome you to rest. At the same time, the south has tall cliffs and secret bays. Surfers ride the waves. Swimmers enjoy safe lagoons. Sunseekers also find warm sun almost every day.
Most importantly, the beautiful beaches in Australia give more than views. For example, some beaches bring you close to wildlife. Others share local culture. As a result, each visit feels exciting. Finally, these beaches create memories that stay with you forever.
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When to Visit Australia’s Best Beaches
Australia’s beaches look incredible year-round. However, each season offers something unique:
Summer (Dec–Feb)
Days feel hot and lively. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach parties. Moreover, northern beaches can be steamy—and stinger season is in full swing. Wear a stinger suit if diving or swimming up north.
Autumn (Mar–May)
Temperatures stay warm, but humidity drops. The skies often clear. As a result, it’s ideal for long walks, snorkeling, and whale watching along the southern coasts.
Winter (Jun–Aug)
Winter brings cooler air and quieter beaches. Surf beaches like Bells are at their best. At the same time, northern areas remain warm—great for escape to warmer waters.
Spring (Sep–Nov)
This season brings floral bloom and crystal-clear water. Snorkeling conditions improve. In addition, shoulder season means fewer crowds and better travel deals.
Travel Tip: Aim for autumn (Mar–May) for the best mix of weather, fewer people, and lower prices. Still, any season has its beauty if you match the region to your weather preference.
Whitehaven Beach, Queensland
Whitehaven Beach is the crown jewel of the Whitsundays and often called the most beautiful beach in Australia. Its pure silica sand stays cool underfoot and stretches for seven kilometers along Whitsunday Island, glowing against turquoise water. At Hill Inlet, the tide creates swirling patterns of sand and sea that are breathtaking from the lookout. Visitors can reach the beach by boat, seaplane, or helicopter from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island, making it both accessible and unforgettable.
Location: Whitsunday Island, Queensland (in the heart of the Whitsundays, accessible from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island).
Where to Stay: The Sundays (Hamilton Island) – A 5-star beachfront retreat with a 9.4 Wonderful rating. Elegant suites, ocean views, and upscale amenities—perfect for beach lovers.
Turquoise Bay, Western Australia
Turquoise Bay in Exmouth lives up to its name with water so clear it looks unreal. Located beside Ningaloo Reef, this beach is famous for drift snorkeling, where the current carries you gently across coral gardens alive with tropical fish. The sand is soft and white, and the shallow lagoon makes swimming easy even for beginners. Thus, sea turtles and rays are often spotted close to shore, making Turquoise Bay a must for nature lovers.
Location: Turquoise Bay – Exmouth, Western Australia (inside Cape Range National Park, on the Ningaloo Reef).
Where to Stay: Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef – A 5-star luxury eco-camp rated 9.4 Wonderful, with safari-style tents just steps from Ningaloo Reef and Turquoise Bay.
Cable Beach, Western Australia
Cable Beach stretches for 22 kilometers along the Indian Ocean and is one of Australia’s most iconic sunset spots. Its wide expanse of white sand is perfect for long walks, while the gentle waves invite cooling swims. The beach is also known for camel rides at dusk, where the silhouettes of the animals move slowly across a glowing orange sky. As a result, Cable Beach offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable scenery.
Location: Cable Beach – Broome, Western Australia (in the Kimberley region, famous for camel rides at sunset).
Where to Stay: Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa – A 5-star resort with a 9.1 Superb rating. Famous for its beachfront location, lagoon pools, and spa treatments.
Wineglass Bay, Tasmania
Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park is often called one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The sand forms a perfect crescent, framed by pink granite cliffs and deep blue water. Hike to the lookout for sweeping views, or walk down to the sand for a peaceful swim. Thus, Wineglass Bay offers both a sense of adventure and pure serenity.
Location: Wineglass Bay – Freycinet National Park, Tasmania (on the east coast, framed by pink granite cliffs).
Where to Stay: Freycinet Lodge – A 5-star eco-retreat rated 9.2 Superb, nestled inside Freycinet National Park with waterfront cabins near Wineglass Bay.
Hyams Beach, New South Wales
Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay is famous for its dazzling white sand, often said to be the whitest in the world. The calm, clear water makes it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Families love its safe conditions, while photographers flock to capture the vibrant contrast of sand and sea. So, Hyams Beach is a perfect coastal escape only a few hours from Sydney.
Location: Hyams Beach – Jervis Bay, New South Wales (south of Sydney, known for its pure white sand).
Where to Stay: Paperbark Camp – A 5-star luxury tented retreat rated 9.3 Superb, blending eco-comfort with natural bushland just minutes from Hyams Beach.
Burleigh Heads, Queensland
Burleigh Heads blends natural beauty with laid-back surf culture on the Gold Coast. Golden sand meets rolling waves that attract surfers from around the world. At the same time, nearby Burleigh Head National Park offers shady trails with ocean views. Also, its lively cafés and relaxed vibe make Burleigh one of Queensland’s most loved beach towns.
Location: Burleigh Heads – Gold Coast, Queensland (surfing hub with trails in Burleigh Head National Park).
Where to Stay: The Langham, Gold Coast – A luxury 5-star resort with a 9.1 Superb rating. Guests enjoy beachfront suites, fine dining, and sweeping coastal views near Burleigh.
Vivonne Bay, South Australia
Vivonne Bay on Kangaroo Island feels wild and untouched. The beach stretches in a long curve of soft white sand with turquoise water rolling gently onto shore. Seals and dolphins often appear close to the beach, adding to its charm. Thus, Vivonne Bay offers a mix of beauty and wildlife in one peaceful setting.
Location: Vivonne Bay – Kangaroo Island, South Australia (wild, remote, and rich in wildlife).
Where to Stay: CABN Kangaroo Island – A luxury eco-retreat rated 9.5 Exceptional on Booking.com. Located in Penneshaw, it offers stylish cabins and easy access to Vivonne Bay and other island highlights.
Bells Beach, Victoria
Bells Beach is legendary in the surfing world. Located along the Great Ocean Road, it hosts the annual Rip Curl Pro, one of the most famous surf competitions on the planet. Towering cliffs frame powerful waves that draw surfers year-round. So, Bells Beach is both a sporting icon and a natural wonder.
Location: Bells Beach – Great Ocean Road, Victoria (near Torquay, famous for world-class surf).
Where to Stay: RACV Torquay Resort – A luxury 5-star stay rated 9.0 Superb, offering spacious rooms, golf, and spa facilities close to Bells Beach.
Noosa Main Beach, Queensland
Noosa Main Beach is calm, family-friendly, and welcoming. Its gentle waves are perfect for swimming and beginner surfers, while the golden sand is ideal for relaxing. Shops, restaurants, and walking tracks sit just steps away. Also, the nearby Noosa National Park adds natural beauty with trails and coastal lookouts.
Location: Noosa Main Beach – Noosa, Queensland (family-friendly with calm waves and nearby Noosa National Park).
Where to Stay: Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort – A 5-star resort rated 9.2 Superb, featuring luxury suites, a lagoon pool, and prime access to Noosa Main Beach.
Bay of Fires, Tasmania
The Bay of Fires is a stunning stretch of coastline on Tasmania’s northeast shore. White sand meets bright orange lichen-covered rocks and clear blue water, creating one of Australia’s most striking beach landscapes. The area feels quiet and remote, perfect for walking or photography. As a result, the Bay of Fires is a true natural masterpiece.
Location: Bay of Fires – Northeastern Tasmania (stretching from Binalong Bay north along the coast, known for orange rocks).
Where to Stay: Bay of Fires Great Escape – A highly rated (9.7 Exceptional) beachfront holiday home in Binalong Bay, just minutes from Bay of Fires. It offers sweeping ocean views and luxurious comfort.
Beach Essentials Checklist for Australia
Packing smart makes your trip to the beautiful beaches in Australia easier and safer. Moreover, the right items help you enjoy the sand and sea without worry. Here are a few must-haves for the coast:
- Reef-safe sunscreen – Protect your skin and the reef at the same time.
- Wide-brimmed hat – Essential for long hours under the Aussie sun. In addition, it’s useful for hikes to beach lookouts.
- Rash guard or stinger suit – A must for northern Queensland from November to May. Thus, you’ll swim safely even during stinger season.
- Sandals or water shoes – Ideal for hot sand, coral edges, or rocky spots.
- Reusable water bottle – Staying hydrated is crucial. Also, refillable bottles reduce waste.
- Light towel or sarong – Easy to pack and quick-drying. In addition, they double as a picnic blanket or cover-up.
- Dry bag – Keeps phones, wallets, and cameras safe from sand and spray.
- Snorkel gear – Perfect for reefs like Turquoise Bay or the Whitsundays. So, you won’t miss out on colorful marine life.
- Camera or drone – Many of Australia’s beaches are once-in-a-lifetime photo spots. Finally, a camera ensures those memories last forever.
Travel Tip: The Australian sun is stronger than many travelers expect. Apply sunscreen often, and always carry water. As a result, small items like these can make your beach day more enjoyable and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions about Australia’s Beaches
What is the best time to visit the beaches in Australia?
The best months are March to May and September to November. During these seasons, the weather is warm, crowds are smaller, and the water is clear.
Can you swim at all beaches in Australia?
Yes, but safety is important. Always swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards patrol. In addition, check for signs about rips, jellyfish, or sharks before entering the water.
Which beaches are best for surfing?
Bells Beach in Victoria and Burleigh Heads in Queensland are top surfing spots. At the same time, beginners will find smaller, gentler waves at Noosa Main Beach.
Are there family-friendly beaches in Australia?
Yes, Noosa Main Beach, Hyams Beach, and Cable Beach all have calm water and safe swimming conditions. Moreover, these beaches often have facilities close by.
Do I need to worry about stinger season?
In northern Queensland, stinger season runs from November to May. Thus, swimmers should wear stinger suits during these months for protection.
Travel Tip: If you’re short on time, combine beaches in the same region. For example, you can explore both Whitehaven Beach and Airlie Beach on the same trip.
Final Thoughts on Australia’s Beaches
Australia’s coastline is filled with natural wonders, from remote coves to world-famous sands. Each beach has its own personality, offering beauty, adventure, and relaxation. Moreover, nearby luxury resorts ensure your stay matches the quality of the destination.
Most importantly, the beautiful beaches in Australia deliver unforgettable experiences. Whether you surf, swim, or simply watch the sunset, the coast leaves lasting memories. Finally, with so many beaches to choose from, every visit brings a new reason to fall in love with Australia.
Related Posts
The Most Beautiful Beaches of Queensland Australia- The Most Beautiful Beaches of Victoria Australia
- The Most Beautiful Beaches of Kangaroo Island Australia
- Australia’s Coral Coast: Explore the Most Beautiful Beaches
- The Best Burleigh Heads Guide
- Australia’s Northwestern Coast: The Most Beautiful Beaches of Exmouth
Pingback: Andria P
I’m so glad you found the guide helpful! If you want a balance of calm water, wildlife, and amazing snorkeling without the larger crowds, Turquoise Bay in Western Australia is a fantastic choice. The drift snorkeling is easy, the sea life is incredible, and the beach feels peaceful compared to the east-coast hotspots. Another great option is Vivonne Bay on Kangaroo Island, where you can enjoy soft sand, turquoise water, and the chance to spot seals and dolphins. If you tell me when you’re thinking of traveling, I can suggest the best region for that time of year too!
Pingback: Jim H
Great question — Australia really does spoil us with options! For a one-week trip that blends calm beaches, stunning views, and easy snorkeling, I usually recommend starting in Queensland. You can pair Whitehaven Beach with the Whitsundays and then add spots around Airlie Beach or the Great Barrier Reef for simple, beautiful snorkel days. Western Australia and Tasmania are incredible too, but Queensland gives you the smoothest mix of scenery and relaxed swimming without long travel times. If you tell me the vibe you prefer — quiet, adventurous, or a little luxurious — I can help you map out the perfect one-week beach itinerary!
Wow, what lovely beaches. I want to visit Austrailia again (last time I visited just to see my daughter who had been air flighted out of Papua New Guinea very ill – so I didn’t do any tourism stuff). I want to go back and see some of these beautiful beaches one day when we can meet my missionary daughter’s famiily on vacation there. Which beach is less busy? – shirley
Hi Shirley and thank you for visiting the Top Beaches in Australia. When I think of the least busiest beaches, I would have to say the more secluded, the less busy. A few that come to mind are Bailey Beach in Perth, Shark Beach in Sydney, Kitty Miller Beach in Phillip Island, and Friendly Beaches of Tasmania. Hope this helps and thanks again for stopping by.
Funny thing is I was thinking about planning a vacation to Australia one day and I happen upon this post lol. I honestly couldn’t pick a favorite because they all look incredibly beautiful. I had no idea Australia had that many beaches though. Is the water really that blue? Because that’s incredible!
Yes, Jasmere, the water is that blue. It is amazing and the Top beaches in Australia is just a sampling of all the wonderful beaches there. You would really have a wonderful time. Thanks for visiting BeachTravelDestinations.com
Your review has brought back so many wonderful memories. I have lived most of my life in Australia and seen nearly all of these beaches and you have represented them beautifully.
I don’t know if you have covered Mission Beach near Dunk island. It is magic.
Thank you so much Coucka, I will take a look at Mission Beach and add it to the list! You are one lucky person to live in such a beautiful country 🙂
I really want to go see these beaches. I recently went to the Bahamas and it was amazing!! But Australia will probably be my next destination. I have had it on my bucket list, and you just put it at the top for me!
You will find Patrick, that the hotel and other expenses are going to be somewhat more reasonable than the Bahamas. I believe that it is just as beautiful and sooo many beaches and places to choose from. Makes for a hard decision. Thanks for visit the top beaches in Australia.
Beautiful photographs of beaches in Autsralia, I never realized the beaches in Austrailia were so beautiful until now. My dream vacation is to visit a place with beautiful beaches one day, I will keep Austrailia in mind when the time comes I can make my dream come true.
So many beaches to choose from, if you was going to these beaches which one would you recommend to visit first?
Great! You won’t be disappointed 🙂
I am all about travel, and nothing beats laying out in the sun at a warm beach and listening to the ocean waves. I have always wanted to go to Australia, so I was glad to come across your post about the top beaches in Australia. Whitehaven beach seems to have a Destin or Ft. Lauderdale type Vibe with the Hotel lined beaches. The fact that is boasts having some of the whitest sands on earth makes it even more appealing.If I ever get the chance to go to Australia I will be seeking out Whitehaven. Thanks for sharing.
You are welcome Ciandress. Yes, you are right about that beach, and Destin and Ft. Lauderdale, being similar are wonderful too!
Wow, the facts in the beginning of your text were definitely interesting. I didn’t know that there are over 11 thousand beaches in Australia and the huge number of the population is living on the coast.
Here in Finland, on the other side of the world, there are some beaches but not so much as in Australia. I believe that visiting in Australia would be fun. But I have heard that Australia is as expensive as Europe. So, the other countries in Asia would be much cheaper to visit. What do you think?
Yes, you are right…Australia, along with New Zealand are expensive places to travel to and everything while you are there. I guess that is the only downside. Thanks for visiting!
Those photos make me want to hop on a plane! I have been to New Zealand but not Australia and would love to go one day. My husband is a huge fan of the beach and would love to go also. If only tickets were not so expensive coming from the US! One day we will get there though! Thank you for providing this cool information!
You are welcome Ilyssa 🙂 Hope you can make it one day, and yes seems tickets anywhere anymore are expensive!
Hi Leahrae, I am from Australia and quite partial to a good beach as we have so many here, as you know!
I am glad you included Turquoise Bay in this list as these remote beaches often get overlooked in favour of the city beaches. I much prefer the remote. I live pretty close to Whitehaven Beach actually so I get to go there fairly often and it is a very special place indeed.
Great list, Kris
I’m glad you approve Kris and the remote beaches are ALWAYS better 🙂 Thanks for visiting my site!
Your site’s starting to make me really jealous of the fact that you live in Australia! It looks awesome. Couldn’t imagine more beautiful beaches anywhere in the world.
I’ve always wanted to learn to surf. Do you know of any really good surfing instructors once I am able to make my way down there?
Personally I don’t, but you will find them in abundance. I am doing a post next for the surfers or, those who want to learn 🙂 Thanks for looking Alec!
Wow, looking at all these photos of beautiful beaches, makes me dream of just swimming in the sea again. The beaches here, where I come from, have really rough sand and salty water.
If I am traveling to Australia from south East Asia, which beach do you recommend me going to? I am considering the travel distance, and travel costs. Wouldn’t want to travel a great distance from the airport to the beach, after a long flight.
Thanks!
Most of Australia’s cities and towns are situated on the coast, within a few kilometers of the ocean so you will not have to travel far from the city to get to the beach. And they have over 11,000 beaches! More than anywhere. I would probably head to Sydney…lost of choices and lots of things to do 🙂
Can you help me locate which beach would be the best for a charter fishing trip? I’m hoping to book a trip in the next couple of weeks and am having trouble deciding on which company to go through. They all look good on their websites ya know. Thanks for the help.
Where will you be going? If you can tell me the city or area, I would be glad to help! You can drop me an email, or reply to this comment. Thank you 🙂
I have always wanted to travel to Australia. I mainly want to go to Sydney and see some kangaroos in the wild. White haven beach sounds like an amazing place though. I am so used to nasty lake water in ky I wouldn’t know what to do with crystal clear ocean water.
Nothing better than crystal clear blue/green water! Especially when it’s in Australia. I think anyone going for the first time should start out with Sydney. Thanks for ready Kevin!
Awww makes me want to go on holiday, it’s a 24-hour flight for me puts me off a little but i dream of Australia.
I like really fine sand beaches with really calm waves, what do you think would be the best place to visit once I pluck the courage (and finance)
What’s your favourite beach
I would probably go to Sydney and head to Shelly or Manly beach 🙂 Sydney also has a lot to offer with loads of things to do and see. Thanks for visiting Steven!