Planning a seaside getaway? You’ve come to the right place, as the very best beaches in Australia are some of the most beautiful in the world. Whether you’re travelling as a family, in a couple or solo, these are the beaches that will win you over with crashing waves and soft sand.
This fun country has the perfect stretch of sand for everyone: couples looking for a romantic bay, families on a day out and watersports thrill-seekers…
The Best Beaches in Australia
1. Whitehaven Beach – Whitsunday Islands
Whitehaven Beach stretches over 7km and boasts brilliant white silica sand that is among the purest in the world. It’s right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, and is one of the world’s most unspoiled and beautiful beaches.
Because of the silica, the sand doesn’t retain heat, so it’s a fantastic place to walk on barefoot, even on a hot day.
2. Lucky Bay – Esperance
Australia’s whitest beach, Lucky Bay, is also one of Western Australia’s most well-known gems. Its perfectly clean sand and turquoise water make it a must-visit, with the bay stretching on for 5km.
Keep an eye out for kangaroos lazing on the sand!
3. Wineglass Bay – Tasmania
This is one of Tasmania’s most famous beaches, and it won’t take long for you to discover why. Located about 2.5 hours from Hobart among the wild beauty of Freycinet National Park, Wineglass Bay is a perfectly curved expanse of white sand bordered by incredibly clear blue water. Although you can walk to the beach itself, one of the most beautiful ways to enjoy the beach is from a lookout above the bay.
Fitzroy Island is an unspoilt tropical paradise of rainforest and beaches that’s part of the Great Barrier Reef. The best bit? It’s just a 45-minute ferry ride from Cairns CBD. A lovely base for snorkelling, diving and exploring the reef.
5. Cottesloe Beach – 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.
6. Cable Beach – Broome
This beach is famous for its 22km of soft white sand, where visitors can enjoy the serene surrounds and calm blue water. Cable Beach is also known for its camel trains, where guests traverse the beach on the backs of camels for a memorable way to watch one of Western Australia’s epic sunsets.
7. Brighton Beach – 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 the best beaches in Australia. It’s super cute.
Co-founder of Big 7 Travel, Sarah created the company through her passion for championing the world's best food and travel experiences. Before her career in digital media, where she previously held roles such as Editor of Food&Wine Ireland, Sarah worked in the hospitality industry in Dublin and New York. Contact [email protected]
