If there’s one thing Australia does better than most, it’s beaches. With over 25,000 km of coastline, the Land Down Under is packed with stretches of golden sand, rolling waves, and crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re a surfer, a sunbather, or just here to snap an iconic holiday pic, these are the 15 best beaches in Australia that you need to visit.
1. Bondi Beach, NSW
An icon, a legend, a must-visit. And the top of this list for a reason. Bondi Beach is where lifeguards, sunrise surfers, and café-hopping locals collide. Whether you’re catching waves, walking the Bondi to Bronte coastal track, or sipping a flat white at a trendy beachfront café (of which there are maaaaaany), Bondi is the spot to soak up Sydney’s beach culture.
Image source:Paula-Jorunn Naes / unsplash
2. Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, QLD
Golden sands? Check. Epic skyscrapers towering over the beach? Check. Infamous nightlife? Double check. Surfers Paradise is where beach days turn into big nights, with endless surf breaks, beach volleyball, and a buzzing atmosphere all year round.
3. Manly Beach, NSW
A short ferry ride from Sydney’s Circular Quay, Manly Beach has a laid-back coastal vibe that feels miles away from the city. Grab fish and chips, stroll down the Corso, visit the weekend markets, or take on the waves at one of Sydney’s best surf spots.
On Contiki’s City to Surf trip, you get a full day to explore Sydney at your own pace, so don’t miss this opportunity to pop over to stunning Manly!
4. Byron Bay, NSW
No Aussie road trip is complete without a stop at Byron Bay. This town is more than just a beach – it’s vibing on a whole other wavelength. Home to barefoot locals, incredible surf breaks, and the occasional Chris Hemsworth sighting, Byron is all about slow living and epic sunsets. Wategos Beach is a top pick for a relaxed day by the water.
5. Noosa Main Beach, Sunshine Coast, QLD
Noosa is the definition of postcard-perfect. This north-facing beach is protected from the wind, making it ideal for beginner surfers and swimmers. Plus, with Noosa National Park just around the corner, you can go from beach to rainforest in minutes.
Image source:JSB Co. / unsplash
6. K’Gari (Fraser Island), QLD
The world’s largest sand island is home to some of the most unique beaches in Australia. While 75 Mile Beach is famous for its endless stretch of coastline, don’t miss Lake McKenzie, a dazzling freshwater lake with silica-white sand and crystal-clear waters.
7. Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays, QLD
Frequently topping the list of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Whitehaven Beach is straight-up dreamy. The swirling white sand and turquoise waters are chef’s kiss. It’s only accessible by seaplane or boat (which you can do on the North Queensland Adventure 😉), which just makes it feel even more exclusive.
Image source:Guillaume Marques / unsplash
8. Jervis Bay, NSW
Alright, this one’s personal. I grew up in Jervis Bay, so I might be biased, but trust me, it’s next-level stunning. Hyams Beach is famous for having some of the whitest sand in the world, and the whole area is teeming with dolphins, crystal-clear water, and that perfect small-town coastal charm. Pop over to Huskisson for a classic Aussie pub meal to end the day!
9. Bay of Fires, TAS
Okay, not technically on the mainland, but worth the detour. The Bay of Fires is famous for its orange-hued boulders contrasting with the bright blue water. It’s remote, wild, and one of the best spots in Tasmania for a beach escape.
10. Cable Beach, WA
Sunsets over the ocean? Yes, please. Cable Beach in Broome is known for its dreamy 22-km stretch of sand, camel rides at golden hour, and fiery Indian Ocean sunsets that will leave you speechless.
11. Lucky Bay, WA
Ever wanted to chill on the beach with a kangaroo? At Lucky Bay in Esperance, that’s a regular occurrence. The sand is so white it looks like sugar, and the water? Pure paradise.
12. Turquoise Bay, WA
Located in Ningaloo Reef, Turquoise Bay is a snorkeler’s dream. The waters here are packed with colourful marine life, and you can literally drift snorkel along the reef thanks to the gentle current along the west Australian coastline. Unreal.
13. Palm Cove, QLD
Just north of Cairns, Palm Cove is a tropical oasis lined with palm trees, luxe resorts, and calm, swimmable waters. It’s the perfect jumping-off point for a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef or the Daintree Rainforest.
14. Wineglass Bay, TAS
One of Australia’s most photogenic beaches, Wineglass Bay is a stunner with its perfect curve of white sand and deep blue water. Hike up to the lookout for the best views, or take a kayak out for a unique perspective.
15. Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, QLD
A Gold Coast fave that mixes surf, scenery, and an insane food scene. Burleigh Heads has some of the best waves on the coast, plus the Burleigh Hill lookout is an unbeatable sunset spot. Grab a picnic, find a spot on the grass, and soak in the views.
Image source:Stuart Davies / unsplash
Ready to chase the sun?
Australia is spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches, and this list barely scratches the surface. Whether you are road-tripping along the east coast or hopping over to WA’s wild shores, these beaches promise sun, surf, and some seriously stunning scenery.
