The 20 Best Beaches in Australia: A
Must-Visit Guide for Every Traveler
Australia is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world,
attracting millions of visitors each year. With its vast coastline stretching
over 25,000 kilometers, the country boasts everything from golden sandy shores
to dramatic cliffs and vibrant coral reefs. Whether you're looking for a
relaxing sunbathing spot, thrilling water sports, or breathtaking scenery,
Australia has a beach for you.
The top 20 beaches in Australia, providing insights into
their unique charm, visitor numbers, and the best times to visit in summer and
winter.
1. Whitehaven Beach, Queensland
Location: Whitsunday Islands, QLD
Visitors: Approx. 75,000 per year
Whitehaven Beach is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the
world. The pure silica sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush
surroundings make it a tropical paradise. It's best visited in summer
(December–February) for snorkeling and beach activities, while in winter
(June–August), the mild weather makes it perfect for scenic hikes.
2. Bondi Beach, New South Wales
Location: Sydney, NSW
Visitors: Over 2.5 million annually
One of Australia's most iconic beaches, Bondi is famous for its surfing
culture, vibrant cafes, and lively atmosphere. It attracts locals and
tourists year-round, with summer offering the best waves for surfers and winter
providing scenic coastal walks without the summer crowds.
3. Manly Beach, New South Wales
Location: Sydney, NSW
Visitors: Around 1.3 million per year
Accessible via a ferry ride from Sydney Harbour, Manly Beach
is popular for its laid-back vibe, family-friendly spots, and stunning
ocean views. Summer is the best time for water sports and beachside
dining, while winter offers great whale-watching opportunities.
4. Wineglass Bay, Tasmania
Location: Freycinet National Park, TAS
Visitors: Approx. 250,000 per year
With its perfect crescent shape, turquoise waters, and pink granite
mountains, Wineglass Bay is a breathtakingly beautiful destination.
Visit in summer for kayaking and beach walks or in winter
for scenic hikes and wildlife spotting.
5. Noosa Main Beach, Queensland
Location: Noosa, QLD
Visitors: Over 1.2 million per year
Noosa Main Beach is one of the few north-facing beaches in
Australia, providing calm waters ideal for families and beginner
surfers. It’s lively in summer with perfect swimming conditions, while
winter brings cooler but comfortable weather for coastal walks.
6. Hyams Beach, New South Wales
Location: Jervis Bay, NSW
Visitors: Around 500,000 per year
Hyams Beach is known for having some of the whitest sands in the
world. Summer is ideal for beachgoers and snorkeling, whereas winter
offers quiet escapes and dolphin spotting.
7. Burleigh Heads Beach, Queensland
Location: Gold Coast, QLD
Visitors: Over 800,000 annually
A favorite among surfers and nature lovers, Burleigh Heads Beach boasts fantastic
waves, lush parklands, and a vibrant surf culture. Summer offers the
best conditions for surfing and swimming, while winter provides great weather
for coastal hikes.
8. Cable Beach, Western Australia
Location: Broome, WA
Visitors: Approx. 200,000 per year
Famous for its camel rides and stunning sunset views, Cable
Beach is a unique destination. The best time to visit is in winter
(May–October), when temperatures are mild, as summers can be extremely
hot.
9. Lucky Bay, Western Australia
Location: Cape Le Grand National Park, WA
Visitors: Around 150,000 per year
Lucky Bay is famous for its pristine white sand and friendly
kangaroos lounging on the beach. Summer is great for sunbathing and
beachside camping, while winter offers solitude and incredible nature
photography.
10. Four Mile Beach, Queensland
Location: Port Douglas, QLD
Visitors: Approx. 400,000 per year
Located near the Great Barrier Reef, Four Mile Beach offers
stunning scenery and a relaxed atmosphere. Summer is ideal for reef tours and
sunbathing, while winter brings perfect conditions for long beach walks.
11. Bells Beach, Victoria
Location: Great Ocean Road, VIC
Visitors: Over 250,000 annually
A world-famous surfing destination, Bells Beach is best
visited in autumn and winter when the surfing conditions are
at their peak. Summer is also enjoyable but tends to be crowded.
12. Cottesloe Beach, Western Australia
Location: Perth, WA
Visitors: Around 700,000 per year
A favorite among Perth locals, Cottesloe Beach is ideal for
swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying seaside cafes. Summer brings warm
waters, while winter is perfect for coastal strolls and
peaceful sunset views.
13. Byron Bay Beach, New South Wales
Location: Byron Bay, NSW
Visitors: Over 2 million annually
Famous for its bohemian culture, surfing, and vibrant nightlife,
Byron Bay Beach is best enjoyed in summer for its festivals and warm waters,
while winter is great for whale watching.
14. Twilight Beach, Western Australia
Location: Esperance, WA
Visitors: Around 100,000 per year
With its breathtaking blue waters and giant granite boulders,
Twilight Beach is a photographer’s dream. Summer is perfect for
swimming, while winter is best for scenic drives and peaceful
nature walks.
15. Main Beach, Queensland
Location: Gold Coast, QLD
Visitors: Over 600,000 per year
A quieter alternative to Surfers Paradise, Main Beach is perfect for relaxing
on golden sands. Summer offers ideal surfing conditions, while winter
provides mild temperatures for beachside picnics.
16. Mindil Beach, Northern Territory
Location: Darwin, NT
Visitors: Approx. 200,000 per year
Known for its stunning sunsets and famous night markets,
Mindil Beach is best visited in the dry season (winter, May–September), as
summer is hot and humid.
17. Shelley Beach, New South Wales
Location: Manly, NSW
Visitors: Around 150,000 per year
A small, secluded beach great for snorkeling, Shelley Beach
is best visited in summer for calm waters and marine life exploration.
18. Mandalay Beach, Western Australia
Location: Walpole, WA
Visitors: Around 50,000 per year
A remote and rugged beach with stunning coastal views,
Mandalay Beach is great for photography and nature walks year-round.
19. 75 Mile Beach, Queensland
Location: Fraser Island, QLD
Visitors: Approx. 350,000 per year
Known for its unique sand highway and shipwrecks, this
beach is best visited in winter for 4WD adventures and whale watching.
20. Stokes Bay, South Australia
Location: Kangaroo Island, SA
Visitors: Around 100,000 per year
A hidden gem with natural rock pools, Stokes Bay is best
visited in summer for safe swimming and clear waters.
Conclusion
Australia is home to some of the world's most incredible beaches, each
offering something unique. Whether you're an adventurer, a surfer, or just
looking to relax by the sea, there's a perfect beach for every traveler.
Disclaimer
The visitor numbers are approximate and may vary annually. Always check
local travel guidelines and weather conditions before planning your visit.
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