Beaches in Australia – Where to Swim, Surf, and Soak Up the Sun

From the iconic surf breaks of Bondi to the pristine white sands of Whitehaven, each beach offers a unique experience that captivates both locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a glimpse into the country’s rich marine life, Australia’s beaches provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable seaside escape.

Let’s dive into some of the most iconic beaches in Australia, along with insider tips to help you plan the perfect Aussie beach holiday.

1. Bondi Beach, NSW

One of the most iconic beaches in the world, Bondi is a vibrant and energetic beach known for its golden sands, great surf, and urban buzz.

• Location: Bondi, Sydney, New South Wales

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Surfing, swimming, coastal walk, people-watching

• How to Get There: 15-minute drive or 30-minute bus/train combo from Sydney CBD.

• Best Time to Visit: September to April for warm weather and events.

• Places to eat: Icebergs Dining Room, Bills, The Bucket List

• Places to stay:QT Bondi, Adina Apartment Hotel, Hotel Ravesis

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2. Whitehaven Beach, QLD

Located in the Whitsundays, Whitehaven Beach is known for its powdery white silica sand and stunning turquoise waters, often ranked among the best beaches in the world.

• Location: Whitsunday Island, Queensland

• Timings: Accessible via tours (daytime only)

• Things to do: Swimming, snorkeling, scenic flights

• How to Get There: Access via boat, seaplane, or helicopter from Airlie Beach or Hamilton Island.

• Best Time to Visit: May to October (dry season, clear skies, low humidity).

• Places to eat: Pack a picnic or dine at Airlie Beach before/after

• Places to stay:Hamilton Island Resort, Coral Sea Marina Resort

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3. Manly Beach, NSW

A family-friendly and popular beach destination just a ferry ride from Sydney, Manly combines relaxed vibes with good surf and coastal walks.

• Location: Manly, Sydney, New South Wales

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Swimming, surfing, walking to Shelly Beach

• How to Get There: 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay, Sydney.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March for beach weather and surf.

• Places to eat:Hugo’s Manly, The Boathouse, Manly Grill

• Places to stay:Novotel Manly Pacific, The Sebel Manly Beach

4. Surfers Paradise, QLD

Source: wikipedia

This iconic Gold Coast beach is known for its high-rise backdrop, energetic vibe, and a perfect blend of surf, shopping, and nightlife.

• Highlights: Surfing, nightlife, family attractions

• Location: Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Surfing, beach volleyball, exploring Cavill Avenue

• How to Get There: 30 minutes by tram or car from Gold Coast Airport.

• Best Time to Visit: September to April; ideal for surf and nightlife.

• Places to eat: Seaduction, Hurricane’s Grill, El Camino Cantina

• Places to stay:QT Gold Coast, Hilton Surfers Paradise

5. Byron Bay Beach, NSW

Famous for its chilled vibe and artistic community, Byron Bay offers consistent surf, yoga on the beach, and a lighthouse walk with sunrise views.

• Location: Byron Bay, New South Wales

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Whale watching, surfing, and kayaking with dolphins

• How to Get There: 2-hour drive from Brisbane or Gold Coast airports; shuttle services available.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April for festivals and warm water.

• Places to eat: The Farm, Bayleaf Café,Rae’s on Wategos

• Places to stay:Elements of Byron, The Lord Byron,

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6. Noosa Main Beach, QLD

Source: wikipedia

Noosa Main Beach is a north-facing beach with gentle waves, making it perfect for families and beginner surfers.

• Location: Noosa Heads, Queensland

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Surfing, paddleboarding, walking in Noosa National Park

• How to Get There: 1.5-hour drive from Sunshine Coast Airport or Brisbane.

• Best Time to Visit: September to November for mild weather and fewer crowds.

• Places to eat:Bistro C, Miss Moneypenny’s, Season

• Places to stay:Sofitel Noosa, Seahaven Noosa

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7. Cable Beach, WA

Located in Broome, this 22-km stretch is famous for its camel rides, red cliffs, and Indian Ocean sunsets. Cable Beach is one of the most famous in Australia.

• Location: Broome, Western Australia

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Camel rides, 4WD beach driving, sunset watching

• How to Get There: 10-minute drive from Broome Airport; taxis and buses available.

• Best Time to Visit: May to October (dry season and camel rides at sunset).

• Places to eat: Zanders, The Deck, Wharf Restaurant

• Places to stay:Cable Beach Club, Seashells Broome

8. Lucky Bay, WA

Often visited by kangaroos lounging on the white sands, Lucky Bay is a postcard-perfect beach in Cape Le Grand National Park.

• Location: Cape Le Grand National Park, Western Australia

• Timings: Park access 6:30 AM to 8 PM

• Things to do: Wildlife spotting, snorkeling, hiking nearby trails.

• How to Get There: 1-hour drive from Esperance, Western Australia.

• Best Time to Visit: Summer (December to February) for clear skies and kangaroo sightings.

• Places to eat: Picnic recommended (nearest town: Esperance)

• Places to stay:RAC Esperance Holiday Park,Esperance Island View Apartments

9. Wineglass Bay, TAS

Tucked in Freycinet National Park, Wineglass Bay is known for its curved beach, teal waters, and scenic hiking trails and is one of the most famous beaches in Australia.

• Location: Freycinet Peninsula, Tasmania

• Timings: National Park hours; generally 8 AM – 6 PM

• Things to do: Hiking, photography, swimming

• How to Get There: 2.5-hour drive from Hobart or Launceston, followed by a hike.

• Best Time to Visit: November to April for hiking and wildlife spotting.

• Places to eat:Freycinet Marine Farm, Edge of the Bay Resort

• Places to stay:Freycinet Lodge, BIG4 Iluka

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10. Bells Beach, VIC

Known as the spiritual home of surfing in Australia, Bells Beach hosts the world’s longest-running surf competition and features powerful reef breaks.

• Location: Great Ocean Road, Victoria

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Surfing, coastal walks, watching surf events

• How to Get There: 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne via the Great Ocean Road.

• Best Time to Visit: March and April for the Rip Curl Pro Surfing competition.

• Places to eat: The Bottle of Milk (Lorne), Swell Café Bar

• Places to stay:RACV Torquay Resort,Wyndham Resort Torquay

11. Hyams Beach, NSW

Famed for having the whitest sand in the world, Hyams Beach is a tranquil haven on the NSW South Coast, perfect for relaxing and soaking in nature.

• Location: Jervis Bay, New South Wales

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Swimming, kayaking, sunbathing

• How to Get There: 3-hour drive south of Sydney via Princes Highway.

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (October to April).

• Places to eat: Hyams Beach Café, Pilgrims Vegetarian Café

• Places to stay:Paperbark Camp, The Cove Jervis Bay

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12. Burleigh Heads Beach, QLD

Burleigh Heads offers the perfect balance of surf, nature, and a buzzing foodie scene. It’s popular for both relaxing and active getaways on the Gold Coast.

• Location: Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast, Queensland

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Surfing, hiking, beach picnics

• How to Get There: 20-minute drive from Gold Coast Airport; public buses available.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March for surfing and vibrant local markets.

• Places to eat:Rick Shores, Burleigh Pavilion, The Tropic

• Places to stay:Burleigh Mediterranean Resort,The Village at Burleigh

13. Mindil Beach, NT

Mindil Beach in Darwin is famous for its stunning sunsets over the Timor Sea, and the vibrant Mindil Beach Sunset Market is held weekly.

• Location: Darwin, Northern Territory

• Timings: Open 24 hours (markets open Thursday & Sunday evenings)

• Things to do: Market browsing, photography, local food tasting

• How to Get There: 5-minute drive from Darwin city center; walkable from nearby areas.

• Best Time to Visit: May to October during the dry season and the Sunset Markets.

• Places to eat:Mindil Beach Markets, Hanuman, Pee Wee’s at the Point

• Places to stay: Mindil Beach Casino Resort, Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront

14. Cossies Beach, Cocos (Keeling) Islands

Frequently ranked among the world’s best, Cossies Beach is an untouched tropical paradise located on a remote Australian island in the Indian Ocean.

• Location: Direction Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, WA (Indian Ocean Territory)

• Timings: Open 24 hours (access via ferry or private boat)

• Things to do: Snorkeling, diving, sunbathing

• How to Get There: Fly from Perth to West Island, then ferry to Direction Island.

• Best Time to Visit: April to November (dry season and ideal sea conditions).

• Places to eat: Tropika Restaurant (West Island), Saltmakers by the Sea

• Places to stay: Cocos Beach Resort, Cocos Castaway

FAQs

1. What is the best beach in Australia for surfing?

Bells Beach in Victoria and Snapper Rocks on the Gold Coast are top picks for experienced surfers.

2. Which beach has the whitest sand in Australia?

Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay is often credited with the whitest sand in the world.

3. Are there any beaches in Australia with kangaroos?

Yes! Lucky Bay in Western Australia is famous for its friendly kangaroos lounging on the sand.

4. Which beach is best for watching the sunset?

Mindil Beach in Darwin is iconic for sunset views, especially during market nights.

5. Are Australian beaches free to access?

Most beaches are free, but some inside national parks may require a small entry fee.

6. What’s the most remote beach in Australia?

Cossies Beach in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is incredibly remote and perfect for travelers looking to go off-grid.

7. Are there good food options near Australian beaches?

Yes! Most popular beaches in Australia are surrounded by vibrant food scenes from upscale seafood restaurants and trendy beach cafés to local food trucks and beachfront bars. For example, Bondi Beach has everything from sushi and vegan bowls to fine dining.

8. What kind of beach culture can I expect in Australia?

Australian beach culture is relaxed, friendly, and deeply ingrained in daily life. Expect to see surfers hitting the waves at sunrise, families having BBQs by the shore, and locals walking barefoot to nearby cafés.