Australia's long coastline offers some of the world's most varied beaches, each with its own character. You will find stretches of white sand meeting clear water in shades of blue and turquoise. Some beaches draw families who want to swim in safe, sheltered spots. Others attract surfers who travel from far and wide to ride the waves. Every beach has something to discover: you might watch dolphins and sea turtles, explore rock formations shaped by centuries of weather, or simply walk along the shore at sunset. From the tropical north where the sand is warm year-round to the cooler southern beaches where the landscape turns wilder and more rugged, Australia's beaches show the different faces of the country. Places like Lucky Bay near Cape Le Grand, with its pale sand and sheltered cove, contrast sharply with the dramatic cliffs of Wineglass Bay in Tasmania. The northern beaches around Port Douglas and Broome feel tropical and warm, while southern spots like Bells Beach in Victoria draw those who love cooler water and powerful waves. Between these points lie hundreds of other beaches, each offering its own reasons to visit.
Cape Le Grand, Australia
Lucky Bay stretches for 5 kilometers along the coast of Cape Le Grand National Park in Western Australia. The fine white sand consists of quartz crystals and ranks among the purest beaches on the continent. The sea displays turquoise and azure tones created by the shallow water and light-colored seabed. Grey kangaroos from the nearby bushland regularly visit the beach to rest near the water. The bay sits protected between granite outcrops and provides access to several walking trails through the national park.
Freycinet, Tasmania
Wineglass Bay forms a crescent-shaped bay with pink granite rocks and clear water on the east coast of Tasmania. The beach stretches 500 metres and is surrounded by dense eucalyptus forests and Tasmanian bushland. The bay sits within Freycinet National Park and is accessible via a walking track from the car park.
New South Wales, Australia
Byron Bay sits on Australia's east coast and attracts surfers from around the world. The beaches provide consistent waves, while dolphins are regularly spotted in the waters offshore. The Cape Byron Lighthouse stands at the easternmost point of mainland Australia and offers views across the Pacific Ocean. The town combines water sports with nature observation along the coastline.
Queensland, Australia
Noosa Main Beach is located in a sheltered bay on the Sunshine Coast, offering calm waters suitable for swimming and families. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards daily. A promenade with restaurants, cafes and shops runs along the waterfront. The sandy beach extends for several hundred meters. Parking facilities are available near the beach.
Victoria, Australia
Bells Beach sits on the Surfcoast between Torquay and Anglesea. The coastline offers several surf breaks with reef formations that work during southwest swells. The beach has hosted the Rip Curl Pro since 1961, one of the longest running professional surfing competitions worldwide. Waves typically range from one to three metres, with larger swells producing bigger sets. Access is via stairs from the clifftop. Parking facilities are available.
Jervis Bay, New South Wales, Australia
Hyams Beach is located on the southern coast of New South Wales within Jervis Bay and is recognized for its white quartz sand, which ranks among the brightest in the world. The clear waters invite swimming and snorkeling, with temperatures ranging between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius throughout the year. The beach extends for several hundred meters and is bordered by coastal vegetation. The area provides access to walking trails in the adjacent national park.
Broome, Western Australia, Australia
Cable Beach stretches for 22 kilometers along the coast of Broome, featuring white sand and turquoise waters. The water maintains an average temperature of 26 degrees Celsius throughout the year. This beach is known for its sunset camel rides and the red cliffs that frame the horizon. Visitors can swim, fish, or simply enjoy the expanse of the Indian Ocean.
Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia
Four Mile Beach extends 6.4 kilometers along the Port Douglas coastline, featuring fine sand and shade-providing palm trees. The beach is bordered by dense tropical vegetation and benefits from regular lifeguard patrol services. Its location near the Great Barrier Reef makes this coastal stretch a popular starting point for underwater exploration activities.
Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia
Seventy-Five Mile Beach stretches along the eastern coast of Fraser Island, serving as a natural landing strip and the island's main highway. This beach is home to a population of dingoes with light brown coats that roam freely along the shoreline. The rusted wreck of the Maheno steamship has rested in the sand since 1935, a reminder of its history as a hospital ship during World War I. Tides shape the beach's accessibility, while the Pacific Ocean waves regularly crash onto the shore.
Shoalhaven, New South Wales, Australia
Greenfield Beach is located within Jervis Bay National Park on the south coast of New South Wales. The beach stretches along a sheltered bay surrounded by dense coastal forest. The clear waters are suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Walking tracks lead through the surrounding bushland to additional coves. The distance from major towns results in low visitor numbers. Basic facilities including toilets and picnic tables are available.
Noosa Heads, Queensland, Australia
Main Beach at Noosa Heads provides waves that regularly host surfing competitions. Along the shoreline are grassed areas equipped with tables and benches for relaxation. The beach combines water sports with onshore recreation facilities, attracting both athletes and families to this coastal location.
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Bondi Beach stretches for one kilometer along Sydney's eastern coastline and attracts swimmers, surfers and sunbathers. The beach features fine white sand and turquoise water patrolled by lifeguards. Along Campbell Parade, numerous restaurants, cafes and shops serve visitors. The coastal walk to Coogee provides views of cliffs and neighboring bays. The Bondi Icebergs Pool sits at the southern end of the beach.
Aldinga, South Australia, Australia
Silversands is a quiet sandy beach located south of Adelaide, stretching for several kilometres along the Gulf St Vincent coastline. The shallow waters and sheltered position make this beach a pleasant spot for sunset walks. The area provides ample parking facilities and access to basic amenities. The beach sits away from major tourist routes and attracts mainly locals who appreciate the expansive sand flats and clear waters.
New South Wales, Australia
Manly Beach sits on Sydney's northern coastline and is accessible by ferry from Circular Quay. This beach offers opportunities for surfing, swimming, and snorkeling in sheltered coves. The Corso connects the harbor to the ocean and hosts shops, cafes, and restaurants. The nearby North Head Sanctuary is home to small penguin colonies that can be observed during guided evening tours. The beach provides lifeguard services, changing facilities, and amenities.
Whitsunday Island, Australia
Whitehaven Beach stretches for seven kilometres along the eastern coast of Whitsunday Island within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The sand consists of 98 percent pure silica, giving it a distinctive white colour and fine texture. Located in the Coral Sea, this beach is accessible only by boat or seaplane. Tidal movements through Hill Inlet at the northern end create shifting patterns of sand in the shallow waters. The beach forms part of the Whitsunday Islands National Park and is subject to strict environmental protection regulations.
Exmouth, Western Australia, Australia
Turquoise Bay sits along the Exmouth Peninsula in Western Australia, featuring shallow turquoise waters that meet white sand. The bay offers calm swimming conditions suitable for families and snorkelers. Coral formations lie close to the shore, making the waters ideal for observing marine life. The area remains less crowded than other coastal destinations, providing a quieter experience.
Denmark, Western Australia, Australia
Greens Pool is a small sheltered cove near Denmark in Western Australia, surrounded by tall granite boulders and native trees. The pool fills with water at each tide, creating a natural protected swimming area. The granite formations frame the pool and create a striking contrast with the clear water. The location feels removed from typical beach settings, offering a more secluded swimming experience.
Wilsons Promontory, Victoria, Australia
Squeaky Beach sits within Wilsons Promontory National Park and gets its name from the fine white sand that produces sound when walked upon. The beach stretches between rocky granite outcrops and offers views of nearby islands. Access requires a walking track through the national park. The sandy shore provides opportunities for swimming and exploring rock pools.
Nambucca Heads, New South Wales, Australia
Shelly Beach is located at Nambucca Heads on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. The beach combines rock outcrops with sandy stretches and attracts swimmers and rock pool explorers. The sheltered setting provides protection from larger ocean swells. Local facilities include cafes and shops within walking distance of the beach.
Tasmania, Australia
Boat Harbour Beach lies on the northern coast of Tasmania and features white sand bordered by low dunes and coastal vegetation. The sheltered bay provides calm water conditions. The beach remains quieter than coastal areas further south, attracting those who prefer less crowded shores. Basic facilities including picnic areas are available nearby.
Perth, Western Australia, Australia
Cottesloe Beach stretches along the Perth coastline and features fine white sand and clear water. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards and offers facilities including changing rooms and restaurants. The Indiana Tea House sits at the southern end and provides refreshments with views of the Indian Ocean. The beach attracts swimmers, surfers, and those seeking sunset walks.
Western Australia, Australia
Coral Bay sits on the northwest coast of Western Australia and offers direct access to coral formations and marine life. The shallow turquoise waters allow swimmers to observe fish and coral without boat travel. The bay remains sheltered and suitable for family swimming. The town provides basic services and accommodation for visitors.
Stradbroke Island, Queensland, Australia
Cylinder Beach is located on North Stradbroke Island facing Moreton Bay. The beach offers calm waters and sandy shores with views across the bay. The area provides access to walking trails along the coastline. Facilities include picnic areas and nearby accommodation in the township.
Magnetic Island, Queensland, Australia
Horseshoe Bay curves along the northern coast of Magnetic Island and provides sheltered swimming waters. The bay has a distinctive crescent shape and is bordered by trees that provide shade. The calm conditions make it popular for families. Facilities including shops and cafes are within walking distance.
Woongarra, Queensland, Australia
Safety Beach is located at Woongarra on the Queensland coast. The beach offers sheltered waters suitable for swimming and family visits. The sandy shore stretches for several hundred meters along the bay. Nearby facilities provide access to refreshments and basic amenities.
Noosa, Queensland, Australia
Tea Tree Bay sits within Noosa National Park and is accessible via a walking track that passes through coastal heathland. The sheltered cove offers calm swimming waters and views of surrounding headlands. The area remains quieter than nearby main beaches. Access is restricted to walking only, preserving the natural setting.
Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia
Wategos Beach lies just south of Byron Bay and offers consistent waves for surfing. The beach is surrounded by lush coastal vegetation and sits at the edge of the Byron Bay headland. The sand stretches between rock formations, creating a more enclosed beach setting. Facilities including cafes and parking are nearby.
Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Mindil Beach stretches along Darwin's waterfront and offers sunset views over the Timor Sea. The beach draws swimmers and those seeking relaxation in the tropical north. A night market operates along the beach foreshore, offering food and local crafts. The water temperature remains warm year-round, though swimming is advised during certain seasons when jellyfish may be present.
Shellharbour, New South Wales, Australia
Shellharbour Beach is located on the New South Wales south coast and features sandy shores within a sheltered bay. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards and offers facilities including changing rooms and parks. Nearby shops and cafes provide refreshments. The area attracts families and those seeking accessible beach swimming.
