7 Best Australian Beaches That’ll Make You Never Wanna Leave

With over 10,000 beaches around its shores, no other country can top Australia when it comes to incredible sand and surf. But which ones are the very best? Whether it’s surfing, snorkeling, swimming, or suntanning, there’s a perfect stretch of sand for you. There are definitely no shortage of wave breaks or pristine shores to explore. Here are the best Australian beaches that’ll make you wanna stay and never leave!

1. Whitehaven Beach, Queensland

Whitehaven Beach has consistently ranked in all the lists of best Australian beaches, which goes to show that it is the real deal. The silica sand is especially soft and silky, and it creates a striking contrast with the turquoise sea. There are also many coves and lagoons perfect for exploration, as well as excellent snorkeling opportunities at the beach’s southern end. For the best views, hike up to Tongue Point during low tide, when the sea and sands swirl and shift to create a brilliant painting of white, blue and green.

2. Turquoise Bay, Western Australia

Many of the best Australian beaches are in Queensland, but Western Australia can definitely hold its own. Turquoise Bay is a beautiful stretch of sand that will delight any and every type of beachgoer. Just a few meters off is Ningaloo Reef, home to over 500 fish species and perfect for snorkeling. Swimmers will love the warm water and stand-up paddleboarders will appreciate the gentle waves. If what you want is just some rest and relaxation, Turquoise Bay is ultra quiet, remote and almost always deserted.

3. Wineglass Bay, Tasmania

Tasmania might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of stunning Australian beaches, but Wineglass Bay might just change that. Named for its beautiful wineglass curve, the bay boasts chalky white sand, clear, turquoise waters, and towering pink-granite cliffs. You can enjoy it in different ways – head down to the beach, hike to the visitor’s platform for a great view or tackle the hike to the top of Mount Amos for an even better view. 

4. Cape Tribulation, Queensland

This UNESCO World Heritage site is where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. Experience the unique feeling of stepping onto the beach from the rainforest. Marvel at the empty beach where driftwood form natural sculptures, ride a horse from the beach to the rainforest or pitch your tent so you can fall asleep to the sound of ocean waves. If you love to hike, ​​Cape Tribulation is also a bushwalking paradise!

5. Cossies Beach, Cocos Keeling Islands

Imagine coconut palm trees, white sand and glittering waters. Of all the beaches on Cocos Keeling Islands it is said that Cossies is the loveliest of them all. The only development here are eco toilets, wood-fire barbecues, and walking trails. You’ll find passing boaters stopping here, and you can also camp on the beach if you bring all your own equipment, food and water. The remote cluster of islands is difficult to access, but most would say it only adds to its allure!

6. Bells Beach, Victoria

Bells is a world-famous break for surfers, and the oldest surfing contest – the Rip Curl Easter Pro – takes place here. Whether you’re a beginner or pro there are many opportunities to catch a wave here depending on the time of year. From March to October is when the conditions tend to be much more challenging.

7. Cable Beach, Western Australia

Cable Beach is one of the most dramatic Australian beaches. 13 miles of pure white sand is set against red ochre cliffs and lapped by blue water. Despite its jaw-dropping beauty, Cable Beach remains relatively under-the-radar (for now!) You could easily spend a day doing absolutely nothing but lazing on the shore, but for something really unique, you can ride a camel here at sunrise or sunset!