We’ve no shortage of beaches in Australia, but where are the best ones?
For me, it’s these ones…
Nalgalbadmarak, Northern Territory
A beach so off the trail that it hasn’t even been bestowed with an English name yet, Nalgalbadmarak in the Garig Gunak Barlu National Park is one of the Northern Territory’s best kept secrets.
If you had a checklist for everything you want in a perfect beach, Nalgalbadmarak would deliver them. And tenfold.
It’s rugged, pristine and only accessible by four-wheel-drive. There’s also some of the most breathtaking scenery and bird watching in all of Arnhem Land.
Its remoteness and ample aquatic life mean it’s a fishing mecca as well.
And it’s pretty much as close to heaven on earth as you’ll find.
Whitehaven Beach, Queensland
The sand is so pure on Whitehaven Beach that it squeaks when you walk on it. Access to the beach is only by seaplane or boat, so there’s no issues with parking and it’s also very safe for swimming as tides don’t change much.
The southern end of the beach is perfect for great snorkelling.
Alexandra Headland Beach, Queensland
Near Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast, Alexandra Headland (‘Alex’ to the locals) is actually a whopping eight beaches in one.
Laid-back, friendly, unpretentious, with plenty to do.
The water is warm year round and you’ll often find dolphins swimming close to the shore.
Positioned right on the beach, the Kiosk at Alex Surf Club is also a popular local go-to for breakfast and lunch.
Sunshine Beach, Queensland
Flanked by the lush nature reserve of Noosa National Park, Sunshine Beach (previously known as ‘Golden Beach’ due to its shimmering sand) is renowned for its beauty, but also its proximity to chic boutiques and hip cafes.
The swell is rugged and consistent along Sunshine Beach, and the best bit of it can be found from the patrolled area heading north, which feels very secluded and private.
During holiday periods, the traffic in Noosa can be overwhelming, so using public transport to access the beach takes the stress out of getting there. Or, if you’re adventurous, you can try walking to Noosa through the national park.
Cabarita Beach, New South Wales
The NSW coastline may stretch over 2000km, but a standout along it is definitely Cabarita Beach on Tweed Coast.
Throughout the year, the beach plays host to a number of surfing carnivals, making it a great spot to watching some A-class surfing surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.
The sleepy seaside town has become a blip on the international radar thanks to the launch of hip beachside hotel, Halcyon House, which has become one of the hottest hangouts in Australia.
Apollo Bay Beach, Victoria
Pristine coastal waters on which to swim, surf or kayak, and for landlubbers miles of sand, sunset and beach rides on horseback and weekend foreshore markets packed with local crafts.
Apollo Bay Beach offers the perfect base for exploring the spectacular rainforest of the Otway Ranges and also offers a laid-back vibe, fantastic seafood and a truly idyllic spot to relax.
Point Leo, Victoria
A shire in Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, Point Leo provides excellent waves for surfing and is one of the closest surf beaches to Melbourne.
It’s also a personal favourite. I refer to it as a little slice of paradise, and it truly is. Crystal clear waters and piercing blue skies, it’s quiet, secluded, unspoiled and a true gem on the Victorian coastline.
Port Noarlunga Beach, South Australia
Safe for swimming due to its usually low waves and lack of rips, this former sea port turned aquatic reserve is great for snorkelling.
Perfect for families with its huge amount of sand area, and waves in the shallows right off the beach, the only thing you need to consider if which side you’ll park your car on when arriving – if you park on the wrong side, you’ll have to walk through the river to get back.
Lucky Bay, Western Australia
For great swimming, relaxing and fishing without the crowds, it’s hard to beat Lucky Bay in WA’s Cape Le Grand National Park. One of the most stunning beaches in Western Australia, it features pure white sand, clear turquoise water and perfect swimming conditions. And the ability to easily interact with the local population of kangaroos on the beach makes it an even more memorable, truly Australian experience.
Coral Bay, Western Australia
Located on the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef, where the desert meets the reef, Coral Bay’s astonishing diversity of marine life lures both amateur and professional photographers alike.
In a single day you can spot turtles, dolphins, sharks, manta rays, dugong and even whales. There aren’t many places in the world that offer all of these amazing creates.
Only a 10 minute walk north from the main beach and you’ll get to tiny Skeleton Bay. The shallow water has a congregation of black-tip reef sharks. At times, you can see up to 50 of them basking there.
