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(Warning: don't look if you've just used up your holiday leave - may cause sudden urges to quit your job and buy thongs).
Australia doesn't just do beaches - we absolutely show off with them. From blindingly white sand to water so blue it looks photoshopped, our coastline is basically one long highlight reel.
Sure, there are thousands of beaches you could visit. But if you're short on time (or annual leave), these five beach holiday destinations deliver the full sun-soaked fantasy - no filter required.
So grab your swimmers, slap on the SPF, and let's dive in.
1. Lucky Bay, Esperance (WA)
Best for: Nature lovers, road trippers, couples
Not ideal for: Big resort seekers or nightlife chasers
The West Coast has been quietly flexing for years, and Lucky Bay is its ultimate mic drop. Regularly crowned one of the whitest beaches in the world, this Esperance icon looks like it belongs on a screensaver - except it's real, and you can swim in it.
The water is crystal-clear, the sand squeaks under your feet (yes, squeaks), and if you're lucky, you'll spot kangaroos casually hanging out like they own the place. Which, honestly, they kind of do.
What kind of holiday is it?
A slow, scenic escape. Perfect for road trips, camping, or a peaceful reset where your biggest decision is beach walk or beach nap.
Things to do:
- Swimming in calm, turquoise water
- Coastal walks and scenic lookouts
- Wildlife spotting (yes, the kangaroos really do hang out on the sand)
Where to stay:
- Esperance town for hotels, motels and holiday parks
- Cape Le Grand campgrounds for an immersive, wake-up-with-the-ocean experience
Hot tip: Bring snacks and water. The nearest cafe is... not nearby.
2. Jervis Bay, New South Wales
Best for: Families, couples, weekend escapes, dolphin spotting and beach hopping
Surf level: Gentle - more splash than shred
Still an absolute classic - and for good reason. Jervis Bay is home to some of the whitest sand in the world (Australia really loves a white-sand moment), plus calm, swimmable waters that are perfect for floating the day away.
It is one of those destinations that suits almost everyone. Calm waters, soft sand and plenty of nearby towns make it an easy crowd-pleaser.
Things to do:
Base yourself here and beach-hop your way through local legends like Hyams Beach, Greenfield Beach, and Murrays Beach. Feeling adventurous? Snorkel, kayak, bushwalk or say hi to the famously unbothered kangaroos at nearby Pebbly Beach. There's also seasonal dolphin and whale watching, and sunset picnics.
It's equal parts chill and choose-your-own-adventure.
What kind of holiday is it?
A laid-back coastal getaway with options. You can do as much (or as little) as you like.
Where to stay:
- Huskisson for cafes, pubs and water activities
- Vincentia for family-friendly holiday homes close to the beach
- Booderee National Park camping for nature lovers
Good to know:
Peak summer gets busy - shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are magic.
3. Ninety Mile Beach, Victoria
Best for: Quiet escapes, nature lovers, photographers and "main character energy"
Surf level: Conditions vary and can be unpredictable - always check local advice before a surf or swim
Yes, it really is ninety miles long - which means there's plenty of space to find your own quiet patch of sand. Stretching along Victoria's Gippsland coast, this beach is all about wide-open horizons, salty air and that peaceful, end-of-the-world vibe.
Whether you're jogging along the shoreline, spotting whales offshore, or simply lying on a towel contemplating life, Ninety Mile Beach is proof that Victoria can absolutely bring the beach gods.
What kind of holiday is it?
Low-key and unplugged. Ideal if you want long walks, fresh air and zero pressure to "do stuff".
Things to do:
- Beach walks and cycling
- Whale watching (May-October)
- Fishing and birdwatching
- Exploring the nearby Gippsland Lakes
Where to stay:
- Lakes Entrance for amenities and family-friendly stays
- Golden Beach or Woodside for quieter coastal accommodation
4. Nudey Beach, Fitzroy Island (QLD)
Best for: Snorkellers, couples, tropical day trips
Surf level: Calm, reef-protected waters
Don't worry - despite the name, togs are compulsory. Nudey Beach on Fitzroy Island is consistently ranked among Australia's best beaches, and one look at the jewel-toned water will tell you why.
Just a 45-minute boat ride from Cairns, this coral beach sits right on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef and delivers the full tropical fantasy (minus the crowds).
It's the kind of place where you'll say "wow" out loud. Multiple times.
What kind of holiday is it?
A relaxed island escape - perfect as a day trip or a short stay.
Things to do:
- Snorkelling straight off the beach
- Rainforest walks and lookouts
- Swimming in crystal-clear water
Where to stay:
- Fitzroy Island Resort for easy, beachfront accommodation
- Cairns if you're visiting as a day trip
Good to know:
No shows on the beach itself - bring water and snacks if you're day-tripping.
5. Noah Beach, Daintree National Park (QLD)
Best for: Adventures, campers, eco travellers
Not ideal for: Resort lovers or nervous swimmers
If your ideal beach holiday includes zero crowds and maximum wow, Noah Beach is calling. Tucked inside the ancient Daintree Rainforest, it feels like a secret you're not supposed to know about - remote, raw, and ridiculously beautiful.
Camp nearby and wake up to rainforest sounds on one side and the Coral Sea on the other.
What kind of holiday is it?
An off-grid adventure. This is for travellers who love nature and don't mind trading convenience for wow-factor.
Things to do:
- Beach walks framed by ancient rainforest
- Birdwatching and wildlife spotting
- Exploring the Daintree's walking tracks
Where to stay:
- Noah Beach campground (permit required)
- Eco-lodges and stays around Cape Tribulation
Good to know:
Swimming is seasonal and subject to marine stingers and crocodile warnings - always check conditions and signage and heed local warnings (this is Far North Queensland, after all).
Ready to pick your patch of paradise?
Australia's aren't just pretty - they're wildly diverse, endlessly impressive, and always ready to deliver a top-tier holiday. Whether you're chasing tropical bliss, coastal calm or something totally off the beaten path, there's a beach here with your name on it. You just may "have to" share it with the local kangaroos.
Lastly, when you're out in the Australian sun, especially in remote locations where you need to bring your own supplies, remember the iconic sun-safe guide:
- Slip on sun protective clothing
- Slop on SPF50+ sunscreen
- Slap on a hat
- Seek shade
- Slide on some sunnies
Travel Insurance
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