The Best Beaches in Australia for Postcard-worthy Swims

There’s something about a beach that makes time feel like it’s stretching, its edges blurring into soft whispers of wind and salt. Each grain of sand, a secret kept by the sea, each wave a soft lullaby we never quite tire of. From the powdery white shores of Whitehaven to the rugged, windswept beauty of Misery Beach, Australia’s coastline beckons with an invitation to surrender to the moment.

These are the best beaches in Australia, where you can cast your worries into the waves and surrender to the simple, pure bliss of nature in all her glory.

Misery Beach

Misery Beach, near Albany on Western Australia’s south coast, is a peaceful crescent of white sand bordered by turquoise waters and rugged cliffs. Once tied to a whaling past, it now radiates calm, offering a serene escape for swimming or simply soaking in the beauty. In 2022, it was named Australia’s best beach—a fitting tribute to its understated charm and timeless appeal.

Cable Beach

Cable Beach, a 22-kilometre expanse of pristine white sand near Broome, is a symphony of natural beauty. The turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean gently caress the shore, while the sun sets in a blaze of colour, casting a golden hue over the landscape. At twilight, camels traverse the sands, adding a timeless, cinematic charm to this serene escape.

Elephant Rocks

Elephant Rocks, tucked within William Bay National Park near Denmark, feels like stepping into a natural sculpture garden. Towering granite boulders, shaped over millennia, resemble a majestic herd of elephants wading gracefully in crystal-clear waters. Just steps from the serene Greens Pool, this awe-inspiring coastal treasure offers a moment of quiet wonder, where every stone tells a story etched by time and tide.

Wharton Beach

Wharton Beach, tucked away in the serene Duke of Orleans Bay, is a slice of paradise on Western Australia’s coast. With its soft white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s the perfect escape for those seeking tranquillity. Just 80km from Esperance, this pristine beach invites you to swim, fish, or simply unwind amidst the stunning natural beauty. Uncrowded and peaceful, this is one of the best beaches in Australia for those in search of a true coastal haven.

Roebuck Bay

Roebuck Bay, near Broome in Western Australia, is a stunning fusion of aquamarine waters and vivid red sands. Its vast tidal flats and mangroves teem with life, from playful dugongs to graceful green turtles. At low tide, the bay transforms, revealing intricate creeks and shimmering mudflats. This ever-changing landscape is one of the more captivating beaches in Australia, blending raw natural beauty with an enchanting sense of discovery.

Two People's Bay

Two Peoples Bay, just east of Albany, is a hidden paradise where soft white sands meet crystal-clear waters, framed by rugged granite outcrops. This secluded beach offers the perfect spot for a swim or simply soaking in the tranquility. Beyond its beauty, the reserve protects rare wildlife, like the elusive noisy scrub-bird, making it a serene escape with a touch of wild charm.

Shell Beach Conservation Park

We'd be shellfish not to include this stunner on our list of best beaches in Australia. Found within Shark Bay Conservation Park, Shell Beach is a coastal wonder where millions of tiny white cockle shells stretch endlessly across the shore. The glistening shells create a surreal landscape, while the shallow, hypersaline waters offer an inviting wade. This pristine beach feels otherworldly—nature’s own art gallery!

Whitehaven Beach

Often touted as the best beach in Australia, Whitehaven Beach, on Whitsunday Island, is a slice of paradise where soft, pure silica sands shimmer like powdered sugar beneath your feet. The crystal-clear turquoise waters beckon with their calm embrace, and you might feel as though you've stepped onto another planet—so surreally beautiful it is. Surrounded by lush tropical beauty, this tranquil haven offers a luxury swim like no other.

Grays Bay

Grays Bay can be found in Bowen, and it's a serene escape where calm waters kiss soft sands, making it the perfect spot for families and water sports lovers alike. With its sheltered shoreline, the bay invites kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding under the sun. As one of the rare places on Australia's east coast to catch a stunning ocean sunset, Grays Bay promises a tranquil, picture-perfect retreat.

Ellis Beach

Ellis Beach, just north of Palm Cove, is a tranquil escape where golden sands meet the sparkling Coral Sea. Unlike its busier neighbour, Ellis is untouched, offering a peaceful haven with calm, sheltered waters perfect for sunbathing or a relaxing swim. With no crowds to interrupt, you can savour the serenity. Just be cautious in the water—this quiet spot means you'll often have the beach all to yourself, but it’s best to stay safe.

Myall Beach

Myall Beach, located in Cape Tribulation, is where the rainforest meets the reef, creating an unparalleled blend of natural beauty. This pristine stretch of soft, white sand and sparkling turquoise waters feels like a secret paradise. Surrounded by the ancient Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, it offers a serene escape. Explore vibrant trails, take a peaceful swim, or simply soak in the calm—Myall Beach is a true coastal gem.

Nudey Beach

Nudey Beach is one seriously dreamy Australian beach. Enclosed within rainforest on Fitzroy Island, it's a pristine haven where soft white sands meet the crystal-clear waters of the Coral Sea. Accessible via a scenic 15-minute rainforest walk from Welcome Bay, this secluded beach offers tranquility and beauty in spades. Renowned for its vibrant coral reefs just offshore, it's also a paradise for snorkelers eager to explore the rich marine life. 

Four Mile Beach

Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas, stretches languidly along the Coral Sea, its golden sands kissed by gentle waves. The palm-fringed shoreline invites barefoot strolls, while the horizon beckons with promises of distant adventures. Stick around for the show, because as the sun dips below the waterline, the sky blushes in hues of pink and gold, casting a serene glow over this coastal dreamboat.

Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is a place that hums with a rhythm all its own. The golden stretch of sand is where locals come to reclaim the pulse of the city, while tourists bask in its effortless charm. Surfers carve through waves, sunbathers lounge, and the air carries a mix of salt, sunscreen, and stories. For Australians, it’s a sanctuary of freedom, a slice of nature that feels both wild and familiar—a place where the everyday magic of life unfolds.

Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island is a treasure trove of some of Australia’s finest beaches, where the sand is impossibly soft and the waters a dazzling shade of blue. Whether you’re lounging at the serene Lagoon Beach or exploring the secluded delights of Blinky Beach, you’ll find a slow-paced beauty that feels like a quiet rebellion against the ordinary. Swim with sea turtles, hike through lush landscapes, and forget that time even exists.

Wattamolla Beach

Head to Royal National Park to find one of the most underrated beaches in Australia. Wattamolla Beach is a hidden gem that feels worlds away from the chaos of everyday life. The serene lagoon invites a peaceful swim, while the surrounding palms offer a cool, shaded spot for a relaxing picnic. It’s a place where time slows down, the only rush being the gentle pull of the water and the rustling of the leaves.

Narooma Beach

Narooma Beach, with its smooth sands and sparkling waters, is a place where time slows down. At the southern end, the striking Glasshouse Rocks rise from the sea, their rugged beauty offering a stunning backdrop to the serene landscape. Take a walk along the shore with camera in hand, read a book, enjoy a beach picnic hidden among the craggy rocks, or simply gaze at the horizon—Narooma’s peaceful charm is impossible to forget.

Greenfields Beach

Jervis Bay’s Greenfields Beach showcases a stunning natural palette—turquoise waters, soft white sands, and lush green surrounds. The beach feels like a painter’s masterpiece, with each hue more vibrant than the last. Perfect for a relaxing swim or picnic, it offers a peaceful escape where the landscape is as calming as it is breathtaking—a true slice of paradise.

Zenith Beach

Zenith Beach is a hidden gem in Tomaree National Park, where clear waters meet soft, golden sands. Surrounded by rugged headlands and the stunning Mount Tomaree, it’s perfect for a quiet swim or a lazy day in the sun. Watch for dolphins playing in the waves, and embrace the peaceful charm of this unspoiled setting.

The Pass

The Pass in Byron Bay is a picture-perfect escape where turquoise waves meet golden sands, flanked by lush headlands. Known for its relaxed vibe and reliable surf, it draws locals and visitors alike. Come for the surf, to sunbathe, or to spot dolphins frolicking in the waves, and stay for the utter tranquility and breathtaking coastal views that capture the essence of Byron Bay’s laid-back charm.

Balmoral Beach

A favourite amongst the Sydney set, where crystal-clear waters meet soft, golden sands. Ideal for a refreshing swim or a leisurely stroll, peaceful Balmoral Beach feels worlds away from the city's bustle. Cross the iconic Rocky Point Island Bridge to reach the stunning Rocky Point Island, perfect for a picnic with panoramic views. The stylish Bathers' Pavilion, with its inviting charm, offers the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of this coastal haven.

Ethel Wreck Beach

Located in Innes National Park on Yorke Peninsula, Ethel Wreck Beach is known for the remains of the Ethel, a Norwegian ship that ran aground in 1904. The rusted wreck, visible at low tide, sits at the northern end of the beach. The area is perfect for a quiet walk, swimming, or photography, with clear waters and rugged coastal scenery enhancing the experience. It’s a peaceful spot for those interested in history and nature.

Port Willunga Beach

Port Willunga draws you in with its soft, squeaky white sand and crystal-clear waters, framed by golden cliffs that seem to glow in the sun. The calm, inviting waves make it hard to resist a swim, while the remnants of the old jetty quietly tell a story of days gone by. Every corner offers a new angle of this stunning, photographic landscape.

Memory Cove 

Tucked away in Lincoln National Park, Memory Cove is a hidden gem where rugged beauty meets tranquility. A 4WD track leads you to pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, inviting a peaceful swim or a leisurely walk. Surrounded by native bushland teeming with wildlife, it’s the perfect escape. Drive right onto the beach or camp beneath the stars at the shaded beachfront site, with only a few visitors each day.

Second Valley Beach

This is one of South Australia’s most Instagrammed beaches, offering a fun blend of thrill and tranquility. Dive into its crystal-clear waters for swimming, snorkelling, or scuba diving, or feel the rush of cliff jumps from towering cliffs. For a quieter experience, relax on the shore, taking in the stunning coastal views and unique geological formations. If the crowds appear, a short drive to Carrickalinga reveals equally captivating secret coves.

Greenly Beach

Greenly Beach, on South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, is a coastal retreat for both thrill-seekers and those after peace. Surrounded by soaring sand dunes and rugged reefs, its clear waters call for a swim, though the strong undertows require caution. With rock pools waiting to be explored and a quiet camping spot nearby, it’s an ideal place to embrace the rhythm of the sea.

Almonta Beach

At the southern tip of the Eyre Peninsula, Almonta Beach is where golden sand dunes meet waters so clear, you’ll feel like you're walking in a postcard. Surrounded by bushland teeming with kangaroos, emus, and goannas, it’s nature at its finest. When the tide’s low, rock pools and lagoons appear, inviting exploration. For an unforgettable treat, head to nearby Coffin Bay Oyster Farm and indulge in fresh oysters straight from the source!

Squeaky Beach

Named one of the world’s best by Lonely Planet, Squeaky Beach is a must-visit gem at Wilsons Promontory. Famous for its fine quartz sand that squeaks beneath your feet and crystal-clear turquoise waters, the beach is framed by dramatic granite boulders. With stunning views of Leonard Bay and a scenic walk to Picnic and Whisky Bays, Squeaky Beach offers unforgettable beauty and fun for families on holiday. 

Kilcunda Beach

Kilcunda Beach is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and diverse activities. Situated along the Bass Coast, it features expansive sandy stretches, rugged cliffs, and shallow rock pools perfect for exploration at low tide. Popular with surfers and fishermen, the beach is also a gateway to the Kilcunda Coastal Reserve, where scenic walks lead to breathtaking coastal views and the historic Bourne Creek Trestle Railway Bridge. It’s a peaceful retreat with plenty of adventure to offer.

Refuge Cove 

For those seeking a true escape, Refuge Cove offers one of the most secluded experiences in Victoria. Tucked within Wilsons Promontory National Park, this pristine beach is accessible only by a 34-kilometre hike or boat, ensuring its peaceful solitude. Once a shelter for old whaling ships, the cove still holds remnants of whale bones along its shore. With basic camping facilities, it's the perfect spot for an unforgettable multi-day adventure.

Sorrento Back Beach

At the very tip of the Mornington Peninsula lies the enchanting town of Sorrento, which is uniquely blessed with two distinct beaches. The first, Front Beach, offers calm waters perfect for a leisurely dip, while the second, the rugged Back Beach, faces the wild Bass Strait. Also known as Ocean Beach, it’s a haven for surfing, swimming, fishing, and cliffside hiking. At low tide, the rock pools offer a delightful opportunity for exploration. 

Wineglass Bay

Wineglass Bay, one of Australia’s most iconic beaches, is a vision of natural beauty that never fails to awe. Its sweeping crescent of white sand, kissed by turquoise waters, is framed by the striking Hazards mountain range. Famous for its pristine allure and captivating vistas, this incredible spot draws travellers from around the world to experience its serene and undeniable charm. 

Boat Harbour Beach

Tucked away on Tasmania’s northwest coast, Boat Harbour Beach offers a stunning blend of serenity and natural beauty. With its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, it's the perfect spot for a peaceful swim or a quiet picnic. The beach is sheltered by rugged headlands, providing a safe haven for families and nature lovers alike. Just beyond the shore, Rocky Cape National Park beckons with its ancient geological formations and Aboriginal heritage sites, adding a rich layer to this beautiful and underrated Australian beach.

Binalong Bay

Get set to fawn over the turquoise waters kissed by powder-soft sands at this Bay of Fires favourite. Binalong Bay is a peaceful escape for nature lovers. The beach is framed by vibrant orange-hued granite boulders that stand like quiet guardians against the shoreline. With its clear waters, soft light, and unspoiled beauty, Binalong Bay is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.

Australia’s best beaches are more than just picturesque escapes—they’re where nature’s beauty, adventure, and tranquility collide like waves against shoreline. For more stunning experiences, check out these island holidays and retro stays.