Introduction
Australia is a large island continent and country located in the Southern Hemisphere, surrounded by the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is known for its unique wildlife, such as kangaroos and koalas, and diverse landscapes ranging from deserts to tropical rainforests and stunning beaches. Australia has six states and two territories, with major cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and the capital, Canberra.
- Whitehaven Beach, Queensland
Topping many lists, Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island is often called the most beautiful beach in Australia. Known for its dazzlingly white silica sand that feels cool to the touch, this 7-kilometer stretch of coastline is framed by crystal-clear turquoise water. It’s part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, offering amazing snorkeling opportunities. Whitehaven’s pristine environment and breathtaking views make it perfect for romantic getaways and nature lovers.
- Bondi Beach, New South Wales
Iconic and buzzing with energy, Bondi Beach in Sydney is Australia’s most famous urban beach. It’s a hotspot for surfers, sunbathers, and tourists looking to soak in the lively beach culture. Bondi’s golden sands stretch for about one kilometer, backed by cafés, bars, and shops. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk offers stunning cliff-top views, making it ideal for a scenic stroll after a dip in the surf.
- Cable Beach, Western Australia
Located in Broome, Cable Beach is renowned for its 22 kilometers of pristine white sand and vibrant sunsets over the Indian Ocean. What sets Cable Beach apart are the iconic camel rides that take visitors along the shoreline, creating a unique outback-meets-beach experience. The water is warm and shallow, great for families and casual swimmers. The beach’s remote location means it’s less crowded, offering a peaceful retreat.
- Noosa Main Beach, Queensland
On Australia’s Sunshine Coast, Noosa Main Beach is a favorite for its gentle waves and safe swimming conditions, making it ideal for families. The beach lies adjacent to the quaint town of Noosa Heads, which offers a sophisticated blend of dining, shopping, and nature walks. The nearby Noosa National Park is perfect for spotting koalas and enjoying coastal views, making this beach destination perfect for combining relaxation with adventure.
- Bells Beach, Victoria
Known worldwide for its big waves and surf competitions, Bells Beach near Torquay in Victoria is a surfer’s paradise. Home to the annual Rip Curl Pro Surfing event, Bells Beach offers powerful swells ideal for experienced surfers. Even if you’re not a surfer, the rugged cliffs and spectacular ocean views make it worth a visit. The dramatic coastline is also great for hiking and photography.
- Turquoise Bay, Western Australia
If snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs sounds like your idea of a perfect beach day, Turquoise Bay in the Ningaloo Reef Marine Park is a must-visit. The crystal-clear water allows you to swim right over colorful coral and tropical fish without even needing a boat. This secluded beach offers a quiet atmosphere, pristine white sand, and incredible underwater experiences, making it one of Australia’s hidden gems.
- Manly Beach, New South Wales
Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Sydney’s CBD, Manly Beach offers a great mix of beach fun and city convenience. It has a laid-back vibe with cafes, surf schools, and bike rentals. The beach is popular with swimmers and surfers alike, and the nearby Manly Corso shopping strip provides plenty of entertainment options. The walk from Manly to Shelly Beach is a peaceful coastal trail, perfect for spotting marine life.
- Wineglass Bay, Tasmania
Often ranked as one of the world’s best beaches, Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park is famous for its curved, pink-tinged sand and pristine clear waters. Accessible by a moderately challenging hike, the beach rewards visitors with stunning views of granite mountains meeting the ocean. It’s a great spot for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, including rare Tasmanian birds and wallabies.
- Hyams Beach, New South Wales
Holding the Guinness World Record for the whitest sand in the world, Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay is a true coastal treasure. The sand here is incredibly fine and bright, contrasting beautifully with the turquoise water. The calm, shallow waters make it ideal for snorkeling and family swimming. Nearby national parks and walking trails add to the appeal of this quiet and picturesque beach.
- Byron Bay Main Beach, New South Wales
Known for its relaxed, hippie-chic vibe, Byron Bay Main Beach is a cultural icon in Australia. The beach offers consistent surf breaks, making it a favorite among surfers and beginner-friendly waves. The iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse nearby offers breathtaking views over the coast, especially at sunrise and sunset. Byron Bay’s vibrant town complements the beach experience with lively markets, music festivals, and organic cafes.
Where to stay in Australia
Major Cities
- Sydney (New South Wales)
- Why stay here? Iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach.
- Best areas: Circular Quay (central, scenic), Surry Hills (trendy), Bondi (beachside).
- Top picks:
- Luxury: Park Hyatt Sydney
- Mid-range: Ovolo Woolloomooloo
- Budget: Wake Up! Sydney
- Melbourne (Victoria)
- Why stay here? Arts, coffee culture, food, sports, and day trips to the Great Ocean Road.
- Best areas: CBD (city center), Fitzroy (hip), St Kilda (beachfront).
- Top picks:
- Luxury: The Langham Melbourne
- Mid-range: Adelphi Hotel
- Budget: Space Hotel
- Brisbane (Queensland)
- Why stay here? Gateway to Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and the Great Barrier Reef.
- Best areas: South Bank (riverside), Fortitude Valley (nightlife), New Farm (leafy).
- Top picks:
- Luxury: Emporium Hotel
- Mid-range: The Calile Hotel
- Budget: Bunk Brisbane
Things to do in Australia
- Explore the Great Barrier Reef (Queensland)
- Snorkeling & diving among colorful corals and marine life.
- Take a glass-bottom boat tour or scenic flight from Cairns or the Whitsundays.
- Visit islands like Fitzroy, Green Island, or Hamilton Island.
- Visit Uluru and the Outback (Northern Territory)
- Watch the sunrise or sunset at Uluru (Ayers Rock).
- Explore Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and Kings Canyon.
- Learn about Aboriginal culture and Dreamtime stories.
- Relax on Australia’s Beautiful Beaches
- Bondi Beach (Sydney): Surfing, swimming, and the Bondi to Coogee walk.
- Whitehaven Beach (Whitsundays): Famous for its pure silica sand.
- Byron Bay (NSW): Laid-back vibes, surfing, and whale watching.
Day trip from Australia
From Sydney, New South Wales
- Blue Mountains
- Just 2 hours west of Sydney.
- See the Three Sisters, Scenic World, and hike rainforest trails.
- Great for nature lovers and photographers.
- Hunter Valley
- 2–2.5 hours from Sydney.
- Wine tasting, gourmet food, and countryside views.
- Ideal for couples or foodies.
- Palm Beach (Home of Home and Away)
- 5 hours north.
- Beautiful coastal walk, beach vibes, and laid-back cafes.
From Melbourne, Victoria
- Great Ocean Road
- Famous for the 12 Apostles, rugged cliffs, and beach towns.
- A full-day road trip (or take a tour).
- Great for coastal views and scenic drives.
- Phillip Island
- 2 hours drive.
- Watch the Penguin Parade, visit a koala sanctuary, and enjoy beaches.
- Yarra Valley
- 5 hours from Melbourne.
- Wine, chocolate, cheese, and beautiful rolling hills.
- Also known for hot-air ballooning at sunrise.
From Brisbane, Queensland
- Moreton Island
- Reachable by ferry.
- Snorkel Tangalooma Wrecks, sandboard dunes, and spot dolphins.
- A paradise for nature and water lovers.
- Sunshine Coast / Noosa
- Around 2 hours north.
- Boutique shops, national parks, and stunning beaches.
- Noosa National Park has scenic coastal walks.
- Tamborine Mountain
- 5 hours from Brisbane.
- Rainforest walks, wineries, and charming villages.
- Don’t miss the Skywalk and Glow Worm Caves.
