20 Australian Beaches to Inspire your next Summer Getaway

There’s nothing more Australian than summer by the ocean. As a country, we’re blessed by amazing beaches, so it’s no surprise that we love spending the best season of the year on top of one!

If you’re all about your local strip of sand this summer, why not consider some of these beauties from around the country—it’s never too late! If you do decide to make a dash for it, be sure to check out what’s available at your nearest G’day Park or, at the very least, use this list to inspire your next escape.

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We understand it is an island, but with so many amazing beaches in such a small space, we couldn’t leave a single one out!

Pinky Beach is easily the most famous, with views of Bathurst Lighthouse and a sunset scene that is quickly becoming world famous. This shoud be a bucket list item for any Australian traveller, and if you do find yourself here, lucky you! 

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Close to the metropolitan centre of Perth and a firm favourite with WA surfers and families, Scarborough Beach is also popular with kitesurfers—especially when the sea breeze is in.

At night, the foreshore is abuzz with restaurants, cafes, and bars aplenty, while the outdoor amphitheatre frequently hosts events of all kinds.

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There are a few reasons this island is the third most photographed place in the world, and Whitehaven Beach is one of them! The word stunning doesn’t cover it, but we’ll use it anyway.

With opportunities to snorkel, dive, and simply relax on this amazing stretch of sand, which is surrounded by 74 other islands and islets, you’re unlikely to find something which deserves the title 'island paradise' more than this remote spot.

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Famous for the sunset markets held every Thursday and Sunday from April to October, this is still a relaxing, family-friendly beach at other times of the year. 

Close to the Casino Resort and a large nature reserve that runs parallel, there’s plenty to see and do at Mindil! 

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The ever-popular Sunshine Coast has long been a magnet for holiday makers looking for a classic Queensland getaway. In the heart of the region, Noosa Heads has that laid-back coastal vibe perfect for the whole family.

Swim at Noosa Main Beach, surf the World Surfing Reserve, or walk Noosa National Park’s coastal trails. A true beauty!

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Outside of Sydney’s Bondi, this is arguably Australia’s most famous stretch of beach, and a much sought after holiday destination.

With year-round warm weather and a vibrant off-beach scene synonymous with the Gold Coast and Surfers Paradise, there’s no shortage of action here.

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Escape the mainland by jumping into a 4WD and heading over to Fraser Island (K'gari) by ferry. As a World Heritage-listed location, Fraser Island offers plenty for visitors who like exploring tropical rainforest, spotting over 230 species of native bird, or swimming the crystal clear waters of the inland freshwater lake, Lake McKenzie.

It's an iconic location that should be on every Australians travel bucket list.

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This is one of the top beaches along the Coffs Coast and one of the best surf spots in the region. Locals flock to take advantage of a world-class break and are surrounded by the kind of coastal scenery that is the envy of the world. It's Australia at its best.

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One of the most popular surfing beaches on the Central Coast, Shelly Beach is close to The Entrance, Long Jetty, and Bateau Bay. The beach features rock walls great for family exploring and the foreshore features a range of shops, cafes, and bars that come to life on any given day.

Views here mean there are great picnic spots and there is a popular dog exercise area not far from the water's edge!

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This is a great day out for the whole family. Running parallel to the National Park of the same name between Kiama and Nowra, Seven Mile Beach is the spot in the Shoalhaven region south of Woollongong to indulge in fishing, swimming, picnicking, and hiking!

It's a summer favourite amongst locals and close to other popular beaches including Werri Beach.

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At a half day’s drive from Sydney in the Eurobodalla region of NSW’s South Coast, Bateman’s Bay offers the complete package of amazing beaches, incredible scenery, and world famous seafood!

Soft sand and clear water will greet you at every turn, making this a family-friendly paradise to savour!

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Offering miles of white sandy beaches with very few people on them, Hardwicke Bay is typical of what South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula has to offer.

Ideal for families who love its shallow blue waters, the sheltered nature of the bay makes it a great spot for long walks, leisurely swims, and a whole lot of relaxing!

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Here's yet another example of South Australia’s embarrassment of riches when it comes to crystal clear beaches.

Throw out a line or just laze about on these calming oases of sand, waves, and blue sky! Enjoy the jetty and use Port Hughes as a handy base from which to explore the excellent Yorke Peninsula.

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The Eyre Peninsula was once a far off and mostly forgotten place, ignored by all but the most seasoned of tourists. Now that its coastal wonders, fresh seafood, and outstanding hospitality have come to light, it's become a rite of passage for all South Aussies, and is gradually making it on to the itineraries of travellers from all over the world!

With a multitude of untouched bays and crystal clear water as standard, you could do a lot worse than make your summer pilgrimage here!

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A firm favourite amongst locals at any time of the year, Port WIllunga is just a hop, skip, and a jump from Adelaide’s underrated metropolitan coastline.

Known for its caves, calm blue water, and the iconic jetty wreckage, this is highly Instagrammable when the sun is setting. In a great place to park yourself for a few hours (or a few days!), the Star of Greece restaurant and cafe is perched on high as a great spot for a fancy lunch or something quick! Port Willunga is a family favourite throughout the summer.

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This is not easy to get to, but if you’re going to go to Tasmania, it's worth plotting an epic adventure that includes amazing places like this.

As part of the Freycinet National Park, this beach is about as untouched as they get in Australia. While the picture does tend to say it all, a day trip from Hobart or Launceston will say a whole lot more!

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A short drive from Hobart, Kingston Beach offers a picturesque setting with a calm and safe swimming environment. The beach is lined with cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy some local cuisine.

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A must-see stopover on any exploration of Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, Lorne Beach is famous for its annual pier-to-pub swim, buzzing surf scene, and as a place for anglers on the hunt for trevally, whiting, or barracuda.

Lorne is also known for sightings of whales, who migrate through its waters between May and September every year!

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Famous for its colorful bathing boxes, Brighton Beach is a popular destination in Melbourne. These iconic huts along the shore make for picturesque postcard views and a delightful backdrop for a relaxing day by the sea.

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Nestled between Torquay and Bells Beach, Jan Juc is a family-friendly destination known for its excellent surf conditions and a relaxed atmosphere. The coastal cliffs provide an excellent vantage point for whale watching during migration seasons.