We’re pretty lucky in this country to have some of the best beaches in the world, so when TripAdvisor released its yearly ‘Top 10 Beaches’, many were surprised that only one Aussie beach made the list!
Amongst those confused by the ranking, were the very vocal members of luxuryescapes.com, a members-only travel site that offers high-end holidays.
The well-travelled folk who holiday with Luxury Escapes are used to holidaying to some of the world’s most picture-perfect destinations – so it’s safe to say they know their beaches. Here are their picks for the best beaches in Australia.
1. Whitehaven Beach, Queensland
What is there to say about Whitehaven Beach that hasn’t been said before? The silica sand is impossibly, velvety soft and unicorn-white, and it’s so clean, so untouched, that it’s hard to believe you’re only a boat ride away from the fully functioning resort-ville of the rest of the Whitsundays.
Where to eat nearby:
Coca Chu is an Asian fusion restaurant 11.5km from Whitehaven but serves up incredible vegan-friendly grub in a supremely picturesque setting. It also caters to the meat lovers among us, so don’t fret. It features the hawker-street style food of South East Asia that you’ll be craving during your swim.
2. Wineglass Bay, Tasmania
Seemingly situated on the edge of the Earth – next stop, Antarctica – Wineglass Bay on Tasmania’s Freycinet Peninsula is a little slice of paradise down south. Surrounded by lush bushland, it’s also home to some of the most luxurious accommodation in the state (case in point: Saffire Freycinet).
Where to eat nearby:
Freycinet Marie Farm is the perfect pit stop for any seafood lover. You can pick up sumptuous oysters to take back to your accommodation – or to the beach – or settle in for some grilled Tasmanian garlic scallops and a bread roll. Delicious.
3. Hyams Beach, New South Wales
Its sands have been recorded as the whitest in the world, so it’s hard to believe that Hyams Beach is only three hours out of Sydney. If you get tired of those crystal-clear waters and feathery sand, then check out nearby local bushwalks to experience breathtaking views over Jervis Bay.
Where to eat nearby:
Just 3.8km away from Hyams Beach is Albert N Miso, a divine little cafe located in Vincentia. With a hearty breakfast and lunch menu, plus delicious burgers all day (try the fish burger with tomato salsa, tartare and sprouts), and they also start a tapas menu at 6pm, meaning your stroll from the beach into town will be well worth it.
4. Turquoise Bay, Western Australia
When you think of paradise-like beaches, something a lot like Turquoise Bay in far northern Western Australia will spring to mind. Think azure-hued waters, soft white sand, and not another person around for miles. And did we mention there’s some of the best snorkelling around?
Where to eat nearby:
Adrift Cafe are your perfect pick if you’re after an incredible big breakfast that’ll do more than just touch the sides – an attractive option if you’ve gone a little heavy on the Coronas the night before. They also tend to feature specials with a Middle Eastern flavour and change the specials up weekly.
5. Eagle Bay, Western Australia
Only a stone’s throw from Margaret River, you’ll find Eagle Bay. White sands and glistening waters contrast against red Australian rock. Head up to Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse to see where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet.
Where to eat nearby:
Eagle Bay Brewing Co has a brilliant, casual vibe and outdoor seating and dishes up amazing dishes with a mix of Asian and Italian influence. Order the soy chilli cashews and peanuts for a nibble with your brew, or the espresso braised BBQ brisket for something meatier – literally. The honey & sesame chicken with chinese sausage is also a great choice.
6. Four Mile Beach, Queensland
Such is the length of this celebrated Port Douglas beach, that it was used as an airplane runway back in the early days of aviation. It’s beautiful, clean and not too overcrowded at this time of year (just watch out for crocs).
Where to eat nearby:
When you’re done at the beach for the day, head over to The Beach Shack on Barrier Street for incredible pizza and cocktails. And when we say come from the beach, we mean it – the restaurant’s floors are already sandy – and surfboards hang from the walls – so you’re bound to fit right in.
7. Pennington Bay, South Australia
This beach on Kangaroo Island deserves a place on your bucket list. Not only is the surfing world class, but the remote location means it’s secluded from the hordes of tourists who would usually frequent a beach this photogenic.
Where to eat nearby:
Cactus serves up incredible coffee and food on Kangaroo Island. They do a Friday night Mediterranean feast that draws massive crowds and again, the coffee – very, very good.
8. Tallow Beach, New South Wales
A little bit tired of busy Byron? Head over to Tallow Beach, just a few kilometres out of town, and feel immediately rested. Dogs have a good long stretch of beach to themselves, so your pooch doesn’t have to stay at home while you catch some rays.
Where to eat nearby:
Suffolk Bakery offers up some of the best freshly baked goodies you can get your hands on. They often showcase live musicians alongside their fresh coffee and amazing croissants. Perfect for a takeaway lunch or to nestle in and enjoy the atmosphere.
9. Trinity Beach, Queensland
Even though Trinity Beach is a suburb of Cairns – and only 20 minutes from the airport – you’d hardly know it, with properties and restaurants set back from the sand, so the ocean feels like it’s all yours.
Where to eat nearby:
Trinity Beach Bar & Grill offers up delicious eats, including the freshest fruit and yoghurt, they also do delicious hot sandwiches and even themed nights such as ‘pasta night’ – that one is not to be missed – and neither are the cocktails.
10. Seaford Beach, Victoria
Boasting a long pier dotted with fishermen, Seaford Beach is the gateway to Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, and only a 45-minute drive from Melbourne. The shallow waters and gentle waves around the pier make it perfect for swimming with little ones.
Where to eat nearby:
Beach Cafe Seaford offers coffee, cake and a light daytime menu and an incredible terrace overlooking the bay. The atmosphere is relaxed – and kind of feels as though you could stay there all day – but how can you when the beach is calling so loud?
