Tourism Australia has revealed its annual list of best beaches.
With over 30,000 kilometres of coastline, Australia is blessed to have what we would argue are the best beaches in the world. Each year, Tourism Australia’s official beach ambassador, Brad Farmer, conducts a study to name the top 10 beaches in the country, judged against a rigorous 130-point criteria covering natural integrity, safety, accessibility, community engagement and environmental management.
And this year, the winner might surprise you. Instead of Whitehaven or Lucky Bay taking the crown, the title of Australia’s best beach for 2026 goes to a vast, quietly spectacular stretch of sand just 30 minutes from Sydney Airport.
Here are the full results.
1. Bate Bay beaches, Sydney, NSW
Bate Bay in the Sutherland Shire has been named Australia’s best beach for 2026. (Credit: Taylah Darnell)
Tucked beneath the flight path into Mascot and stretching a remarkable 4.8 kilometres from Boat Harbour through Greenhills, Wanda, Elouera, and North Cronulla, Bate Bay in the Sutherland Shire has been named Australia’s best beach for 2026.
It is officially Sydney’s longest ocean beach and, crucially, one of its least crowded. Free beachside parking, direct train access from the CBD and a strong surf lifesaving culture make it one of the most accessible coastal regions in the country. Yet it still feels underappreciated compared to Sydney’s headline beaches.
The bay includes nine easily accessible beaches and four ocean baths. (Credit: Taylah Darnell)
The study highlights beaches that quietly deliver across all 130 judging criteria. (Credit: Taylah Darnell)
Farmer told Australian Traveller the decision was deliberate. Rather than rewarding places that “have had their fair share of love", the study aims to highlight beaches that quietly deliver across all 130 judging criteria. Bate Bay scored highly for diversity, safety, community pride and natural integrity.
The bay includes nine easily accessible beaches and four ocean baths, plus calmer swimming enclosures at Gunnamatta Bay for less confident swimmers. Framed by two national parks and set on Gweagal Country, part of the Dharawal Nation, it’s cosmopolitan but not chaotic. Spacious but not remote. And in 2026, it officially leads the country.
2. Pinky Beach, Rottnest Island (Wadjemup), WA
Pinky Beach is Australia’s second best beach. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)
Rottnest Island (Wadjemup)’s Pinky Beach takes second place, proving that Western Australia’s Indian Ocean coastline continues to dominate the national conversation.
Just a short walk from the ferry terminal at Thomson Bay, Pinky Beach combines calm, shallow snorkelling waters with dazzling white sand and a postcard view towards Bathurst Lighthouse. Behind the dunes, relaxed bars and upmarket accommodation add to its appeal. Farmer praised Rottnest for resisting overdevelopment despite its popularity. With 63 beaches and 20 bays scattered across the island, Pinky Beach stands out for accessibility, clarity of water and family-friendly swimming conditions.
3. Beachcomber Cove, Cape Hillsborough, Qld
Kangaroos gather on the sand in Cape Hillsborough. (Credit: Mark Fitz)
Cape Hillsborough’s Beachcomber Cove feels like a nature documentary unfolding in real time.
Kangaroos gather on the sand at sunrise, volcanic rock formations frame the shoreline and rainforest-backed walking trails reveal waterfalls and mangrove boardwalks. The adjoining marine park supports remarkable biodiversity, from tropical butterflies to turtles. Despite its modest size, the beach scored strongly for ecological integrity and immersive natural experience. It is Queensland at its most quietly spectacular.
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4. Tallow Beach, Byron Bay, NSW
Tallow Beach is a lesser-known Byron beach. (Credit: Destination NSW)
Byron Bay’s “back beach" earns fourth place, offering a wilder, more spacious alternative to Byron’s more well-known beaches.
Stretching seven kilometres from Cape Byron to Broken Head, Tallow Beach remains largely undeveloped, backed by coastal heath and Arakwal National Park. It is unpatrolled, powerful and refreshingly open. Farmer described it as the “flip side of the celebrity experience", rewarding those willing to walk a little further for solitude.
5. Hellfire Bay, Esperance, WA
Hellfire Bay is one of Australia’s best white sand beaches. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)
Set within Cape Le Grand National Park near Esperance, Hellfire Bay is pure Western Australian drama.
Granite headlands shelter a crescent of dazzling white sand and impossibly clear turquoise water. Vehicles are not permitted on the beach, helping preserve its calm, untouched feel. Kangaroos regularly wander along the shoreline and snorkelling conditions are often gentler than neighbouring surf beaches. It is remote, pristine and quietly unforgettable.
6. Godfreys Beach, Stanley, Tas
Godfreys Beach is in one of Tasmania’s most recognisable spots. (Credit: Jason Charles Hill)
Below the towering volcanic plug known as The Nut in Stanley, Godfreys Beach delivers one of Tasmania’s most recognisable coastal backdrops.
The gently curving, north-east-facing beach offers small, manageable waves and expansive views across Bass Strait. Penguins come ashore along this coast, while historic Highfield House sits watchfully above. Cold water, dramatic geology and strong community pride helped secure its place in the top 10.
7. Inskip Point, Rainbow Beach, Qld
Inskip Point has expansive views across the Great Sandy Strait. (Credit: Getty Images / Rebecca O’Grady)
Often seen as simply the gateway to K’gari, Inskip Point stands confidently in its own right this year.
The narrow sandy spit offers calm western waters suited to fishing and boating, with expansive views across the Great Sandy Strait. Camping sites are basic but beautiful, and the sense of space is immense. It is unpretentious, open and deeply connected to its landscape.
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8. Mount Martha, Mornington Peninsula, Vic
Score a colourful beach box at Mount Martha. (Credit: Supplied)
Protected bay conditions, colourful beach boxes and a strong commitment to accessibility make this one of the state’s most inclusive coastal experiences. Volunteer surf lifesaving patrols and visible community care scored highly under the study’s safety and engagement criteria. Just over an hour from Melbourne, it offers calm without feeling remote.
9. Smoky Bay, Eyre Peninsula, SA
Smoky Bay is remote, spacious and deeply local. (Credit: Smoky Bay Progress Association)
Fresh oysters, a shark-free swimming enclosure and vast stretches of quiet coastline define this small coastal village. Low-tide rock pools and secluded headlands offer rewarding exploration, while community pride runs strong. It’s remote, spacious and deeply local.
10. Ellery Creek Big Hole, Red Centre, NT
Ellery Creek Big Hole proves that inland Australia deserves a place in the national beach conversation. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT / The Salty Travellers)
Not all beaches are coastal. Ellery Creek Big Hole, around 80 kilometres west of Alice Springs in Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, proves that inland Australia deserves a place in the national beach conversation.
Under a broader definition recognising rivers, lakes and waterholes as beaches, this permanent desert waterhole offers cool relief beneath towering red cliffs and ghost gums. Sacred to Arrernte people and part of traditional Dreaming trails, it stands as one of Australia’s most powerful inland “beach" experiences.
If 2026 proves anything, it is this: Australia’s greatest beaches are not always the ones plastered across postcards. Sometimes, they are right under your nose.
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Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her 4+ years at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? South Australia and The Kimberley.
Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.
Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.
Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.
Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.
Getting there, and around
Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.
The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.
Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).
Where to stay
Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)
Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.
Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.
Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.
Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.
The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.
For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.
Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.
Where to eat
Sit down to a feast at coca chu.
Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.
Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.
Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.
Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.
For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.
Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).
Where to explore
Explore the island’s walking trails.
There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.
One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).
For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.
Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.
Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.
Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.
Where to play
Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.
Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.
Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.
Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.
More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.
Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.
