Trendy Beach Towns To Visit This Summer

Just-opened eateries, chic boutiques and genetically blessed locals flow throughout Australia’s most exhilarating beach towns and neighbourhoods.

As daylight lingers longer and the mercury rises, hours are better spent cooling off at the beach. But while the surf always soothes, the country’s trendiest beach towns deliver more than idyllic swims.

Cosy coastal pockets filled with new restaurants and bars, untapped retail therapy and unique coastal activities beckon from all over Australia. Here, we round up the most thrilling beachy locales.

1. Kirra, Qld

You’ve probably driven right past it on your journey from the airport to central GC, but don’t let Kirra in the southern Gold Coast slip away from you again. Its north-facing beach, flushed with white sand and crystal-clear water, provides tranquil swimming all year round while excellent cafes, shops and hipster bars keep the good times rolling off the sand.

kids enjoying at Kirra Beach, Qld — Enjoy quiet time at Kirra Beach. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The latest drawcard is the achingly cool Kirra Point Precinct and, more specifically, the Kirra Beach Hotel and Kirra Beach House within the multi-million-dollar mecca. Lavish lounging and cocktailing upstairs, and easy breezy pub dining downstairs, the two-pronged construction was unveiled in November 2023, followed by the opening of Kirra Point Hotel in early 2024. Stage Two of the Kirra Point precinct will feature a second tower with a laneway precinct curated with boutique retailers such as a fresh food market, deli, bakery and gelateria. It’s slated for completion in 2026. Arguably the ultimate Queensland scene to be seen this summer.

a family bonding at Kirra Beach, Qld — Spend your beach getaway in Kirra. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

2. Frankston, Vic

Move over, St Kilda. Frankston is home to one of Melbourne’s most delicious beaches, complete with white sand and calm swimming conditions. Plus, all the beachy goodness is complimented by a string of stellar bars and eateries including Oliver’s Corner , a perfectly positioned beach bar within walking distance from Frankston Pier.

The suburb’s raised boardwalk screams out for lazy holiday strolls while epic street art, breweries and distilleries should all be explored. It is signature Melbourne culture set against a shimmering beach – a perfect summer escape, in our book.

Aerial shot of Frankston beach in Victoria — Frankston is a perfect summer escape.

3. Kingscliff, NSW

Remember Noosa’s Hastings Street before everyone switched on? Kingscliff’s Marine Parade feels a lot like the Hastings of yesteryear, right on the verge of going boom. Sure, the town’s beaches are beautiful including Dreamtime Beach, which is calm and a hit with families, but it’s the surf-facing retail stretch that’s creating a buzz visitors adore.

kids enjoying a walk along Kingscliff Beach — Watch the day roll by in Kingscliff. (Image: Destination NSW)

Dotted with some of Kingscliff and the surrounding area’s best restaurants, plus clothing and homeware boutiques and outstanding cafes, Marine Parade is just one of Kingscliff’s charms. Salt Village , an upmarket retail complex and resort on beautiful Salt Beach, is also irresistible.

an aerial view of Cudgen Creek Mouth, Kingscliff, NSW — Cudgen Creek is a tiny, shallow creek in Kingscliff. (Image: Ryan Fowler; Destination Tweed)

4. Cottesloe, WA

A must-visit on any perfect Perth itinerary, Cottesloe is a tourist magnet thanks to its wonderous stretch of sand, one of Perth’s most beautiful beaches. While the scenery is jaw-dropping – think powder-white sand and a far-reaching coastline – there are also plenty of chilled-out pubs and family-friendly eateries to lose the afternoon in.

a drone shot of the emerald waters of Cottesloe Beach — Go paddleboarding over the emerald waters of Cottesloe Beach. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

If you’re struggling to part with that magical glistening water, an array of water sports is on offer and Cottesloe is also home to Sculpture by the Sea , the same event staged on Sydney’s Bondi Beach each year, so culture vultures should time their trip for March annually.

the property exterior of Cottesloe Beach Hotel — Check out the classic Cottesloe Beach Hotel. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

5. Bream Creek, Tas

Fancy a beach hang away from the crowds? Tasmania’s Bream Creek may be small, but its tranquillity is astounding as this beach town remains a local secret. It certainly won’t stay that way for long.

Marion Bay, Tasmania — Bream Creek is small and tranquil. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Home to a thriving farmer’s market staged once a month, Marion Bay Beach, a stunning stretch of coastline, Bream Creek Vineyard , renowned for its award-winning sparkling wine, and picturesque rainforest and farmland, there’s a slow and breezy enchantment to be swept up in at this lesser-known paradise.

the Marion Bay, Tasmania — Bask in solitude at the stunning Marion Bay Beach.

6. Brunswick Heads, NSW

The north coast of NSW is flooded with beach holiday heavyweights and Brunswick Heads grows in momentum every sun-soaked season. It comes down to how it manages to retain its low-key village vibes – for now anyway – giving it a touch of exclusivity compared to cluttered Byron Bay.

Brunswick Heads at sunrise — Head towards the coast for ocean views. (Image: Brad Halcrow)

Head to Brunswick for Torakina Beach located right at the mouth of the Brunswick River, with hypnotising still waters made for families. There are trendy eateries in the middle of town so seek out Mullumbimby Street and Park Street for the buzziest restaurants and bars.

the shores of Brunswick Heads, NSW — Brunswick Heads is an idyllic hideaway.

7. Noosaville, Qld

It’s hard to resist the glitz of Noosa Heads and Hastings Street but Noosaville, located a little more inland from Noosa Heads along the Noosa River, is filled with countless charms including an emerging craft brewing and distillery scene. And then there’s the cafes.

an aerial view of the Noosa River — Noosa River meanders through the pristine wilderness of the Noosa Everglades. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Track down First Batch and Clandestino Coffee , two of Noosaville’s best caffeine pit stops, for your morning elixir and while you’re down in the industrial area, stay to swing by Seabourne Distillery before sniffing out Boiling Pot Brewing Co , two of the suburb’s best boozy must-visits.

When you’re ready for dinner, hip eateries line Gympie Terrace and you can always make like a local and grab fish and chips to eat on a waterfront picnic table.

Seabourne Gin from Seabourne Distillery — Seabourne Distillery is the ideal boozy pit stop.

8. Glenelg, SA

Another picturesque beach town rising in popularity is Glenelg, about 20 minutes away from Adelaide’s bustling centre. Jetty Road’s bars and restaurants are impressive but to experience the essence of this fun-loving beach town, head to Moseley Beach Club right on the sand at Glenelg Beach.

a ferris wheel on Glenelg Beach — Glenelg is a picturesque beach town rising in popularity. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

One of Australia’s best coastal bars, this glorious dining area offers the ultimate spot to enjoy sundowners and snacks between dips in the dazzling blue.

Aerial shot of the Moseley Beach Club at sunset, Glenelg Beach — Sip cocktails in Glenelg at Moseley Beach Club. (Image: Hayley Hays Photography)

9. Busselton, WA

An underwater symphony of vivid sponges, coral and 13 man-made sculptures is bringing even more cool to Busselton in the Margaret River region of Western Australia, one of the country’s must-visit summer hot spots.

an aerial view of Busselton Jetty — Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

The underwater sculpture and reef trail unveiled in December 2023, marks the beach town’s commitment to enhancing its marine life. And there’s plenty more action to celebrate above the water’s surface. Great wineries, sensational scenery and laidback locals who adore their hometown come on tap around here.

fishes swimming underwater in Busselton — Discover Busselton’s underwater wonders. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

10. Byron Bay, NSW

Arguably Australia’s trendiest beach capital, Byron Bay shimmers with celebrity-spotting, killer eateries and bars, stylish clothing, jewellery and homeware boutiques and a youthful, energetic crowd all year round.

friends strolling around Whites Beach in Byron Bay — Explore the beaches in Byron Bay. (Image: Destination NSW)

The list of things to do in Byron Bay is always evolving as ambitious entrepreneurs launch new business ventures on every corner, but what makes Byron really special is how its natural wonders (beaches, coastal walks, cultural sites and more) remain unspoilt despite every man and his dog dropping into this sun-soaked northern NSW town right through the year.

Raes on Wategos, Byron Bay — Pull up a chair in Raes on Wategos. (Image: Madeleine Johnson/Sean Fennessy)

11. Lorne, Vic

Given one of our ultimate girl dinner hot spots around the country, Tottis , has set up shop in the not-so-sleepy coastal suburb of Lorne in Victoria, there are no stopping crowds any time soon. Although it’s long been beautiful, Lorne is now officially the city’s most trendy beach locale and Tottis isn’t the only excellent eatery to bask in.

the Teddy's Lookout in Lorne — Teddy’s Lookout offers scenic views over the Great Ocean Road.

The Bottle Of Milk is a quintessential hipster burger joint while Pizza Pizza is the place to score a superb slice. As for its natural surroundings, the Great Ocean Road pit stop offers magical hinterland, idyllic swimming and an action-packed day-trip itinerary just two hours away from Melbourne CBD.

walking along Lorne Pier at sunrise — Take a peaceful walk along Lorne Pier.

12. Robe, SA

Gaining serious stream among foodies in the know, Robe is located 90 minutes from Mount Gambier on the Limestone Coast and produces some seriously exquisite seafood. Renowned for its crayfish, this pretty coastal town’s culinary talents prepare it expertly – try Sails at Robe , one of our favourite places in Robe to visit.

two people sitting on a sun lounger by the beach at Robe, SA — Watch the waves gently lapping at the shore. (Image: Mish and Kirk)

Fishing is also big here as salmon, mulloway and that delicious crayfish flow abundantly so head to the town jetty or jump in your 4WD and hunt for fins along the surf at Back Beach, Bishops, Long Beach and beyond.

a couple walking along the white sand at Robe, SA — Frolic in the white sand at Robe. (Image: Mish and Kirk)

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

12 trendy beach towns to visit this summer