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)

Discover vibrant culture and creativity, gorgeous nature spots and more in lively Newcastle.

Newcastle/Muloobinba has a lot going for it beyond its big skies and beautiful beaches. The city’s creative types are now heading downtown, taking over and transforming warehouses and terraces to offer a more alternative vibe. From its nightlife to secret swimming spots, art to architecture, here’s our insider’s guide to Newcastle in New South Wales.

1. Learn to sail on Newcastle Harbour

The harbour has always shaped Newcastle, so it seems like the most obvious place to start your weekend. Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club offers a range of programs that provide instruction for both novice and experienced sailors. This is an inspired classroom that sets off past the Honeysuckle Foreshore up the Hunter River, with views towards a seemingly infinite vista of blue stretching to the horizon. It’s the perfect way to savour your time by the sea. Other water activities include surfing, swimming in one of the secret ocean baths or whale-watching with CoastXP .

Aerial view of Newcastle Harbour. — Join Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club’s programs. (Image: City of Newcastle)

2. Underground jazz scene

Follow the lively sound of the saxophone bubbling up to find The Underground . The popular basement-level bar, with its dim lighting and speakeasy aesthetic, schedules live jazz performances every Tuesday and Thursday. Newcastle is known around the country for supporting live music and this late-night New York-style jazz bar is, like the city itself, both approachable and sophisticated. For fans of live music, Queen’s Wharf Hotel , King Street Newcastle , Mad Poet and The Lucky Hotel are all popular pubs for their roster of live music.

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3. The city as a canvas

The streets of Newcastle present like an outdoor art gallery , adding beauty to the everyday with large-scale works by artists such as Fintan Magee, Inari Meyers, Tom Henderson and Sophia Flegg. Hire a Flash E-bike and pedal around the streets to find treasures such as Bronte Naylor’s Mirror Ocean in Civic Square or Sky & Ocean at South Newcastle Beach Skate Park. You can also join Newy Tour Co.’s Discover Newcastle tour to explore city highlights, architectural gems and street art with an expert guide.

Friends take in Newcastle Street Art. — Admire stunning works of art displayed all around you. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. An artist’s view of Newcastle

There’s a real sense of optimism around Newcastle, stemming from its many grassroots art galleries and organisations. The city is home to an eclectic array of artists who gravitate toward different mediums; see their works on show at independent galleries such as The Lock-Up , which operated as a police station from 1861 until 1982, and Lighthouse Arts Newcastle in the light-filled cottages on Nobbys Head/Whibayganba. Stop by The Creator Incubator to see the Little and Big gallery spaces. Newcastle Art Gallery will soon reopen after a recent expansion, so keep an eye out.

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5. Newcastle after dark

The small bars confetti’d around Newcastle are a sign of the times. Visitors to the compact city will find a concentration of bars within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail. The after-dark experience, which includes theatre and live music, is designed for visitors who are in search of the offbeat and want to celebrate the city’s creativity. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, the bars that dot most neighbourhoods will tempt you with everything from happy hour to their alt attitude.

A bartender expertly crafting a drink, with a stunning library of spirits in the background. — Enjoy a night out at a lively bar. (Image: City of Newcastle)

6. Indulge in great gastronomy

Newcastle’s proximity to the Hunter Valley has helped establish it as a sophisticated getaway for gourmands with a passion for provenance. Dining options in the city are diverse, with everything from casual cafes to cantina-style Mexican eateries such as Antojitos , through to fine diners such as Flotilla and Jana Restaurant & Bar at QT Newcastle . Visit during Newcastle Food Month to get a snapshot of the local culinary scene – you can take note of the many world-class restaurants and cafes that warrant a return visit. Humbug , Peregrin and Bistro Penny should also be on your radar.

The dining area at Flotilla in Newcastle NSW. — Savour a world-class dining experience at Flotilla. (Image: Flotilla)

7. Crystalbrook Kingsley

Crystalbrook Kingsley is another great example of Newcastle’s new wow factor. Staying at the hotel – in the heart of the cultural centre – makes exploring a breeze, with vintage bikes for guests who want to check out the city streets on two wheels. The design-savvy Crystalbrook Collection reimagined the Roundhouse building while adhering to its ethos of sustainable luxury. The hotel is also a magnet for foodies, with the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant and cocktail bar, Romberg’s, two of the best spots in the city for wining and dining.

The Roundhouse by Crystalbrook Collection. — Step into the reworked Roundhouse by Crystalbrook. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

8. Newcastle’s creative side on show

Save the date for New Annual , a festival of art, music and ideas from 26 September – 5 October. The program is jam-packed with 10 days of art, culture and creativity. This year’s festival will celebrate the power art has to connect people. Expect to see a diverse program including music, theatre, workshops, and performances in iconic Newcastle locations. Visitors will find a concentration of events within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail.

Dancers performing gracefully, accompanied by a live orchestra. — Celebrate migration, community and belonging at New Annual.

Plan your next trip to offbeat Newcastle.

12 trendy beach towns to visit this summer