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Three Aussie beaches just made the world’s 50 best list

Credit: Tourism Western Australia

Taylah Darnell Taylah Darnell
 The World’s 50 Best Beaches list is out – and three Aussie beaches have made quite the splash.

With white sand, impossibly clear water and more hidden havens than you could ever hope to tick off, Australia’s coastline has long been in a league of its own. The proof is in the pudding, too; close to 87 per cent of the country’s population live along our coasts, shaping a culture that’s deeply connected to sea, sand and surf.

So when the annual World’s 50 Best Beaches list dropped, it was hardly surprising to see us featured not once, but three times. While two are making a return appearance (in higher positions, no less), one is joining for the very first time.

The ranking is decided by an extensive panel of well-travelled experts against a range of criteria, from accessibility and isolation to weather conditions and wildlife presence. Here’s where made the cut.

Wharton Beach, WA

Wharton Beach, WA
Wharton Beach is officially among the top five beaches in the world. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

Wharton Beach in Western Australia’s Duke of Orleans Bay came in third place this year, impressively climbing from 21st in 2025. Widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the state, this local gem is loved for its tranquil atmosphere, crystalline waters and sand so fine it squeaks underfoot.

Whales off Western Australia's coastline
Whales migrate along WA’s coast from May to December. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

Thanks to its relative isolation (the nearest town is around an hour away), visitors rarely have to fight for a spot on the sand. But while the crowds are few, you won’t have the place entirely to yourself. Wharton Beach is home to an abundance of wildlife, from kangaroos lounging along the shore to pods of dolphins dancing in the waves. It’s also one of the country’s best whale-watching spots come migration season, with pods of humpback and southern right whales often sighted.

Turquoise Bay, WA

Turquoise Bay, WA
Turquoise Bay is hidden within Cape Range National Park. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

Coming in 15th this year is one of WA’s lesser-known beaches. And while it’s down a few spots from 11th place last year, it continues to hold a prominent place in the list among the world’s best. Situated near Exmouth on the North West Cape, Turquoise Bay wears its main asset on its sleeve – or should I say, in its name.

Turquoise Bay, WA
Admiring marine life from a distance ensures they remain protected. (Credit: Tourism Western Australia)

Known for boasting crystal-clear waters, gentle currents and plentiful marine life, the bay has become a natural playground for snorkellers. Its close proximity to Ningaloo Marine Park allows for easy spotting of fish, turtles, rays and coral reefs, as well as dolphins, sharks and whales – if you’re lucky. Set within Cape Range National Park, Turquoise Bay lends itself perfectly to a weekend of swimming, fishing, hiking and camping under the stars. 

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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Wineglass Bay, Tas

Wineglass Bay, Tasmania
Wineglass Bay has made its debut on the World’s 50 Best Beaches list for 2026. (Credit: Lauren Bath)

Making its debut on the World’s 50 Best Beaches list this year is Wineglass Bay, claiming 21st place, and cementing every Aussie inclusion comfortably within the top 25. Located on Tasmania’s Freycinet Peninsula, it’s part of the Tasmanian Wilderness UNESCO World Heritage Area – and for good reason.

Saffire Jewel in Freycinet, Tasmania
Saffire Jewel will open later this year, just a 10-minute drive from Wineglass Bay.

Wineglass Bay is a place of striking contrasts, where rugged natural beauty meets refined luxury. Sandy shores quickly give way to verdant rainforests. Pink granite peaks rise over cerulean waters. A quiet stillness brings a true sense of calm. Better yet, you can take it all in from the comfort of five-star stays like Saffire Freycinet and its ultra-luxe private sister villa, Saffire Jewel, set to open later this year.

The world’s top 10 beaches for 2026

1. Entalula Beach, The Philippines
2. Fteri Beach, Greece
3. Wharton Beach, Australia
4. Nosy Iranja, Madagascar
5. East Beach, Fiji
6. Shoal Bay East, Anguilla
7. Dhigurah, The Maldives
8. Playa Balandra, Mexico
9. Koh Rong, Cambodia
10. Donald Duck Bay, Thailand

See the full World’s 50 Best Beaches list here.

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Taylah Darnell
Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to check out places like Scotland and North America, her favourite place to explore will always be her homeland.
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Goat yoga to gastronomy: The ultimate guide to Wimmera Mallee, Vic

    Gemma Kaczerepa Gemma Kaczerepa
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    A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

    Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating. 

    Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned. 

    Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world. 

    Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

    The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria
    Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

    If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves. 

    The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.  

    Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions. 

    Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.  

    Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

    Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed
    Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

    As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene. 

    Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure. 

    The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po, where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls. 

    Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed, the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles. 

    Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

    pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia
    Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

    Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes. 

    Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell, which turns pink during wet and warm conditions. 

    The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden. 

    And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic. 

    Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

    border inn in the Wimmera Mallee
    Meet the locals at Border Inn.

    As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area. 

    The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality. 

    The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green.  For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.  

    A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times. 

    Wimmera Mallee accommodation

    Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee
    Escape to Fulham Homestead.

    If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge, also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway. 

    For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning. 

    The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike. 

    If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre. 

    Annual events

    Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum
    Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

    You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again. 

    Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark. 

    Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival, a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show, which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj, a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community. 

    From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au