Top 10 Best Australian Beaches for 2023

  • All Ages

The annual Top 10 Best Australian Beaches list for 2023 has been revealed!

After an extensive search across the country, expert Brad Farmer AM has curated his list of top picks and out of the 11,671 beaches across Australia, this marks the first time a South Australian beach has taken the number one position. 

The list includes at least one beach from each state as well – so check it out and plan your next seaside escape today. Whatever destination you choose to visit, there's nothing like taking in salty air and feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin while wandering along Australia's stunning coastlines.

Enjoy!

The Top 10 Australian Beaches for 2023
 

1. Stokes Bay

Stokes Bay, a worthy beach for the number one spot.
Image credit: Tourism Australia 


While the rest of Australia may be surprised, locals and those who have visited the little-known beach on Kangaroo Island aren't. 

"Stokes Bay has always been one of my favourite beaches and a great place to take visitors to surprise them with the entrance," Local MP Leon Bignell MP shared in a Facebook Post, a reaction to the top spot announcement.

"When they start walking along the sandy passageway through the massive rocks, they have no idea how stunning the view is going to be on the other side.

"A safe rockpool for the little kids, waves for the more adventurous and on a calm day, it's as flat as a tack."

We do love a family-friendly beach here at ellaslist. Maybe it's time we take a trip to Kangaroo Island! 
Location: Kangaroo Island, South Australia 
 

2. Boomerang Beach

Boomerang Beach
Photo credit: stylastles

 

Boomerang Beach is an awesome surfing spot with perfect waves generated by rock ledges. With protection from winds at both ends, this beach is great for swimming too! Better still, the boomerang-shaped beach also offers stunning sunrises and offers some incredible rock pool rambles when the tide is low. Plus you can even take your pup on a morning or evening stroll; just make sure they're kept on a leash! Boomerang Beach truly has it all - enjoy!
Location: Mid North Coast, NSW

3. Rainbow Beach

Rainbow Beach
Rainbow Beach is also one of the most popular 4WD routes on Australia's east coast!


Looking to visit Rainbow Beach? Checkout out our ultimate guide to Rainbow Beach Camping in 2023 to see why this beautiful beach made the top 10. 
Location: Cooloola Coast – Queensland
 

4. Apollo Bay

Apollo Bay
Photo credit:  Matt Hrkac


Location: Great Ocean Road, Victoria
 

5. Adventure Bay

Adventure Bay
Photo credit: wikipedia/commons


Location: Bruny Island, Tasmania
 

6. Hamelin Bay

Hamelin Bay
Photo Credit: Graeme Churchard


Location: South-West, Western Australia
 

7. Little Bondi Beach

Little Bondi Beach
Photo Credit: northernterritory.com


Location: East Arnhem Land, Northern Territory


8. British Admiral Beach

British Admiral Beach
Photo Credit: The Weekly


Location: King Island, Bass Strait, Tasmania


9. Flying Fish Cove

Flying Fish Cove
Photo credit: wikipedia/commons


Location: Christmas Island


10. Balmoral Beach

Balmoral Beach

 

If you're looking for a great place to have a family day out, Balmoral Beach is the place to be! The calm and protected harbour beaches, shady picnic areas and the Balmoral Baths are perfect for a range of kid and family friendly-activities. Whether it's swimming in the enclosed harbour baths, cooking up dinner on the BBQs or going for a scenic stroll along the promenade- this picturesque spot offers something for everyone. 
 Location: Sydney Harbour, NSW
 

Australia is a beach lover's paradise!

Whether you're looking to explore unique cultural sites, enjoy some peace and quiet, or just have fun in the sun with friends, there are plenty of great beaches.

Brad Farmer knows this — which is why he puts so much care into finding the best spots. As he says, "Australia really is just one big beach and there are simply so many surprises to be discovered in our own sandy backyard."

Now that's something worth celebrating! So grab your gear and let's go explore some Australia's most beautiful beaches!

 

Other Must-Visit Destinations

The Ultimate Guide to Rainbow Beach Camping
Australian Islands That are Great for Kids
The Best Resort Kids Clubs in Australia

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