Australia is famous for its beautiful coastline, and beaches are a big part of the Aussie lifestyle. Locals love their beaches for swimming, surfing, picnics, and relaxing walks. Here are the top 20 beaches in Australia, ranked by people who know them best—the locals.

Whitehaven Beach, Queensland. Located on Whitsunday Island, Whitehaven Beach is famous for its pure white sand and clear water. Locals love it for its peaceful vibe and natural beauty. It’s a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy boat tours around the nearby islands.

Bondi Beach, New South Wales. Bondi is one of the most famous beaches in Australia. Locals love it for early morning swims, surfing, and the Bondi to Coogee walk. Cafes and beach culture make it a lively spot, especially in summer.

Noosa Main Beach, Queensland. Noosa is a favorite among locals for its calm waters and family-friendly vibe. It’s close to Noosa National Park, where you can hike with ocean views. The beach is perfect for swimming, and nearby Hastings Street offers food and shopping.

Wineglass Bay, Tasmania. Wineglass Bay is a hidden gem loved by locals for its remote location and stunning views. You’ll need to hike to get there, but the reward is worth it. The beach has white sand, clear water, and very few crowds.

Burleigh Heads, Queensland. Burleigh is popular with both surfers and families. Locals love the laid-back vibe, clean beach, and scenic headland walk. Weekend markets and beachside parks make it a top choice on the Gold Coast.

Cottesloe Beach, Western Australia. Cottesloe Beach near Perth is known for its calm waves and golden sunsets. Locals enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and fish and chips by the sea. It’s also a great place to watch the sun dip into the Indian Ocean.

Manly Beach, New South Wales. A quick ferry ride from Sydney, Manly is a go-to for locals seeking beach fun without leaving the city. It’s good for surfing, strolling along the promenade, or relaxing at a seaside cafe.

Bells Beach, Victoria. Bells Beach is a legend in the surfing world. It’s home to big waves and big competitions. Locals admire its raw beauty and come here to watch surfers or take in the coastal views from the cliffs.

Hyams Beach, New South Wales. Famous for having some of the whitest sand in the world, Hyams Beach is a quiet favorite. Locals visit for a calm swim or a walk in nearby Booderee National Park. It’s peaceful, clean, and very photogenic.

Cable Beach, Western Australia. Cable Beach in Broome is known for camel rides at sunset. Locals love the wide open sand, warm water, and the amazing colors of the evening sky. It’s ideal for a relaxing beach day in the north.

Palm Cove, Queensland. Palm Cove is a quiet beach near Cairns with soft sand and palm trees. Locals enjoy the peaceful vibe and nearby dining options. It’s also a good base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef.

Lucky Bay, Western Australia. Lucky Bay is special because kangaroos often rest on the sand. Locals love the turquoise water and white sand. It’s a remote beach but well worth the trip for nature lovers and photographers.

Byron Bay Main Beach, New South Wales. Byron Bay is a mix of surf culture, yoga, and stunning beaches. The main beach is central and loved by locals for its chill vibe, surf breaks, and the chance to spot dolphins near the shore.

Shelly Beach, New South Wales. Just a short walk from Manly, Shelly Beach is smaller and more protected. Locals like it for snorkeling, swimming, and quiet picnics. The underwater life here is great for beginner snorkelers.

Glenelg Beach, South Australia. Glenelg is Adelaide’s most loved beach. Locals come here for sunset views, fish and chips, and family outings. The tram from the city makes it easy to reach, and there’s plenty to do nearby.

Rainbow Beach, Queensland. Rainbow Beach is named after the colorful sand cliffs that line the shore. Locals visit for the natural beauty and access to Fraser Island. It’s a quiet place that offers fishing, 4WD adventures, and calm days.

Mooloolaba Beach, Queensland. Mooloolaba is on the Sunshine Coast and popular with locals for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is clean and family-friendly. There’s also a great esplanade with cafes and shops.

Apollo Bay, Victoria. Along the Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay is loved for its quiet charm. Locals come here to relax, swim, and enjoy seafood. It’s close to rainforests and waterfalls in the nearby Otway Ranges.

Main Beach, Gold Coast, Queensland. Main Beach is less crowded than Surfers Paradise but still full of life. Locals enjoy walking, surfing, and dining at nearby cafes. The broad sand and ocean views make it a top pick on the coast.

Four Mile Beach, Queensland. Located in Port Douglas, Four Mile Beach is peaceful and long. Locals love the palm trees, gentle waves, and mountain views. It’s perfect for a long walk, an afternoon swim, or watching the sunrise.

Tips for beach travel in Australia

  • Sun protection is a must: wear sunscreen, hats, and light clothing.
  • Swim between the flags: always follow safety signs and lifeguard instructions.
  • Respect nature: leave no trash, and watch for wildlife.
  • Plan for tides: some beaches look very different depending on the tide.
  • Ask locals: they know the best spots and safest times to swim.

Australia’s beaches are more than just sand and sea. They’re part of local life, history, and culture. Visiting them the local way helps you enjoy them more and find spots beyond the tourist path.

Australia has hundreds of amazing beaches, but these 20 stand out because locals visit them again and again. From famous surf spots to quiet hidden coves, there’s a beach for every taste. Whether you’re planning a holiday or just curious, use this guide to find your next favorite beach.