8 Best Beach Towns in Australia (2026): Where to Go & Why

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Australia has thousands of beaches, and picking the best ones is no easy task. But the beaches that stick with you are almost always the ones attached to a town with real character. We have spent years driving Australia’s coastline, from the tropical north of Queensland to the edge of Tasmania, and the towns on this list are the ones we have returned to or would return to without hesitation.

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These eight beach towns cover different parts of the country, different vibes, and different types of travellers. Some are lively and social; others are genuinely quiet. Below, we break down each one so you can figure out which suits your trip. For a broader look at planning a trip around the country, see our Australia itinerary guide.

Our Favourite Beach Towns In Australia

1. Byron Bay, New South Wales

Byron Bay, NSW
Byron Bay, NSW
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Byron Bay is the place that started everything for us. Max proposed here in 2014, and we have been back more times than we can count. That is not nostalgia talking; Byron Bay keeps evolving in ways that make it worth revisiting. The surf is world-class, the food scene has grown considerably, and the hinterland access to rainforest walks and market towns adds real depth to a stay. It suits everyone from wellness seekers to surfers to families, which is why it keeps landing at the top of these lists.

It is one of the best-known beach towns on the east coast, and the reputation is earned. The full Byron Bay guide has more detail on what to do and where to stay.

Best Things to Do in Byron Bay

  • Explore the Byron Bay Hinterland – Join a guided tour to Minyon Falls for a rainforest walk, a swim, and a locally sourced BBQ lunch before heading to the charming town of Bangalow. The hinterland is also home to hidden waterfalls, rolling green hills, and small organic farms where you can enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences.
  • Kayak with Dolphins & Turtles – Paddle through the Byron Bay Marine Reserve, where you can spot bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and, during the right season, migrating humpback whales. The crystal-clear waters provide an incredible view of marine life, making this one of the most unique experiences in the region.
  • Discover Glow Worms – Venture into the Gondwana Rainforest for a magical glow worm experience, complete with a waterfall swim and a vegan dinner in the woods. The rainforest itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, teeming with biodiversity, making this excursion both enchanting and educational.
  • Visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse – Take a scenic hike up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse, the most easterly point of mainland Australia. The panoramic views of the coastline and Pacific Ocean make it one of the most iconic spots in Byron Bay, especially at sunrise.
  • Take a Surfing Lesson – Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, Byron Bay’s waves are perfect for learning to surf. Join a local surf school and catch your first wave in this iconic surf destination.
  • Shop at the Farmers Market – Pick up fresh, organic produce and artisanal goods to enjoy a beachside picnic. The markets in Byron Bay are more than just places to shop; they are cultural experiences where you can meet local growers, listen to live music, and sample delicious regional delicacies.
  • Catch a Sunset on Main Beach – Whether it’s a lively crowd or a peaceful, quiet evening, the sunsets in Byron Bay never disappoint. Pack a blanket, grab some local takeout, and watch the sky transform into a stunning display of colors as the sun dips below the horizon.
  • Experience the Local Arts Scene – From street performances to intimate live music venues, Byron Bay’s thriving arts community adds another layer of vibrancy to the town. Check out the Byron Community Centre or The Rails for some of the best live acts in town.
  • Indulge in a Spa or Wellness Retreat – Byron Bay is known for its holistic wellness culture. From beachfront yoga classes to luxury spa retreats, there are countless ways to relax and rejuvenate. Popular options include the award-winning Gaia Retreat & Spa and The Byron at Byron.
Byron Bay Main Beach, NSW
Sunset hangouts on Byron Bay Main Beach, NSW
Surfers crowd the beach in Byron Bay, New South Wales
Surfers crowd the beach.

Where to Stay in Byron Bay

  • Eco Beach Resort – Just a 5-minute walk from Belongil and Main Beaches, featuring a solar-heated pool and self-contained suites. Ideal for those looking for eco-conscious yet comfortable accommodations.
  • EcOasis Resort – Located near Byron Bay, just 10 minutes from Mt. Warning, offering breathtaking hinterland views. The secluded cabins provide a peaceful escape while still being close to the action.
  • Byron Bay Rainforest Retreat – A secluded yet centrally located retreat, just a 15-minute walk from the beach and the Byron Bay Markets. Perfect for travelers seeking tranquility while staying connected to the heart of Byron Bay.
  • The Atlantic Byron Bay – A stylish boutique stay offering a combination of modern beach house vibes and lush tropical surroundings, located right in town and within walking distance of everything.
  • Elements of Byron – A luxurious beachfront resort featuring private villas, an adults-only pool, and a wellness spa, making it a perfect option for a high-end Byron Bay getaway.
Byron Bay included on the best place to live in Australia
Byron Bay, Australia

2. Broome, Western Australia

Sunset over Cable Beach, Broome. Western Australia
Magnificent sunset over Cable Beach in Broome

Broome is one of the more unusual beach towns in Australia: red pindan soil meeting white sand and turquoise water, a pearling history that shaped the town’s identity, and a level of remoteness that makes it feel genuinely different from anywhere else on the coast. It sits at the end of the Perth to Broome road trip, which is itself one of the great Australian drives.

The pace is slow, the heat is real, and Cable Beach at sunset is exactly as good as the photos suggest. We left Broome with a strong urge to come back for longer. See our full guide to things to do in Broome for a complete breakdown.

Best Things to Do in Broome

  • Watch the Sunset at Cable Beach – No visit to Broome is complete without witnessing a stunning sunset over Cable Beach. The endless stretch of white sand and calm waters create the perfect setting for one of Australia’s most iconic sunset views.
  • Ride a Camel Along Cable Beach – For a truly unique experience, take a sunset camel tour along Cable Beach. These gentle giants provide a one-of-a-kind perspective of the shoreline, making for an unforgettable evening.
  • Explore the Dinosaur Footprints at Gantheaume Point – At low tide, you can see 130-million-year-old dinosaur footprints embedded in the rocks at Gantheaume Point. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric past and a must-visit for history lovers.
  • Visit Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park – If you’re interested in Australia’s most famous reptile, the Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park offers a close-up look at some of the largest saltwater crocodiles in the country.
  • Take a Half-Day Town Tour with a Cable Beach Sunset – A guided half-day Broome tour is a great way to get acquainted with the town’s rich pearling history, Indigenous culture, and scenic coastline before ending the day with another epic sunset.
  • Chase the ‘Staircase to the Moon’ – One of Broome’s most magical natural phenomena, the Staircase to the Moon, occurs when the full moon rises over the exposed tidal flats of Roebuck Bay, creating the illusion of a staircase leading into the sky. This event happens a few times a year, so check the lunar calendar before you go!
  • Swim at Riddell Beach – For a quieter, less crowded alternative to Cable Beach, Riddell Beach offers beautiful red cliffs, clear water, and a relaxing atmosphere away from the crowds.
  • Discover Broome’s Pearling History – Broome was once the pearling capital of the world. Visit the Pearl Luggers Museum or take a tour of a working pearl farm like Willie Creek Pearl Farm to learn about the region’s pearling heritage.
Camel rides on Cable Beach
Camel rides on Cable Beach

Where to Stay in Broome

  • Seashells Broome – Located just 300 meters from Cable Beach, this resort offers comfortable apartments and bungalows set in tropical gardens. The property also supports several eco-friendly and social initiatives.
  • The Courthouse B&B – A boutique bed & breakfast in the heart of Broome’s Chinatown, offering stylish accommodation just 4km from Cable Beach.
  • The Billi Resort – A peaceful, self-contained retreat surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
  • Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa – If you’re looking for luxury, this beachfront resort features pools, a spa, and stunning ocean views.
Last moments on Cable Beach. Broome. Western Australia
Oksana and Max, Cable Beach, Broome

3. Cape Tribulation, Queensland

Daintree National Park
Where the rainforest meets the reef

Cape Tribulation is the only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage sites meet: the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. That alone makes it worth the detour north of Cairns. It is remote by Queensland standards but accessible enough to reach in a day from Port Douglas, and the combination of dense rainforest, empty beach, and reef just offshore is unlike anything else on this list.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority manages reef access in this area, and responsible tour operators follow strict guidelines. Choose eco-certified tours when booking reef activities here. See our full guide to things to do in Cape Tribulation.

Best Things to Do in Cape Tribulation

  • Explore Daintree National Park – Start your day hiking through the lush Daintree Rainforest, home to ancient plant species and unique wildlife, including cassowaries, tree kangaroos, and countless bird species.
  • Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef – Cape Tribulation offers some of the best off-the-beach snorkeling in Australia, with vibrant coral reefs just a short swim from the shore. Guided snorkeling tours allow you to experience the reef responsibly while learning about its fragile ecosystem.
  • Take a Crocodile-Spotting River Cruise – The Daintree River is home to some of Australia’s largest saltwater crocodiles. A boat cruise lets you observe these prehistoric creatures in their natural habitat while also spotting birds, snakes, and other wildlife.
  • Go Ziplining Through the Rainforest Canopy – Experience the Daintree Rainforest from above with a thrilling zipline adventure. With multiple canopy platforms and stunning aerial views, this is a fantastic way to appreciate the sheer scale of this ancient rainforest.
  • Visit the Daintree Ice Cream Company – Cool down with a stop at this local favorite, where exotic tropical fruits grown on-site are transformed into delicious, all-natural ice cream flavors.
  • Relax on the Beach – Cape Tribulation Beach and Myall Beach offer pristine, golden sands backed by dense rainforest. It’s the perfect place to unwind and take in the stunning natural scenery.
  • Hike to Alexandra Lookout – One of the best vantage points in the area, Alexandra Lookout offers sweeping views over the rainforest, Daintree River, and Coral Sea.
  • Night Walks in the Rainforest – Experience the rainforest in a whole new light—literally! Guided night tours let you see nocturnal creatures such as possums, tree frogs, and glow-in-the-dark fungi.

Recommended Tours in Cape Tribulation

  • Cape Tribulation, Daintree & Mossman Gorge Day Tour – A full-day tour that includes a visit to Mossman Gorge, a Daintree River cruise, and a scenic stop at Alexandra Lookout, finishing with a guided walk along Cape Tribulation Beach. Includes lunch and a visit to the Daintree Ice Cream Company.
  • Daintree Rainforest Canopy Ziplining Tour – A two-hour guided zipline tour through five different canopy levels, ranging from 7 to 16 meters above the ground. No experience necessary—just a sense of adventure!
  • Daintree Rainforest: Crocodile & Wildlife River Cruise – A wildlife-packed river safari through the Daintree River ecosystem, offering sightings of saltwater crocodiles, exotic birds, and native flora and fauna.
Boardwalk inside the Daintree National Park, Northern Queensland, Australia
Things to do in Cairns - Daintree rainforest national park

Where to Stay in Cape Tribulation

  • Safari Lodge – An Advanced Ecotourism Certified rainforest lodge just a 10-minute walk from Myall Beach. Offers budget-friendly cabins and an on-site pool, making it perfect for eco-conscious travelers.
  • Epiphyte B&B – A charming rainforest retreat with private balconies and stunning views. Located just a 5-minute drive from Cow Bay beaches, this B&B is ideal for couples and nature lovers.
  • Ferntree Rainforest Lodge – A relaxing eco-retreat with budget-friendly private cabins, located in the heart of Cape Tribulation and just minutes from the beach.
  • Cape Trib Beach House – A beachfront eco-lodge with direct access to Cape Tribulation Beach, offering rustic yet comfortable accommodations surrounded by tropical rainforest.
brisbane to cairns
Noah Beach, Daintree National Park. Photo credits: Tourism and Events Queensland

4. Port Douglas, Queensland

Best Beach Towns in Australia
Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas

Port Douglas sits an hour north of Cairns and serves as the main base for reef and rainforest access in this part of Queensland. It is smaller and quieter than Cairns, with a Sunday market, a good food scene on Macrossan Street, and Four Mile Beach for morning swims. The town itself is easy to get around on foot or by bike, and the access to both the Daintree National Park and the reef makes it one of the most versatile stops in tropical Australia.

For a full breakdown of what to see and do, read our Port Douglas guide.

Best Things to Do in Port Douglas

  • Relax on Four Mile Beach – This iconic stretch of sand is perfect for morning walks, sunbathing, and ocean swims. For the best views, take the short hike up to Flagstaff Hill Lookout.
  • Snorkel or Dive the Great Barrier Reef – With the reef just an hour offshore, Port Douglas is one of the best gateways to explore the colorful coral gardens and marine life of the Great Barrier Reef.
  • Sail to the Low Isles – If you prefer a quieter reef experience, take a sailing tour to the Low Isles, where glass-bottom boats, snorkeling, and marine conservation tours allow you to see the reef’s beauty up close.
  • Explore the Daintree Rainforest – Just a short drive north, the Daintree Rainforest offers jungle treks, river cruises, and the chance to spot rare wildlife like cassowaries and tree kangaroos.
  • Visit the Port Douglas Sunday Markets – Held every Sunday at Anzac Park, this market is a great place to buy local arts, crafts, and fresh produce while enjoying live music and ocean views.
  • Take a Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail Tour – Experience one of the most scenic train journeys in Australia as you wind through the lush rainforest to the artsy mountain village of Kuranda. The return journey via the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway offers spectacular aerial views.
  • Discover Aboriginal Culture – Join a cultural tour with the local Kuku Yalanji people to learn about Indigenous traditions, bush food, and Dreamtime stories.
  • Wildlife Encounters at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures – Get up close with crocodiles, koalas, and cassowaries at this eco-certified wildlife park, just a short drive from Port Douglas.

Recommended Tours in Port Douglas

  • Low Isles Glass Bottom Boat & Snorkeling Tour – A great option for those who want to experience the Great Barrier Reef without diving, this tour provides a glass-bottom boat experience, snorkeling gear, and guided marine conservation talks.
  • Kuranda Scenic Railway & Palm Cove Tour – Ride a historic train through the rainforest, explore the artsy village of Kuranda, and end the day at Palm Cove, one of Queensland’s most picturesque beachfront destinations.
  • Kuranda Rainforest Full-Day Tour – This immersive tour combines railway, Skyrail, and an amphibious Duck vehicle to explore the rainforest, Aboriginal culture, and native wildlife.
Things to do in Port Douglas Australia: Kuranda Scenic Railway
Kuranda Scenic Railway. Photo courtesy of Tourism Australia
Port Douglas from above
Port Douglas from above

Where to Stay in Port Douglas

  • Ramada Resort by Wyndham Port Douglas – A sustainably designed retreat just a 10-minute walk from Four Mile Beach, featuring a lagoon-style pool and lush tropical gardens.
  • Port Douglas Cottage & Lodge – A luxury home-away-from-home just 3 minutes from Four Mile Beach, offering private villas with pools and garden views.
  • Lazy Lizard Motor Inn – A budget-friendly and centrally located stay within walking distance of cafés, restaurants, and attractions. Guests can also use free bikes to explore the town.
  • Thala Beach Nature Reserve – A luxury eco-retreat located just outside Port Douglas, perfect for travelers looking to stay in treehouse-style bungalows with panoramic ocean views.
Things To Do in Port Douglas
The harbour at sunset in Port Douglas

5. Burleigh Heads, Queensland

Burleigh Heads Beach, Gold Coast, QLD
Burleigh Heads Beach, Gold Coast, QLD

Burleigh Heads has become one of the Gold Coast’s best addresses, and the change has been noticeable over the past decade. What started as a quieter alternative to Surfers Paradise has developed a genuine food and coffee culture, a strong surf scene, and a headland national park that gives it a natural anchor other Gold Coast suburbs lack. The waves at Burleigh are some of the most consistent on the coast, and the grassy foreshore facing west makes it a reliable sunset spot.

It suits people who want Gold Coast energy without Gold Coast excess. The café scene on James Street is genuinely good, and the weekly markets draw a local crowd worth being part of.

Best Things to Do in Burleigh Heads

  • Relax on Burleigh Beach – One of the Gold Coast’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. The headland provides stunning views of the coastline.
  • Visit Burleigh Head National Park – A short coastal walk through rainforest and rocky headlands leads to some of the best lookouts on the Gold Coast. Keep an eye out for migrating whales between May and November.
  • Explore James Street – The heart of Burleigh’s shopping and dining scene, featuring boutique stores, trendy cafés, and artisan markets.
  • Experience the Burleigh Sunday Markets – A mix of local produce, crafts, and live music, making it a great way to spend a relaxing Sunday morning.
  • Catch the Sunset on Burleigh Hill – The grassy area near the beach fills up on weekends with a young, hip crowd enjoying cider, live music, and an incredible sunset over the ocean.
  • Visit the Burleigh Pavilion & The Tropic – A beachside dining hotspot offering cocktails, fresh seafood, and spectacular ocean views

Recommended Tours Near Burleigh Heads

  • Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Ticket & Koala Photo – Get up close with Australia’s native animals, cuddle a koala, and feed kangaroos. The sanctuary offers Aboriginal performances and 13 daily keeper talks to educate visitors about the local wildlife.
Burleigh Heads
Burleigh Heads

Where to Stay in Burleigh Heads

  • Boardwalk Burleigh Beach – Located right on the beach, this stylish accommodation is just a short walk from restaurants, cafés, and local attractions. Guests enjoy access to a pool, hot tub, and stunning ocean views.
  • Timbertop for Life – A comfortable homestay just 6 km from Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, offering free bikes, a lush garden, and mountain views.
  • Burleigh Mediterranean Resort – A luxury beachfront retreat at North Burleigh, featuring a spa, sauna, gym, rooftop BBQ area, and easy access to top cafés and restaurants.

6. Yamba, New South Wales

Yamba Main Beach, Yamba, NSW
Yamba Main Beach, Yamba, NSW

Yamba is one of the most underrated towns on the New South Wales coast. It is small (around 6,000 people), genuinely relaxed, and has the kind of surf and seafood credentials that usually come with a much bigger tourist footprint. Angourie Point, just south of town, is one of the best right-hand point breaks in Australia. The prawns from the Clarence River Fishermen’s Co-op are as good as any seafood you will find on the east coast.

Between May and October, the Yamba Lighthouse is one of the better whale-watching spots on this stretch of coast. It is the kind of town that people discover and then come back to every year.

Best Things to Do in Yamba

  • Surf at Yamba Main Beach & Angourie Point – Yamba is famous for consistent surf breaks, with Angourie Point recognized as one of Australia’s best right-hand point breaks.
  • Spot Whales from the Yamba Lighthouse – Between May and October, the Yamba Lighthouse offers an excellent vantage point to watch humpback whales migrating along the coast.
  • Explore Yuraygir National Park – Just a short drive from town, this stunning national park offers secluded beaches, kangaroo sightings, and coastal hiking trails with breathtaking views.
  • Relax at Pippi Beach – A beautiful and quiet stretch of sand, perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and swimming.
  • Enjoy Fresh Seafood at the Clarence River Fishermen’s Co-op – Yamba is known for its incredible prawns and seafood, making this a must-visit for food lovers.
  • Take a Sunset Cruise on the Clarence River – Unwind with a scenic boat ride, spotting dolphins, pelicans, and enjoying epic sunset views over the river.
  • Visit the Yamba Farmers Market – Held every Wednesday, this market is the perfect place to pick up local produce, artisan goods, and homemade treats.
  • Try Yamba Ice Cream – No visit is complete without grabbing a scoop from Yamba Icecreamery, a local favorite serving delicious handmade flavors.
Kangaroos relaxing in Yuraygir National Park near Red Cliff.
Kangaroos relaxing in Yuraygir National Park near Red Cliff.
Main Street in Yamba, NSW
Main Street in Yamba, NSW

Where to Stay in Yamba

  • Adrift Apartments – A modern, centrally located stay within easy walking distance of the beach, cafés, and shops, offering spacious rooms with all the essential amenities.
  • Aston Motel Yamba – Located across from Lions Park, this motel is a short walk from the town center and beaches, featuring balconies, patios, and garden views for a relaxing stay.
  • The Surf Yamba – A luxury boutique hotel with stunning ocean views, a rooftop lounge area, and a laid-back, beach-chic design.
  • Blue Dolphin Holiday Resort – Perfect for families or those looking for a resort-style stay, featuring waterfront cabins, pools, and a water park right by the Clarence River.
Waterfront villas at Calypso Yamba Holiday Park.
Waterfront villas at Calypso Yamba Holiday Park.

READ NEXT: Guide To Visiting The Charming Town Of Yamba

7. Port Macquarie, New South Wales

Early morning exploring with camera in hand. Flynn's Beach. Port Macquarie
An early morning exploring with camera in hand. What could be better than that?
The rocks and the Town Beach, Port Macquarie, NSW
The rocks and the Town Beach, Port Macquarie, NSW

Port Macquarie sits on the mid-North Coast of New South Wales and is consistently overlooked in favour of Byron Bay and the Gold Coast. That oversight is your gain. It has 12 different beaches, a 9 km coastal walk connecting most of them, a well-regarded koala hospital, and a river system that is good for paddling and cruising. The pace here is lower than almost anywhere on the NSW coast, and the range of beaches means you can find a quiet stretch regardless of how busy the town gets.

The 1824 St Thomas’ Anglican Church, built by convicts, is one of Australia’s oldest and worth a look if history is part of your trip. Port Macquarie punches above its weight for a town of its size.

Best Things to Do in Port Macquarie

  • Surf or Swim at One of 12 Beaches – Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, beaches like Flynns Beach and Town Beach offer great waves, while Shelly Beach is perfect for a relaxed swim.
  • Walk the 9km Coastal Walk – This scenic track takes you along the stunning coastline, passing beaches, lookouts, and rock pools teeming with marine life.
  • Explore the Breakwall – A popular spot for a leisurely walk along the sea, featuring colorful painted rocks, picnic areas, and BBQ spots.
  • Visit the Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park – Get up close with koalas, kangaroos, and exotic animals at this award-winning wildlife park, which focuses on conservation and education.
  • Take a Guided Tour of Sea Acres Rainforest Centre – Home to an elevated 1.3km boardwalk, this pristine rainforest is an easy and enjoyable walk filled with birdwatching and Indigenous cultural insights.
  • Kayak or Cruise on the Hastings River – The calm waters of the Hastings River are perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or joining a scenic river cruise.
  • Visit Historic St. Thomas’ Anglican Church – Built by convicts in 1824, this is one of Australia’s oldest churches, featuring beautifully preserved architecture.
  • Take a Sunset Camel Ride on Lighthouse Beach – A unique way to experience Port Macquarie’s coastal beauty.
  • Spot Whales Between May and November – Take a whale-watching tour or watch from the coastal lookouts as humpback whales migrate past the coastline.
Surfing in Port Macquarie
Surfing in Port Macquarie
The Ultimate Sydney to Brisbane Drive Itinerary. Port Macquarie. Cover Photo
Campervan parked in front of a beach in Port Macquarie

Where to Stay in Port Macquarie

  • Ana Mandara Luxury B&B – A charming riverside retreat with balcony views overlooking the Hastings River, just a short drive to the marina.
  • Flynns On Surf Beach Villas – Spacious self-contained villas just a 5-minute walk from Macquarie Nature Reserve and the Koala Hospital, featuring a pool, BBQ area, and tour desk.
  • Ocean Breeze Motel – A budget-friendly option with ocean views, just a short walk from Oxley Beach.
  • Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges – A stylish waterfront resort with a pool, spa, and marina views, perfect for those looking for a luxurious stay by the river.

8. Bicheno, Tasmania

Hazards Beach, a secluded beach accessible only on foot and by boat, located on the Western side of the Freycinet National Park., roughly 3 hours hike from Wineglass Bay.
Hazards Beach.

Bicheno is on Tasmania’s East Coast and is one of the quietest towns on this list. It does not have trendy cafes or a surf culture. What it has is little penguins coming ashore at dusk, one of the best marine reserves on the island for diving, and easy access to Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay. The national park is a short drive south and the lookout hike to Wineglass Bay is one of the most photographed views in Australia for good reason.

Bicheno suits travellers who are doing a loop of Tasmania’s east coast and want a quiet overnight stop with genuine wildlife encounters. It is not a destination for nightlife or food scenes; it is a destination for nature. See our full Tasmania guide for how to fit it into a broader east coast itinerary.

Best Things to Do in Bicheno

  • See the Little Penguins at Bicheno Penguin Tours – One of the best places in Tasmania to see wild penguins up close in a responsible and eco-conscious setting.
  • Explore Freycinet National Park – Home to Wineglass Bay, The Hazards, and Friendly Beaches, this park offers some of the most spectacular coastal views in Australia.
  • Hike to Whalers Lookout – A short but rewarding hike offering panoramic views of Bicheno’s coastline and offshore islands.
  • Visit the Bicheno Blowhole – One of Tasmania’s most dramatic coastal attractions, where powerful ocean swells send water shooting into the air.
  • Go Deep-Sea Fishing or Join a Wildlife Cruise – Bicheno is one of Tasmania’s best fishing destinations, offering charter boats, scenic cruises, and unforgettable marine encounters.
  • Take the Coastal Mountain Half-Day Tour – A guided scenic drive through Bicheno’s top natural landmarks, including the Blowhole, Douglas-Apsley National Park, and the stunning Four Mile Creek coastline.
  • Snorkel or Dive at Governor Island Marine Reserve – The clear waters around Bicheno are a dream for snorkelers and divers, teeming with marine life, colorful reefs, and even shipwrecks.
  • Relax on Redbill Beach & Denison Beach – Two of Bicheno’s most beautiful and secluded beaches, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a swim in crystal-clear waters.
Wineglass Bay. View from the lookout, inside the Freycinet National Park
Wineglass Bay. View from the lookout, inside the Freycinet National Park

Where to Stay in Bicheno

  • Bicheno Cabin Park – A comfortable and centrally located stay offering easy access to golfing, snorkeling, windsurfing, and local attractions.
  • Escape to Bicheno – Stylish self-contained units with private terraces, just a short walk from Redbill Beach, Denison Beach, and top local restaurants.
  • Beachfront Bicheno – A modern, beachfront accommodation option offering spectacular ocean views and direct beach access.
  • Wintersun Gardens Motel – A budget-friendly stay with lush gardens, a swimming pool, and easy access to Bicheno’s top attractions.
Australia Packing Tip
Cape Tribulation Beach

Final Thoughts

Australia’s coastline is long enough that you could spend months working through it and still have a list of places to return to. The eight towns above represent a good cross-section of what the country has to offer, from the tropical north recognised by Tourism Australia as one of the world’s great natural travel destinations, down to the quiet east coast of Tasmania.

If you are planning a longer trip and trying to decide which regions to prioritise, the key split is between the tropical north (Cape Tribulation, Port Douglas) and the more temperate southeast (Byron Bay, Yamba, Port Macquarie, Bicheno). They suit different seasons and different types of travel. Broome and Burleigh Heads sit somewhere in between.

Which of these beach towns is on your list? Drop a comment below and let us know.

READ NEXT: 20 Best Beaches in Australia

About the Authors

23 responses to “8 Best Beach Towns in Australia (2026): Where to Go & Why”
  1. Marta Kulesza Avatar

    Just what I needed for planing my trip around Australia for later this year!

    1. Oksana Simakina Avatar

      Glad to hear it was helpful! Hope you are planning to come in the spring to get the best of the warm beachy weather without the tourist crowds!

  2. Sarah Avatar

    Wow Cape Tribulation looks like something out of Castaway! Have always wanted to go to Byron Bay. Beautiful beaches and definitely something for everyone in there.

    1. Oksana Simakina Avatar

      Byron Bay is an absolute must! Somehow the town manages to strike the perfect balance between being touristy and full of great shops, restaurants and things to do and being super laid back and hippy. I love it!

  3. Leah Yoder Avatar

    These are great suggestions! I would love to try out Yamba now, but we won’t have time this next trip. We loved all the little towns on the Grand Pacific Drive between Sydney and Wollongong but thought Wollongong was spectacular especially for the beautiful lookout on Mount Keira. We also love the Port Stephens area, Shoal Bay is quaint and beautiful. Thanks for adding more places to my bucket list, putting Bicheno on the list for when we go to Tasmania in February. 🙂

    1. Oksana St John Avatar

      I’ve heard great things about Wollongong as well, but unfortunately haven’t made it that way yet! Awesome to hear you are planning a trip to Tassie! How long will you be going for? It is such an amazing regions, you will absolutely love it. Little tip: bring warm clothes, even in February it will be chilly 🙂

  4. Elliott Avatar

    There’s a few great ones along the great ocean road! Can’t think of the names at the moment though!

  5. melody Avatar
    melody

    Western Australian towns- Albany has Frenchmans Bay (idyllic, turquoise dog friendly beach).
    Esperance has squeaky white sands that feel like flour beneath bare feet & sapphire blue waters.
    Margeret River- surfers and visitors haven
    Yanchep Beach lagoon- prettiest, crystal waters surrounded by reef which keeps sharks away. Great for
    stand up paddle boarders and popular childrens swimming lessons plus crayfishing straight off the reef
    Hammelin Bay quaint little caravan park right on the light emerald waters

    To name just a few well worth the visit for beach lovers

  6. Monika Avatar
    Monika

    Hi, there, I just love your webpage and Facebook page. Our family is planning a tour in Australia. By the way, your blog is really informative. Thanks, dear, for your great information.

    1. Oksana St. John Avatar

      Thank you, Monika! Glad to hear our blog helped you plan your trip. Enjoy your time in Australia!

  7. Shamim Avatar

    Great post about Bech Town in Australia! You know, Australia is known for many things — extraordinary landscapes, laid-back cities, beautiful beaches. But I want to enjoy the Sydney Opera House!

    1. Oksana St. John Avatar

      The Sydney Opera House is beautiful! Definitely a must see!

  8. Alina Avatar

    Amazing blog, dear! There are so many bloggers who don’t put any personality into their posts. But your blog is the best about Beach Towns in Australia. keep it up dear.

    1. Oksana St. John Avatar

      Thank you, Alina. Hope you enjoy reading more of our posts!

  9. Jesse Avatar
    Jesse

    I am a big fan of Australia, Especially The iconic Great Barrier Reef ! It is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef. I will go there someday! By the way, Happy New Year.

    1. Oksana St. John Avatar

      Unfortunately, the Great Barrier Reef isn’t as beautiful as it once used to be. The reef and the organisms that live within it are dying from coral bleaching due to climate change. If you are looking for a beautiful diving/snorkeling destination, we would recommend visiting Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia instead. Cheers!

  10. marrymoore Avatar

    nice to read again about Australia on your site…Australia is a great place and I can highly recommend it to all women who would love to travel alone

    1. Oksana St. John Avatar

      Yes, it’s a great destination for solo female travelers! I took my first solo trip to Australia back in 2010 and loved it!

  11. Scott Avatar
    Scott

    I’m pleased to see Byron Bay on top of the list. That place is so dear to me. People are really friendly too. We went there for a camping trip and I instantly fell in love with the place. I really appreciate you posting this. It brought back memories.

    1. Oksana & Max St John Avatar

      Byron Bay has changed a lot over the last 10 years, so if you haven’t been recently you might find it to be quite developed compared to back in the day, but it’s still a great town to visit.

  12. Anna Avatar
    Anna

    Visiting my friend in Tasmania this October. Will surely come and spend a weekend in Bicheno! Thank you for the guide!

  13. Max Avatar
    Max

    These are great suggestions! Love Port Macquarie! Thanks for sharing

  14. Ching Avatar

    Thanks for sharing this information!! I love all the pictures in your post 🙂

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