Sand between your toes, salt water in your hair – Aussies love a beach getaway, which is lucky because we have some the best in the world. Here are 10 amazing beach towns that are great to visit all year round.
1. Palm Cove, QLD
From crocodile farms to the Skyrail, Palm Cove has plenty to offer, no matter what the season. Pop into the local boutique shops, stroll down the pier and enjoy sunny days and balmy nights year-round. Our pick? A visit to the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.
2. Dunsborough, WA
Sitting at the gateway to Margaret River, Dunsborough is the perfect place to sample some amazing wines and lush beaches. Be sure to stop off at one of three local bakeries while you’re here. You can’t go past the French pastries at Fre-Jac, a steak and mushroom pie at Dunsborough Bakery or a big salad roll with a cake from Tas’s Bakery.
3. Noosa, QLD
No beach list would be complete without mentioning Noosa. If the surf, sun and sand don’t make it a must-visit, then the national park might win you over. It’s ideal for visiting year round. Once you’ve worked up a sweat and an appetite after a hike, wander down to the Noosa Farmers Market and grab lunch at the Noosa Boathouse.
4. Manly, NSW
Shopping is just the start at Manly. Away from the main strip there are beautiful hidden beaches, like the crystal-clear blue waters of Shelley beach. It’s also the type of place you sit harbour-side with a drink in one hand and watch the sun set.
5. Ningaloo Reef, WA
This is the best place to swim with the whale sharks. And if that’s not enough of a drawcard we don’t know what is! There’s plenty to do in and out of the water in Ningaloo – in the cooler months it’s not as busy and ideal for quad biking.
6. Kingscote, SA
Located on Kangaroo Island (Oz’s third largest Island FYI) Kingscote is the spot for wildlife fans. Take a plane or ferry out to the island for bushwalks, wildlife spotting and plenty of water adventures. Kingscote is also the cafe, shopping and foodie hub on the island.
7. Coffs Harbour, NSW
Spend some time taking in the amazing Diggers Beach, hike to the top of Muttonbird island and, of course, take a trip to see the Big Banana (which is basically mandatory). Kids in tow? Bounce out to Bonville to the Butterfly House and wear them out getting lost in the outdoor maze.
Coffs was also named Wotif’s Aussie Town of the Year for 2020 – as if you needed another reason to plan a visit 😉
8. Yamba, NSW
A popular summer hot spot, the best time to visit Yamba might actually be during the off-peak season from May to October. Why? It’s prime whale-watching season. Got an early start? Head to Botero Roastery or the Wombah Coffee Plantation for a caffeine fix.
9. Coles Bay, TAS
Situated at the base of the Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay overlooks the pink granite mountain tops known as The Hazards. Take a walking tour and soak up the incredible fresh produce Tassie’s known for, like fresh oysters. You might even spot a red-necked wallaby.
10. Cowes, VIC
The quaint seaside town of Cowes makes a great home base for exploring Phillip Island, with tasty fish ‘n’ chip shops and plenty of cafes to sample the perfect latte. It’s beachy in summer and ideal for hiking in winter. Also, penguins! 😍
PLAN YOUR NEXT BEACH GETAWAY
Heads up! Due to COVID-19, government restrictions are in constant review and travel guidelines may change. We strongly recommend that all travellers seek further information about destinations and attractions before scheduling trips or making bookings, take extra care and follow all rules.
