6 Best Beachside Breaks Across Australia
The sound of the ocean, the smell of sunscreen and the sight of blue sky and golden sands. There’s nothing quite like a beachside break to relax and reset after a busy month or year.
Australia has some of the best beaches and seaside destinations in the world. From the tropics of Far North Queensland to the Kimberley coastline, we’ve rounded up our favourite local spots across the country where you can load up on vitamin sea.
1. Glenelg, South Australia
Pop on your bathers and board a tram from Adelaide CBD and 20 minutes later you’ll find yourself on the sand at Glenelg. Adelaide’s favourite city beach is a gorgeous stretch of coast with a perfect Mediterranean climate to soak in sea breezes.
When you’re done sprawling out on the sand or swimming in the ocean, pop on a sundress or tee and venture to Jetty Road where you can dine at world-class restaurants or shop small boutiques. If you prefer to stay active and outdoors, join a tour and sail around the bay or swim with wild dolphins.
Finish any day at Glenelg with a drink at The Moseley Beach Club, Australia’s only official bar on the beach where you can have your toes in the sand and a refreshing cocktail in your hand. Now that’s the perfect way to end a balmy evening in South Australia.
2. Port Douglas, Queensland
Whether you’re adrenalin-hunting adventurers, romantic honeymooners, here on a family getaway or a cheeky weekender, compact Port Douglas has fun to suit every type of traveler.
Wander the palm tree-lined sands of famous Four Mile Beach, view the superyachts at the sheltered marina and take a reef tour, or dine at some of regional Queensland’s top restaurants with ocean views.
3. Cable Beach, Western Australia
Imagine pristine white sand lapped by turquoise water and bounded by sand dunes and ochre red cliffs. Now imagine spectacular ocean sunsets and perfectly warm weather year-round. With so much to love about Cable Beach’s natural beauty, it’s no secret that it’s a must-do beachside holiday.
The beauty of the Kimberley will be on show at golden hour as you watch the sun sink into the Indian Ocean from the back of a camel as you ride along the beach, or from a scenic boat trip out on the horizon.
A 10-minute drive from the township of Broome, the remote Cable Beach offers 22 kilometres of sun-soaked sands and the chance to disconnect from the stress of everyday life. Spend your days at the beach, walking trails through Minyirr Park, or charter a boat.
4. The Entrance, New South Wales
A popular spot for families, couples and groups alike, The Entrance on New South Wales’ Central Coast is an aquatic playground and seaside destination like no other. Set between the calm waters of Tuggerah Lake and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, there’s plenty on offer year-round, from watersports, bike trails, fresh seafood, and the famous pelicans!
The Entrance is all about outdoor, active fun. Cut laps at the sea baths or take the family on a bike ride along Tuggerah Lake.
During the school holidays this sleepy seaside spot comes to life with extra attractions like a ferris wheel and jumping castle. Year-round kids will love Vera’s Water Garden, a fun splash pool loaded with colourful fountains shaped like magical sea creatures, and swimming in the sea.
At night step into The Savoy Long Jetty, an original 1950s movie theatre that’s now the spot for pizza, cocktails and live music. Drop in on Thursday to catch classic flicks on the big screen or any day for food and fun.
5. Alexandra Headland, Queensland
Known by the locals as ‘Alex’, this relaxed coastal town is one of the hidden local villages within the stunning Sunshine Coast.
Alex Heads is popular with surfers thanks to rolling waves, crystal clear waters and a picture-perfect headland. Lifeguards patrol the spectacular main swimming beach and there are loads of spots to sign up for surf lessons or rent a board and give it your best spot.
Right next to the beach lies Alex Skate Park and a half-pipe, perfect to keep active teenagers busy or happy. But perhaps best of all, quiet Alexandra Headland is located between Mooloolaba, Buderim and Maroochydore, meaning you can enjoy a peaceful while being close to the action.
6. Cairns, Queensland
There’s something special about laidback coastal Cairns. Unwind from the minute you arrive and get ready to explore the nearby beaches, take a day trip out to the glorious Great Barrier Reef or venture into the UNESCO protected Daintree Rainforest.
Spend your days soaking up the tropical weather at the Esplanade Lagoon Pool in the heart of Cairns or venture further afield to seek out the natural beauty. Find out for yourself why this small tropical city is an unmissable seaside and beach destination for families, couples, backpackers and solo travelers.
