Five beaches every Australian needs to visit

Words: Angelica Xidias Producer: Bianca Farmakis

Australia is best known for its beautiful beaches, and for good reason. Boasting more than 12,000 across 60,000-plus kilometres of glorious coastline, we have no shortage of sandy shores to explore.

From hidden gems and secluded stretches to tourist hotspots and local treasures, every Australian will have an opinion on their favourites. To help ease the process, here is a list of tried and tested locations that fit the bill.

Bells Beach, VIC

The iconic surf beach (thanks to the large swells that roll in from the Southern Ocean) is an entertaining stretch of coastline along the Great Ocean Road region.

Turquoise Bay, WA

The waters in Exmouth’s Cape Range National Park are beautifully clear. It adjoins the famed Ningaloo Reef, perfect for snorkelling.

Ned’s Beach, NSW

Ned’s Beach is home to an array of marine life. You can hand feed fish via the supplied food dispenser and watch as mullet, garfish and silver drummer swim close.

Whitehaven Beach, QLD

This iconic beach is world-renowned for its white sand and turquoise water. Within the Great Barrier Reef, it’s frequented regularly by Hollywood’s elite.

Wineglass Bay, TAS

Named for its shape, this beach is a highlight of the must-see Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s east coast. The gleaming jewel is one of the most picturesque places in the state.