If you needed an excuse to plan a beach day (as if), consider this it. Tourism Australia has released its official ranking of the country’s best beaches – and some are right on our doorstep.
The tourism body has tapped coastal expert Brad Farmer AM to curate its official list of Australia’s best beaches. Brad has spent decades traversing Australia’s beaches, and this year’s list proves it – it’s a considered edit that looks beyond popularity, factoring in everything from water quality and safety to accessibility, sustainability and overall experience.
While the top spot sits interstate, a couple of very familiar names have secured places just a short drive from the Gold Coast.
Australia’s number one beach for 2026
Taking out the top position this year is Bate Bay in southern Sydney – recognised for its clear water, consistent surf and easy access from the city. It’s a classic, all-rounder beach that delivers year-round, without feeling overworked. A well-earned first place, if we do say so ourselves.
The Northern Rivers beach that made the list
Closer to home, Byron Bay’s Tallow Beach secured a spot on the 2026 ranking – a win for the Northern Rivers and anyone who prefers their beach days a little more relaxed.
About an hour’s drive from the Southern Gold Coast, it’s worth the easy day trip. Expect long stretches of sand, warm water and sheltering rock formations that make the hustle and bustle feel worlds away. Here’s what to do while you’re in the area.
Beaches worth travelling for
Beyond the nearby favourites, the rest of the list spans the country – from Western Australia’s postcard-perfect shores to lesser-known gems in South Australia and Tasmania.
Western Australia and Queensland were the other big winners on the list, each getting two mentions – Pinky Beach and Hellfire Bay for Western Australia, and Inskip Point and Beachcomber Cove for Queensland. The Northern Territory, Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia all got one mention each: Ellery Creek Big Hole, Mount Martha, Godfreys Beach and Smoky Bay, respectively.
If you’re planning a trip this year, it’s worth mapping a few of these into your itinerary – especially if you’re chasing something a little different to your usual beach rotation.
The Gold Coast’s best-kept secrets
Living on the Gold Coast, we know a thing or two about great beaches – and while we’re sure some of our locals should have made the cut, we’re happy to keep them as well-kept secrets (for now). Here are the Gold Coast beaches we think should have made the cut…
- Echo Beach, Tallebudgera Creek: Calm, glassy water, shady spots and the choice between sand and cement (if you’re lucky), the north side of Tally is where you go when you actually want to relax – not dodge waves or crowds.
- Rainbow Bay, Coolangatta: One of the most consistently beautiful beaches on the coast. Gentle surf, a curved shoreline and views that make early starts (or late swims) totally worth it.
- Kirra Beach, Coolangatta: Spacious, breezy and just that little bit more low-key, you’ll come for the clean waves and long walks, and stay because it never feels too busy.
