We all love a beach holiday, but nothing kills the vibe faster than elbowing for towel space with half the state and someone blasting a Bluetooth speaker three feet away. Personally, I like my salty, seaside escapes with a side of peace, quiet and maybe a local bakery within walking distance. The good news is that Australia is teeming with under-the-radar beach towns that tick every box—golden sand, turquoise water and plenty of charm, minus the tourist crush.
Consider this your excuse to skip the obvious hotspots, fire up the group chat and start plotting a coastal holiday somewhere the crowds haven’t cottoned onto yet. Sunscreen? Packed. Car snacks? Essential. Your new favourite beach town? Just a scroll away.
The Best Beach Towns In The Northern Territory
Bawaka Homeland
I must admit: when I think of the Northern Territory, beautiful beaches and shorelines are not my first thought. It's this assumption alone that makes the small towns (we're using 'towns' very loosely here) along the Top End so under-the-radar and so worthy of your exploring.
Bawaka Homeland, for starters, is a tiny Yolŋu homeland located about an hour's drive from Nhulunbuy (East Arnhem). The only way to go about exploring these parts is through Lirrwi Tourism which offers up a range of awesome tours that span all types of learning for visitors, covering Yolŋu kinship systems, connection to land and sea, traditional spear fishing and crab hunting.
Nhulunbuy
Nhulunbuy is the fourth largest township in the Northern Territory and is located on the Gove Peninsula. Thanks to its geography, Nhulunbuy stays pretty quiet all year around so it's definitely one to pop on your bucket list if you're keen to escape the buzz of the city.
It was established back in the 60s to service a bauxite mine on the Peninsula, with a population of only 3300 (big yay). Suitable as a base for all your Arnhem Land exploring, there's a tonne of things to fill your days, from Baṉambarrŋa (Rainbow Cliffs) and Wirrwawuy (Cape Wirrawoi) to fuelling your activities at Roaming Flames pizza truck and the Walkabout Tavern.
The Best Beach Towns In Queensland
Bowen
Image credit: Allan Henderson | Flickr
If you haven’t heard of Bowen, it’s probably because the name has been lost to whispered declarations of awe and wonder over the peninsula’s most popular attraction—Horseshoe Bay. The iconic beach is regularly listed as one of the best in Australia, thanks to its two granite outcrops which provide perfect conditions for snorkelling just a short swim away from the beach.
Book yourself into the Coral Cove Apartments and you'll be perched within a stone's throw of that beach—you might even get a balcony overlooking it. Of course, Bowen’s other beaches aren’t anything to sniff at either. I'd be heading to the calm, azure waters of Gray’s Bay for a paddleboard adventure, or trying my hand at fishing at the secluded Murray’s Bay..
Agnes Water and 1770
Located about six hours north of Brisbane, the twin beach towns of Agnes Water and 1770 mark the northernmost surf beaches in Australia and they're absolutely dreamy. They also happen to be situated on the southernmost point of the Great Barrier Reef and all the beauty that entails. So, basically, they’re a little slice of tropical beach heaven without the exxy resort fees. These quaint coastal towns offer the opportunity for visitors to surf, swim and snorkel—all in the same place—while getting some much-needed R&R against a stunning coastal backdrop.
If you only do one thing here, I insist you make it stand-up paddleboarding at sunset. The area is home to calm inlets tailor-made for this chilled out activity and the sunsets are pure heaven. While camping is a popular option here, if you prefer creature comforts, check into Resort 1770 Lagoons Central Apartment Resort. Just three minutes from the beach, it has an award-winning day spa and bar on-site. Sounds rough, right?
Rainbow Beach
Rainbow Beach might sound like a place out of a kids’ storybook, but it’s very real and very worth the detour. Tucked between Fraser Island and Cooloola National Park, this seaside stunner is best known for its cliffs streaked with dozens of different shades of sand (hence the name). Add in crystal-clear water, epic surf breaks and enough adventure activities to keep even the most restless traveller happy, and you’ve got yourself a holiday jackpot.
One day, I’m absolutely booking a 4WD tour to cruise along the beach and check out the towering sand cliffs up close, followed by a kayak trip with the local dolphins. The nearby Carlo Sand Blow looks like something from another planet—a massive dune with sweeping views over the coast. I’ve also bookmarked a seafood feast at the Rainbow Beach Hotel for when I finally make it there. Until then, Rainbow Beach sits firmly on my dream-destination list.
The Best Beach Towns In New South Wales
Nambucca Heads
Located in Nambucca Valley, this idyllic beachside village is all about the smell of salty air and weekly markets—a place to slow down and hit the local bowlo in your sandy flip flops. Located on Gumbaynggirr Country (and first known as "Ngambagabaga"), Nambucca Heads is still relatively unvisited on the NSW North Coast—hard to imagine, I know.
The under-the-radar beach town is pleasantly low-key, and although the upgraded highway bypasses this beautiful place, it should definitely be somewhere you turn a hard left for. Found inside Nambucca Valley (where you’ll also find the likes of Macksville, Scotts Head, and Taylors Arm), Nambucca Heads sits on Gumbaynggirr land which stretches across the Pacific coast from Nyambaga (Nambucca) all the way up to the Clarence River and then inland towards the Great Dividing Range.
You've got loads to explore too, Nambucca River is a stunning system of shallow water and sanbanks, Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park holds a myriad of incredble camping spots, Swimming Creek Beach is a hot set-up if you're bringing along your four-legged companion and Nambucca Bowls Club is basically a holy place of worship (if you're into cold schooners and a $15 steak night).
In terms of where to stay, I'd go for Mi Casa if you've got a dog in tow. But if it's big views you're after, Riverside Place has all the scenery you need.
You might also like:
Yamba
Image credit: NomadicPics | Flickr
While many flock to Byron Bay when they're in the Northern Rivers region of NSW, if you’re after chilled out vibes, dreamy beaches and an epic food scene minus the backpackers and tourists, then I suggest making tracks to Yamba. Once a sleepy fishing village, the town (about a three-hour drive south of Brisbane) is now home to a bunch of drool-worthy restaurants.
I recommend treating yourself to a gourmet meal at Karrikin, before catching the sunset (with a beer in hand, of course) at the Pacific Hotel perched at the top of Main Beach. There’s a beach here for every type of holiday, but my favourite (and a local's secret) is Spooks in nearby Angourie. Throw a towel down, watch the surfers do their thing and marvel in the fact that this piece of paradise is in our very own backyard. Accommodation-wise, I can't go past The Cove Yamba and its sweeping views out across the ocean.
Eden
Any beach town with a name like Eden has to be pretty dang idyllic, and it more than lives up to the hype. Eden is a nature lover’s paradise characterised by a sweeping coastline, golden sand dunes and ancient forests all within a hop, skip and jump of the town’s centre at Twofold Bay. If you’re planning on spending any time in Eden, expect to end up in a boat, as this beachside escape is home to the deepest natural harbour in the Southern Hemisphere.
It also happens to be smack bang in the middle between Sydney and Melbourne, making it a perfect destination for any coastal road trip between the two big cities. Oh, and did I mention Eden is one of the best locations to spot humpback whales during migration season? Book yourself a room at the seriously adorable boutique hotel, Seahorse Inn and make sure you grab dinner at their eatery, The Brasserie, which boasts a menu full of moreish, locally caught seafood.
South West Rocks
Image credit: D.W | Flickr
Another beachside pleaser for every type of traveller, South West Rocks has all your needs covered. From foodie delights to exploration opportunities to beachside chilling, this coastal town has got ‘em all. My perfect day in South West Rocks involves fueling up on maple-glazed bacon French toast at Malt & Honey, making the trek to the gorgeous Mermaid Pools and then trying my hand at one of the world’s best cave dives at Fish Rock Cave.
The next day, I'd be hiking up to the Smoky Cape Lighthouse to take in those sweet, sweet ocean views. Think clear waters, a dramatic, lush headland and sand for days. Gather your mates and book a villa at Hotel Salt @ South West Rocks for the ultimate vacay.
The Best Beach Towns In Victoria
Wye River
If tiny beach towns are your kind of jam, Wye River will be right up your alley. Nestled along one of the most beautiful strips of the Great Ocean Road, Wye River has a permanent population of less than 100. While this number does increase during the tourist season, if you’re looking for a beach escape far from the madding crowd, Wye River is just about perfect.
The landscape is the ideal ratio of rugged cliffs and lush mountain foliage, with a sandy beach peppered by rock pools providing plenty of opportunities to go exploring. For a tasty meal, make tracks to the Wye Beach Hotel. You can't go wrong with the fish pakoras or pan-seared ocean trout risotto. Around these parts, holiday homes are the go, and I love Wye's Choice—Holiday Great Ocean Road for its sprawling deck (hello sunset drinks) and Hamptons vibes.
Lorne
Image credit: Ian Cochrane | Flickr
Can’t get the idea of sipping ouzo by the Mediterranean out of your head? Why not give Lorne a try instead. Located only a two-hour drive from Melbourne, this coastal town is Australia’s very own slice of the Med, helped along by a thriving arts community and beach views to die for.
The beach is peppered with rock pools, while the iconic Lorne Pier is the perfect spot for keen anglers to let loose a line. If you can tear yourself away from the beach for long enough, Lorne’s main shopping strip is a quaint collection of boutiques and killer restaurants worthy of any Instagram feed. Just don’t forget to head up to Teddy’s Lookout in between all that relaxing for truly ‘gram-worthy views.
Last time I was in Lorne, I stayed the night at the Lorne Hotel, located just steps from the stunning beach. There's eleven clean, comfortable, coastal rooms directly above the pub, with Totti's literally downstairs for when the puffy bread cravings hit.
Port Fairy
Port Fairy is a pint-sized Victorian gem with a whole lot of charm. I ended up here after travelling down the long, winding Great Ocean Road, and the final port of call (literally) also happened to be my favourite. Its cobblestone streets, historic stone cottages and artsy galleries make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a storybook.
The beaches are blissfully quiet, suited to surfing, long romantic walks or just lying back on the warm sand. There’s also a playful side to the town: quirky festivals, local brews and a fishing culture that makes fresh seafood feel like a daily gift.
The Best Beach Towns In Western Australia
Denmark
Image credit: Wenhao Ji | Website
Each time I say "I'm going to Denmark!" to my East Coast friends, there's an immediate confusion with the European country of the same name. But no, as everyone from Perth instinctively know, I'm talking about the Denmark in the Great Southern Region along the Rainbow Coast of Western Australia.
Here, around five hours south of Perth, lush forests meet sugar white sand beaches. Must do swimming holes include Greens Pools, where the crystal-clear water rivals the Greek Islands, and Elephant Rocks, where larger-than-life boulders shoot out of the sand along the ocean. When you’ve had your salty fix, pull on your trainers and head to Harewood Forest, where you’ll immerse yourself in nature amongst the beautiful karri trees. And just when you thought this place couldn't get any better, it's also home to award-winning wineries (my personal fave is Single File, boasting the crème de la crème of chardonnays).
Of course, all that adventuring, wining and dining is exhausting. Hit the hay at Heyscape Denmark's perfect pint-sized cabins, or sleep it off at the recently revamped on-site accommodation at the Denmark Hotel.
Broome
Image credit: Ben Carless | Unsplash
Set on the Indian Ocean, Broome provides so much more than your typical beach holiday experience. Its rich, multicultural heritage, symbolised by the many Aboriginal monuments and places of interest sprinkled across town, gives visitors the chance to learn important stories from Australia’s First Nations People.
I also love that it's warm enough to swim even in the middle of winter, and the beach has year-round beauty. Think turquoise waters, uncrowded shores, palm trees and a stunning red-dirt backdrop. Hopping on a sunset camel ride across the golden sand is a must, of course, and you can also embark on a cruise to a local pearl farm for a peek inside Broome’s history as the pearling capital of Australia. Getting to sunbathe under a palm tree and getting up close and personal with Australia’s answer to wild horses? Sign me the heck up! Set on the picturesque Roebuck Bay, base yourself at Oaks Broome Hotel, which boasts tropical gardens and pools perfect for whiling away to the afternoons.
Jurien Bay
About two and a half hours north of Perth, Jurien Bay has that classic old-school beach town feel, but with just enough sparkle, action and adventure to keep things interesting. Spend your mornings swimming at pristine beaches, snorkelling with sea lions in the Jurien Bay Marine Park, or wandering through wildflowers at Lesueur National Park. If you’re up for a little road trip, the otherworldly limestone Pinnacles are just a short drive further north.
When it comes time to crash, check into Good Boys Goes North. I stayed at this personality-packed dog-friendly accommodation earlier in the year and it’s got all the charm, comfort and coastal style you’d want after a day of salty adventures.
The Best Beach Towns In South Australia
Second Valley
Located only 90 minutes from Adelaide, Second Valley is a small coastal town that packs a punch in the scenic department. Like many of the beaches in this part of the world, Second Valley features pristine white sand, a coastline full of colourful rock formations and accommodation that spans everything from five-star house rentals to traditional beach shacks (Sandy Feet Retreat is my pick).
The beach is secluded, meaning you can enjoy that hard-earned ocean time without having to worry about being swarmed by a horde of tourists. Second Valley is also close to Deep Creek National Park, I recommend breaking up your beach hangs with a ramble through the bush. Just remember to head to the Second Valley jetty afterwards and keep your eyes peeled for the tell-tale splash of the leafy sea dragon, which can only be found in the southern waters of Australia.
Port Noarlunga
While this seaside village might be small, its beauty is seriously mighty. Popular with divers and snorkelling enthusiasts thanks to its heritage-listed reef, this sweet spot is the perfect place to escape to at any time of the year. Nature lovers can get their hike on at the river estuary and Onkaparinga River National Park then fuel up at the town's bevvy of delicious eateries.
My top pick is the award-winning Hortas Restaurant. Nestled next to the jetty, the drool-worthy seafood dishes have a Portuguese twist making it a meal you won’t soon forget (the pan-seared barramundi with S.A. king prawns and Goolwa pipis is pure heaven). Check into the oh so adorable Bird In Hand Cottage to complete your 'gram-worthy seaside vacay and thank me later.
Robe
When I was crossing the Nullarbor a few years back, I made a little detour to spend the night in Robe—and boy, was I glad I did. This tiny charmer is the whole package: heritage cottages, dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches and some of the best lobster you’ll ever get your claws on.
I bunked in at the above-pub rooms at the Caledonian Inn and let me tell you, there’s nothing better than rolling upstairs to bed after a long drive, a few pints and a hearty pub feed while the sun melts into the horizon. This is pure sleepy seaside magic.
The Best Beach Towns In Tasmania
Coles Bay (Wineglass Bay)
Image credit: Lochlainn Riordan | Unsplash
Would you really want to skip over a place that includes a little something called? I think not. A seaside holiday village, Coles Bay sits beneath stunning, sheer pink granite mountains overlooking the crystal clear waters of Oyster Bay. From award-winning sea kayak tours, as well as air, sail or eco-cruises, there’s a lot to see in this beautiful area—the most well-known of which is the view of Wineglass Bay from atop Mt Amos. Once you've tackled it, treat yourself to fish and chips and gelato at The Ice Creamy, then retreat to your room at Freycinet Lodge for a night of relaxation and luxury.
Bicheno
If your favourite exhibit at the zoo is always the fairy penguins like mine is, you're going to love Bicheno. Perched on Tasmania’s sparkling east coast, Bicheno is a teeny seaside town with a giant personality. Think penguin parades on the shore, wild coastal walks and seafood so fresh it was probably swimming an hour ago. Whether you’re on the lookout for sea lions, paddling along quiet coves or snapping photos of dramatic cliffs, this place feels like nature’s own playground.
By day, you can wander the charming streets or tackle the nearby trails. By night, grab a spot on the beach and watch little penguins waddle home after a day at sea. Cuteness overload with a side of salty ocean air.
Keep reading for:
Image credit: Tourism NT | Supplied
Urban List Best Of has our highest stamp of approval—curated lists of the very best recommendations for you to eat, do, see, buy or book, carefully chosen by our Editors.
Urban List editors independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. Urban List has affiliate partnerships, and if you purchase something through the links in this article, we will earn a commission from those partners. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.