The official results of the Best Australian Beaches study for 2026 have been unveiled, with a stunning collection of beaches that make up Bate Bay, in Sydney’s south, claiming the prestigious top spot, following a comprehensive study of the coastline around Australia’s mainland and surrounding islands.
Byron Bay's Tallow Beach also made the list, taking out fourth place.
Curated by veteran beach expert and Tourism Australia Beach Ambassador, Brad Farmer AM, the 2026 list highlights a diverse mix of world-class coastal destinations. Each year, Farmer’s list includes every state and territory and continues to promote coastal conservation at all 12,500 plus beaches.
“The community-minded Bate Bay Beaches are, quite simply, stunning with the vast 4.8 kilometre stretch of undeveloped sand at Greenhills, Wanda and Elouera (Sydney’s longest) and to many other beaches such as Cronulla, Oak Park Beach and four more," Mr Farmer said.
"In all, a collection of nine beaches, including four ocean pools and Gunnamatta Bay still water bathing enclosure made the final cut, ticking almost every box against an exhaustive 130-point evaluation criteria. With glorious golden sands and a cosmopolitan vibe, this picturesque stretch of coastline feels like a hidden gem right under your nose but is easily accessible by train from the city centre."
Top 10 Best Australian Beaches for 2026
1. Bate Bay Beaches - NSW
2. Pinky Beach - Western Australia
3. Beachcomber Cove - Queensland
4. Tallow Beach - NSW (above)
5. Hellfire Bay - Western Australia
6. Godfreys Beach – The Nut - Tasmania
7. Inskip Point - Queensland
8. Mount Martha - Victoria
9. Smoky Bay - South Australia
10. Ellery Creek Big Hole - Northern Territory
Brad Farmer AM, who has spent decades researching and visiting thousands of Australia’s beaches, noted that the 2026 list has a selection of off-the-beaten-track gems that offer authentic experiences.
“This year’s list is a celebration of the quiet, soulful spots that define our coastal identity and offer a true escape for those willing to wander a little further,” Mr Farmer said.
“They are places where you can still hear the wind and the waves rather than the crowds, providing a deep, authentic connection to the land and sea, with many First Nations stories.”
Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell said: “Australia has the best beaches in the world. From beautiful white sands to crystal clear waters, our coastline is truly unmatched.”
“Our beaches are more than just beautiful holiday spots, they are an important part of our tourism and visitor industry, which supports hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country.”
“I’m in the United States this week to promote Australia, and our spectacular tourism offering, including our magnificent beaches, at the launch of G’Day USA 2026.”
“The flow of tourists between Australia and the US has never been stronger, with a whopping 745,000 Americans making the trip down under and spending over $2 billion in Australia last year.
“We want to see more international tourists planning and booking an unforgettable holiday to Australia. Every dollar spent by tourists in Australia is new money for our economy, supporting local businesses and creating new jobs."
Tourism Australia Managing Director Robin Mack said: “Our beaches are a key part of our international brand, and this year’s study brilliantly showcases the incredible diversity of our coastline and beaches.
“From the stunning sands of Bate Bay in NSW and Pinky Beach in Western Australia to the iconic backdrop of The Nut in Tasmania and Ellery Creek Big Hole in the Northern Territory, these locations encourage both Australians and international visitors to explore more of Australia beyond the traditional hotspots.”
Learn more here.
