Top 11 Most Beautiful Coastal Towns in Australia
- Aireys Inlet, Victoria. Nestled between the bush and the beach, this gorgeous hamlet sums up the enduring attraction...
- Byron Bay, NSW. Byron Bay is no doubt one of Australia’s most popular coastal towns — and for good reason. Located on...
- Airlie Beach, Queensland. For most visitors to Airlie Beach, their time...
Full Answer
Are there any beaches in the Australian Capital Territory?
Because the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is landlocked, it doesn’t have any ocean beaches. However, you don’t have to go far to find a stretch of sand by the sea. Head to the Jervis Bay region of the South Coast, located in New South Wales about 2.5 hours from Canberra, for countless beautiful beaches. One of these is Pretty Beach.
Are there any underrated beach towns in Australia?
As a country ringed by ocean, Australia is home to some of the best beaches—and beach towns—in the world, many of which go undiscovered by visitors. From eclectic surfing towns to luxury escapes in Queensland to a Sydney suburb, here are 12 underrated beach towns in Australia worth discovering.
What are the biggest cities in Australia to live in?
1. Sydney (5.230m) 2. Melbourne (4.936m) 3. Brisbane (2.463m) 4. Perth (2.059m) 5. Adelaide (1.346m) 6. Gold Coast (679k) 7. Newcastle (487k) 8. Canberra (458k) 9. Sunshine Coast (333k) 10. Wollongong (303k) 11. Geelong (268k) 12. Hobart (233k) 13. Townsville (181k) 14. Cairns (153k) 15. Darwin (149k) 16. Toowomba (137k) 17. Ballarat (105k) 18.
What is the best Aussie town for a seachange?
Noosa Heads, QLD As the number one Aussie town for a seachange Noosa Heads has a lot of things going for it. Highlights include a breathtaking coastline, its national park, nature walks, rainforest views, resorts, restaurants, shopping, surf beaches, great fishing, water skiing and farmers markets, just to name a few!
Are the main cities in Australia on the coast?
Australia's major cities are all located on the coast. There are six states in Australia: New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia and each has a capital city.
Where is the best coastal town to live in Australia?
Our Favourite Beach Towns in AustraliaByron Bay, New South Wales. ... Broome, Western Australia. ... Cape Tribulation, Queensland. ... Port Douglas, Queensland. ... Burleigh Heads, Queensland. ... Yamba, New South Wales. ... Port Macquarie, New South Wales. ... Bicheno, Tasmania.
Is Australia a coastal city?
With over 21,100 miles (34,000km) of coast and most of the country's population living close to the ocean, you'd expect Australia to have some rather special beach towns.
Is Melbourne a coastal city?
Melbourne, city, capital of the state of Victoria, Australia. It is located at the head of Port Phillip Bay, on the southeastern coast.
What is the cheapest coastal town to live in Australia?
Australia's most affordable coastal suburbsGolden Beach, VIC, -4.7 %, $123, 500.Loch Sport, VIC, -3.5%, $140, 000. ... Marion Bay, SA, -12.8%, $152, 500.Seaspray, VIC, -7%, $164, 000.Bemm River, VIC, 22.4%, $165, 000.Port Welshpool, VIC, -4%, $167, 500.Port Albert, VIC, – 6%, $170, 750.Cape Jervis, SA, 0.7%, $196, 000.More items...•
Where is the best place to retire in Australia?
7 of the best places to retire to in AustraliaMornington Peninsula, Victoria.Shoalhaven region, New South Wales.St Helens, Tasmania.Sunshine Coast, Queensland.Beechworth, Victoria.Esperance, Western Australia.Victor Harbor, South Australia.
Is Perth a coastal city?
Perth is part of the South West Land Division of Western Australia, with most of the metropolitan area on the Swan Coastal Plain between the Indian Ocean and the Darling Scarp....Perth.Mean max tempMean min tempAnnual rainfall24.8 °C 77 °F12.8 °C 55 °F730.9 mm 28.8 in1 more row
Is Sydney a coastal city?
The geography of Sydney is characterised by its coastal location on a basin bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the east, the Blue Mountains to the west, the Hawkesbury River to the north and the Woronora Plateau to the south.
Is Brisbane a coastal city?
The Geography of Brisbane is characterised by its coastal location in the south eastern corner of the Queensland state of Australia. It is located precisely halfway up the Australian east coast with longitudinal and latitudinal coordinates of 27.5° south and 153° east.
How much of Victoria is coastal?
2,512 kmVictoria has 2,512 km of coastline and approximately 10,000 square kilometres of marine waters.
What is the richest city in Australia?
The richest suburb in Australia, based on average taxable income for the 2018/19 financial year, is Double Bay in New South Wales, according to the ATO's latest figures. See the full list of highest-earning postcodes below.
Why are most cities on the coast?
Historically, cities have been located on coastlines because there are many transport, food and ecological benefits. Products - and therefore money - traditionally flows into countries through their ports. This has set a precedence for populations to naturally migrate towards coastal areas.
Coastal charmers
With over 21,100 miles (34,000km) of coast and most of the country’s population living close to the ocean, you’d expect Australia to have some rather special beach towns. From historic fishing ports and laid-back surf enclaves to rainforest-backed tropical towns and glamorous resorts, Australia's diverse seaside spots won’t disappoint.
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1. Aireys Inlet, Victoria
Nestled between the bush and the beach, this gorgeous hamlet sums up the enduring attraction of the rugged south-east Australian coast. The juxtaposition of diverse natural landscapes with picture-postcard landmarks and pristine white sandy shores are a sight to behold and attract large numbers of visitors each year.
2. Byron Bay, NSW
Byron Bay is no doubt one of Australia’s most popular coastal towns — and for good reason. Located on New South Wales’ far-north coast, the tourist destination is loved by both locals and sightseers for it’s beautiful beaches, inviting atmosphere and laid-back, bohemian vibe.
3. Airlie Beach, Queensland
For most visitors to Airlie Beach, their time here is a foretaste of the main event – a trip to the nearby Whitsunday Islands. Nevertheless, its position in our survey’s top ten is no surprise. The town has a delightful, laid-back tropical atmosphere that makes it ideal for acclimatising before your island adventures.
4. Port Douglas, Queensland
If you can’t make your way all the way to Cape Tribulation, then Port Douglas is another great beach town option. It is home to the beautiful 4 Mile Beach, a strip of palm-fringed white sand that hugs the coast around Port Douglas.
5. Apollo Bay, Victoria
You’ll find this Australian beach town along the Great Ocean Road, the famous drive to the 12 Apostles rock formations outside of Melbourne. Apollo Bay is also located at the foothills of Great Otway National Park, an area known for waterfalls and wild koala spotting.
6. Hyams Beach, NSW
Just a short three-hour drive from Sydney, Hyams Beach is a quaint coastal town in the Jervis Bay region that embodies the allure of its white sandy shores and clear turquoise waters.
7. Broome, Western Australia
With its old corrugated-iron shops and buildings, former pearling town Broome has oodles of history and a lively, multicultural feel. Many residents descend from pearl divers who came from Japan, Malaysia and the Philippines and it has a strong indigenous heritage.
What is the whitest beach in the world?
Jervis’ Bay resident dolphins, clifftop walking trails, and incredible sand make it one of the best beach towns in Australia, but many U.S. tourists miss it. Its cafes and quaint vacation rental options make Jervis Bay great for both a romantic getaway or family holiday.
What is Port Stephens known for?
Another popular family holiday destination among Aussies, Port Stephens is known for its sand dunes— Stockton Sand Dunes is the largest system in Australia—calm waters, and the Tomaree Head summit hike. In Shoal Bay, check out the Shoal Bay Country Club, a newly renovated complex offering dining and accommodations.
How far is Palm Beach from Sydney?
Accessible by public bus from Circular Quay, Palm Beach is about an hour’s drive from Sydney. Once you’re there, enjoy a meal at the iconic Boathouse Palm Beach, hike to Barrenjoey Lighthouse, enjoy the Beach to Bay walk, or just relax on the beach.
Where is Coles Bay?
Coles Bay, Tasmania. Visual Collective/Shutterstock. This small town in Tassie is known as the starting point for Freycinet National Park, home to Wineglass Bay (and red-necked wallabies), which is consistently rated one of the best beaches in the world.
Where to fly to in Australia for a holiday?
To get to Noosa, you can fly into Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast Airport.
Where is Surfers Paradise located?
Surfers Paradise, Queensland. You might feel like you’re in Miami Beach at Surfers Paradise. Located on Queensland’s Gold Coast, the town is known for its beachfront high-rises, nightlife, shopping, and of course, water activities.
Where is Margaret River in Australia?
Australia’s lesser-known western coast has just as much to offer as the east, yet it’s almost completely untouched by foreign tourists. Located slightly inland, Margaret River, about 2.5 hours from Perth, is known as a world-class wine region. The coast is only a 10-minute drive from the main town.
What is Noosa known for?
One of the northernmost towns on the Sunshine Coast, Noosa has a reputation for top quality restaurants, classy cafes, high-end boutiques and lavish spas. It’s an earthy sort of opulence that welcomes all sorts though, think flowing linen and patchouli, not stilettos and Chanel. Noosa | © Steve Lacey/Flickr.
Where is Noosa Heads?
Noosa Heads, Queensland. This pristine part of Australian coastline has long been a popular destination for those who like a little luxury with their sand and surf. One of the northernmost towns on the Sunshine Coast, Noosa has a reputation for top quality restaurants, classy cafes, high-end boutiques and lavish spas.
Where is the city of Wollongong?
Just south of Sydney, Wollongong is one of the top stops along the spectacular Grand Pacific Drive. If you can drag yourself away from the beaches, you’ll find a vibrant town centre with fabulous dining options and a vibrant arts scene. Make sure to take a least one drive out of town, as the Sea Cliff Bridge that snakes alongside the cliffs and over the ocean is truly remarkable.
Where is Port Macquarie?
Port Macquarie, New South Wales. Perched on the edge of a picturesque river, edging against lush rainforest on one side and dramatic, rocky coast on the other, it’s no wonder that Port Macquarie remains one of the most popular holiday destinations in New South Wales.
What is the name of the beach in Port Douglas?
There’s no doubting the centre piece attraction in Port Douglas – the aptly named Four Mile Beach, a pristine strip of palm-fringed white sand that attracts beach lovers from far and wide. But there’s plenty more to this quaint, well-heeled fishing village than its idyllic shoreline. There’s also numerous shopping, wining and dining opportunities, and for yacht-spotting you can head to the Dickson Inlet and Reef Marina where lavish gin palaces are moored. Port Douglas. For a great excursion, the outer parameters of the Great Barrier Reef and less than an hour offshore.
Where to see humpback whales in Australia?
When you go by the name of “Eden”, expectations demand that you’re pretty special, and this beach town doesn’t disappoint. Awash with rugged coastline, golden sand dunes and ancient forests, it’s a nature lover’s paradise, while wildlife fans also enjoy the ample whale and bird watching opportunities. In fact, this is one of the best spots in Australia for catching a glimpse of humpback whales if you happen to visit during migration season. Eden is also home to one of the deepest natural harbours in the Southern Hemisphere, with the conveyer belt of pleasure boats and cruise liners creating a bustling atmosphere that adds to its charm.
Where is the pearl capital of Australia?
If you find yourself drawn back to the water, you can witness first-hand how Broome became the pearling capital of Australia by embarking on a cruise to a local pearl farm. A palm tree overlooking a sandy beach in Broome (Photo: Gary Hayes via Flickr)
Where is Apollo Bay?
Whichever way you turn, there’s no escaping the sheer beauty of Apollo Bay. Situated in the foothills of the Otways National Park, it is positively teeming with waterfalls, ferns and crystal clear streams. It is, in short, a mecca for lovers of the great outdoors.
Where is Byron Bay?
Byron Bay, New South Wales. A relaxed, hip vibe with a dash of luxury is a fair summation of this charming seaside town nestled on the north coast of New South Wales.
What is Gunyah Beach known for?
Gunyah Beach. Gunyah Beach, located on the Eyre Peninsula, is known for its spectacular surfing, showcasing some of Australia’s biggest rips. But the surf isn’t the only thing that makes this beach famous. Just off the beach lies the amazing Gunyah sand dunes, which stretch as far as you can see. Show more.
What is the Australian pastime?
Beaches are a favourite Australian pastime. Whether it’s a game of cricket, an early-morning surf or a lie in the sunshine, beach culture truly encapsulates the 'no worries' attitude that defines so much of Australia.
What is the capital of South Australia?
As the coastal capital of South Australia , Adelaide is home to several metropolitan beaches. Henley Beach, home to white sand and gentle surf, is popular among locals and visitors. Walk along the jetty out to sea, or stop by one of the many bars and restaurants along the shore to taste local wine and beer. Glenelg.
Where to swim in Western Australia?
A favourite for both locals and visitors, Cottesloe Beach is divided into three sections. The main area of Cottesloe Beach is perfect for swimming and walking, while North Cottesloe Beach is home to Peter’s Pool - a great spot for snorkelling. South Cottesloe doesn’t have any sand for sunbathers, but it does have amazing waves for local surfers.
What is the best beach in Brisbane?
Sunshine Beach offers 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) of open beach bordered by tropical palm trees. Burleigh Heads Beach. The Gold Coast, just over an hour south of Brisbane, is another hot spot for beautiful beaches. Burleigh Heads Beach, simply called Burleigh by the locals, is a favourite for a surf, swim and barbecue.
How long is Cable Beach in Western Australia?
This beach is famous for its 22 kilometres (14 miles) of soft white sand, where visitors can enjoy the serene surrounds and calm blue water. Cable Beach is also known for its camel trains, where guests traverse the beach on the backs of camels for a memorable way to watch one of Western Australia’s epic sunsets.
Where is Wagait Beach in Darwin?
On the opposite side of Darwin’s harbour , you’ll find Wagait Beach. The quiet, secluded beach is often considered one of Darwin’s local secrets, offering stretches of sand and green forest walks. Wagait Beach is a 90-minute drive or 15-minute ferry from Darwin. Show more.
What is a significant urban area?
Significant Urban Areas are defined to represent significant towns and cities, or agglomerations of smaller towns, that have at least 10,000 total population. Significant Urban Areas may contain more than one distinct Urban Centre. Melbourne.
What is local government area?
Local government areas (LGAs) are the main units of local government in Australia. They may be termed cities, shires, councils or other names, and all function similarly. Local government areas cover around 90 per cent of the nation. Significant sections of South Australia and New South Wales are unincorporated, that is, have no defined local government, along with the ACT and smaller sections of Northern Territory and Victoria. Brisbane, which covers multiple LGAs, is the only state capital city with a local government area covering a significant portion of its urban area. Other capital cities are serviced by LGAs which cover a much smaller proportion of their total urban areas.
What is the GCCSA?
Each capital city forms its own Greater Capital City Statistical Area (GCCSA), which according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) represents a broad functional definition of each of the eight state and territory capital cities. In Australia, the population of the GCCSA is the most-often quoted figure for the population of capital cities.
Which state capital has a local government?
Brisbane, which covers multiple LGAs, is the only state capital city with a local government area covering a significant portion of its urban area. Other capital cities are serviced by LGAs which cover a much smaller proportion of their total urban areas. Rank. (2020) Local government area.
