Top 10 beaches in Australia for the perfect Sheila swim

1. Bondi Beach, New South Wales

Cue: Take me down to the sweet times, alright. Iconic, beloved, and popular beyond belief, Bondi Beach is where golden sands meet the vibrant energy of Sydney. This surf and swim hotspot has it all: perfect waves, scenic views, and crystal blue waters. If you’re walking from Bronte to Bondi before diving in or taking a dip followed by a delicious brunch, you can’t go wrong here with your Mina One Piece, favourite sunnies, and your latest beach read.

2. Whitehaven Beach, Queensland

It’s all in the name—a true haven. This 7-km stretch on Whitsunday Island is famous for its sand: 98% pure silica, giving it that blindingly white, ultra-fine feel. The best part? It doesn’t hold heat, so you can stroll barefoot without a worry (or playing hot potato with your own feet).

Take a quick dip, stroll with a podcast in one ear and the waves in the other, or enjoy a picture-perfect picnic—Whitehaven will show you the magic.

3. Byron Bay, New South Wales

Byron Bay (aka Byza) is a laid-back town with a bit of everything: waves made for surfing, sand perfect for strolling, and dolphins just waiting to be spotted. Start your day with a morning meditation, spend it with friends, or head down for a stunning sunset—whenever you visit, Byron’s beach makes it worth your while. And don’t miss popping into town for some falafels or a mouth-watering kebab.

4. Noosa Main Beach, Queensland

The crown jewel of the Sunshine Coast. Noosa Main Beach is perfect for everyone, with gentle waves and clear waters ideal for a family day or a solo escape. Our tip? Chuck on your Nellie Scoop Bikini Top and your Alyssa Mid Swim Short, and head for a morning walk with the warm sand beneath your feet. From there, head in for a dip then to breezy cafe lunch along Hastings Street. *Chef’s kiss*

5. Hyams Beach, New South Wales

Hyams Beach is the ultimate escape, famous for its powdery, sugar-white sand—the kind you see on Instagram and think must be a filter. This peaceful spot invites you to swim, sunbathe, and simply breathe, with sparkling waters and soft sand made for lingering.

It’s the perfect place for a slow, easy day by the sea, surrounded by a national park that adds a touch of wild beauty. Dip, stroll, and unwind—repeat.

6. Manly Beach, New South Wales

The classic Sydney question: are you Manly or Bondi? Manly Beach, a beloved spot on Sydney’s northern shores, has a vibe all on its own. Loved by locals and a must-visit for tourists, Manly is the ideal place for a beach day with a dash of adventure.

The best way to get there? The iconic Manly ferry, offering unbeatable harbour views as you cruise in. Want to get those endorphins flowing? Take on the Manly to Spit walk—it’ll leave you sweating, sun-soaked, and rewarded with stunning coastal views along the way.

7. Bells Beach, Victoria

Known for some of the largest swells in the Southern Hemisphere (or that iconic final scene in Point Break—anyone? Too niche?), this is where surfers come to prove their worth. World-famous for its stunning surf, Bells Beach offers spectacular views and a refreshing dip for those daring enough to brave the powerful waves. Yep—it’s the ultimate spot for anyone looking to experience the ocean’s wilder side. Absolute ripper.

8. Turquoise Bay, Western Australia

Reputation: one of Australia’s best snorkelling spots. Perfect for: underwater explorers. Slip on your Sia Triangle Top and Grace Mini Swim Short, grab a snorkel, and drift along with the current, discovering a world of colourful coral and exotic marine life below the surface.

From sea turtle spotting to simply soaking in the view from the sand, Turquoise Bay offers an unforgettable experience for anyone craving a taste of the ocean’s allure.

9. Burleigh Heads, Queensland

Tucked between the bustle of Surfers Paradise and the chillaxative of Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads is the place to be. Famous for its pumping surf breaks, towering pines, and “see-and-be-seen” dining scene—what more could you want? Start your day catching waves in your Mina One Piece, then kick back under the shady pines or picnic on the grassy headlands with friends. Ready for a bite? Stroll over to one of Burleigh’s cafes or beachside eateries. Perfection.

Okay, we tried to keep it to 10, but like we said, Australian beaches are in a league of their own. So we’ve snuck in an extra to tie for number 10:

Honeymoon Bay, New South Wales

A secluded spot perfect for a quiet swim, where you might even spot kangaroos lounging nearby.

Fairy Cove, Wilsons Promontory, Victoria

Hidden away in Wilsons Prom, this gem offers breathtaking views and glassy waters.